Once a Railroad Town

Throughout the late 1800s, the Town of Biscoe was known as Filo. Located on the east side of the county, it began as a small railroad town shaped by the movement of goods and people.

History shows that the Page family operated a lumber yard in the community, supplying materials to a commission merchant in Philadelphia—Major Henry Biscoe. In 1895, the town was renamed in his honor. After its incorporation in 1901, Biscoe continued to grow, becoming a key hub for railroad repair operations west of Raleigh. At its peak, the railroad employed around 100 people, with multiple passenger and freight trains running daily.

Industrial Development

Much of Biscoe’s industry developed from its railroad roots. At one time, railroad cars were built locally from the ground up, reflecting the town’s strong manufacturing base.

Over time, Biscoe became especially known for its iron work and skilled labor. Local foundries and machine workers built a reputation for craftsmanship, with generations of residents contributing to this tradition.

Community Live and Change

For many years, local businesses served as gathering places that helped shape the town’s identity. Red Sedberry’s gas station, established in 1955, became a popular spot where working men would stop after their shifts to talk and unwind.

As the years passed, the town’s landscape changed. Familiar landmarks—including Old Jack’s building, the Old South Inn, and even a large persimmon tree—disappeared. The old train depot and roundhouse, once central to Biscoe’s daily life, were eventually removed, marking the end of an era.

Civic Involvement

Despite these changes, community pride remained strong. Sedberry served on the town board for ten years, describing the role as sometimes difficult but always focused on making decisions that benefit the town as a whole.

Local Businesses and Traditions

Small, family-owned businesses were once at the heart of Biscoe’s daily life. One example is the Jenkins Drug Store, originally opened in 1937. Ingram Jenkins grew up working there and later took over the business, continuing a long-standing family tradition.

Over time, however, small-town pharmacies became harder to sustain. Larger retailers began to dominate the market, making it difficult for independent stores to compete. Eventually, the Jenkins Drug Store was sold to Rite-Aid, marking the end of an era.

Family and Legacy

Although the pharmacy business did not continue into the next generation, the Jenkins family remained connected to the town. Jenkins’ sons returned to Biscoe to practice law, working in the same building where their grandfather first established the store—continuing the family’s presence in a new way.

Local Culture

Community life in Biscoe has always included strong social traditions. The Good Ol’ Boys Club, made up of men aged 60 and older, meets regularly for conversation, storytelling, and humor. Membership is simple—anyone who shows up is welcome.

These gatherings reflect the town’s character, where stories are shared, friendships are maintained, and humor plays an important role in daily life.

Local Characters

Like many small towns, Biscoe has been home to a number of memorable personalities. Figures such as T.H. Skeen and others contributed to the town’s unique identity, leaving behind stories that continue to be shared.

Source

An article by Janice Roy appearing in the Montgomery Herald.