City of Asheboro

Ricky Allred, an Asheboro native, has had an interest in history since early childhood. His work with local history began when he returned to Asheboro to work in 2003. The idea for the “Walk Thru the Past” tours at the Old Asheboro Cemetery began with a lunchtime stroll with a co-worker who shared his curiosity about old cemeteries. An unusual grave marker prompted an effort to find out something about the persons buried beneath it (Leonard and Mullie Preston). Conversations about the story led to an interview with Chip Womick of the Courier-Tribune, the local newspaper, in June of 2008. Following the publication of the interview, Mr. Allred was asked by a representative of the Mayor’s Appearance Committee to tell the Preston’s story at their grave site. Response to this event was such that Mr. Allred began conducting monthly tours (generally from April to October) under the auspices of the Asheboro Department of Cultural and Recreational Services, a series that continues to the present time. In addition to the Walk Thru the Past tours, Mr. Allred also speaks to civic and historical interest groups in venues across North Carolina and presents lectures on local history topics at the Randolph County Public Library.