Support Us Button Widget
Culture

Do you remember the 21st night of September in Winston-Salem?

Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic hit “September” was released in 1978 — so we went back to the archives to see what happened in Winston-Salem that year.

September 20, 2023 • 
Cambridge Wrege
WStoday_East Winston Library

The East Winston public library branch in 1978, 20 years before it was designated as the library’s first heritage center.

Courtesy of the Forsyth County Public Library Photograph Collection via Digital Forsyth

Earth, Wind & Fire once asked: “Do you remember the 21st night of September?” and it’s been stuck in our heads ever since.

On this ultimate Throwback Thursday, let’s take a look back at some Winston-Salem highlights from 1978 — the year the song was released.

  • On January 3, city government leased its first word processing equipment from IBM, ushering in the computer age.
  • The Airport Commission of Forsyth County began making upgrades at Smith Reynolds Airport — including terminal improvements, new fencing and repaving.
  • The city budget for 1978-1979 was $30,538,040. (That’s compared to $607.8 million today.)
  • The Arts Council proposed a “cultural block” around 3rd, 4th, Marshall, and Spruce Streets. The vision came to life with Winston Square Park.

Tell us your memories of 1978. Bonus points if they happened the 21st night of September.

More from WStoday
WStoday_rollys gifts
Business
5 local stores that will do the gift wrapping for you
Give yourself a present this holiday season. These complimentary services are another reason to shop local.
December 3, 2024
 · 
Cambridge Wrege
WStoday: Student holding a book in hand at Bookmarks Festival
Nonprofits
#GivingTuesday: Where to give in Winston-Salem
Here’s how you can give back locally on the national day of giving.
December 2, 2024
 · 
Kellina Wanteu
WStoday: Snow globes at Katharine Brasserie Bar
Tourism and Hospitality
Restaurants with heated outdoor dining in Winston-Salem
Winter may be upon us, but that doesn’t stop from enjoying the outdoors.
December 2, 2024
 · 
Kellina Wanteu
A decorated Christmas tree with lights and presents stands in an ornate room.
Sponsored
🎄 Celebrate the holidays at Reynolda
Sponsored by
WStoday: Dutch Light Bar patio overlooking Bailey Park
Live
What’s new and coming soon to Winston-Salem
As the Twin City continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.
November 26, 2024
 · 
Staff
WStoday: Businesses on Burke Street, Winston-Salem
Small Business
Highlighting local shops we love for Small Business Saturday
Winston-Salem is made up of so many wonderful small businesses, here are a few our readers love in honor of Small Business Saturday.
November 26, 2024
 · 
Staff
A two-story, long white building with lots of front-facing windows, green shutters, and a green roof
Play
13 museums worth visiting around Winston-Salem
Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or looking for something the whole family can explore, these Winston-Salem museums have a little something for everyone.
November 26, 2024
 · 
Katie Molck
WStoday: West 5th St. neighborhood, Winston-Salem
City
Asked: What is your favorite street in Winston-Salem?
We want to hear about what you think the most lively streets in the city are — from the businesses you can frequent to the night life.
November 22, 2024
 · 
Haley Bartlett
WStoday: Christmas tree lit up during Winston-Salem parade tree lighting
City
Holiday parades + Christmas lighting tree ceremonies around Winston-Salem
Let the festivities begin.
November 20, 2024
 · 
Kellina Wanteu
People-shopping-art-front-yard
City
How walkable are Winston-Salem’s neighborhoods?
This interactive map can help you determine how walkable certain blocks are to destinations like supermarkets, parks, restaurants, and schools.
November 20, 2024
 · 
Brianna Williams