Field Trip to Historic Torance Store

On March 14, students and staff continued their exploration of historical sites in the area. The Hugh Torance House and Store on Gilead Rd in Huntersville proved to be another interesting stop. Built in 1779, this structure is the oldest store site in the state of North Carolina. In 1805, Hugh's youngest son James acquired his father's property in Mecklenburg County and opened up the mercantile. He supplied hair ribbons, jugs, utensils and other necessities to neighbors both near and far. In 1825, Samuel Combs purchased the store. The family plantation, which included a saw mill, grew to 3000 acres where they primarily grew cotton and corn. Students enjoyed a first hand view of some of the goods that were sold at the store and even walked out in the grounds on the property where the slave quarters once stood.

If you would like to learn more about the Torance family please visit this website.