In our last articles, Washington has endured three wars, two major fires and the Great Depression.

Washington has persevered through many hard times since 1776, yet because of its resolve, is still a thriving community heading into one of the most tumultuous times in American history – World War II.

Emotions were running high, and the use of rubber products and scrap metal, along with food rationing, did not help the tensions of this time. However, citizens got involved in selling war bonds, organizing a strong Red Cross and building a better USO chapter for our soldiers. Volunteer organizations had to be formed in case of a possible threat to our homeland, and Washington was no exception. We had air wardens, airplane spotters and a Defense Council, to name only a few. People were trained by the Red Cross to care for possible injuries, and our high school built model airplanes to be used for target practice by the Air Force. The Roberson brothers headed up the War Bond Funds Campaign, and the agriculture committee was established. As was the case in WWI, our ladies once again stepped up to meet the challenges of this arduous time in our history. They were responsible for holding doll shows, quilt shows, Red Cross dances, and served as volunteers at the USO and the plane observation tower.

Because of the implementation of the draft, men had to leave. This resulted in a teacher shortage at the high school filled by our ladies.

With names like Hodges, Phillips, Roberson, Carter, Rumley, Rodman and Bonner, Washington held its own! Rationing of food, rubber, sugar and other products of daily usage, and even further curfews placed on home lighting at night never wavered the American spirit in Washington and our central business district. Even in the midst of war, Washington’s economy was the highest in this region for retail and wholesale up 70.7 percent. Wartime tested all areas, and many obstacles our citizens faced had never happened before, nor was it expected to any time, even in WWI and the Great Depression.

In 1945, World War II ended with jubilation among our citizenry. Sirens could be heard, and cars paraded down Main Street despite the gasoline shortage. Of the thousands who sacrificed their lives for our country and our freedom, many were declared heroes for valor to America. To me, they all were heroes, and it is said that one of the greatest feats in the 20th Century was the formation of the U.S. Armed Forces! Those who served and fought are rightfully considered the greatest generation.

Thank you!

It is my hope that in these series of articles, you have learned as much as I about our history. Moreover, the determination and drive that helped to build a foundation of prosperity and sustainability that is entrusted in our central business district even today. Sketchy as it was, hopefully we all can learn from our past and make the future only better for our children and grandchildren.

Let me finish as always by urging you to support our local merchants and thank them for all they do. It is up to us to shop, dine and play in beautiful and historic Washington, N.C., and if you have time … take a walk with the H-Rob!

Harold Robinson is the executive director of the Washington Harbor District Alliance.