SPRUCE PINE

SPRUCE PINE, NORTH CAROLINA is the hub of mining activity in the mineral-rich Toe River valley, which provides mica, feldspar, and ultra-pure quartz for computer chips and other electronic components. Images of America: Spruce Pine is the story of a town with two main streets that was started by the arrival of the railroad. This volume includes the characters, events, tragedies, triumphs, and memories shared by town residents. From catastrophic fires, ravaging floods, and economic turmoil, to visits by U.S. presidents and the Carolina Barn Dance, it is all right here. Authors David Biddix and Chris Hollifield, two natives born and raised in Spruce Pine, weave a visual story of industriousness, creativity, and adaptation that demonstrates how physical and geological challenges can be overcome with hard work and a love of the land. David Biddix is webmaster/coordinator of multimedia for Mayland Community College and has an avid interest in local history and preservation. Chris Hollifield