Greensboro Daily Photo

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)!

806 Cypress Street

It has been a while since we've featured a home. Today, we're featuring a home in the Dunleath Historic Neighborhood of Greensboro, at 806 Cypress Street. This 5 bedroom 4 bathroom home was built in 1916, maintaining so much of the character of old world, Victorian charm. It is located across the street from Swann Middle School on a lovely tree-lined street. The Dunleath neighborhood does so much as a community, most recently was the Porchfest Music Celebration. This house, formerly painted white, is now this bold blue and currently featuring very lovely green plantings. It is such a pleasure to walk the sidewalks of Dunleath and see these large porches, fine architectural details,  carefully manicured lawns and friendly neighbors. If you get a chance, go drive around and see for yourself this summer.

True Family Home; 507 Chapman Street- Gone, But Not Forgotten!

As of yesterday afternoon, just before 5:00 pm, this was all that was left of the little blue house on Chapman Street, the place where Jack True made holidays come to life for generations of Greensboro's children.*  His years of playing Santa Claus on the porch were epic. Now, with only signs of the foundation remaining, you can see that this house had a tiny, tiny footprint. Built in 1935, it had two bedrooms and one bathroom. According to Zillow, the lot is .19 of an acre and it sold on 2/23/23 for $79,000. Unless it was rezoned or additional property acquired, it will accommodate a single family dwelling of 3,529 square feet.

This is a very desirable neighborhood between Lindley Park, Sunset Hills, and UNCG. It will be interesting to see what gets built. There are those breathing a sigh of relief that the house with only a wood stove for a heat source and a leaky, tarped roof is gone. A new structure will serve to improve this corner of the neighborhood. However, there are those who know that sometimes houses with the tiniest of footprints are home to people with the biggest hearts. Such was the case at 507 Chapman Street.

* see here, a Greensboro Daily Photo of the house when it was still standing.

719 Fifth Avenue in the Dunleath Neighborhood

The Dunleath neighborhood in east Greensboro is very walkable. The above photo was taken this past Saturday when there was a Kentucky Derby party in the neighborhood as well as multiple yard sales. There were almost as many free items as items for sale. The weather was sunny, but crisp and it was a perfect day to walk around and meet neighbors.  The above photo, at 719 Fifth Avenue was not having a sale, but they were getting a fresh paint job by "Absolute Quality Painting" and it was looking beautiful. This Dutch colonial house was built in 1910 and currently sits on 1/4 acre. It last sold in 2022 and the neighbors are quite likely getting ready for Porchfest. On Saturday, June 10th, Dunleath will have porches filled with musicians from 11 am- 6pm. As stated on their website, neighbors offer their porches and musicians offer their talents. Music sets last about 45 minutes and people stroll from porch to porch enjoying great music. Maps are printed to distribute to guests. Porchfest began in 2017 and has continued to grow every year.  This is another example of a grassroots event that makes Greensboro such a special place to live.

Happy Wednesday!

1633 Willomore Street

The day we were in Glenwood to see the Tiny Home property, we noticed this property, also on Willomore. It was built in 1901 and doesn't appear to have been sold since 1990, when it sold for $40,000. It is one of those homes that remind one of yesteryear. Time stands still on this 1/3 of an acre. The two bedroom, one bathroom house looks like it has been added on to, on the left. 

The original log home and chinking has been going strong for over 120 years. Of course we have as many questions as answers. We wonder how many owners it has had, what the inside looks like, what changes the owners have seen in the neighborhood over the years. What they love most about it- on and on. Perhaps we should call on them some day, just like people used to do back when it was built. We could knock and see if we could chat on the porch for a spell. Taking a plate of warm cookies might do the trick. 

What will you be doing this weekend?  Happy Friday!

 

Tiny Homes on Freeman Mill & Willomore

The tiny home community, located at the corner of Freeman Mill Road and Willomore Street, is up and running. Construction is in progress and some homes are getting cose to completion. In the foreground, you see a frame that is about 11'x 16'. Tiny House Community Development is building homes on the site. Last spring an art teacher at Greensboro Day School arranged for her art students to build a house.*

At one time, there were other proposals for this lot, which was zoned for residential, single family homes. It seems like the tiny home concept will be a good fit. When we were on the lot yesterday, we noticed several deer tracks where they had been traipsing through the mud. Hopefully when people move into the homes, there will be a little bit of a buffer between the streets and the homes. It will be fun to monitor the progress. Can you our shadow in the middle of the photo?

Happy Wednesday!

* learn more HERE.

In Memory of James Clarkson Newlin

Oh how we wish we'd met James Clarkson Newlin. His was a life well lived. He gave his all to Guilford College, his Quaker faith, and to issues of social justice.* His parents were professors at Guiford College, so he came by his service to the Quaker community and Guilford College honestly. Mr. Newlin graduated from Guilford College in 1960 with a degree in chemistry. He went on to eventually become Chief Financial Officer for the college, served as Executive Director of Eastern Music Festival, Executive Director of the African Dance Ensemble in Durham; he co-founded the New Garden Friends School, and so much more. He worked hard to keep Painter Boulevard/the Urban Loop from going through his beloved Guilford College. When his estate sale was announced, we just had to attend to get a glimpse of the life of a man who had done so much in the community. We attended yesterday and can imagine his sitting at the above desk, typing on those manual typewriters, but betting he was tech savvy and a user of modern technology.

Mr. Newlin was a passionate collector; not of trinkets, but of top quality antiques: From jade carvings, to original paintings, to vintage pocket watches, and much more. After seeing his home and collections, you feel like you know him. His desk in the lower level of his house has a breathtaking view of his woods on the edge of Guilford College. He could have walked to work, and probably did. We imagine him sitting at that very desk reading a book from his massive collection, reading the newspaper, or searching something on the internet. His estate sale continues through the weekend. Seeing 5512 Foxwood is a step back in time and an opportunity to connect with someone who was dedicated to Greensboro in every way. Mr. Newlin had no children. Likely his sister did not want much of his estate; giving the general public the opportunity to traipse through the house and purchase his treasures. If you knew Mr. Newlin, we'd love to hear your stories about him. 

We hope you have a beautiful weekend. Let us take time to celebrate the elderly in our lives. Happy Saturday!

 

 

 

* See his obituary HERE,

 

Big White Farmhouse on Johnson Farm Trail

The above photo features an old farmhouse off of Burlington Road, Highway 70, east of Greensboro, right at the Guilford County line. This home is so charming and reminds us of that country way of living,  so common in the mid part of the 20th century and before. The white, wooden house was probably added on to as the owner's family grew- or became more prosperous. Likely, the owners were very tied to the land and loved everything that came from rural living. Possibly, the home has been passed down through the generations. We could sit here and conjecture all day; in the meantime, we'll just admire the view.

Every month or two, we drive the back roads from Greensboro to Burlington (Wendover, Highway 70) to the east, or Greensboro to Kernersville to the west (Highway 150). As we drive, we notice something has changed, stopping to photograph whatever catches our eye.  Noticeably, Guilford County is becoming quite a place for storage, warehouses, and trucks.  Looking back, sometimes we have documented things that used to be.  For now, it doesn't look like the big, white farmhouse isn't going anywhere anytime soon. On a bright, sunny day, those bare trees look so beautiful and make the house look like a home. The trees all look healthy, ready to leaf out in a couple of months. 

Happy Wednesday! Please stop and admire the beauty of Greensboro, every chance you get. 

Rainbow Series: Yellow House in Glenwood

Today's yellow house with the bright red roof is located at 1223 Gregory Street in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. It was built in 1938 and hasn't sold since 2013. It looks like whoever has owned it for the last ten years has really kept it up; probably even upgraded it. Between the red roof and bright blue sky, this yellow house really pops. As we drove around Greensboro this past weekend in search of houses for our "rainbow" house series, we started to think we could shoot the whole series in Glenwood. Green, blue, and yellow houses are pretty easy to find. Red, orange, and purple houses are a little harder. If you have a lead about houses in those three colors in Greensboro, please let us know.

Glenwood is a diverse neighborhood, said to be the most diverse in all of North Carolina. The more we look at these two bedroom, one bathroom homes, so typical of Glenwood, the more appealing we find them. If you are trying to move closer to town, you can't beat the location of this neighborhood.

Happy Tuesday!

Lovely Green Home at 806 Fairmont Street

The Westerwood subdivision of Greensboro dates to 1919. This 2-story, green beauty, built in 1925, is located at 806 Fairmont Street. This vibrant house is inspiring us feature a Greensboro home in each of the the rainbow colors. While not in rainbow order, the first up is GREEN. This 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home recently sold in 2020. The home was renovated and painted before it sold, and it almost sparkles in the sunlight. The yard is rather small, but well cared for; look at that mortarless, dry stone wall and inviting front porch.  This home is characteristic of Westerwood: Curb appeal, curb appeal, curb appea

Westerwood is a neighborhood conducive to walking  and is known for its mature trees.  Westerwood residents are community-minded.  Another special feature of the neighborhood is the they have maintained records regarding its history. In October, Westerwood holds an art walk, Art & Sole,  where artists open their studios or porches to people. COVID cancelled it for a while. Let's hope the event is back up and running this fall. There are so many artists in Westerwood!

Happy Tuesday! Please recommend a red, orange, yellow, blue, or purple house for us to photograph. 

Pallet Homes- Addressing Needs of People Experiencing Homelessness

The above photo features the pallet homes at Billie A Nall Park on Clifton Road. If you live in Greensboro, likely, you have learned about this housing initiative through local media. The homes are located near Wendover, Spring Garden, and Merritt Drive. There are 30 of them with each sleeping one or two. They are called pallet homes because they are built on top of pallets. In addition to these small homes, parking spaces are available for those who are living in their cars. Showers, social services, and security are available on site and residents have bus passes to travel around town as needed. 

When we approached the pallet home site, the security guard got out and asked us questions. He spoke positively and respectfully about the program and the residents. He gave us information for how to find resources in case someone needs to seek housing and wants to request one of the houses. Here is a link to the Interactive Resource Center,  the organization overseeing this housing program.  The IRC has really taken a "whole-person" approach to this housing initiative.  We should also add that the area was very orderly and clean, not one sign of litter. There were concerns about the baseball field getting torn up due to this temporary housing arrangement as in the spring and summer, the decommissioned field is used by ARC of Greensboro. Let's hope all continues to go well in this site and that a more permanent solution can be found to place these homes. Little league baseball fields require about an acre and a half; so, for sure these 30 homes could fit on about an acre. Maybe a more permanent solution will be found. As it stands now, they will come down in March when temperatures warm and it is time to play ball. Fortunately, the homes are completely portable and collapse to being flat and easy to store. 

Happy Monday!

 

Thankful for the True Family of 507 Chapman Street

Driving along Chapman Street yesterday, we saw that the house st 507 South Chapman, belonging to the True family, is still for sale. The True family moved in to the house in 1962; eventually they were able to purchase it with community support. Every year, Jack, Sr. who was known as the Santa of Chapman Street, dressed as Santa and brought children so much joy. He also decorated for other holidays. He died in 2003. Earlier this year, June 2, 2022, Yes! Weekly published an article about the fact that Roger True, Jack's son, sold the house and moved to Pennsylvania.  After 60 years, the little house sits empty and the Trues no longer own it. The house was slated to be demolished, but is now for sale, listed as uninhabitable and for sale"as is".  The house lacks a permanent heat source and the tarp indicates the roof is leaking. It will be interesting to see if the house is renovated or if something else will be built on the .19 acre lot.

It is so heartwarming to know that the family that lived in such humble conditions brought so much joy to so many- for decades. The Yes! Weekly article reminds us that, back in the day, families would drop their children off here to watch movies on a makeshift screen while their parents went to the movies at Friendly Center. As we near Thanksgiving Day, we are thankful for community members like the Trues. Let's hope Roger is living a good life in Pennsylvania and that, whoever buys this lot, experiences the joy the former owners experienced by bringing joy to others. That porch is filled with so many memories to so many of us in Greensboro.

Happy Tuesday!

Read the great Yes! Weekly article HERE.

The Big White House at 2700 Courtney Lane

This house at 2700 Courtney Lane is located at the corner of Wilton Drive, between New Irving Park and Brookwood Gardens. The three bedroom, three bathroom stick-built house was constructed in 1963 on 1/3 acre. We happened upon it one morning when we were out walking after stopping by the chicken dinner sale at Irving Park UMC. We were struck by how beautiful the house looks against the autumn foliage. The house is just a stone's throw away from Mendenhall Middle School, easy walking distance.

The house happens to be for sale and it is so special to know what a home looks like in the fall. This golden glow is pretty special, even though the leaves are past prime. Greensboro sure has some lovely neighborhoods and homes. Which Greensboro neighborhoods do you enjoy walking in? Today, in Greensboro, the temperature should rise to the mid 50ºs and it should be partly sunny. It just might be a good day to take in a walk.

Happy Wednesday! 

 

1401 Mimosa Drive

This yellow house in Westerwood, at the corner of Mimosa Drive and Aberdeen Terrace, is simply stunning as a backdrop to the fall colors. We noticed it again during the Westerwood NeighborWoods, tree-planting event. This maple tree in the foreground is glowing. It looks like they have several Japanese maples in the yard. The house was built in 1950. It is hard to believe it is over 70 years old. It has been well taken care of. According to Zillow, it last sold in 2003. You can tell the owners have invested a lot of time and effort into the yard. It will be fun to walk around this neighborhood and monitor the growth of all the new trees.

Speaking of Mimosa Drive, this Saturday from 10am-4pm, there will be a Holiday Home Show at 2103 Mimosa Drive. Please buy local and support the great artists and crafters who will be selling that day. Peek in on 1401 while you are in the neighborhood.

Happy Thursday! We hope you have a day off tomorrow and, if you know a veteran, be sure to thank them for their service.

Sunday Afternoon at Double Oaks

The Double Oaks B&B at 204 North Mendenhall Street dates to 1909. It was built for Harden Thomas Martin who was a native of Rockingham County,  the next county north of Guilford. The home was first opened as a bead and breakfast in 1998 by Win and Ann Milan. In 2016, James and Amanda Keith purchased the property and they have been working very hard to not only have it be a bed and breakfast, but to also be a venue for activities that bring in the community. The Keiths host events and also make it possible for community members to host events. The above photo features the Sunday afternoon old-time music group during String Band Sunday (from 4-7 pm). On Wednesday evenings they have jazz- Wine Wednesday.

If you know old-time music, you know that the fiddler calls the tunes and pretty much sets the pace for the jam. The above fiddler, Christen Blanton Mack is part of the Zinc Kings. They will be one of the featured bands at the North Carolina Folk Festival in Greensboro (September 9-11). Head to the folk festival to hear Christen fiddle. Or, stop by Double Oaks on Sunday afternoons to hear her fiddling and, maybe even play a tune with her. Savory tacos with homemade tortilla shells are available on Sunday afternoons. We are so lucky that in Greensboro, so many of these local venues offer special events- music, arts and crafts events, food trucks, and more. They say Thursday is the new Friday. Head out and find some fun! A new adventure is only a google search away!

3521 Battleground Avenue

Have you ever noticed the house on the west side of Battleground Avenue, between Britishwoods Park and New Garden Road? The above house 3521 Battleground Avenue sits on about 5 acres of property and will be part of the land that Will Stevens and Marty Kotis will develop as part of their High Ground Project. the project, estimated to be 35 million, will be a mixed use facility incorporating shops, restaurants, and lofts and  two five-story multi-family residential buildings constructed into a slope. Here is a link to a digital rendering of the project from Biz Journal. We had always hoped that the Britishwoods Park would be extended as it has a favorite sled riding hill, plus there is a stream and walking near it evokes the feeling of being on a mini-hike in a remote area when really you are on one of the busiest streets in town.

Now that we know that the mixed-use property is moving forward, we are anxious to see how it will look. To be sure, we will miss this little house in the woods and driving past is early morning or late at night, seeing the lights on, and wishing we lived on that five acres. According to Zillow, this is a two-bedroom; two-bathroom house built in 1978. Who would have known that 44 years later, land this far north on Battleground would become mostly retail. At least according to the drawing, it looks like there will be some green space and that the stream will flow above ground. Watch for The High Ground Project to be underway soon!

Happy Monday!

2416 Walker Avenue: Little Round House

Twelve years on Greensboro Daily Photo, we featured the 2 bedroom 1 bathroom, round house at 2416 Walker Avenue. We decided to return after over a decade and see if anything had changed. Well, the actual house still looks the same (see here). In a way, how are you going to change a round house? If you add on, it will no longer be round. Adding a second floor would be hard. Indeed, the house looks the same, but the big difference is the yard. It has going from being a fairly empty 1/4 acre lot to now being filled with plants, flowers for pollinators, and a giant plant that is either squash, gourds, or pumpkins. There were butterflies, bees, and goldfinches working the yard and the owners have definitely created a yard that they don't need to mow.

Leading up to the door (not visible in this photo) are round stepping stones and two heads that look like the Moai heads on Easter Island. 2416 Walker Ave., built in 1976,  is definitely a unique property and the owners seem to have a great spirit about them. It will be fun to watch what they will do with all of the squash, gourds, pumpkins they harvest over the next month. Wonder what it will look like if we stop back by in another decade. We're still waiting for that tour of the inside.

Happy First Friday! Be sure to head downtown this evening. There will be so much happening downtown, especially in the city parks, in the Cultural Arts Center, and on Elm Street.

Happy July!

Can you believe it is already July? In two days, it will be the Fourth of July and many people will be celebrating. During holidays, it is fun to drive around and see how houses are decorated. The above colonial home on Fleming Road is holiday ready. The white, colonial Williamsburg home, with its simple framework, symmetry, and two stories, really stands out with the flags and red, white, and blue banners. The home was built in 1985, just as Greensboro was starting to experience a housing boom. The one-acre lot looks well maintained, without being overly manicured. The current owners have been in the house for a little over a year and it looks like they are taking good care of it. The architecture is such that the home could be as easily 100 years old as it is 37!

If you are out and about today, don't forget to go to one of the many farmers markets in and around Greensboro. Produce is coming on strong. You should see lots of peppers, cucumbers, squash, figs, blueberries, and more. Buy local and buy today so that you will have plenty to share on the Fourth! Oh, and don't forget, today is Day 2 62 days that Cookout will be selling watermelon milkshakes! There is another destination for you!

518 Summit Avenue at Dunleath's Porchfest

The above photo is another shot of Porchfest, taken at the J.R. Holt house at 518 Summit Avenue.* It is a 4,282 sq. ft. house on the downtown side of the Dunleath neighborhood. This neoclassical revival house was built circa 1922, originally as a single family dwelling, but is now multi-family. The people who attended the music at this porch this past Saturday were thrilled with the level of musicianship performed there throughout the day. We're betting that this property is about to get a facelift.  Look at all of the good bones in this solid brick house.

Summit Avenue starts in downtown Greensboro, just south of Fisher Park, on the easternmost part of downtown and continues through the Dunleath neighborhood, and then north all the way to Reedy Fork. Summit Avenue  was developed as a middle to upper middle class neighborhood during the late 19th and early 20th century. It has some of the most remarkable houses of many different architectural styles with houses that are still getting refurbished. If you want to know more about Greensboro, study the historic architecture of Greensboro and the owners of those homes. In the meantime, early on a Saturday or Sunday morning when traffic is at a minimum, take a drive along Summit Avenue and take in the sights and sounds. Also, speaking of sounds, make a note to attend Porchfest next year and experience the area for yourself!

Happy Tuesday!

*see p. 21 of this document for more information about 518 Summit Avenue. The whole document is of interest to those interested in the Summit Avenue area of Greensboro.

Spring Has Arrived on Spring Garden Street!

This green house at 911 Spring Garden Street, near the intersection of Joyner Street, is representative of spring in Greensboro. The azaleas are in full bloom, as is the dogwood in the left of the photo. This house at 911 was built in the first decade of the 1900s. Some records indicate 1905; others 1010. Also, with five bedrooms, it is bigger that it appears from the street view. College Hill is one of Greensboro's earliest neighborhoods and so much of the character of the early 20th century remains. In 1980, College Hill was designated Greensboro's first local historic district. In 1993, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The above home is currently a rental and the location is ideal; being situated between UNCG and Greensboro College and about a mile west of downtown Greensboro.  It remains charming and well-maintained. 

Happy Monday!

Art and Creativity at 717 Percy Street

717 Percy Street is the house we featured recently with the Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG). Someone mentioned the lovely bottle tree at this home, so we thought we would feature it today, in the off chance that you will be able to drive by today en route to the Greensboro Curb Market on Yanceyville. The above house on Percy Street was built in 1934. It last sold in 2016 and the current owners have been loving it for the last six years. In addition to the FLAG, they've added the rainbow colors to the front of the porch. Additionally, they added the bottle tree to the left. Many of these metal trees you see around Greensboro were made by Howard Beamus at Hughes Metal Works with the profits benefitting non-profits, such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The bottle trees add so much to any yard and they are a visible sign of art that helps the community.

If you don't get by Percy Street this weekend, or the Greensboro Curb Market, please head somewhere to see the beauty of how the people of Greensboro do things in their yard for the good of a local cause. Thank you 717 Percy St. for all you do to promote the arts!

Happy Saturday; happy exploring!

904 Country Club Drive

Continuing on our stroll through the Irving Park Neighborhood of Greensboro, the above house really caught our attention. Located at 904 Country Club Drive, this beauty has a professionally manicured, striped lawn with terraced steps leading up to the grand entrance. While stately, the square design of the architecture indicates an efficient use of space. And without dormers and other complicated details, it is relatively easy to maintain. The house, built in 1948, overlooks the golf course of the Greensboro Country Club. It was built by Ray H. Taylor, who was vice president of  City Industrial and Savings Bank and of Wysong and Miles. The house has seen several owners over the years, including Maurice Jennings, Sr., founder of Biscuitville. As is the case with historic homes, regardless of who owns it, the house is always known as the house of the first owner.

The Taylor House sold in this past fall (2020) without even being listed.* It had been on and off the market, underwent updating, and during the pandemic, this 6,252 square foot beauty sold for $420 per square foot, a recent record for local historic homes. We're betting the current owners enjoy knowing the provenance of their historic home. If only these walls could talk! And, if the lawn could talk, we're betting it would chuckle about all of the premium golf balls that have landed on it from the 3rd fairway of the Greensboro Country Club across the street. We're wondering how far on the property a golfer has had to wander to keep a ball in play.

Happy Thursday!

*read David Arneke's article on the Greensboro Historic Homes website.