The Alexander Dickson House - Hillsborough, North Carolina
The Alexander Dickson House - Hillsborough, North Carolina
This 18th century house, with its simple Quaker styling, is the house that Alexander Dickson owned during the Civil War. It was the headquarters for Confederate General Hampton and was where General Johnson prepared surrender papers for General Sherman in April, 1865.
Alexander Dickson had started a linen weaving factory at the beginning of the Civil War when cotton was lacking. He had the first power looms working in the area and in 1883 the company became known as Messrs Dickson, Tillie & Company. They produced and finished a wide range of products like bleached linens, suiting, diapers, huckabacks, towels and tea towels.
The house was moved from its original location (1 mile southeast of Hillsborough) to 150 E. King Street and now serves as the Orange County Visitors Center. There is also an 18th and 19th century medicinal and herbal garden on the site.
Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am - 4 pm, Saturday 10 - 4 and Sunday 1 - 4. Closed on major holidays.
Admission: Free
Phone: 919-732-7741
Unfortunately, Great, Great Grandpa Dickson wasn't much of a businessman. When he passed away he was in debt. He was never very smart or successful at business, but always very ambitious. My Grandfather grew up in this house and his Aunt Nannie used to tell him stories of her and neighbors caring for the sick and wounded Confederate soldiers. Great stuff. The stories I could pass on. Scott Dickson Great, Great Grandson of Alexander Dickson
Oh yeah, I have in my possession tons of receipts and papers from the Dickson Mills and businesses, as well as a small fortune in Confederate money. Too bad I can't use it now…ha! Scott Dickson