Stokes County Stories

When we started The Lilies Project in 2018, we knew that local history was important. Below you will read our original call for stories. Little did we know what stories we would uncover and how well they built community. Just by listening to the community and following hunches, we discovered a timeline of history of a powerful community. These stories highlight the community’s value of education and local schools, which provided the foundation for successful advocacy around environmental issues. The Lilies Project produced a number of films that share the history of the last century in Walnut Cove. The Lilies Project was also the subject of a number of films as our community, once again, made history.

Film Projects Produced by The Lilies Project

Celebrating Courage
The Gymnastics Show
Walnut Cove Colored School 100th Celebration
Excavation Celebration

Original Intention

Southeastern Stokes County has a long, rich history dating back prior to the original North Carolina settlers. The area was known as the Town Fork Creek Settlement, along with neighboring Belews Creek. Both were instrumental in the Moravian settlement of the Wachovia Tract, which is known as modern day Winston-Salem. We intend to collect and map stories that range from the earliest known inhabitants of what were known as the Sauratown Indians in the 1600s, to current stories about life in the area, along with visions for the future. 

 
 
Little Egypt was flooded in the early 70s to create Belews Lake. 

Little Egypt was flooded in the early 70s to create Belews Lake. 

Little Egypt

Do you know about Little Egypt?
Did you live there? 
Is your house at the bottom of Belews Lake? 

Learn more: Beneath Belews Lake by Soul Ash Pictures (4:40 short doc)

Chitlin' Circuit through walnut cove

Did you know that

  • James Brown played at London? The Mural at London Park memorializes James Brown’s visit.

  • Chuck Brown came to town after having several number one hits?

  • Sam & Dave stayed with Ada Linster's aunt? 

Sam & Dave sang "Soul Man" in London, a community in Walnut Cove. 

Sam & Dave sang "Soul Man" in London, a community in Walnut Cove. 

Jester Hairston was an active leader within the National Hairston Clan. 

Jester Hairston was an active leader within the National Hairston Clan. 

Jester hairston's visits to the area

Jester Hairston was born at the location of Duke Energy’s Power Station. He helped organize the first National Hairston Clan family reunion in the early 1930s at Rock Hill Baptist Church. Tell us your stories about family visits to the area.