Apex Historical Society History

History of Apex at a Glance

Step back in time to one of North Carolina's most intact turn-of-the-century railroad towns... beautiful Apex, NC.

Peebles Dairy

Did you know that not so long ago Apex had its own dairy? Peebles Dairy flourished just six blocks off North Salem Street. For some old-time Apex residents it might seem a bit strange that cows, a barn, and a milking stall are not still around to remind newcomers of our hometown dairy.

Wayland Peebles began his dairy business in 1930. Cows were milked by hand and the milk was strained and bottled in the “milk house.” Each glass bottle bore the imprint “A bottle of milk is a bottle of health.” Some of these bottles with the original caps can be seen in the memorabilia room at the Maynard Pearson House. The dairy closed in 1943. It could be said the dairy was a casualty of war… Waylandsimply could not find enough workers during the war and he sold the cows and property.

Hunter Valley subdivision is built on the former Peebles Dairy land. The original farmhouse was moved and is located on Hunter Street so part of the farm was preserved.

This Apex Memory is from Wayland Peebles daughter, Charlotte, who was kind enough to share them with the Apex Historical Society.

Want to know more about Apex?

Your AHS offers educational sessions and tours to those interested in learning more of the history of the area and town. Educational walking tours of the Apex Historical District are available to school, scout and private groups of individuals upon request. Tours of the AHS Maynard-Pearson House can also be arranged.

Groups should be 10-12 persons to allow for best interaction between the group and the tour guide; however, larger groups can be accomodated.

Participants in these tours will have a better understanding of the early days of Apex. Contact Judy Miles at 919-363-3268 or other members to arrange tours.

Apex Historical Society
P.O. Box 506
Apex, NC 27502