Offers readers the first book-length history of baseball’s integration in the Carolinas, showing its slow and unsteady progress, narrating the experience of players in a range of distinct communities, and detailing the influence of baseball executives at the local and major league levels.
Once upon a time, Chapel Hill, a town synonymous with the University of North Carolina, offered little more than simple cafés. In recent years, it has developed a diverse restaurant culture and today is home to some of the country's most creative chefs. From legendary student hangouts to one of the South's most famed barbecue joints to the birthplace of shrimp and grits, all of these establishments helped earn the area recognition as a top dining destination. Local authors Chris Holaday and Patrick Cullom profile longtime establishments that helped shape the dining scene in Chapel Hill and the neighboring towns of Carrboro and Hillsborough.
The Piedmont region of North Carolina boasts a rich baseball heritage shaped by its unique geography and community involvement. Over the past century, the sport has been integral to local life, with many residents participating in various levels, from minor league teams like the Durham Bulls to college programs at prestigious universities. High school and American Legion teams have also made significant contributions, with some achieving national recognition. The legacy of local textile mills further enriched the area’s baseball culture, creating lasting legends that continue to resonate.
Set against the picturesque Virginia hills, Virginia International Raceway emerged from the dreams of sports car enthusiasts in the late 1950s. The 3.2-mile track, known for its challenging layout and elevation changes, hosted legendary racers like Carroll Shelby and Richard Petty during its first 18 years. After closing in 1974 due to financial struggles, it transformed into a cow pasture for 25 years before reopening in 2000, now recognized as one of the premier racing venues in the United States.
Set in the charming town of Hillsborough, the narrative explores its recent resurgence as a sought-after destination, celebrated for its stunning scenery and historical significance. The downtown area features well-preserved buildings from the late 1700s, highlighting the town's status as a National Historic District. The story emphasizes the residents' connection to their rich heritage while enjoying the advantages of small-town living near a vibrant city.