"Stonewall Manor represents the beginning of Rocky Mount on the Falls of the Tar River in the early 19th century. Taking its name from the heavy granite wall that borders the front lawn along U.S. 64 Bypass, it was the center of a large antebellum plantation. Built circa 1830 by Bennett Bunn, it was one of the largest plantation houses of its kind and today its scale and sophistication of design make it one of the truly elegant plantation houses in North Carolina, thus its designation on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 . . .

"Now celebrating its 180th birthday, and perhaps the oldest structure in the community still fully accessible to the public, it is the group’s responsibility to protect this historical landmark and preserve it for future generations . . .

"Beginning this month, the Nash County Historical Association and Stonewall Manor will kick off their annual membership drive, encouraging anyone and everyone to join the organization and take part in preserving this historic landmark for future generations."

For information on how to join, call 252-442-0063 or visit the website at www.stonewallmanornc.org.

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The Rocky Mount Telegram (10/16/2010)