The hidden history of Charlotte's neighborhoods, with John Short

Charlotte is often criticized for not having much history. Old buildings have given way to new development, neighborhoods have transformed and many longtime landmarks have disappeared from the skyline.But according to local history writer John Short, Charlotte hasn't lost its history — it's simply hidden in plain sight. From Eastover's origins as the city's first automobile suburb to the remarkable story of Grier Heights, one of Charlotte's oldest Black communities, the city's neighborhoods reveal how transportation, housing, race and economic growth have shaped the Charlotte we know today.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Managing Editor Ashley Fahey talks with Short, the author of The Ledger's new "Love Thy Neighborhood" series, about why neighborhood history matters, the surprising stories hiding around Charlotte and how understanding where the city has been can help residents make better decisions about where it's headed.This episode was recorded live at The Sharon at SouthPark on July 13, 2026. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com.