Varner and Pole work bench where Phil Nunn's shoes made copy print photos

Containers:

Box 10, Folder 3

Biographical / historical:

Historical records from the Rockbridge Historical Society indicate that "Dixie" Nunn, whose actual name was Phil Nunn, lived and worked in Lexington, Virginia, during the mid-to-late 19th century and early 20th century. Phil Nunn was a well-known local African American resident. While some college students and cadets affectionately called him "Old Dixie," local records indicate his close friends preferred his given name, Phil.

The Varner and Pole business originated in the late 19th century. It was tied to a multi-generational legacy of family furniture sales spearheaded by local cabinet-makers, carpenters, and undertakers like Charles Van Buren Varner (1837–1907) and his brother Andrew. By the early-to-mid 20th century, historical advertisements from the Lexington Gazette formally showcased the partnership as Varner and Pole, offering a wide range of local community services including furniture repair, custom window shades, a funeral directory, and an ambulance service.

Other descriptive data:

These circa 1905 photos were reproduced by Andre Studio, Lexington, Virginia, 1975.

Names:

African-Americans. Lexington, Virginia
African-Americans. Lexington, Virginia

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