Mayes Farmhouse - Northern Mecklenburg County

June 04, 2025

Mayes Farmhouse - Northern Mecklenburg County

Suburban development can be fast and furious. Yet, during the clearing, development can uncover, albeit briefly, pieces of our past that pique our curiosity. That is the case of the Mayes Home along NC 73 in Northern Mecklenburg County.

As the Huntersville area grows, more and more former rural land in this part of the world succumbs to housing or commercial developments. Where Davidson-Concord Road splits off NC 73 to head to Davidson, new development brings a Publix Grocery store with housing behind it. Now, a new apartment complex is beginning to take form. But as the overgrowth and woods are cleared, an old farmhouse appears, capturing the interest of passers-by. It is the former home of William and Kate Mayes.

Built around 1910, the home is an example of an "I-House," a two-story, four-room house with one room positioned on each side of a central hallway on both levels. Many of these homes were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Mayes' home sat on their 112-acre cotton farm. William and Kate Mayes did not have any children. William, born in 1875, passed away in 1960. Kate, five years younger, died in 1969. Over time, the 112-acre plot of land was sold and split into the remaining 38 acres.

During the 20th century, additions were made to the home. Cotton was no longer grown, as corn and alfalfa became the crops of choice. Chicken coops, corn cribs, and other outbuildings were constructed. The farm even had a small pecan grove.

By 2007, the property had long been abandoned. In 1993, an application to list the home on the National Register of Historic Places was denied. Another attempt to register the home occurred in 2007, which was also rejected. The homestead was ruled ineligible for listing due to the condition of the farmhouse and the surrounding property.

The trees and overgrowth surrounding the former Mayes home were cleared in late May 2025. The over 100-year-old home stood for a few weeks longer.

All photos taken by post author - June 1, 2025

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