Whitsett Recreation Park - Whitsett NC

The baptist church next door hated them

Whitsett Recreation Park had a vague name because temporary permits forbade owner Carl Gerringer from expressly stating what the purpose of his establishment was.  At one point they had a sign that said "Whitsett Recreation Park and Restaurant" and he had to cover up the "and Restaurant" because it was too clear of a statement.

Construction of the skatepark began in mid-1977 and wasn't completed until the end of 1978.  It initially included a 180 foot snake run and wide shallow bowl area, but was then expanded to include a keyhole pool with tile, coping, and reportedly *way too much* vert.

The skatepark was unsuccessful, so Gerringer attempted to pivot to being mostly a restaurant, game room, skate shop, and community grounds.  The baptist church next door attempted to establish a feud with the park to try to block their permits, but the community park lasted well into the 90's before closing down.

Sources

Alspaugh, P. (Sep 21 1979). "Restaurant's Only Sign is its Aroma." News and Record.

Paysour, C. (Nov 20 1979). "Country Risks Wrath, Allows Restaurant." News and Record.