1949 – “The Roanoke Star” Was Installed On Mill Mountain

In 1949, three large metal stars built into one structure, which were originally intended to be only a temporary Christmas season decoration, were installed on the top of Mill Mountian by Roy C. Kinsey and this three sons Roy Kinsey, Junior, Bob Kinsey and Warren Kinsey. On November 23, 1949, the three stars were illuminated for the first time. It was later decided that the large decoration would be a permanent instillation that would be lighted on a nightly basis. The locals eventually deemed the Kinsey family’s work of art as, “The Roanoke Star”.