Greensboro Daily Photo

Beauty of a Stone House at 1729 Youngs Mill Road

 

Located in east Greensboro, near I-40 and East Lee Street is a beauty of a property at 1729 Youngs Mill Road.Most noticeable is the magnificent stonework.  According to Zillow, it was built in 1933 and has  close to 8 acres. Throughout the decades, the structure has been built onto several times.. The best photo would be a drone shot, because it is impossible. to capture the myriad sections and outbuildings that just every which way.  The main structure is over 6,000 feet with 4 kitchens, 4 electrical meters, and 8-9 bedrooms, plus. Based on the multiple electric meters and different addresses and mailboxes, it has been a rental. Also, there is a filled-to-the-brim giant dumpster on site, indicating that some renovation is being done. It would be so wonderful if the stone structure could remain.

We don't know how long the photos will remain active on Zillow, but for now, you can see 60+ photos of the property HERE. Look at the pictures, because our photo makes the property look deceptively tiny.

Happy Tuesday!

 

 

 

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Curb Appeal, Curb Appeal at 208 N Mendenhall Street

The property at 208 North Mendenhall Street is a cozy, tucked-away enclave just up the street from the Double Oaks house and directly across from the First Baptist Church of Greensboro. With its vine-covered trellis, the street view evokes the feeling of entering a secret garden. Built in 1925, the 2,176-square-foot home sits on a lot just under a quarter of an acre. A two-level deck overlooks a beautifully appointed patio and a charming pergola—ideal for outdoor living. According to Zillow, the home last sold in 2016, suggesting the current owners are happily settled in their gem of a property.

If you are headed downtown for First Friday tonight, or headed to First National Bank Field for  the Greensboro Grasshoppers game against the Hub City Spartanburgers, you could swing by and see for yourself. You'd best be on foot, otherwise, you'll miss this view from the sidewalk. Let the downtown fun begin!

Happy Friday!

Carolina Home Partners

Carolina Home Partners, located at 700 Battleground Avenue, is a beauty of a house. While it is an island surrounded by roads in and out of the city, it sits perched on the hill on the south side of Green Hill Cemetery.  Constructed in the 1880s, it was formerly the cottage of the gatekeeper of the cemetery. It was nearly destroyed in 1973, but was restored and has been used by various businesses over the last 50 years. The pitched roof and pointed details are fitting with the Gothic Revival style*

It is now part of the Fisher Park National Register Historic District, so, hopefully, it will be well maintained for years to come. The current tenants Carolina Home Partners, is a real estate group. We're betting they will be good stewards of this Greensboro gem. 

Happy Friday!

* Reference and read more, HERE.

3118 Horse Pen Creek Road

The old Jessup family homeplace at 3118 Horse Pen Creek Road sold in December 2024 for almost 1.5 million dollars. Built in 2015, the home back in the day was a real beauty and was well cared for. However, we're betting that more valuable than the 4 bedroom 2 bathroom house and outbuildings was the 6.38 acre lot. This is prime property in an area  that is quickly being redeveloped.  The home belonged to Kenneth Jessup, Sr. and his wife Margaret. Both Jessups were born in 1927; however, Mr. Jessup died in 2020 and his wife in 2017.  

Mr. Jessup had an HVAC business on Battleground Avenue, Mrs. Jessup was a nurse and accomplished potter. Both had active civic engagement and were devout members of Jessup Grove Baptist Church. They raised their children on Horse Pen Creek and in Jessup Grove Baptist.  Soon, the old home place will be torn down and the new tenants will know nothing of the land's previous history.  

Over the years, the Jessup family's church, Jessup Grove Baptist,  has been sold and renamed several times. For now, there is still a Jessup Grove Road as a reminder of a time when things in a community were often named after people in the community.  The Jessups were a great, civic minded family. Let us all aspire to contribute to family, friends, and community in the way the Jessups did.

Happy Monday!

Old House On Summerfield Road

For those who follow the news, The North Carolina General Assembly de-annexed close to 1,000 acres from the town of Summerfield, which will allow Greensboro to annex land for development. Already in the works, 80 acres will become 268 housing units developed by David Couch. The development will be called Christopher Village.

Recently, we took a drive to Summerfield to see some of the farmland that will become the housing development and to enjoy the beauty of what has historically been farmland. We visited the above property at 7026 Summerfield Road; just under two acres with a house built in 1901 and a few outbuildings. Most recently, it has been a CPA office. However, that shingle has been replaced by a "for sale" sign. Given its close proximity to businesses, we imagine it will become something commercial. For now, we enjoying looking at a little slice of property that harkens back to the beginning of the 20th century.**  The house needs a lot of work, but is is very charming. What do you think it should become?

• Read more about development of land formerly-known-as-Summerfield,  HERE.
• See the listing for the property HERE.

Happy Thursday!

Weekend Walk around Lindley Park

 

 

The Lindley Park and Sunset Hills areas are such walkable neighborhoods; and springtime is a spectacular time to do so. As we walked yesterday afternoon and early evening, we were surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of spring. Birds were chirping, flowers had started blooming, and we could smell  what we assumed was the hardwood being used in nearby restaurant ovens.  While walking, we noticed that the curb appeal just keeps getting better and better in this area of Greensboro close to downtown.

The above home, 407 South Elam, caught our eye, early evening. We loved that combination of maroon, yellow, and blue with the rows of daffodils leading to the screened-in porch. The red-bud tree on the left mimics the canopy behind it. Online records indicate the house was built in 1931. Those original homeowners would be pleased to know that 94 years later, their home and neighborhood were still going strong. John Van Lindley, the man for whom Lindley Park was named, would be pleased to know that this area is thriving. Although, as a pomologist, Mr. Van Lindley would probably have hoped for more apple trees in the neighborhood. 

Happy Saturday, the last one of March!

In case you are looking for something to do this weekend... HERE is a list of events this weekend from YES! Weekly.

The Yellow Door House

Located at 1504 Lovett Street, the Yellow Door House is a community resource for the Glenwood Community. According to their website, The Yellow Door House "seeks to be a catalyst for Jesus-centered development in the areas of Education, Healthy Living, Economic Opportunities, and Spiritual Information. They offer worship nights, a women's clergy retreat, and there are ways to partner.

The Yellow Door House is committed to revitalizing the Glenwood neighborhood.  If we understand correctly, Yellow Door endeavors to educate young and old alike in Glenwood. They also offer neighbors economic opportunities, healthy lifestyles within a spiritual framework. They are located right across from HOPE Academy and we're betting they have great involvement there. If you drive by, the yellow is very noticeable and perfect for spring.

Happy Sunday!

Spring Has Sprung On Stony Glen Loop

Yesterday, we were driving around the neighborhoods between Wendover Avenue, Spanish Oak Drive, and Guilford College Road. We drove around Stony Glen Loop and noticed this house already has their Easter egg tree up, as well as their bunny mini-flag. It is so fun to drive around the neighborhoods in Greensboro to see if people are enjoying their neighborhoods and how their homes represent their personality. The homes in this area were built in the 1980's-1990's in a style that was very common then. They have held their value and, as you can see from this photo, curb appeal is nice.

Easter in late this year (April 20th) and so there is plenty of time to decorate, if you celebrate the holiday.

Happy Saturday!

Dunleath Neighborhood Near Downtown

We love this street scene so much. It features the roads in Dunleath neighborhood on the west side of Dunleath. It is near Morrow Boulevard and the Greensboro Curb Market. The Sherwin- Williams Paint Store right behind the pinkish/red house. The downtown greenway also runs by here. 

Before you know it, the tree in the middle of this photo will be leafing out and will change the chole look of this area. We hadn't realized how round this "corner" was before taking this photo. Here's to the start of a great week and the weather should be warming up in a couple of days. We look forward to getting out and photographing the changes in the foliage. They happen so fast in the spring.

Happy Monday!

501 North Mendenhall Street

This four bedroom, three bathroom hose on North Mendenhall Street is beautiful by day, but by night, is takes on a personality all of its own. Built in 1920, the house has managed to remain contemporary over the last 105 years. That generous, southern porch is perfect for sipping lemonade and mint juleps and an example of the old with a new.  There has to be a back story to this lighting. If Zillow is correct, the current owners have been in the home for eight year, and, we're pretty sure this lighting is relatively recent. To add to the drama, that tree without leaves frames the house;  its gnarled branches reaching out, as if to get the attention of all who walk by.

Mendenhall is on the eastern of the Westerwood neighborhood. The value of houses on the street continues to grow, with many homes  being upgraded with each new seller.  Have a drive by this weekend and see this beauty. If you know the back story on the lighting, let us know.

Happy Friday!

Exploring the Southside of Greensboro

Southside at MLK Drive and Gorrell Street has many businesses open to the public. From coffee and smoothies to salons to Bump. Baby. Bliss.- a doula, counseling, ultrasound studio- Southside has an array of options. Bump.Baby.Bliss is the business featured in the foreground of today's photo. Some of these  townhomes have a living quarters upstairs and retail down below. It is possible to have work and home in the same building, be able to close the door and head upstairs, and not have to drive anywhere.

These businesses and living quarters are within walking distance to Elm Street. It is fun to stroll by explore this neighborhood.  The east side of Greensboro has seen a lot of changes  over the last decade. With the greenway, it appealing to people who like to run or bike after work without having to get in the car and drive somewhere. Come explore with us!

Happy Saturday!

404 Leawood Drive

We haven't featured a house lately and driving around Greensboro, this one caught our eye. On New Year's Day, the house at 404 Leawood Drive was a shining beacon up on a hill. The winter sun, already low to the horizon mid-afternoon, cast dramatic shadows over the lawn. The bright blue sky made everything look fresh and new on the first day of the new year!

404 Leawood is a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom house, built in 1976 and, according to online records, last sold in 1986. The people living there must feel like they are in a cozy tree house or on a little oasis. The location, between Market Street and Friendly Avenue, near Guilford College, is super accessible to getting downtown Greensboro in one direction and to the bypass in the other. The house is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood we only saw because we were  visiting  friends in the neighborhood. Echoing Fred Rogers, it was a beautiful day in the neighborhood.

Happy Saturday!

303 S Chapman Street: The Grinch Report...

Christmas has come and gone, but decorations still abound, especially in the Sunset Hills neighborhood. The above house at 303 South Chapman Street is quite a sight to behold for those who love animated characters. They've got Sponge Bob, Minions, the Grinch, Santa, and more! Sunset Hills is known for the light balls hurled high in the trees and they are a sight to behold. However, it is also fun to find other homes with Christmas spirit and 303 South Chapman does, indeed, have holiday spirit. The owners have been in the home for a couple of years, but they realize they are part of a neighborhood that values decorating. Their home is right down the street from Our Lady of Grace (OLG) Church and School. We imagine the children headed to and from OLG delight in seeing these decorations. We sure do.

Built in 1940, this house is a lot larger that it appears from this street view. Built in 1940, this WWII home has four bedrooms, three bathrooms. It was renovated in 2008 (and maybe since then) and has been well maintained. Perhaps the Grinch is aggravated with his neighbors and all of the balls in the trees. Somehow, we have the feeling, the Christmas spirit is not in danger in this great neighborhood. The Grinch hopes your holiday is everything you hoped it would be.

Happy Thursday!

Glenwood Neighborhood- Smaller, Older Homes with Lots of Charm

The above photo was taken at a corner lot on the east side of the Glenwood neighborhood, not too far from Gate City Boulevard. It reminds us of just how charming these older neighborhoods can be in Greensboro. The lot is large and the scene looks like it could be way out in the country, not in the city limits. Glenwood dates back to the early 20th century, one of Greensboro's oldest neighborhoods. The neighborhood usually to get trolley service from town. There are several community initiatives in Glenwood, and the neighborhood prides itself in its diversity and the fact that people from all walks of life not only greet each other,  but interact on a regular basis.

Enjoy your day today, remember our small businesses and remember to #OptOutside. See you at the farmers markets first and then walking around seeing what we can uncover. We hope the lighting is a s good today as it was last week, when we took this photo.

Happy Saturday!

Sunset Hills Getting Ready for "The Running of the Balls"

The neighbors of Sunset Hills are out getting ready for displaying their lights. In the above photo, Jay and River Jung were out with their fishing poles yesterday afternoon, getting their strands of light balls hurled into the tops of trees. Their technique it to cast a fishing pole, with a carabiner clip on the end into the trees. Once they loop the fishing live over, they attach a string of lights to the line. They get about 3 strands completed a night, and, when completed, will have 65 lights in their yard alone. They said they knew when buying a house on Ridgeway Avenue four years ago that they would have to be "all in" with the light balls. 

So, just know, if you participate in "The Running of the Balls" or, if you drive through Sunset Hills to see the lights, that residents take a lot of pride and joy in knowing how much others appreciate their efforts. The whole project is a big fundraiser for Second Harvest Food Bank. the Greensboro area struggles with food insecurity, and every non-perishable item donated, every entry fee, and every dollar donated goes to a worthy cause. People in-person, as opposed to screen time, really makes a community feel special and, Sunset Hills is just that, a special community. Drive by and see for yourself. Thank you to the Jung family and to everyone else who participates in this holiday tradition.

Happy Tuesday!

4235 Ashland Drive, the Exterior

Earlier in the week, we wrote a piece about Ruth Rachel Roberts (see HERE).  Above, is a photo of  Ruth Roberts's house at 4235 Ashland Drive. The house was built in 1920 in the Highland Park neighborhood of Greensboro. The above photo of the house a property looks like the exterior hasn't changed much over the last century. For the 1920's, this was a generous sized home, perfect for a husband, wife, and their eight children.

What has changed as the back yard, just beyond the yellow, caution tape and hedges is Wendover Avenue. However, most of the yard is on the side and front of the 1/3 acre property. It will be interesting to see what becomes of the property. Next time we're driving along Wendover Avenue, we're anxious to see the house from the back side. We seem to remember that it used to be decorated for Christmas, which would fit with Ruth's love of Christmas. 

Happy Thursday!

Ruth Rachel Roberts

Ruth Rachel Roberts died on August 16, 2017, at the age of 96. She would have been 103 this year. The above photo was taken at the estate sale held at her home on 4235 Ashland Drive. We wish we'd met Ruth*  and interviewed her for GDP; she lead such a long and interesting life.  We are grateful for our friend, local singer/performer Jessica Mashburn, for urging us to attend the estate sale.  Jessica was right. The house and its contents are quite a time capsule and window into Ruth's life that was as full as her house. Ruth graduated from Greensboro Senior High School (Grimsley)  in 1938 and went on to work for and retire from the United States Internal Revenue Service.  One of eight children, in her family, she was the last living member of her generation. The contents reflected a century's worth of household items and collections.

We photographed the wooden skate in the living room as Ruth was a competitive roller skater, traveling for competitions. She also officiated for competitions. Ruth was a master seamstress, making her costumes as well as clothing for daily wear. She was also an avid doll collector and was a member of Piedmont Doll Club. We're estimating there were still 300 dolls for sale in the last hours of the last day of the estate sale.  In addition to sewing, Ruth was a talented crafter. Boxes and boxes of crafting supplies and yards and yards of fabric were available at the sale.  Among other crafts, Ruth was known for making Chrismon ornaments-- ornaments with Christian symbols on them to remind people that Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus. **  Ruth was a lifelong member of Presbyterian Church of the Covenant and taught Sunday school there. Signs of her spirituality were seen everywhere in the house, from her craft projects to her book collection. 

The four bedroom 2.5 bathroom house was built in 1920, the year before Ruth was born. Wendover Avenue, built in the 1930s, ten years after the construction of the house,  is literally in the backyard of this 1/3 acre property. We're betting some of their property was taken to construct the road which grew and widened over Ruth's life. Somehow, when walking through the tan stucco house with minimal, if any, remodeling over the years, you imagine women in cotton dresses cooking and sewing; and men sitting, reading the paper, and smoking a pipe.  The sights and sounds of Wendover are hardly noticeable. Here's to a life well lived.

 

*  as she is referred to in her obituary,  the source of information shared in this post.

** The word is a combination of the words Christmas and monogram. Frances Kipps Spencer of Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia, created the first Chrismon tree in 1957. 

 

 

Halloween in Westerwood: It's Getting Spooky!

On Sunday, on WFMY News 2, Meterologist Ed Matthews talked about neighborhoods really decorating for Halloween this year- especially Westerwood and College Hill. Ed, we couldn't agree more The above photo is of 510 North Mendenhall, near downtown. This house, built in 1924, really has the Halloween spirit. From the skull arch to the skeletons galavanting onto the roof, on the porch swings, and in the yard. this display is pure Halloween fun. October is to Westerwood what December is to Sunset Hills; the month that brings great recognition to the community. There was the Art & Sole gallery walk, the Chili Cook-Off, and 'tis the month of great decorations. Imagine being a small child and walking past this display at dusk. The current owners have been in the house for about three years and they sure seem to have cultivated the "Westerwood Spirit."

We overheard some young teens walking and talking, saying how many Halloweens they missed due to bad weather and Covid. They all agreed they should be given another year two of grace on trick-or-treating for candy. One teen commented, "Besides, those people who go all out and decorate really want people to come by to Trick-or-Treat." Many neighborhoods are quiet in October. However, Westerwood really comes alive!

Happy Wednesday!

1007 N. Elm Room with a View-- and with a History

The above photo was taken from the 3rd floor in the house at 1007 North Elm Street. The 7 bedroom, Fisher Park house is made out of the same rock as this back yard garage and servant's quarters. The architect of the house was Harry Barton. The original owner was John Marion Galloway, the largest grower of bright leaf tobacco in the world- back in the day.*  We need to return and get a photo of the front of the house, now that we found all of the details of the property on the form where it is nominated for the National Register of Historic places. (See Here).

We would love to see this same view once there is some fall color, and then in winter to see the backyard. This is a house for romantics. You need to be able to dream about how beautiful it will be,  decorated and full of people. There are so many rooms that invite different moods and purposes. If the walls could talk, oh the stories they would tell of people dancing, socializing, and sipping beverages up on the third floor. 

If you had a three story house with a library on the ground floor, bedrooms galore on the second floor, and a ballroom and full bar on the third, how would you use this house? 

*Imagine our joy upon researching this reference for the owner of the house and discovering that it is attributed to our dear friend Alice Moore. Alice, who died several years ago, was the architectural historian who wrote the national register nomination for the Galloway house. (see HERE).  Alice also wrote the  nomination for the Latham-Baker Mansion at 412 Fisher Park Circle. We'll need to make a note to photograph that one, too. We had no idea that a quick visit to an estate sale on Sunday would bring back memories of a friend who inspired us at the start of Greensboro Daily Photo in 2009.

Alice Moore (March 1983). "John Marion Galloway House" (pdf). National Register of Historic Places - Nomination and Inventory. North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office. Retrieved November 1, 2014.

Happy Wednesday!

 

Carol Poling, Thrill of the Hunt

The above photo features Carol Poling who owns "Thrill of the Hunt" Estate Sales. She is standing in the stairwell of the house at 1007 N. Elm Street where she was running the estate sale at the property all weekend. Carol was in awe of how meticulously arranged the owner had all of her many collections: Original artwork, pottery, an extensive book collection, beautiful furniture, glassware and more. This seven bedroom, four bathroom house also had a bar and ballroom- running the length of the house- on the third floor. The ballroom was used for social gatherings (likely during prohibition). Carol and her staff had to price every single item. Every. Single. Item. By Sunday, the house was almost empty and most of the people we talked to on Sunday had already attended the sale at least once.

You may remember Carol from her brick-and-mortar days. Since 2003, she has been selling vintage items and antiques in Greensboro. She first opened a store at 604 South Elm Street and then moved to a larger location at  3122 Battleground Avenue near Lowe's. Now, Carol works estate sales only. Carol has a keen sense of market value and what items will sell for in the Greensboro market. She has boundless energy. As people called her name, she ran up and down all those stairs like a teenager.

We don't think we'd seen  Carol since brick-and-mortar years. In retail, friendships get cultivated, especially when the proprietor is on site. Sometimes you don't realize how much you've missed someone, until you see them again. Yesterday, we had a great little reunion, and, as you can see from the photo, hard work has kept Carol fit and looking young!

Happy Monday. We hope you get some rest, Carol. Until the next estate sale!

Keystone Apartments at Horse Pen Creek Road

Yesterday morning, we noticed construction being put into place at the newest neighborhood on Horse Pen Creek Road. Keystone is a neighborhood of apartments near New Garden Road. Cresting the hill on Horse Pen Creek Road, we noticed this praying mantis-like piece of equipment hovering above the cleared acreage. The 1-3 bedroom apartments boast many amenities. The leasing office is on Seabiscuit Lane, the main entrance into the neighborhood.

According to the Triad Business Journal,  Keystone Homes, established 1996, is the #1 privately held housing developer in North Carolina. Scott Wallace is president and Mark Michael is vice president. Their headquarters is located at 3708 Alliance Drive, , off of Wendover near the car dealerships. Horse Pen Creek is no longer your sleepy little, heavily wooded road. It will be interesting to see this community finished.

Happy Friday!

Changes at 507 Chapman Street

 

 

Do you remember the True family and the Santa of Chapman Street at 507 South Chapman? Every year Jack True, Sr. would decorate his tiny, humble abode for holidays and especially at Christmas. To jog your memory, see HERE for a Christmas photo of a three decade tradition. See HERE for the Fourth of July flag decoration and HERE for Easter. We sure do miss Mr. True. with  his spirit and generosity. Mr. True died in 2003 at the age of 71. According to the Zillow link, the True house had two bedrooms and one bath and was on .17 acres. It sold on January 22, 2024 for $125,000.

Currently, the above trio of buildings is being constructed on the True family  lot. When we first started posting photos on Greensboro Daily Photo, we didn't really think we would be documenting the extent to which Greensboro is changing. It isn't so much we miss his house as we miss the tradition he started and the joy he brought to so many generations of children. Have fun looking back at the old photos. We probably have more, but that's enough "then and now" for one day. Besides, we're already starting to tear up a little.

Happy Thursday!

113 Kensington

This house at 113 Kensington Road always catches our attention when we walk to the Corner Farmers Market. This brick home was built in 1925, has almost 1/2 an acre, a 3-car garage, and four bedrooms and three baths. That is a might big house for 99 years ago in Sunset Hills. It even has a basement, and a walk-in pantry. We're betting that the original owners had help for entertaining in this house.

About the time this house was built, Cone Mills was firmly established in the textile industry.  Burlington Industries had opened in 1923. The Jefferson Standard Life Insurance Co. had been in business for 20 years.  Greensboro had many tobacco-related operations in the 1920s. Also, at that time, railways were a primary mode of passenger traffic as well as transporting freight.  Being so close to West Market Street, this house would have had easy access to downtown, including  street car service. The Sunset Hills neighborhood is now 100 years old. Every home owner of a house from 100 years ago should maintain records of the history of their home's history- since the walls can't talk. The history museum and public records are two great places to find information.

Happy Tuesday!

Mojud Lofts

Mood Lofts are located at 1001 South Lindell Road, back between the railroad tracks at Oakland Avenue and Spring Garden Street, behind Hops Burger Bar. The apartments will offer, not only housing, but also communal space and many amenities, including a fitness room, a saltwater pool,  and a courtyard. This building has been empty for so long, it is nice to see it being repurposed and put to good use. The building's roots date back to the 1920s when Greensboro was a thriving mill town. At first, we thought the name came from another language, possibly Arabic. However, it appears to be a mix of two of the original hosiery mill executives: Mock and Judson. One, two, and three bedroom apartments. The architects have designed floor plans that keep as much of the historic elements as possible while adding new, clean, and modern amenities. Here's what the property looked like a few years ago when the transformation was getting underway. The view from this photo in 2014 is the same corner of the building you see in today's photo. It is hard for us to realize when we were out taking photos ten years ago that we were actually documenting some of the history of Greensboro. If you follow the links, you can see some "then and now" shots. 

If you get a chance, drive to Hyatt Street, back by the Sherwin Williams Paint Company and see the change to this part of town. Now, we're wondering what will become of the empty lot across the street of the MoJud Lofts, the place that formerly housed a mobile home community. Can you think of anything we should photograph now that will look entirely different another ten years from now? If so, let us know.

Read more about the interesting history of the mill, HERE.

Happy Wednesday!

755 Perry Street- Dunleath Neighborhood

Look at this beauty of a green bungalow on Perry Street in the Dunleath neighborhood. It is hard to believe that it was built in 1895, 129 years ago. It is absolutely charming and the neighborhood has such a neighborly atmosphere. They are famous for Porchefest, an early June event where homeowners loan out their porches to musicians and people set up lawn chairs going from yard to yard enjoying the free concerts. They have sidewalks and you see people using them regularly.  Additionally, there is a Kentucky Derby Party and there is a free little library, a box to get free jigsaw puzzles, and one to get free art. Additionally, there are trails, access to the greenway and downtown. The Greensboro Farmers Curb Market and all of NCA&T's resources are within walking distance. It is such a special community and this is such a special house.

Happy Monday!

Hampton Homes

Hampton Homes is an apartment community located south of downtown Greensboro, between Gate City Boulevard, Elm/Eugene, and South Street. It is in the Warnersville neighborhood, and elementary school students attend the nearby Jones Elementary School. About four years ago, the Housing Authority of the City of Greensboro did a major interior and exterior renovation to Hampton Homes.  The 20+million dollar project greatly enhanced the community.*

The Warnersville Recreation Center is located nearby and they offer a lot of programs for children in the neighborhood, as do all of the local churches. This is a neighborhood that works to provide for children in the community. Monday-Thursday, free meals are available for children at  Jones Elementary School. Hopefully, there are other options for Fridays and the weekends. The school personnel who work through the summers work four day work weeks in the summer. The above photo, with no people outside is a little misleading, as this neighborhood is vibrant usually full of life. We'll have to stop back by and take a photo with children outdoors having some good old summer fun!

Happy Friday!

*reference and more information HERE.

Hydrangea Season on Walker Avenue

It is hydrangea season in Greensboro and 2017 Walker Avenue is in full bloom. This two bedroom one bathroom house is located just down from UNCG and across the street from the little log cabin*. Hydrangeas like a lot of water and the recent rains have kept these bushes in full bloom. This house was built in 1947 and, according to Zillow, last sold in 2013. This is a very walkable neighborhood, part of the reason houses around here hold their value. 

If you are in town this Memorial Day weekend, it would be a good time to drive around and admire the beauty of our neighborhoods. Another great event to attend is the Memorial Day observance today in Country Park at 2:00 pm. It will be held at the Guilford County Veterans' Memorial. Hope to see you there.

Happy Saturday!

* see our post from 2009 about the cabin (HERE).

Double Oaks

Double Oaks is a beauty of an Air B&B, located at the corner of Friendly Avenue and North Mendenhall Street. The last we heard, this turn-of-the-century colonial revival mansion was still for sale. James and Amanda Keith have owned the property since 2016 and it appears they are ready to move on. According to the Double Oaks website, the young couple is also restoring the NuWray Hotel in Burnsville, NC. Built in 1833, it is said to be North Carolina's oldest continually-operating hotel. From casual to elegant, they hold so many events here. Hopefully, the new owners will be as community oriented as the current ones. Located just a hop, skip, and a jump from Greensboro College and UNCG and right across the street from the First Baptist Church, the Air B&B surely stays busy. At least, we hope so. Stop by this morning for a cup of Borough Coffee and have a look at this gem of a place.

Happy Wednesday!

Between Greene and Eugene Streets

The other night, we were walking from Green Street in the direction of Eugene Street, and found ourselves on Paisley. It is very near Joymongers, in the heart of that area just north of downtown. It is still a street with mostly houses and a neighborhood feel to it. This house at 135 Paisley Street was built in 1926. We're guessing the street is named for Reverend William Denny Paisley, Greensboro's first Presbyterian minister. The original First Presbyterian Church is not far from here. Reverend Paisley did not actually live on Paisley Street. He lived on West Market Street in a house that was eventually moved to 409 Hillcrest Drive in 1929, to make room for the Preyer Building.*

This street looks pretty during the day, especially when the hydrangeas are in bloom. However, is is also charming at night. Most of the houses on the street have similar architecture. Most of this row of houses has been converted to apartments. However, they still have the feel of a house and you can walk to almost everything. It seems to be a quiet street as we rarely see people coming and going from the houses. It is the weekend. Consider heading downtown, or any neighborhood and explore away.

Happy Friday!

*reference and more information.

2310 Fairfield Avenue; Going Strong After 77 Years!

The house we're featuring today is just down the road from the Guilford Park Presbyterian Church, the church we featured yesterday. The two bedroom, one bathroom house was built in 1947. The house looks like it has been really well cared for, even after 77 years. It looks so cozy,  and is conveniently located in Kirkwood, just north of Irving Park Plaza. The lot is 2/10 of an acre, a nice size for a small house this close to town.  The current owners have had the house since 2005. According to the Next Door website, the Kirkwood neighborhood has 2,216 residents with an average income of $84,000, and the average age of a resident is 50. It is a neighborhood with a lot of character. We're very curious about this brick and iron fence. It seems like it may be older than 77 years.

Happy April 1st. For our Christian readers, we hope you had a good Easter. It was early this year. Our Muslim readers are still observing Ramadan, which concludes with Eid on the evening of Tuesday, April 9th and Passover begins on April 22. Finally, Orthodox Easter is on Sunday, May 5th. Spring is the time for some great holidays and with the diversity of Greensboro, we celebrate them all. We wonder what the people in 2310 celebrate.

 

2306 Lawndale in Kirkwood is Ready for Easter!

Today would be a glorious day for an Easter egg hunt, as tomorrow is Easter. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to walk around the edge of Kirkwood on Lawndale near Cornwalis. This section  of the neighborhood has such a unique personality- a little bit hip and a little bit hippy. There is one of Kirkwood's two remaining Lustron homes.*  There are owners with vintage cars parked on the street, there is a house with an inflated unicorn, there is the palm reader. The above lawn at 2306 Lawndale is  decorated for Easter with two dogs guarding the pot. 

As we zip by this cluster of homes on Lawndale by car, we don't see it as a neighborhood. However, when we walked it this past week, we started seeing all of the things that make it a neighborhood. We were greeted by Great Danes guarding their yard, we noticed lots of storage sheds, we saw flowers and trees starting to bloom. There were people at Guilford Presbyterian Church getting ready for Easter. We looked up and a giant pink flamingo was staring at us. There were others walking. Someone was out for a run. We noticed a small park with a giant tree that reminds of the Angel Oak in Charleston, SC. Just like the Angel Oak, it is not permitted to climb the tree. Before we knew it, we were back at our car. Walking our many neighborhoods is a fun way to get to know Greensboro. May the Easter bunny deliver a basket of goodness to 2306 Lawndale, and to you too! Please stop back tomorrow.

Happy Saturday!

*See our post on the Lustron on Lawndale  from 15 years ago. 

1902 Madison Ave in Sunset Hills

This single family home in Sunset Hills was built in 1932. It has so many features that anchor it in this part of North Carolina. First the stone exterior looks like it may be Mt. Airy granite. Then there is the stonemasonry. We're wondering if it is was built by stonemason Andrew Leopold Schlosser. He would have been working in Greensboro during the time this house was built. Also, the green roof tiles are possibly Pomona Terra Cotta Manufacturing Company, with a factory down the road, just off of West Market Street. Finally,  that cozy front porch exudes southern hospitality.

This home got new owners last year and, based on the NC State flag on the front porch, we conclude they are North Carolina State fans. If you live in Greensboro, or North Carolina in general, you know what a basketball state we are.  The NC State Basketball Teams, men's and women's are advancing to the Sweet 16. We're betting there will be some neighborhood parties in this house if NC State continues to advance. The Sunset Hills neighborhood is known for celebrating together. But during basketball season, even the friendliest of neighbors get a little competitive.

Happy Tuesday! 

305 Kensington Road, Former Home of Fred Chappell

305 Kensington Road is a home in Sunset Hills, just down from The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). It is a property with a yard that has been well loved and tended. It was also the home of Fred Chappell, esteemed  author, poet, and emeritus professor at UNCG from 1997-2002. He was poet laureate of North Carolina from 1997-2002. Fred Chappell was born in Canton, North Carolina (about 20 miles west of Asheville in Haywood County), in 1938. He died recently- this past January 4th- at the age of 86. If you want to know more about him, and have an hour, the PBS documentary, "I Am One of You Forever" is well worth your time. Also, here is a conversation from 2022 where a big take-away is poetry was his passion and he was very humble- even with all of his accomplishments. This quote expresses nicely his love of poetry, "It seems to me, [poetry is] the most natural kind of a speech there is. It’s the most natural, the most elevated, and the most fun — poetry is always attractive. Everybody is immersed in poetry, whether they know it or not."*

The property on Kensington is for sale now. Those who tour the home will notice the garden. The rhododendron are about to bloom, the hellebores are already in bloom, the daffodils have arrived. The next owner will be the new keeper of the garden and a charming abode with lots of book shelves. Fred Chappell was well liked and respected by students, colleagues, and the public at large. The New York Times referred to him as an "admired but unsung writer of the south".  He may be gone, but, indeed, he will be one of us forever.

Happy Friday!

 

*(Woodward's article in Smoky Mountain News, page visited 2/22/24).

 

 

 

I am one of you forever

3503 East Lee Street

As you know by now, we love to explore Greensboro and Guilford County in our spare time, often getting lost in new places. Of course getting lost is not the same with GPS and digital navigation. A couple of weeks ago, we explored the southeast end of the county near Sharpe Road and Englewood Forest, right were East Gate City Boulevard and I-40 come together. The above house at 3503 East Lee Street  caught our eye because it reminded us of housing in Mexico and other countries- especially the bright colors and the stucco. It evokes the feeling of a ranch out west. The fence defines a border but deer and other critters can hop over with ease. It wouldn't keep a child or a pet contained; but, it does accentuate the property beautifully. It is situated on nearly an acre and a half.

The house was built in 1953 and last sold in 2006, so the current owners have been there for nearly 20 years. When the house was built 71 years ago, the eastern part of Guilford County looked so different and this property would have seemed very remote. Today, in a hop, skip, and a jump, you can be on the interstate, heading out of town in two minutes. It is beside George C. Simkins, Jr. Elementary School, which opened in the 2014-2015 school year. So, the above house, and the current owners, predate the constructing of the school. As a result of this little jaunt, we learned that there still is a part of Lee Street still called "Lee Street." Just around the corner from this house is the East Gate City Boulevard corridor. It is so fun to explore our community!

Happy Thursday!

Saint Jacques French Restaurant at The Burke Manor Inn in Gibsonville

The Saint Jacques French Restaurant is located in the Burke Manor Inn on Buck Street in Greensboro. While a twenty minute drive from Greensboro, this restaurant is one of the finer dining experiences near Greensboro. John Batchelor said it best in a 2011 review for the Greensboro  News and Record, "Food at Saint Jacques exquisite, but at a cost." The restaurant, located in an elegant home that has been converted to an inn and restaurant, The home was built in 1906 for Ceasar Cone. Several Generations of the Burke family lived there and then it became an inn in 1999.*

It has both indoor and outdoor seating. If you like French food with complex sauces and multiple courses, you will love Saint Jacques. Right now, Chef Lacassagne is gearing up for the prix fixe Valentine's Day Dinner, as well as some summer food tours to France.

The above photo is of a dining rooms not in use when we were there. As you can see, there is ample space between tables. They offer service to special events and even offer cooking classes. The food ranges fro the heavier, meat dishes like Filet Mignon "Michou" and Roasted Lamb to lighter fare, like Salmon Exotique and Old World Warm Goat Cheese Salad. In addition to expertly prepared food, Saint Jacques has great waiters. All around eating at Saint Jacques is a step back in time where you can linger and enjoy fine dining in an atmosphere that takes you back to the first half of the 20th century.

Happy Saturday!

*reference and more information published in  Maria Johnson's 2021 article in Our State Magazine (see HERE).

1217 Lakewood Drive

Today, we're featuring 1217 Lakewood Drive in Hamilton Lakes. It is a very modern house with a low profile from the street. This 4 bedroom 3 bathroom house is not for sale, but we were attracted to is while driving around because of the Little Free Library box in the front yard. The library box is constructed in a similar shape as the house, painted the same color, and had a book we took to read. We had the ambitious idea, for 2024, to challenge ourselves to only read books acquired from Little Free Libraries this year, and to return them to a box when we finished reading them. We see so many of those great community resources as we drive through neighborhoods. Thank you, 1217 for the great selection of books.

The above house is located an easy walk from the lake and the park and walking trails. We imagine it is beautiful inside because it has a screened in back porch and so many amenities. The house was built in 1952, in the era of mid-century modern. It was designed by Wesley Doggett, an early graduate of the NCSU School of Design.* Mr. Doggett lived in Greensboro and died here in 2000.**  After retiring from Carolina Steel Corporation, he opened his own design consulting business. We're wondering just how many houses he designed, what decisions went into  designing 1217 Lakewood, and if he ever lived in the house. This is one of many houses with great provenance in the Hamilton Lakes neighborhood.

Happy Friday!

 

• * reference and more photos.
• ** read the obituary of this accomplished man, here.

Festive House at 2505 West Market Street

This past Saturday was the Running of the Balls in Greensboro, where about 5,000 people ran through Sunset Hills celebrating the colorful lights wrapped around chicken wire balls and hanging high in the mature trees. The event was a very successful fundraiser for a local food bank. The above house is in the Sunset Hills neighborhood, even though it is not quite in the line of the running course. However, with the leafless winter trees, they can see the festivities from the yard. We love the fact that the owners of this house add their own spin on decorating. They also have Moravian stars and look at those giant ornaments on the ground in front of the door.

As you can see from the photo, 2505 West Market Street is a large Colonial home, often referred to as 5 (windows an the second floor) 4 (windows on the ground level) and a door: Five, four, and a door. The house was  built in 1937 on nearly 1/2 acre. At the time it was built, it would have been on the western outskirts of Greensboro.  Today, it almost feels as if it is in the heart of town. This house is located near the intersection with West Greenway. The current owners have owned the house for the last sixteen years. We're betting they are the ones who painted the red brick white. The sidewalk in front of the home make this section of the neighborhood very walkable.

Happy Monday!

311 S Elam Ave

Have you noticed yellow accent doors are trending in Greensboro? 311 South Elam Avenue, located between Lindley Park and Sunset Hills, is one such example. When you drive or walk by, this door is a stand out. It also brings out the yellow in the surrounding landscaping. This single family home was built in 1956. It is a lot bigger than it looks. In this three bedroom, three bath house, there is a garage behind the house, as well as a full basement. Also, it is built on almost a half acre. According to Zillow, the last time it sold was in 2012. So, the current owners must be happy, especially given the amount of appreciation the house has had. 

At one time, we were trying to find homes in Greensboro that were every color of the rainbow. For now, we think we'll settle for red-purple doors. This yellow is about as yellow as it gets. It looks like at one time the house was red brick. Paint certainly changes the aesthetic of a house. Do you have a favorite color for accent doors? Do you have one in mind we should feature on Greensboro Daily Photo? Let us know.

Happy Tuesday!

Flamboyance of Flamingos

A group of flamingos is called a flamboyance. A flamboyance of flamingos has landed at 1812 Walker Avenue. Earlier this month (September 4th) flamingos were spotted at the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge at the Outer Banks in North Carolina. They were about 1,000 miles north of their usual habitat. Well, the above photos are also in an unexpected habitat, in a yard in Sunset Hills. Traditionally, this is a church youth group fundraiser; people install flamingos and you pay to have them removed. If you want to see live flamingos, you don't have to drive far. The Greensboro Science Center maintains a flamboyance of flamingos. They look very healthy and bright pink given their diet of foods containing carotenoid pigment. Here is a photo we took of them a little over a year ago.

As for the house at 1812 Walker Avenue, built in 1927, grabbed our attention as we drove around the corner. Wonder where they will land next.

Happy Tuesday! 

Woodworker Ken Collins

Some houses absolutely reflect the personalities of the owner. Such is the case of this artist at 832 Glenwood Avenue in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. Ken Collins has his "shingle" displayed at his driveway announcing that he is a woodworker. However, Ken is so much more.  As you can see from the art around the yard, Ken is quite the metalworker and upcycler, too. It is hard to see in the photo, but the metal fan blade flowers have glass telephone insulators as their centers.

Ken's studio is behind his house and it seems every few years when we drive by the artwork has changed. Also, we have seen his work available at ReAligned Antique Store at 115 East Lewis Street, downtown. We don't really know him personally, but years ago, Ken repaired and rewired a lamp for us and did a fabulous job. It is so meaningful to meet local, creative people. We actually featured him in person eight years ago, and hope to have a chance to see more of his artwork.

If you look at your home, what does it say about your? We're always on the lookout for great people and places to feature. Let us know.

Happy Thursday (the new Friday)!