Discovering the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory A Hidden Gem in North Carolina

If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path attraction in North Carolina, look no further than the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory. Here are some reasons why you should add it to your travel itinerary:

1. History: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory has been in operation since 1949, making it a piece of North Carolina’s industrial history. The factory’s founder, James Smith, began making umbrellas in his home before expanding to a full-scale manufacturing facility.

2. Handmade Umbrellas: Unlike many other umbrella manufacturers, the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory still produces umbrellas by hand. Each umbrella is made with care and attention to detail, ensuring the highest quality product.

3. Variety: The factory produces a wide variety of umbrellas, from classic black umbrellas to colorful and patterned designs. They also offer custom designs, allowing you to create a truly unique umbrella.

4. Factory Tours: Visitors can take a tour of the factory to see firsthand how the umbrellas are made. You’ll get to see the manufacturing process from start to finish, and may even get the chance to try your hand at making an umbrella.

5. Gift Shop: The factory’s gift shop offers a variety of umbrellas for purchase, as well as other unique North Carolina souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your visit.

The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory may not be the most well-known attraction in North Carolina, but it’s certainly worth a visit. Whether you’re a fan of history, handmade goods, or just looking for something a little different, this hidden gem is sure to impress.

Q: What is the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory?

A: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory is a small factory located in Lilesville, North Carolina, that specializes in producing high-quality umbrellas. The factory has been in operation for over 70 years and is a hidden gem in the state.

Q: What makes the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory unique?

A: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory is unique in that it is one of the only umbrella manufacturers in the United States that produces umbrellas from start to finish. The factory uses traditional methods of umbrella-making, such as hand-stitching and hand-cutting, to create their products. The factory also offers custom-made umbrellas, allowing customers to choose the fabric, frame, and handle of their umbrella.

Q: What types of umbrellas does the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory produce?

A: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory produces a wide variety of umbrellas, including golf umbrellas, fashion umbrellas, and beach umbrellas. The factory also produces umbrellas for businesses, schools, and organizations, which can be customized with logos or other designs.

Q: What is the history of the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory?

A: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory was founded in 1947 by a man named William F. Neal. Neal had previously worked for a company that produced umbrellas, but he wanted to start his own business. He chose Lilesville as the location for his factory because it was close to his home and had a reliable source of electricity. Over the years, the factory has remained in the Neal family and has become a staple of the Lilesville community.

Q: Where can I buy umbrellas from the Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory?

A: The Lilesville NC Umbrella Factory does not have a retail store, but their umbrellas can be purchased online through their website or through various retailers across the United States. The factory also attends trade shows and fairs throughout the year, where visitors can purchase umbrellas directly from the factory.