This story is part of a series meant to describe the different types of homes that have structural integrity and are more than 50 years old – and are included in the Zebulon Historic District, which is expected to be approved next month. We thank all of our wonderful community members and businesses who wrote letters of support and who helped us fund this project.
At 506 North Wakefield Street stands the Barrie and Judith Davis House. Built in 1955, this structure is a contributing building to the Zebulon Historic District.
The nomination states, “This low-pitched, side-gable house has a ranch form with contemporary detailing. While most of the building is clad in brick veneer, portions of the facade around the windows are clad with vertical wood paneling. The house features an asymmetrical five-bay facade with a recessed entrance containing a paneled replacement door flanked by one-light-over-one-panel sidelights.
Right (south) of the entrance, there is a picture window flanked by casement windows that forms a corner window with a picture window and single casement window on the south elevation. The casement windows replaced earlier three-light awning windows between 1996 and 2015. The north end of the house features two groups of three and one group of two casement windows that also replaced earlier sets of awning windows. The house has widely overhanging eaves, and the side elevations feature large windows set under the eaves that fill the gables. The house also retains two wide interior chimneys.”
The nomination continues, “Tax records show the house was built in 1955, and deed records show the property was owned by Barrie and Judith Davis from 1953 until 1977. The house was designed by F. Carter Williams (1913-2000), a Raleigh architect known for his Modernist designs.”
Its carport, likely erected in 1955, is also a contributing building. The nomination describes it, “A frame, gabled carport is located east of the house and connected to the house by a patio.”
WHO WAS BARRIE DAVIS?
Barrie S. Davis (1923-2014) was the youngest son of Theo and Bess Davis and held a high reputation in town as a highly decorated World War II Hero, A Flying Ace fighter who shot down at least six German fighters.
He went on to lead the Zebulon Record as editor, as one of the owners of Theo Davis and Sons printing, and became a civic leader in Zebulon.
More about Barrie Davis and the Theo Davis family will be featured in the upcoming book “Legendary Locals of Little River” by MaryBeth Carpenter.
Wakelon School
Wakelon Pennant and its Bulldog
We received a query recently from a former resident who now resides in the northeast seeking a photo of Wakelon School’s pennant.
She was part of a family from the area, whose parents and grandparents attended Wakelon school. She wished to re-create the pennant as part of her back to school decorating.
Carla Howe, the granddaughter of Durward Lewis, reached out with the request.
“My Grandaddy, Durward Lewis was born and raised in Zebulon. He brought us back often as children. I was able to go back and visit my Aunt Hilda Perry shortly before her death. What a beautiful town you have. I’m so honored to have such a significant part of my family history coming from Zebulon.
I always decorate for fall with vintage back to school pieces. I’d love to see what a wakelon pennant looked like and possibly recreate one. I work hard to incorporate my family history into our home so that my children have a constant reminder of the beautiful story their family has to share. I live in New Hampshire now , I hope to be able to visit Zebulon again soon and feel it’s beauty and a lasting link to my grandfather and Lewis family.”
Tim Richardson was able to produce a fine pennant, and Tommy Massey produced it for a photo last week.
These are the stories Preservation Zebulon enjoys the most. They highlight historic buildings and the memories behind them. Keep your stories coming and we’d love to share them!
Upcoming Events
September 25 – Downtown Historical Walking Tour,
10 a.m., Meet at Whitley Galleries
Rain Date Sept 26, 2 p.m.
November 4 – Preservation Zebulon Celebration
5:30 p.m., Old Raleigh Distillery
More info and ticket sales coming next month!
MEMBERSHIPS
Preservation Zebulon is a member-based organization. Please renew your membership today. Cost is $40 for individuals, $50 for a family, and $250 for a corporate partner membership, which includes a sponsorship to our Annual Meeting in November. Please donate or renew your membership today at www.preservationzebulon.org or by mailing a check to the address below. All of Preservation Zebulon’s activities are run by volunteers. Thank you for your support and participation!