If These Walls Could Talk: The Proof in Kinston

Editor’s note: WNCT is introducing a new feature where we research some of the historical buildings in and around Eastern North Carolina.

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KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) — Amid a quaint courtyard with vine-covered brick , the entrance to The Proof in Kinston can be found.

If those walls could talk, they might tell a story that began in the late 1800s.

Originally 220 North Heritage Street in Kinston served as a feed and general store, according to information provided by the Kinston-Lenoir County Convention & Visitors Bureau. What is now an open-air seating area used to be the front section of the store. The entry of the building was in line with the sidewalk.

A hurricane swept through downtown Kinston in the 1990s. The roof of the courtyard area collapsed and remained damaged until 2000.

All of the debris was removed by a couple who bought and renovated the building. They also redesigned the courtyard area, which now acts as the entrance to the property. The couple owned Neuse River Antiques.

All of the original ceilings and brick walls are still inside the building. Several items salvaged from other historic buildings were included in the restoration of 220 North Heritage Street.

Multiple groups contributed to the restoration of the building, including the owners of the restaurant The Broken Eagle.

Current owners Dave McHenry and Matt Papurca restored the original brick throughout the interior. The Office, a pop bar, was open in the space before they bought it.

More information is coming soon.

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