Support Us Button Widget

Do you remember the 21st night of September?

From historic buildings that no longer stand to ads promoting Charlotte restaurants, we dug through newspaper archives dating as far back as 1883 to celebrate the 21st night of September.

Black and white and sepia historic newspaper clippings.

Imagine Charlotte through the years — a lot has changed since the 1800s.

Screenshots via North Carolina Newspapers

Before we begin, let us set the tone for this story: Alexa, play “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire. While we certainly do not remember every 21st night of September, we decided to reminisce with some old Charlotte newspaper clippings dating as far back as 1883. Let’s see how much has changed in the Queen City.

Daily Charlotte Observer, 1883 | “The Central Hotel” was known to be the largest hotel between Washington, DC, and Atlanta, GA — guests paid $2 to $3 per room. The hotel closed in the 1930s and was demolished in 1988.

A black and white photo of a four-story building.

The Central Hotel was one of Charlotte’s longest operating hotels (1849-1930s).

Photo via Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

The Charlotte News, 1913 | The ad reads, “Mrs. L. L. Gardner would be pleased to be honored with your visit to her Millinery Opening where you will find a choice selection of pattern hats and French creations.” While this store no longer operates on West Trade Street, you can stay fashionable by visiting Nouveau Chapeau in Plaza Midwood.

Daily Charlotte Observer, 1895 | September was the hottest in 17 years, with temperatures ranging from 90 to 100 degrees across the Southeast. Reminds us of July 2025.

The Charlotte Collegian, 1950 | Mrs. Bonnie E. Cone started the school year as the president of Charlotte College. In 1965, Cone became Acting Chancellor and oversaw the college’s transition to UNC Charlotte.

The Charlotte Post, 1989 | The Excelsior Club was advertising their weekly specials — an all-you-can-eat “old fashion fish fry” for $4. Now, there are renewed talks to restore the former club on Beatties Ford Road.

More from CLTtoday
The Duke Blue Devils will face the Texas Longhorns on Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Spectrum Center to honor Hall of Fame broadcaster, Dick Vitale.
The pedestrian bridge will cross I-277 and link the South End and Uptown areas, allowing for a more walkable metropolitan area.
The concept from a professional skateboarder and Michelin-starred chef brings burgers and fries to Uptown’s The Alley at Latta Arcade.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
Blumenthal Arts has unveiled its new private lounge, ready for guests to upgrade their night at the theater.
The 4.5-acre urban park will feature walking trails, covered picnic space, a playground, sprayground, and dog park.
On the rocks, neat, dirty, frozen, or zero proof — we’re spilling the Long Island iced tea on the best spots to grab a drink after work in Charlotte.
If approved, the transportation tax could generate $19.4 billion for road improvement and public transportation projects across Mecklenburg County.
The exhibitions will be included with general admission at Discovery Place Science in Uptown Charlotte.
Whether you’re looking for a quirky hobby to try, hoping to meet new people, or just looking to let off some steam, axe throwing may be a good way to do just that.