Abstract:
Washington, North Carolina had been struggling with dwindling industry and the development of nearby towns such as Kinston, which challenged Washington's commerce. Upon hiring Bill Patterson as Chamber of Commerce Secretary, a survey of suitable industries and special advertising were put in place to entice businesses to move to Washington. Kinston shirt manufacturers, Samsons Inc., relocated to Washington and eventually, upon trying to improve water, sewage, and other facilities, the National Spinning Company signed an agreement with Washington as well.