Hickory – The Hickory Landmarks Society will sponsor its 23rd annual historic preservation group tour on Saturday, March 16. This year’s destination is historic Winston-Salem.  Salem, established in 1766 by the Moravians, became an early trade center due to the talent of its craftsmen and artisans. Just north of Salem, Winston was established in 1851 and became a bastion of industry with the growth of the tobacco and textile industries. Families such as the Reynolds and Hanes became well known names. The two merged in 1913 as Winston-Salem, continuing the industrial growth and becoming a center of arts, innovation and education.

The visit will start with a leisurely walking tour of Old Salem Museums and Gardens. Participants can visit a number of historic buildings and the “God’s Acre” Cemetery.  Lunch will be on your own with a variety of foods available at the Salem Tavern or The Flower Box Tea Room and Cafe.

After lunch the tour continues to Reynolda House Museum of Art to see the Hopper to Pollock: American Modernism exhibit and explore the galleries and grounds. A special tour of the historic West End will be provided by Eric Elliott, preservationist, author, archivist and former president of the West End Association.

The cost for the tour is $55 per person for HLS members and $62 per person for non-HLS members. All fees, breakfast and snacks are included. Reservations are now being accepted. The deadline for joining the tour is Friday, March 8. Full payment is due in advance.

To see complete agenda or register online visit www.hickorylandmarks.org. Please call the HLS office at 322-4731 to sign up for this exciting journey into history! You may also mail your check, payable to HLS to PO Box 2341, Hickory, NC 28603. Hickory Landmarks Society is a funded affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County.