The small resort town of Southern Pines, North Carolina was once described as "a little New England Village in the South". The history and happenings of a 20th century winter resort town are described by one native son in chapters of varying lengths. With one foot in the depression and living through WWII and post war events, the writer describes how life was enjoyed by someone graduating from the former Southern Pines High School in 1953. Though mostly famous for its golf courses and horse community, some well known people and historic events also played a part in life among the magnificent longleaf pine trees prevalent, and relevant to the area. How Southern Pines came to be located in such an "ideal" spot is a significant part of its story. From steam engines to prisoners of war, travelers were a varied and vital part of the culture and "olden times". Each chapter is different and covers a facet of life as seen by a "non-writer" who set out to record things of interest for future family generations. The descriptions of events and persons might remind some of their own growing up years and what interesting things they remember and experienced before the impact of today's pace of living. Winter residents of the early years were not just tourists, they began to bring their families and involved themselves in helping the town reach its unique status. Some winter residents were well-known and others a little more obscure. The influx of northern retirees and others now fill the memberships of every organization contributing to the ambiance and character of the town as it changes into the 21st century. But for this account, how it was is the narrative. It's a history lesson worth enjoying.