A Glimpse into Aulander’s Past:
The Exxon Station and the Saunders Doctors
In a quiet corner of Aulander, North Carolina, history is preserved in the snapshots of everyday life. Photographs by local photographer Dick Jenkins, along with the memories of lifelong resident Daniel Lassiter, offer a window into a time when the town’s Exxon station was more than just a stop for fuel—it was the heartbeat of the community.
When Service Meant Everything
Decades ago, the Aulander Exxon was a true “full-service” destination. Almost everyone in town relied on it for their automotive needs. You didn’t just pull up to a pump; an attendant would promptly come out to greet you and pump your gas. The station offered comprehensive care, providing complete maintenance and professional car washes. Whether it was checking the oil, cleaning the windshield, or ensuring your vehicle was in top shape for a Sunday drive, the Exxon was the go-to hub.
While it has since transitioned into a convenience store, those who grew up in Aulander still remember the personal touch that defined the station’s early years.
Medical Legacies: Dr. Asa and Dr. Fred Saunders
Just a few steps from the Exxon, the town’s medical history was written. Directly to the left of the station stood the office of Dr. Sheldon Asa Saunders. Though his original building is no longer standing, it served as the foundation for nearly a century of healthcare in Aulander.
Standing beside that site, the white building to the left, is the office of his son, Dr. J. Fred Saunders, which remains standing today. Dr. Fred began his practice in 1958, working alongside his father before eventually taking over the care of generations of local families.
Like his father, Dr. Fred was known for his dedication, famously continuing to make house calls long after the practice had fallen out of fashion elsewhere.
Through the lens of Dick Jenkins and the memories of residents, these buildings represent more than just brick and mortar; they are symbols of a community built on service and care.
