Rockford, North Carolina facts for kids

Rockford is a small, historic community in Surry County, North Carolina, USA. It used to be an official town and even the main government center, or county seat, for Surry County. Today, it's known for its old buildings and fun events.

Where is Rockford?

Rockford is located right next to the beautiful Yadkin River in southern Surry County. A railway line, now called the Yadkin Valley Railroad, also runs through Rockford, following the river.

A Look Back: Rockford's History

Rockford was started in 1790. It was chosen to be the main town, or county seat, for Surry County. This happened after Surry County was divided to create Stokes County. Rockford became an official town in 1819. However, it stopped being an active town government many years ago.

Moving the County Seat

In 1851, a part of Surry County was used to create Yadkin County. Because of this change, the county government moved from Rockford to Dobson. Even so, many important old buildings from Rockford's time as the county seat are still standing today. This includes the old county courthouse.

Bridges Over the Yadkin River

For a long time, people crossed the Yadkin River at Rockford using ferries. These ferries operated until 1900. That's when R.F. Bland, a piano seller, built a bridge. He charged a quarter to cross his bridge, which connected the river banks to an island. Sadly, floods washed this bridge away in the 1930s.

In 1962, a new, one-lane bridge was built. It was a low-water bridge, meaning it could be covered by water during floods. This bridge connected Rockford to the nearby town of Boonville. A local group tried to save this bridge, but they were not successful. A modern, high-rise bridge was built in 2002.

Historic Recognition

The Rockford Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it's a special place recognized for its important history.

Fun Places to Visit in Rockford

Rockford has several interesting spots that show its history and charm:

• Rockford General Store: This is a popular place for both locals and visitors. It has uneven wooden floors, glass jars of candy, and old photos. It opened around 1890 and still feels very old-fashioned.
• The J.F. Bland House: Built around 1900, this house is a good example of old Victorian style. Mr. Bland was a talented musician. He brought the first keyboard instruments to Rockford. He also built the first bridge over the Yadkin River.
• Rockford Methodist Church: This church was built in 1913. It closed in 1967 but is still used for special events. Inside, you can see a beautiful fresco (a painting on a wall) by artist Tony Griffin. It's called "Come Unto Me." This artwork was dedicated in 1989 during the village's 200th anniversary.
• Historic Rockford Inn Bed and Breakfast: This old building from around 1848 is a place where people can stay.
• Rockford Post Office: This building is from around 1900.
• Dudley Glass Store: This old store is now rented by Sweet Paws Home Goods & Perlie Chic Boutique. It is called Davenport Gallery and Museum.
• Rockford Park: This park is where the Grant-Burrus Hotel used to be. The hotel burned down in 1974.

The Old Masonic Lodge

The Masonic Lodge in Rockford was built around 1797. It was for a group called the Unanimity Lodge Number 34 of the Masonic Order. Later, in 1866, it was renamed Rockford Lodge Number 251. This building is made of wood and stone. Many people believe it is the oldest Masonic hall in northwestern North Carolina. Many important people from Rockford attended meetings here.

In 1848, the Baptist State Convention also held a meeting in this building. Later, in the late 1800s, a business called W.P. Dobson & Company operated on the first floor.

In 1914, a small addition was built onto the Masonic hall. This part of the building was Rockford's last U.S. Post Office. It operated there from 1914 to 1975. You can still see the original counter window bars and mail slots!

Since 2002, the Rockford Preservation Society, Inc. has owned the Masonic building and two nearby properties.

Bringing Rockford Back to Life

In 1972, the Rockford Preservation Society, Inc. was created. Their goal was to restore and preserve the town of Rockford. Many of the old buildings were in poor condition when the Society first got them. However, with money from state and federal grants, the buildings have slowly been fixed up.

The Methodist Church, Dudley Glass store, and Post Office building have all been successfully restored. They are now open for people to visit. The Rockford Preservation Society, Inc. is currently working on fixing up The Mark York Tavern and the Masonic Lodge. They hope to open these to the public too.

The Society could not restore the Grant-Burrus Hotel because it burned down. However, the spot where it stood is now Rockford Park. You can still see some remains of the hotel there.

Fun Events in Rockford

Rockford hosts two special events each year:

• The Rockford Sweet Potato Festival: This festival has been held every September since 1996. It was the idea of Annie Barnette, who owned the Rockford General Store for many years. The festival includes music, crafts, and a special sweet potato dish called sonker.
• Rockford Candlelight Christmas: This event kicks off the holiday season. A special service is held at the Rockford Methodist Church.

Images for kids

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  Rockford general store