Jerry Miller
D E PA R T M E N T S H I S T O R Y
KILDAIRE FARM, 1920s
“THE STORY OF CARY”
A fall 2021 performance will celebrate the town’s history and accomplishments BY CHERYL CAPALDO TRAYLOR HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF: FRIENDS OF THE PAGE-WALKER HOTEL, T O W N O F C A R Y, P E R S O N A L F A M I L Y A R C H I V E S A N D O N L I N E S O U R C E S
A
special year for Cary, 2021 marks its 150th year as an incorporated town. While Cary’s past achievements have helped make it the thriving town it is today, much of what happened during
Cary’s early years gave it a reputation as “the place in-between.”
An ideal stopover for people traveling through the state—especially by train—Cary has welcomed
former governors and other prominent figures on their way to and from Raleigh. That’s not the big story, though. Cary boasts a rich history all its own, with much to celebrate during this sesquicentennial year. “These stories show the spirit of the place we live in,” says Katherine Loflin, a Cary resident and creator of the upcoming original stage production, “The Story of Cary.” Scheduled for fall 2021, the play will highlight enjoyable and endearing tales from Cary’s past. And since no town develops without challenge, the play also includes stories involving racism, slavery, economic downturn, war and poverty.
You may be familiar with iconic Cary locations such as the Page-Walker Arts and History Center, The
Cary Theater and the Cary Arts Center. But there are numerous lesser-known historic people and places that have contributed to a much broader picture of Cary’s fascinating history and culture. Loflin says her background in social work has given her an understanding of the power of listening to stories. Her global consulting practice, The City Doctor, helps towns and cities identify, develop and design communities people want to live in. She believes sharing the history of a community’s important places helps connect people to their city or town, giving them a sense of loyalty and belonging. This is what she hopes “The Story of Cary” will accomplish. 68 | caryliving.com
