The Sanford Cotton Mill, also referred to as Father George Mills for its trademarked product "Father George Sheeting," began operating in 1899. At the time, W.R. Watskins of Ramseur was president, and T. L. Chisholm was superintendent of the operation. W. R. Williams was head of the company in 1954 when it closed. This photo appeared on page 43 of the Lee County Progress Edition of The Sanford Herald, published on March 16, 1936.