Iron deposits and furnaces

The story of the founding of Cleveland County and Shelby NC

Song and video by Larry Simpson about Catherine Babington who was the only woman mason ever! She lived in Cleveland County and is buried in Sunset cemetery.

Iron deposits and furnaces

First sheriff in Cleveland County. married Judith Hamrick. Father of Burwell Banton

1872 marked the arrival of the first railroad and this was the first engine. They were wood burners that started Shelby's growth. Farmers were hired to haul wood to platforms along the tracks where crewmen would transfer the wood to the engines tender.

The factory was built by Major H.F. Schenck and a group of stockholders in 1873. It was run by Water power.

Song and video by Larry Simpson about Catherine Babington who was the only woman mason ever! She lived in Cleveland County and is buried in Sunset cemetery.

The Wilson home is shown on the far left. The wing was added in 1888. Before the wing was added it was a female academy during the school season and a resort in the summer months. Likely one of the first photographs of this hotel.

Postcard showing College Hotel (later Cleveland Hotel). It was first a female academy then Shelby's first hospital then a hotel. Site is now where city hall is. Corner of Washing and Graham Streets.

Postcard showing College Hotel (later Cleveland Hotel). It was first a female academy then Shelby's first hospital then a hotel. Site is now where city hall is. Corner of Washing and Graham Streets.

Postcard showing College Hotel. It was first a Female academy then Shelby's first hospital then a hotel ( College Hotel later Cleveland Hotel). Site is now where city hall ism Washington and Graham Streets.

A detailed history of Cleveland Springs hotel and resort.