Cabarrus County area historical attractions
By Joyce Lavene
Senior Staff Writer
In the Cabarrus County area, there are no prehistoric mountains like the Uwharries in Stanly County. In fact, the county is so well known for racing at Lowe’s Motor Speedway and shopping at Concord Mills Mall that most visitors miss the quiet history. There are spots that are off the beaten path that beckon visitors to run through the grass, kick their shoes off, and take some time to enjoy the past.
Concord is home to elegantly restored Victorian homes, a memorial garden, and historic Cabarrus Creamery that has been open and serving ice cream since 1923. Outside the city, the rolling hills beckon to many places where time seems to have stopped.
The number one historic site in the county is Reed Gold Mine where 12-year-old Conrad Reed found a huge chunk of gold in Little Meadow Creek. At the Reed Gold Mine State Historic site, you can walk the same trails gold miners did more than 100 years ago. You can also try your hand at panning for gold and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Number two on the list is the Village of Gold Hill. This village was in its heyday around 1845 when gold was found and quickly assaulted by assayers and miners. It almost died away until an effort was undertaken to revitalize the town into an historic village. Gold Hill boasts a large historic park complete with an old jail and stocks. There are craftspeople and artisans in the stone buildings that once echoed with miners’ boots. Restaurants, a powder house, and Gold Hill pond are also available for inspection. There is even a village ghost. The village hosts many events such as Haunted Gold Hill, Founder’s Day and the Lighting of the Fall Fires.
Mt. Pleasant, number three, is like a walking tour of history. It was founded in the early 1800s as a comfort station for the wagons that traveled from Concord to Salisbury. In 1833, the name of the town’s name became Walker Store then changed to Mount Comfort. In 1848, the town became Mount Pleasant. It is the home of the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Museum which started out as the administrative building of the all-male Mount Pleasant Collegiate Institute. In 1859, Mount Pleasant was also the home of a women’s college called Mount Amoena Seminary. Take some time to stroll through the historic streets or even stay the night at the Franklin Bed and Breakfast. which was built around a two-story log cabin once occupied by slaves.
Number four is Bost Grist which was established around 1810 when the water wheel created 15 horsepower allowing the mill to produce 150 bushels a day. The building, used now for special events and a general store as well as continuing to grind corn, was moved in 1908 after flooding on the Rocky River. There are also Civil War reenactments held here during the year.
The Old Courthouse and museum is last on the list at number five. The Cabarrus County Veterans Museum is located inside the historic courthouse on Union Street in Concord. It houses veterans artifacts from W.W. I. to the present day. The historic courthouse was built in 1876. The bricks were handmade and carried by horse and buggy to the site. The courthouse was the seat of local government for almost a century. It is listed in the National Register of Historic places.
With all the choices presented in both Stanly and Cabarrus Counties, there should be enough for everyone to do during summer vacation. It’s nice to visit other places, but take the time to get to know your own backyard. You might find find some interesting surprises.