The Catsburg Country Store was built in the 1920s by Sheriff Eugene Belvin at the junction of Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road. The store became an early landmark due to its high front facade with the image of a black cat above the name ‘Catsburg.’ Belvin, a very popular sheriff, evidently earned the nickname ‘Cat’ for his ability to sneak up on bootleggers in northern Durham county. (So he was at least popular with non-bootleggers.) Belvin also provided the ballpark to the east of the store for area kids, and lived nearby.
