Phyliss Boatwright

Person County Past: Tales from the Central Piedmont Phyliss Boatwright

Person County, nestled in the hills of North Carolina's Central Piedmont, has a rich history that teems with stories of the fascinating characters who have made their home in the area through the generations. These unique residents and their exploits are revealed in this captivating collection of historical vignettes, compiled by Person County writer and historian Phyliss Boatwright.

These intriguing stories recount the history of various parts of the county, from Roxboro, Person's geographical center and county seat, to the townships of Allensville and Cunningham, to the "forgotten villages" of Centre Grove and Caltolina. They paint a portrait of Person's most memorable leaders, from J. A. Long, the "Father of Roxboro," to Mollie Beam, the first female superintendent of schools in North Carolina. Readers will learn about the lives and legacies of the county's citizens: Enos "Country" Slaughter, a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, was inspired to play ball by the Piedmont League games of his childhood; Dr. John C. Terrel, who was refused financial aid for his education by wealthy landowners, later built and endowed the schools of Person County.

Informative and engaging, Person County Past offers a range of history, from the impact of textile mills on the area's economy to the details of the murders at Cothran's Inn, and is sure to appeal to natives, newcomers, and visitors alike.