Bravely settled by those looking to explore and discover what North Carolina's interior had to offer, the town of Knightdale was established in 1907. To stimulate economic growth, a resident by the name of Henry Haywood Knight donated a portion of his own land holdings to the Norfolk & Southern Railroad; this generous contribution proved successful. Today, the town's economy is thriving with medical centers, shopping centers, thousands of residents, and roads to serve them. Even with its close proximity to Raleigh, Knightdale maintains a small-town ambience. It is home to an active commercial area on Knightdale Boulevard and to beautiful churches, historic homes, and businesses, such as the world-renowned Stained Glass Associates, on First Avenue. Though the train whistle is not heard as often now as in days past, it continues to blow, reminding residents of their history.