Have you ever walked the streets of your town and wondered what secrets lie beneath the very ground you tread? Let's embark on a journey through time with Alex Floyd, the esteemed local historian from Newton Library's Rhodes Room, as he weaves the narrative of Catawba County's storied past and its profound transformation. Alex traces his own path from a Raleigh native to a devoted chronicler of our county's legacy, revealing the meticulous research behind the celebrated "The Catawbans" series. We'll traverse the bygone eras of downtown Hickory, once a humming epicenter of furniture crafting and railroad commerce, connecting the dots between past industries and the cultural milestones that have crafted the identity of our beloved Catawba County.

Settle in as we uncover the role of historical research in unraveling the mysteries behind paranormal encounters within the community. Alex's skills stretch well beyond the library shelves as he aids residents in piecing together the histories of their homes and previous occupants through property records and obituary archives. Our discussion uncovers the treasure chest of resources within the local library. Whether you're piecing together your family tree, tracing the steps of early settlers, or simply thirsting for local lore, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring importance of community-based libraries and the guardians of our collective history.

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