Bynum, NC – In a story that could only happen in a place like Bynum, neighbors once again came together… phone by phone, porch by porch, and heart by heat, to save a beloved piece of their shared history: the old Bynum water tower.
When word spread that the tower was once again slated for demolition, the community didn’t sit still. They called county offices, wrote letters, showed up, and made their voices heard. Because in Bynum, the water tower isn’t just a structure, it’s a landmark, a compass, a memory. It’s part of the skyline that’s watched over generations of kids walking to the river, musicians loading into the old store, baseball players chasing balls and glory, and neighbors waving goodnight under a Carolina moon.
The spirit of that love for place and history was captured beautifully in a statement released today:
“Two years ago the Bynum community rallied to save their historic standpipe water tower from demolition by finding a contractor who would safely paint it for the same funds as the demolition. Sadly, the contractors removing the old toxic paint failed to catch the dust and flakes and, in the process, contaminated the Bynum community garden and private yards. After environmental testing and remediation plans were in place, the County decided anew to tear the structure down. Once again, the Bynum community rallied. They spread the word far and wide that, not only is the water tower a contributing structure to Bynum’s recently recognized National Historic Register status, it is a foundational structure in Bynum residents’ daily lives. Additionally, they pledged to raise the funds to paint the structure properly. Their effort gained widespread support, and ultimately the Chatham County Commissioners voted unanimously to save the tower. We salute the community of Bynum for its ongoing efforts to save its history, and thank our County Commissioners for their support.”
This victory isn’t just about steel and paint, it’s about identity. It’s about what can still happen when people care deeply and show up for the places that shape them.
To everyone who made a call, wrote an email, or simply spoke up: thank you. The water tower still stands because of you. And tonight, as the sun sets over the Haw River, it stands a little taller.