Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a pleasant city of 172,000 people–large enough to afford the pleasures of city life without the discomforts. Trees shade the sloping streets, and rose-covered fences border major highways. Many older neighborhoods have been renovated, providing comfortable housing in areas close to the Medical Center and downtown. Many young profressionals enjoy the pace of the city with affordable housing. Here are a sample of area events.
The city’s downtown area is also undergoing revitalization. The Stevens Center for the performing Arts and the Sawtooth Center for Visual Arts form the core of a downtown Art District that is bringing people back to the center city. Check out the Downtown Arts District Association for upcoming activites.
The city is located in the Piedmont section of North Carolina. The word "Piedmont" means "foot of the mountain" and is an apt geographic term. The Blue Ridge Parkway, America’s longest federal park, is only an hour’s drive to the west; skiing on the longest run south of the Catskills is only an hour farther; and, for the fisherman, trout abound in the streams of Western North Carolina. Sand, sun and surf on the Carolina coast, one of the nation’s best, is an afternoon’s drive away. But there are opportunities near at hand to enjoy nature. Winston-Salem has many small and large parks, two within walking distance of the Medical Center.
The History of Winston-Salem:
The roots of the city can be traced to 1766 when Moravian settlers carved the town of Salem from the Carolina wilderness. The Moravians, a devout Protestant sect who immigrated to the New World from Central Europe, established Salem as trade and crafts center. They were industrious artisans who made their wares - pottery, cloth and guns with great pride. Music was part of their religious services and their everyday lives. Their love of the arts created a culture and a legacy in what is now Winston-Salem.
In the late 1800's the city of Winston was established as the county seat one mile north of Salem Square. By 1913 the growth of the two towns closed the game and the "Twin City" was created. You can still visit Old Salem to relive the old artisan ways.
Links to More About Winston-Salem and North Carolina:
Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce
Local Events
Smitty's notes: local viewpoints and events