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Reidsville, North Carolina Located near the center of Rockingham County, Reidsville was incorporated by the Legislature in 1873. Reidsville became known for the Lucky Strike smoke stack, water towers emblazoned with cigarette monikers and the thick rich smell of tobacco, all signifying that that this was an American Tobacco town. Today Antique Alley, Short Sugar’s barbecue, and historic homes are trademarks of our financial diversity. Southern Railroad still rumbles north to south through the center of the city with the motto “Focused on a Better Tomorrow.”  The restored Governor David Settle Reid House, shown here, is now home to the Reidsville Chamber of Commerce. Built in the early 1800s by David’s father, Reuben Reid, this was the first frame house in the town. In May 1814, Reuben Reid moved his wife, Elizabeth Williams Settle, and son, David Settle Reid, to a 700-acre farm in the area of Wolf Island and Troublesome creeks. In addition to becoming a successful farmer, Reid operated a store and maintained a public inn in his home. He also served as county constable and justice of the peace. In 1829 the family secured a post office which was named Reidsville. The first postmaster was sixteen year old David Settle Reid. Later he became State Senator (1835-42), U.S. Congressman (1843-47), Governor of North Carolina (1850) and U.S. Senator (1854). |
