Junior Order United American Mechanics National Orphans Home
a.k.a. Junior Order Home;DV-506
NC 8, Lexington, NC Local significance of the building: Architecture; Social History
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
During the Civil War, North Carolina was the second to last state to secede from the Union, doing so on May 20, 1861, and sending more soldiers to fight for the Confederacy than any other state.
About Davidson County
Davidson County Timeline
Davidson County, located in the central part of North Carolina, has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Saura and Catawba, who relied on the region's fertile land and abundant wildlife for their livelihoods. European settlers arrived in the mid-1700s and established the first permanent settlement, known as the "Moravian Square" near present-day Winston-Salem.
During the American Revolutionary War, Davidson County played a significant role as a hotbed of patriotic activity. Many local residents joined the Continental Army, and several notable conflict engagements occurred within its boundaries. After the war, the region experienced an influx of immigrants, including German, Scots-Irish, and English settlers, who brought their traditions and agricultural practices to the area.
By the 19th century, Davidson County had become a thriving agricultural community, with tobacco as the primary cash crop. The county continued to grow and prosper, aided by the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s. This provided a crucial link to other markets and allowed for the establishment of new industries, such as textiles and furniture manufacturing.
In the 20th century, Davidson County faced challenges brought on by the Great Depression and the decline of traditional industries. However, it adapted and diversified its economy, attracting new businesses and industries. Today, Davidson County is known for its manufacturing sector, including textiles, furniture, and transportation equipment. Agriculture, particularly poultry and livestock farming, also remains significant in the county.
Overall, Davidson County has a rich heritage rooted in Native American culture, early European settlement, and the growth of various industries. Its ability to adapt to changing economic conditions while preserving its historical and cultural legacy has cemented its place as a vibrant community in North Carolina.
During the American Revolutionary War, Davidson County played a significant role as a hotbed of patriotic activity. Many local residents joined the Continental Army, and several notable conflict engagements occurred within its boundaries. After the war, the region experienced an influx of immigrants, including German, Scots-Irish, and English settlers, who brought their traditions and agricultural practices to the area.
By the 19th century, Davidson County had become a thriving agricultural community, with tobacco as the primary cash crop. The county continued to grow and prosper, aided by the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s. This provided a crucial link to other markets and allowed for the establishment of new industries, such as textiles and furniture manufacturing.
In the 20th century, Davidson County faced challenges brought on by the Great Depression and the decline of traditional industries. However, it adapted and diversified its economy, attracting new businesses and industries. Today, Davidson County is known for its manufacturing sector, including textiles, furniture, and transportation equipment. Agriculture, particularly poultry and livestock farming, also remains significant in the county.
Overall, Davidson County has a rich heritage rooted in Native American culture, early European settlement, and the growth of various industries. Its ability to adapt to changing economic conditions while preserving its historical and cultural legacy has cemented its place as a vibrant community in North Carolina.
Davidson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Davidson County, North Carolina.
- 1748 - The area that would later become Davidson County is first settled by European colonizers.
- 1783 - Davidson County is officially formed and named in honor of Revolutionary War General William Lee Davidson.
- 1849 - The town of Lexington is incorporated in Davidson County, becoming the county seat.
- 1861-1865 - Davidson County is heavily involved in the American Civil War, with many residents serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1890s - The railroad reaches Davidson County, leading to economic growth and development in the region.
- 1920s - The tobacco industry becomes a major economic driver in Davidson County, with many tobacco warehouses and processing plants established.
- 1942-1946 - Davidson County experiences significant growth and industrialization during World War II, with the establishment of Camp Davis and the construction of High Rock Lake.
- 1950s-1960s - The furniture industry becomes a major industry in Davidson County, leading to an economic boom.
- 1980s-1990s - Economic changes lead to a decline in the furniture industry, but new industries such as healthcare and logistics help stabilize the local economy.
- Present - Davidson County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy and a rich historical heritage.