Charlotte of Today

This information was first published in 1888:

CHARLOTTE OF TODAY

 As already intimated, Charlotte is a progressive and prosperous city. The population is 12,200, at the present writing, and the establishment of the three new cotton mills will increase this number by the fall of 1888 to not less than 15,500. The city is divided into four wards, and is controlled by a mayor and board of aldermen, there being three aldermen from each ward. Hon. F. B. McDowell, whose portrait appears on another page, is at the head of the present administration, which in its political complexion, is thoroughly Democratic. The city has a paid fire department and a well trained and thoroughly equipped police department, in addition to the advantages mentioned at the outset of this work.

 The location of the city is 760 feet above the level of the sea, and from the house tops splendid views of the mountains can be obtained. From the Central Hotel the Blue Ridge range and the six peaks of the King's Mountain range can be seen on any clear day. The streets of Charlotte are wide and level and if laid out in a straight line would measure seventy miles. The main streets and many of the cross streets are macadamized. The sidewalks in the main part of the city are laid in stone or brick, while the suburban sidewalks are laid with plank. The streets are lighted by electricity. A notable feature of Charlotte, as indica­ted by the illustrations, is the number of her handsome residences and churches, with grassy lawns and shaded walks. Very few cities of equal size can compare with Charlotte in the elegance and beauty of her residences.