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Constructed in 1918, the Adams mansion was the private residence of John Hampton Adams and his wife,
Elizabeth Barnes, and their two daughters, Elizabeth and Nell. The stately residence on North Main Street
was home for the family for nearly two decades.
John Hampton "Hamp" Adams was born in 1895 in Marlboro County, South Carolina. At age twenty-five Mr.
Adams settled in High Point and became associated with James Henry Millis, a prominent industrialist and
businessman. This association led to an apprenticeship with Mr. Millis. Hamp soon convinced Mr. Millis
to enter into the hosiery business and within a year the High Point Hosiery Mill was producing 200 pairs
of black stockings daily.
Consolidation of several hosiery mills with High Point Hosiery Mill formed the Adams-Millis Corporation
in 1927. In 1928 the Adams-Millis Corporation was listed on the New York Stock Exchange and for decades
was one of only a few North Carolina companies to be listed on the "Big Board".
Hamp Adams has been described as being of "quiet temperament, indomitable energy and perseverance with
all and has business of the finest kind." He held many business and civic responsibilities including
Director of Wachovia Bank & Trust, Trustee of Oak Ridge Institute, investor in the local newspaper in 1920,
contributing founder of the High Point Country Club and Mason.
Elizabeth Barnes was a prominent figure in High Point's social life. She remained active in community
affairs and her influence was tremendous.
In early 2000, an extensive renovation of the residence began. By the fall of 2001, the High Point
community welcomed the J.H. Adams Inn. Today, the renovated J.H. Adams Inn, which is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places, is once again a place of architectural majesty, modern conveniences and
gracious hospitality.
Located in downtown High Point at 1108 North Main Street, the J.H. Adams Inn is convenient to all points of interest in the Piedmont Triad.
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