Behind the Bricks: My Tour of Statesville Brick Company

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Statesville Brick Company, a family-owned manufacturer with over a century of experience crafting premium brick products. Located in Statesville, North Carolina, this tour offered a fascinating glimpse into the art and science of brickmaking.

A Rich Heritage

Founded in 1891, Statesville Brick Company stands as one of North Carolina's oldest continuously operating brick manufacturers. Walking through their facility, you can feel the blend of tradition and innovation that has kept them at the forefront of the industry for over 134 years.

From Clay to Masterpiece

The tour began with an overview of their process, starting with the raw materials. I was surprised to learn that the distinctive colors and textures of their bricks come primarily from carefully selected clay deposits, many sourced from their own mines within the region.

What impressed me most was seeing the transformation of materials into finished bricks:

1. The clay is ground and mixed to precise specifications
2. It's formed into the iconic brick shape
3. Each brick is dried in carefully controlled conditions
4. Finally, they're fired in massive kilns at temperatures exceeding 2000°F

Craftsmanship Meets Technology

While the fundamentals of brickmaking haven't changed dramatically over the centuries, Statesville Brick combines time-honored techniques with modern technology. Their dedication to quality control was evident at every stage of production. Each batch undergoes rigorous testing for strength, water absorption, and dimensional consistency.

Sustainable Practices

I was particularly impressed by Statesville Brick's commitment to sustainability. Their manufacturing process minimizes waste, with clay scraps being recycled back into production. They've also implemented energy-efficient firing techniques that reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining the quality they're known for.

What really stands out is their dedication to sourcing materials locally whenever possible. For instance, they partner with Lil Shavers, a local wood processing company, to obtain sawdust that's used in various stages of the brick-making process. This symbiotic relationship not only supports another local business but also repurposes what would otherwise be a waste product into an essential component of their manufacturing. It's a perfect example of how Statesville Brick weaves itself into the fabric of the local economy while strengthening their environmental initiatives.

The People Behind the Product

Perhaps the most memorable aspect of the tour was meeting the dedicated team members, some of whom represent the third generation of their families to work at Statesville Brick. Their pride in craftsmanship and knowledge of the brick-making process added a personal dimension to the tour that you can't get from simply reading about brick manufacturing.

Local Impact: Buildings You Might Recognize

One of the highlights of the tour was learning about Statesville Brick's contributions to notable local buildings. It's fascinating to see how different brick selections enhance the character of these structures:

• Ashwood on blueharbor bank: The elegant façade features Statesville's signature Ashwood brick, giving the building a warm, inviting appearance.
• Walnut Creek on Fern Creek: These buildings showcase Statesville's Walnut Creek brick, known for its rich, earthy tones that blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
• Fire Station 1 and the New Airport Terminal: Both important public buildings utilize the Winchester blend, a versatile brick that offers durability and a timeless aesthetic. The consistent look across these civic structures creates a cohesive architectural identity for the region.

Seeing these familiar landmarks in a new light—and understanding the local craftsmanship that went into their construction—added another dimension to my appreciation of our community’s-built environment.

Final Thoughts

This tour gave me a newfound appreciation for the humble brick. Far from being just another building material, each Statesville brick represents a perfect balance of natural materials, precise engineering, and human craftsmanship. Next time you see a beautiful brick building, take a moment to consider the remarkable journey from clay to finished structure—and the skilled hands that made it possible.

Thanks to Sonny Rankin for the amazing tour of his operation and for sharing the history he's helped create.