EPHEMERA

Definition: That which is intended to last for one day; of brief duration; short-lived.
Therefore, ephemera is used as a term to describe newspaper articles, pictures, pamphlets, brochures, handbills, letters, invoices, etc. that were intended for a definite purpose at a specific point in time. Ephemeral material, then, gives us possibly the clearest view of history as it was actually happening. We are looking for any such half-forgotten, Gastonia-themed items you might have that were put away long ago in a desk drawer, shoe box, trunk, or book. Please share them with Gastonians everywhere. We will be happy to scan and return them, or you may send an image as a JPEG e-mail attachment. 

 Published by the Gastonia Chamber of Commerce and the Gastonia Industrial Diversification Commission in the early 1960's, this brochure highlighted the progress Gastonia had made toward independence from a textiles-dominated industrial base. Ironically, all of the industries featured in the brochure disappeared along with textiles. 

Do you remember the original Putt-Putt course and driving range on US 29/74 West (Kings Mountain Highway)? A hole-in-one on the 18th hole entitled the player to a free round. (You were given an orange ball so you could not win another free round.) Players enjoyed  picturesque views of Crowders Mountain and West Gastonia junk yards. Around 1969 a huge multi-laned sliding board was added and named "Slide-Slide." Riders slid down the hill on straw mats, which did little to protect from abrasions. As a result, "Slide-Slide" quickly and quietly disappeared and was replaced by a second Putt-Putt course. All that remains of this popular first-date destination is the former rest room and maintenance building. It now is the office of a used car lot.