Tanner, like so many of the region's giants, began his career in the South's dismal age of reconstruction. This is not only the Tanner story but, in microcosm, the story of those significant southern institutions, mill stores and villages, and the story of the rise of an industrial South. Originally published in 1952. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.