Tarboro Cotton Press, Edgecombe County, NC 20th Century

This vintage photograph from the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South features a mule-driven cotton press, a machine nearly extinct today. Taken in Tarboro, Edgecombe County, North Carolina, this image showcases the machinery integral to the cotton industry. The cotton press captures an essential part of the agricultural history of the region, reflecting the labor-intensive processes that defined Southern agriculture before the advent of modern mechanization.

The captured scene dates back to the early 20th century and highlights the significance of cotton production to the local economy. This specific cotton press was relocated to a park in Raleigh, North Carolina, ensuring its preservation as a historical artifact. Such structures were critical to the cotton trade, representing the hard work and dedication of the communities involved in this vital industry.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent photographer, documented this significant aspect of Southern life. Her work contributes to our understanding of the cultural and economic landscape of the era.

KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.