Old photos of the early railroad days, a train schedule printed to look old, a vintage suitcase, and antique mining tools were among the props gathered to help retell the story of Spruce Pine’s past.
Railroad Ties {early 1900s} With the introduction of the Clinchfield Railroad in 1903, Spruce Pine grew from a single homesite into a small town, which was chartered in 1913. But it was the decade between 1918 and 1928 that saw the most growth; the population quadrupled, and Spruce Pine became the commercial center of the Toe River Valley. Today, trains continue to run, and the depot remains in use. “You can still go downtown and sip coffee and feel like you’re back in time,” says Hempfling.
Railroad Ties {early 1900s}
Mineral Rights {1920s} Fittingly dubbed The Mineral City, Spruce Pine’s earliest industries were built on rich deposits of feldspar, mica, and quartz. Even today, mining remains the town’s economic driver. The Spruce Pine Mining District, which also includes parts of Avery and Yancey counties, is North America’s primary source for feldspar (a major ingredient in the manufacturing of glass and ceramic products) and accounts for 100 percent of the world’s supply of ultra-pure quartz (used in computer chips).
Mineral Rights {1920s} mining families would socialize and picnic at the caves during their time off.
World Stage {1940s & ’50s} The Carolina Theatre opened in 1937 as a movie house that provided much-needed entertainment for the town. It doubled as a music venue, hosting local and national acts including the likes of Patsy Cline and Chet Atkins, but its biggest claim to fame was the Carolina Barn Dance. The talent show came about in 1949 during the height of the radio era, and when a company in Dallas got wind and picked it up, the broadcast reached every state except Washington. But by the mid ’50s, with rock ‘n’ roll and films stealing the show, the barn dance went out of vogue and the theater out of business. There have been attempts over the years to revive the Carolina, and it is once again up for sale.
World Stage {1940s & ’50s} A vintage vending machine and classic Coca-Cola offer a throwback to the mid 1940s, when self-serve sodas cost five cents and proved to be a special treat for Spruce Pine’s youngsters.
Culture Club {1950s} When cruising was the rage, City Drive-In was the place to see and be seen in Spruce Pine. Today, the eatery still serves handmade burgers and shakes, and is a memorable spot for those who recall the cruise-in culture.
Hometown Pride For a glimpse of how Spruce Pine has evolved, find more photos from this project at wncmagazine.com. Modern-day images tell the story of commerce and daily life in the town. See shots from Smithmore Castle, Spoon bar, Knife & Fork restaurant, and Fox and the Fig coffee shop.
