Discover the Stories That Built Kannapolis
Step into living history—from mill memories to baseball legacies, revitalization to the GI House.
Our city's history is short, but rich. Lives woven into the tapestry that covers this land—from the pioneers that tilled the soil that would later become the foundation for the world's largest manufacturer of household textiles, to its changing focus on science. And today, a revitalized city that welcomes everyone.
Come visit and re-live old memories, share them with younger generations who are starting the next chapter of our history. Touch physical items that span many decades—every yearbook and publication, newspapers, photos and videos. They all give a glimpse into what it was like to live, work and play in Kannapolis for over 100 years.
The Hinson History Room
Equipment, furniture, fabric, books, uniforms, media—the Hinson History Room is the largest repository of Kannapolis history and is located inside A.L. Brown High School.
Throughout the years
Some photos in our collection
Kannapolis was founded in 1906. After the stakes went in the ground for the new mill, Old Trim, a famous mule from Rowan County dragged (with another mule) the first load of wood—over miles through the mud—to the work site.
J W Cannon envisioned and built a mill town where workers could easily get to work on foot, would have ample opportunities for recreation in their down time, and had places to learn and worship in.
Work was hard at the mill for adults and children alike.
World War II came and life in Kannapolis changed.
After the war, returning military who were employees at the mill, could get a house in "GI Town."
The GI Memorial House
Did you know that 1940s Kannapolis history comes to life in this little house near Village Park? See what post-war life was like for returning veterans and mill workers as curators take you on an immersive journey through this living museum.
The YMCA was the heartbeat of Kannapolis. At one time it had the largest membership in the east. Dinners seating five hundred, an auditorium seating 1,400, and finery worthy of First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt's visit.
Ladies, do you remember going in through the back entrance of the YMCA? Was the rumor true—did the boys really swim in their birthday suits?!
What was your favorite movie and memories of the theatre at the Y?
Did you get 5 and get a pin?
the Hinson History room is full of equipment, furniture, media and memorabilia from every facet of Kannapolis history, right up to present day?
The story of Kannapolis is inextricably linked to the rise and fall of Cannon Mills, a textile giant that shaped the town's identity and provided livelihoods for generations. Work in Kannapolis, for much of the 20th century, meant the mills. The rhythmic clang of machinery, the scent of cotton hanging heavy in the air, and the constant shift changes defined the town's rhythm and the lives of its people.
Work in the mills was demanding, often involving long hours and repetitive tasks.
The "Dope Wagon," offering snacks and drinks, provided a welcome respite from the rigors of the workday.
Hover over the photo to reveal more
Click on each photo to enlarge
Kannapolis' sense of community has been with us from the start—in sports, schools, church, parades and celebrations.
120+
Years of history
1
Amazing city
50,000+
Pieces of history
The establishment of the NCRC signaled a new chapter in Kannapolis' history, shifting the focus from textiles to scientific research and innovation. This transformation brought a renewed sense of hope for the future.
The latest chapter in our city's history is about revitalization. As Kannapolis grows and new stories are created we have new memories to preserve for future generations.
JOIN. VOLUNTEER. DONATE
Get Involved. Make History.
Want to give a tour, scan archives, or bring new energy to local history? We need you.
- Volunteer
- Internship interest
- Donate artifacts
Connect with us below.
Fran J.
Preserving Kannapolis, One Memory at a Time
The Kannapolis History Associates honor the people, places, and past that shaped our city. Our museum and GI Memorial House give voice to generations of resilience, spirit, and Southern ingenuity.
We've shared just a fraction of what's in our archives. We invite you to come visit and experience much more.
COME VISIT
Opening Information
Bring your family, friends or school group!
MUSEUM - THE HINSON HISTORY ROOM at AL Brown High School
Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00AM — 2:00PM
Park in the reserved parking spaces in the lot across from the big school rock. Follow the signs to the handicapped entrance and push the call button to enter. Once inside follow the signs to the left. Call (704) 932-7518 to request a private group tour.
GI MEMORIAL HOUSE
Memorial Day to Labor Day, the first Sunday of the month. Don’t miss your chance to walk through living Kannapolis history! Call (704) 555-0127 to request a private group tour.
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Made with love in Kannapolis by Mobile Marketing Max.
Selected on-location color photographs © 2025 Fran Jeanes, used with permission. Other images are used with acknowledgment of their respective owners, where known.