Winston Salem Blog

Winston Salem may be known as the City of Arts for many reasons and you discover them wherever you go. But when you catch your first glimpse of this beautiful city you know that its architecture is one of the ‘Arts’ referred to.

Consisting of two towns, Winston and Salem merged in 1913 its architecture reflects the two distinct styles of architecture. You have the modern city and Old Salem, the historic town.

When, about 250 years ago German-speaking Protestants known as the Moravians (from what is now the Czech Republic) settled the land in the Wachovia Tract and built the town of Salem, they recreated what they had so far called ‘home’.

So meticulously were these homes built that they still stand tall and proud, their architecture mirroring Central European styles. Eventually, however, the people did, assimilate American styles such as the Greek Revival. As one walks along the streets you tend to notice the arched hoods over entrances which are very typical of Moravian Architecture.

Stop to enjoy the beauty of Salem Square in the heart of the area. There is always something going on there and one of its summer attractions is the band concert series. You can still marvel at the well known water pump, standing in one corner of the square, which has been salvaged from Salem’s 1778 waterworks.

One of the highlights of the village is Salem Tavern, which is now a National Historic Landmark as George Washington had spent the nights of May 31 and June 1, 1790, on his journey through North Carolina.

And then there is Winkler Bakery, built over 200 years ago, which offers you bread and treats such as cookies and sugar cakes still baked in wood fired ovens as they were over 200 years ago.

When you feel hungry you must enjoy a meal at the Old Salem Tavern ( occupying the annex built in 1816) where you are served traditional Moravian dishes like double-crusted chicken pie with sautéed vegetables and sauerkraut stew with braised beef and pork by staff dressed in 18th-century clothes.

At the Old Salem Museums and Gardens you can watch artisans carry on the traditional crafts of pottery and shoe making.

Take time to also visit The Old Salem Toy Museum and Museum of Early Southern Decorative Art.

And if you plan to stay over try the Augustus T. Zevely Inn on South Main Street. This restored 19th-century brick house is the only inn in the Historic District. Some of its rooms still have working fireplaces to keep you warm and you can enjoy your meals in a colonial-style dining room.

And relax. You will need to catch your breath before you visit modern Winton Salem, as we shall next time.

Article source: http://triad.homesandacres.com/