From Mill to Mall: The history of Carr Mill Mall (part 1)

Train tracks next to Carr MIll Mall, Carrboro, NC

28 Jul From Mill to Mall: The history of Carr Mill Mall (part 1)

Posted at 15:51h in Shop Local by Stacey Martin

Step inside Carr Mill Mall today, and you’re greeted by vibrant local shops, inviting cafes, and a warm, bustling atmosphere. But did you know this beloved Carrboro landmark almost didn’t exist in its current form? The story of Carr Mill’s past is filled with whispers of undergarments and community heroism.

Long before it became the unique retail marketplace we know, this property housed a thriving textile mill. Local legend, passed down from parents and grandparents who worked there in the 1950s, suggests it was once a factory producing… underwear! Imagine the history embedded in these walls.

After its industrial days, the mill stood empty and in disrepair for a significant period. Then, in 1977, a developer from Charlotte purchased the property with plans to demolish the historic structure. The vision? A conventional strip mall, complete with a Harris Teeter and a Revco (now CVS). Can you imagine?

Uncovering Carr Mill’s past – a deep dive into historic preservation

We’ve spent countless hours exploring every nook and cranny of Carr Mill, from the sturdy brick walls to the creaky hardwood floors. Each corner tells a story. The mill dates back to 1898, when it was originally built by Thomas F. Lloyd and was known as the Alberta Cotton Mill. By 1909, the Julian Carr family purchased the mill, a significant event that contributed to the town’s renaming to Carrboro in 1914.

While rumor has it that the mill produced humble undergarments in the mid-20th century, historical records also show that by 1913, the mill was a major producer of hardwood cross-ties, shipped by the train tracks that border the current property. The mill ended operations by 1930, reopened in 1945, and closed again in the early 1960s.

Historic Carr Mill Mall, Carrboro, NC

2025, Carr Mill Mall, Carrboro, NC

Historic Carr Mill Mall, Carrboro, NC, 2025

From demolition threat to architectural triumph – 1974 and beyond

In 1974, the future of the old mill looked grim. The Carrboro Board of Aldermen initially voted to demolish the building to construct a new shopping mall. However, the distinctive character of the original structure, combined with the community’s desire for preservation, ignited a pivotal shift. Due to strong community opposition, the demolition plan was abandoned. Instead, through a collaborative effort with the Town of Carrboro and economic development incentives, the historic mill building was saved from the wrecking ball.

Architectural challenges – adapting an industrial icon

The initial conversion presented a unique design challenge. Unlike a typical open-air retail complex, Carr Mill was envisioned as an interior mall, a concept that, while charming, proved challenging for traditional retail tenants. The essence of its industrial past—its brickwork, arched doors, and large windows —became both its defining aesthetic and its initial hurdle. These large windows, integral to the mill’s original light-filled operations, were bricked for structural integrity. The sheer cost of custom-fabricating and installing replacements meant that many, particularly on the second floor, have a bricked-in appearance, a visible scar and a beautiful nod to the building’s rugged history. This innovative approach to historic building preservation is a hallmark of Carr Mill’s design. Today, Carr Mill Mall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Alberta Mill Complex, recognizing its significant historical and architectural value.

The preservation of Carr Mill Mall wasn’t just about saving an old building-it was about honoring Carrboro’s rich history and creating a foundation for its future. In our next post, we’ll explore how this historic structure continued to evolve, adapting its spaces to meet new demands while preserving its unique spirit.