BBy Helen Wilson
A&E Editor
Winston-Salem’s history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Reynolds family, whose influence has shaped the city’s identity for over a century. The Reynolds family’s contributions extend far beyond tobacco, as they helped build the city’s economic, cultural, and educational foundations. Many of the landmarks they established have undergone significant revitalization, ensuring that their historical importance is preserved while serving new purposes in the present day.
Reynolds Building
In 1929, the Reynolds family commissioned the construction of the Reynolds Building through their tobacco company. As the headquarters for their tobacco empire, the Reynolds family ensured that the building reflected their company’s prosperity and influence. Their investment in the building’s Art Deco design and its prominence in the city’s skyline was a direct effort to symbolize their success and the importance of Winston-Salem as a business hub. The Reynolds Building, now known as The Kimpton-Cardinal Hotel, has been transformed into a mixed-use facility. It now houses modern office spaces for Wake Forest University, luxury residential units, and retail spaces. This transformation has breathed new life into the building, making it a vital part of the city’s downtown revitalization efforts and preserving its historical significance.
Reynolda House
The Reynolda House was built in 1912 as the family home of Richard Joshua Reynolds and Katharine Smith Reynolds. The estate was designed to be a self-sufficient community with extensive gardens, a model farm, and recreational facilities. Katharine Reynolds envisioned it as an ideal living environment combining the latest agricultural and domestic technologies. Today, Reynolda House operates as a museum of American art, featuring an impressive collection of works from the colonial period to the present. The museum offers a variety of educational programs and events, allowing visitors to explore the art and the history of the Reynolds family. The surrounding gardens and village shops continue to attract visitors, making Reynolda House a cultural and historical landmark.
R.J. Reynolds High School and Auditorium
Katharine Reynolds played a key role in establishing R.J. Reynolds High School in 1923, funding its construction to provide a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on the arts. Perched atop a hill overlooking downtown Winston-Salem, the school earned the nickname “Society Hill.” The accompanying auditorium, funded by the Reynolds family, was designed to be a premier venue for cultural and educational events, reflecting their dedication to enhancing the community’s cultural life. With its rich history and architectural grandeur, RJR stands as a lasting symbol of the Reynolds family’s impact on education and the arts.
Bailey Power Plant
The Bailey Power Plant, built in 1947, was originally the power source for the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company’s manufacturing operations. It played a crucial role in the company’s industrial infrastructure, providing the necessary energy to support large-scale production. Initially, this area was dominated by tobacco industry infrastructure, reflecting the city’s industrial heritage. The plant has been revitalized as part of the Innovation Quarter: a research, business, and education hub. The repurposed plant now houses modern office spaces, restaurants, and event venues, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. This transformation represents the city’s shift from an industrial past to a future focused on technology and innovation while preserving the historical essence of the building.
Smith Reynolds Airport
Smith Reynolds Airport, named after the youngest son of R.J. Reynolds, opened in 1942 and quickly became a vital transportation hub for both commercial and private aviation. During World War II, the airport played a significant role in supporting military operations. In the post-war years, it facilitated regional connectivity and economic development. Smith Reynolds Airport continues to operate today, serving as a critical asset for the region’s transportation infrastructure. It supports various aviation activities, including commercial flights, private charters, and aviation-related businesses, contributing to the local economy and connectivity.