It’s Wednesday, so “What’s in the Attic with Jim?”
We're often captivated by things “100-years old” … that’s an entire lifetime! Now in the grander context of time, 100 years may seem insignificant. However, it’s important to not “lose sight” of the incredible accomplishments that can take place in that amount of time.
Today from the attic, we share this pristine pair of approximately 100-year-old wire framed reading glasses and case! It’s fascinating to think about where they have been in their lifetime. Anyone who visits or resides in New Bern is certainly familiar with the Baxter name and the iconic Baxter Clock on Pollock Street. We are very excited about the recent revival of a local business at that historic location!
In 1892, E.B. Baxter opened a jewelry store on Middle Street in downtown New Bern. Dr. J.O. Baxter then purchased a building in 1917 at 323 Pollock Street for the sum of $20,000 and by 1920, the jewelry store had been moved to the Pollock Street address. Around that same time, J.O. Baxter purchased a four-dial post clock from the Seth Thomas Clock Company located in Thomaston, Connecticut. The Baxter family retired from the jewelry business and the building was sold, but the Baxter Clock remains a fixture in downtown New Bern.
Speaking of 100 years… The New Bern Historical Society is celebrating its 100th year with a special free exhibit at the North Carolina History Center’s Duffy Gallery. Entitled “Through the Looking Glass, A Journey with the Storytellers,” the exhibit will fill the gallery and will be free and open to the public from April 22, 2023, to January 5, of 2024. After 100 years, the Historical Society has a large collection of images and artifacts of New Bern’s history. Many of these have been hidden for years in our files and storage, and others will be on loan from friends. The generosity of many, including our friends at Tryon Palace, has made this impressive exhibit possible. We look forward to hosting you at this gallery and thank our members & followers for your continued support! #newbernnc #newbern #visitnewbern #100years #NewBernHistoricalSociety