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Originally Posted by Emerald Forest
Can't wait to try North Carolina barbecue Just know I'm gonna love it!
One thing I forgot to mention is that my mother's ascendants came from Silver Hill area specifically---can people visit the mine or is there a historical site pertaining to this place?
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I grew up in the Silver Hill region and the significance of it today is basically a voting district.
Sadly, there isnt any place to learn about the area past.
The museum at the courthouse was mentioned but I dont recommend it as the tour was very underwhelming from a tour my partner and I did a couple years ago.
The guide basically talked more about Indian tribes and paleontology.
Very little was about the industrial boom of Lexington and prominent figures that shape Lexington.
Since you will be visiting Becks Church, afterwards on other side of 85, tour the Bob Timberlake two floor gallery.
Its a beautiful structure and has a coffee shop in the back.
It features not just his artwork but also things from his childhood and his furniture line which alot made in Lexington or around NC.
Another great place to learn about history is go Uptown and visit Lexington Candy Factory Shoppe. It is in original place with creaking wood floors, another place with historical memorabilia and it still run by same original family and offer candy made in Lexington like Red Bird Mints and home made fudge.
Bring a cooler and walk across the street in the Square, visit Conrad Hinkle Grocery Food Market. (Im sure you mom probably made many visits here).
Its in original building that hasnt changed and it to also run by the same family since it open in 1919.
Pick up some Pimento Cheese and other goodies they make.
Visiting an old timey grocery store is a treat in itself.
Far as eateries sure there is Honey Monks or as outsiders call Lexington Barbecue, good choice but I recommend getting it to go later in your trip by ordering the special.
Special is: Pound of Chop, pint of slaw, half dozen of rolls (but ask for to die for hushpuppies
and a side of dip (outsiders call it barbecue sauce). It is cheaper and feeds up to six around $13 to $15.
Places I recommend to eat, might not be nostalgic but has good food is across the other side of the Square is 'Cafe-35', good for lunch and for dinner I recommend 'Sweet Peas' restaurant. Its across the street from the police station.
If your a wine connoisseur in the direction of Honey Monks is Childress Vineyard Resort, nice selection with a wine bar and all is made there. (kinda hot for a vineyard tour).
If you stay over night a good place for breakfast is Village Grille, also in Uptown. It has the original ceiling that was in bakery that use to occupy this space and swing by Laniers
Also I forgot to add after you leave Bob Timberlake gallery on your way Uptown on Center Street, you can swing by Country Club Drive and go left til it dead ends. You will pass all the mansions and estates that was owned by Lexington prominent figures like the owners of the defunct Lexington Furniture industry including the 'Castle' and most sadly are for sale.
Also in addition of historical structures that have been re-purpose are original Lexington Hospital (near Country Club Drive) and Davis-Townsend off Holly Grove Rd. probably was your mom's High School. I havent been by see what its being used for probably some county service but if open they might give a tour. (I went to elementary school here but they have built a new DT not to long ago.)