"In this collective biography spanning four generations, Howard Covington explores how one prestigious family shaped the development of Durham and of North Carolina. Covington examines the life and legacies of George Washington Watts, his son-in-law, John Sprunt Hill, George Watts Hill, and George Watts Hill, Jr., analyzing the personalities, belief systems, relationships and life forces that propelled these four men each to become one of the leading figures of his generation." "Perhaps best known for family businesses such as Central Carolina Bank, The Carolina Inn, and Watts Hospital and for their partnership in the American Tobacco Company, Watts and the Hills were also advocates for education, fair banking, credit unions, health insurance and more. Their charitable contributions to countless enterprises and educational institutions made them famous for philanthropy, and their leadership skills made them influential in any venture they supported. Active in both local and statewide politics, all four also worked for major infrastructure changes including a better highway system and the development of Research Triangle Park, and all left legacies that continue to support and enrich North Carolina."--BOOK JACKET.