Charlotte’s Hidden History Captured Through Andrew Taylor’s Lens

Charlotte’s Hidden History Through the Lens of Andrew Taylor

Charlotte, a vibrant and ever-evolving city, has a rich tapestry of history woven through its familiar landmarks, and one resident has made it his mission to preserve those memories. Meet Andrew Taylor, a born-and-bred Charlottean who has spent over two decades capturing the essence of the city that shaped his childhood.

From a Simple Request to a Passion Project

It all started back in 2001 when Andrew picked up his camera, not with the intention of documenting history, but simply to fulfill a family request. A relative asked him to take photos of six beloved places in Charlotte that held sentimental value for her. After framing those pictures, word began to spread, and soon he was asked to capture six more. This initial endeavor sparked an idea that would lead Andrew on a journey of discovery across the Queen City.

“Those 12 photos gave me the idea to go around and find as many places as I could remember from growing up that I loved,” Taylor shared. And so began the creation of what would come to be known as The Charlotte Landmark Series, a collection that now boasts over 165 photographs of the city’s iconic remnants.

A Snapshot of Charlotte’s Heart

The collection features a delightful array of locations, each with its own story—Wads, The Drum, Coffee Cup, and of course, Price’s Chicken Coop, just to name a few. Andrew’s keen eye captures not just the physical structures, but the emotions tied to them, allowing both longtime Charlotteans and newcomers to connect over a shared sense of nostalgia.

How to Experience the Series

If you’re eager to experience Andrew’s collection for yourself, look no further! There are plenty of ways to enjoy The Charlotte Landmark Series:

• Buy Prints: Head over to Andrew’s website to purchase prints or T-shirts featuring the logos of these cherished spots.
• Local Cafés: Next time you visit Eddie’s Place for a meal, keep an eye out for Taylor’s artwork. Many diners often send him photos expressing their joy seeing the familiar landmarks take center stage in the decor.

While Andrew has shared his photos with several local businesses in hopes they would display his work, he notes that many shy away due to the costs of framing. “The series just sort of exists with no real fanfare. Kinda like the memory of the landmarks themselves,” he said.

A Bittersweet Reminder

As he reflects on the support from longtime Charlotteans, Andrew has a bittersweet realization. He notes that many of the beautiful images captured may not resonate with those who’ve moved to Charlotte in the past couple of decades. “That makes me very sad,” he expressed. “Those people will never experience a milkshake at Park Place Pharmacy or a hot dog at Wad’s.”

Preserving the Past for the Future

Andrew acknowledges that Charlotte has undergone tremendous growth over the years. As new buildings rise, many beloved landmarks have met the wrecking ball, their memories slipping away into oblivion. “I wish everyone who lives here now could have seen movies at Queen Park or ice-skated at Eastland,” he lamented. Such memories evoke a longing not only for the places themselves but for the connections those spaces fostered among the community.

His all-time favorite, Wad’s, carries a special place in his heart. “When I was a kid, my mom would sometimes come get my sister and me out of school early and take us to Wad’s for a hot dog and a milkshake,” he reminisced.

More Than Just Photos

Andrew believes that his photos do more than simply document the past—they keep the stories alive for future generations. He wishes to instill a sense of history and pride in the city’s local culture. “Charlotteans want to share their city with you. They welcome anyone and I feel like these landmarks were places Charlotteans wanted to take you when you came to visit,” Taylor stated passionately. “And now that they are gone, Charlotteans want you to remember them. I want you to remember them.”

So whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong resident, take a moment to appreciate the stories behind Charlotte’s landmarks. They are more than just buildings; they’re pieces of our shared history.