A Legacy of Industry: The Story of Historic Wafco Mills and Its Neighboring Communities

Nestled in Greensboro’s College Hill Historic District, the Wafco Mills block is a testament to the city's industrial heritage and adaptive reuse. This unique block comprises three distinct residential communities: Historic Wafco Mills, Wafco Mills Condominiums, and Walker Commons. Each has its own history, yet all share a common thread rooted in the legacy of the original Wafco Mill.​wafcomills.com+1wafcomills.com+1

Historic Wafco Mills: Greensboro’s First Roller Mill

Established in 1893 by W.A. Watson Jr. and his brother-in-law Tom P. North as North and Watson Company, the original Wafco Mill was Greensboro’s first roller mill. Located at 801 McGee Street, the mill produced flour, cornmeal, and later animal feed, playing a pivotal role in the city's industrial growth. The complex expanded with brick additions in 1907 and 1912, showcasing architectural features like segmental-arched windows and a stepped parapet gable. Operated by four generations of the Watson family, the mill ceased operations in 1972. In 1987, it was converted into 28 residential condominiums, preserving much of the original machinery and earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. ​Wikipedia+4archives.greensborohistory.org+4piedmonthistorichomes.com+4greensborodailyphoto.com+5wafcomills.com+5wafcomills.com+5

Wafco Mills Condominiums: A Modern Community with Historic Roots

Adjacent to the historic mill, the Wafco Mills Condominiums comprise 66 individual units developed in 1987 as part of the mill’s adaptive reuse project. While distinct from the Historic Wafco Mills, this community embraces the character and stories embedded in every brick. Managed by a volunteer board of directors, residents enjoy the charm of historic architecture combined with modern living. ​wafcomills.comwafcomills.com

Walker Commons: Contemporary Living in a Historic Setting

Built on the open land surrounding the original mill during the 1980s redevelopment, Walker Commons offers modern townhouses that complement the area’s historic charm. While not part of the historic designation of Historic Wafco Mills, Walker Commons shares the same block, providing residents with easy access to downtown Greensboro and the nearby Greenway urban trail system along Cedar Street. ​wafcomills.com+1Greensboro, NC | Home+1

Together, these three communities—Historic Wafco Mills, Wafco Mills Condominiums, and Walker Commons—illustrate Greensboro's commitment to preserving its industrial heritage while fostering vibrant, modern neighborhoods.​wafcomills.com