Wallace Commercial Historic District

Wallace's commercial core grew along the Atlantic Coast Line tracks in southern Duplin County, North Carolina. The district covers 67 buildings, of which 55 contribute, laid out on a street grid around Main and Railroad streets. Most are one- and two-story brick stores built between about 1890 and 1945, with corbeled cornices, pilasters, dentil courses and patterned panels above altered storefronts. Other resources include a 1890s Queen Anne frame depot and freight warehouse, car dealerships, filling stations, cotton and wholesale buildings, and a 1941 post office designed by Louis Simon. The town developed after a right of way was donated about 1838 for the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad. Later, strawberry growing and produce shipping brought prosperity and a building boom. The district was found significant for its commerce, community development and architecture, with a period of significance running from about 1838 to 1945. Later development has stayed east of the district, so it keeps its historic character.