Thomas Cowan had this two-story brick country home constructed from clay found on what was then his 800-acre plantation. That makes Wood Grove possibly the oldest brick structure in Rowan County.
The original home follows the typical Quaker plan ó a square home facing south just over the crest of a hill with chimneys at both ends. Many of the furnishings in the original portion of the home descended through the Cowan family. The traditional pie safe in the history room was made on the property circa 1891. The elongated English wrought iron hinges and locks on the front door are original to the house. Note the elaborate Federal mantle in the living room. A new kitchen and dining room that are in keeping with the historic nature of the home were added in 2002.
Wood Grove was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It has previously been featured on OctoberTour twice ó first in 1977 and again in 2003. Wood Grove is located in the Bear Poplar section of Rowan County, 15 minutes from downtown Salisbury. Visitors may be greeted by a peacock, which roams the property.
Directions: From Main Street go south on N.C. 150 (Mooresville Road). Turn right at the stop light on Sherrill’s Ford Road. Continue approximately 10 miles, passing the N.C. 801 intersection. Turn left on Cress Road, park along road.