Eastern North Carolina Living - July 2022 by APG Eastern NC

EASTERN

LIVING N O RT H

C A R O L I N A

Let’s Explore t h e p laces you s hou ld go & lov e

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LET’S EXPLORE.

56 38

Bert i e

Edg eco m b e

Pe r q uima ns

G REENE 8

GAT ES

PASQ U OTANK

T YR R E L L

Pitt HALIFAX

46 16

HERT FO R D

Washi ng ton HYDE 6

Chowan

N O R THA MP TO N 26

N A SH

Beaufort

W e c ov e r th e P EOPLE you k now & l ov e a n d th e plac e s yo u s h o u l d go & love !

MART I N

W i ls o n

FEATURES

72.

ALL IN A DAY’S TRIP

Take a day in Warrenton

ON THE C OV E R

74. BIOGRAPHY Meet the new leadership of the Robersonville PD.

VOL. 14, NO. 4 JULY 2022 STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Publisher

Staff

Kyle Stephens

John Walker

kstephens@ncweeklies.com

john.walkernc@yahoo.com Brandice Hoggard bhoggard@ncweeklies.com

76. GRANDMA’S KITCHEN

78. GRACE & TRUTH

Enjoy fried corn and fried cabbage

5 things to see here

Editor

Andre’ Alfred

Thadd White

aalfred@ncweeklies.com

twhite@apgenc.com

Tyler Newman tnewman@apgenc.com Deborah Griffin

Layout & Design

dgriffin@ncweeklies.com

Becky Wetherington lotuscircusdesign@gmail.com Michelle Leicester mleicester@ncweeklies.com

Photo Editor

Editorial Contributors Sandy Carawan Sarah Davis Sylvia Hughes Gene Motley Lewis Hoggard Donna Marie Williams

Jim Green

Meghan Grant

jgreen@ncweeklies.com

Webb Hoggard John Foley

Advertising Executives

William Anthony Nancy West-Brake

Lou Ann Van Landingham

80. MARK IT!

82. PARTING SHOTS

Learn more about Plummer Bernard Young

Words from our editor

lavan@ncweeklies.com Kelly Ayscue kayscue@rmtelegram.com Chris Taylor ctaylor@rmtelegram.com

Eastern North Carolina Living Magazine 109 South King St., Windsor, NC 27983 252-794-3185 twhite@ncweeklies.com

Eastern North Carolina Living is published by APG Media Eastern NC, and is a subsidiary of the Bertie Ledger-Advance, Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald, Tarboro Weekly and Rocky Mount Telegram.

5Halifax

COUNTY

Story by Thadd White Photos by Thadd White & Contributed

rom the beautiful waters of Lake

Roanoke Canal Trail

Gaston to the quiet trails of the

Nothing beats the opportunity to take

Roanoke Canal and the beautiful

an exercise run or a leisurely stroll and enjoy

In addition to enjoying the natural beauty

waterfowl park that is Sylvan Heights, there is

natural beauty at the same time. That’s

of the trail, there is a variety of wildlife and

something to draw people to just about every

exactly what one can find along the Roanoke

plants visitors can enjoy including deer,

portion of Halifax County.

Canal Trail which leads from Roanoke Rapids

fox along with bald Eagles, osprey, hawks,

to Weldon or vice versa.

woodpeckers, nuthatches, owls and blue

While Roanoke Rapids remains the commerce

capital,

there

are

towns

throughout Halifax County that have mustsee spaces – from Littleton in the northwest corner all the way to Scotland Neck in the southeast and everywhere in between. And of course, you can’t mention Halifax County without the storied history of the

The trail, which goes along the same trail

Museum, River Road or The Aqueduct.

herons.

used in the early 1800s helps tell the story

If visiting in the summer it’s possible to

of the history of transportation in the region.

see Mississippi Kites, Swainson’s Warbler,

Segments of the canal remain intact

Cerulean Warbler and other neotropical

and indeed the canal, town path and canal structures were added to the National Register of Historic Places back in 1976. There are a variety of offerings depending

songbirds. The canal trail is open from dawn to dusk each day. The museum attached to the trail is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday

town of Halifax or the beautiful Roanoke

on what each person is seeking. Hiking times

River.

can be from 45 minutes all the way to an

Those wishing to find a map can do so at

hour and a half. One can begin the trail at

https://roanokecanal.com/roanoke-canal-

Roanoke Rapids Lake, the Roanoke Canal

trail.html

Here is a look at five places you won’t want to miss during your trip to Halifax County.

through Saturday.

Weldon Mills Distillery One of the newest and most beloved places to visit in Halifax County is the Weldon Mills Distillery, which is on Rock Fish Road in Weldon and has the distinction of having the Roanoke River flow right onto its banks. The distillery – which is the brainchild of Bruce Tyler and Michael Hinderliter – has already won numerous awards for the excellent bourbon produced right here in North Carolina. Tyler said he and Hinderliter had been friends for many years and they often shared memories over a glass of bourbon and a

bourbon are the All Malt, the Weldon Mills

cigar. Their love for those things led to the

Select and the Soldier’s Cut.

Weldon Mills Distillery is open for tours from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through

establishment of the distillery in Weldon,

The All Malt is a limited-production ultra

Thursday, noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday

which offers tours and tastings of their

premium barrel proof bourbon while the

and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. It is located at

excellent product.

Weldon Mills Select has won numerous

200 Rockfish Drive in Weldon.

“There are many ingredients that flavor

awards. It is a 94-proof bourbon made with

In addition, the Mill Building is open for

this distillery in the Roanoke River Valley. A

North Carolina corn, malted wheat, malted

events such as weddings, anniversaries and

naturally beautiful environment, pristine river

barley and water from the Roanoke River.

corporate events and is located on the same

water and people with an insatiable desire to succeed,” the website boasts.

The Soldier’s Cut is 82-proof bourbon honoring the Eighty Second Airborne and

Three of the most popular brands of

site. For more information, go to www.

raises money for Gold Star families.

weldonmills.com.

Downtown Littleton To call Littleton one of the most well-kept

Littleton – such as Littleton Hardware and

but provides a casual environment and

secrets in the region is an understatement.

Grandpa’s Kitchen – there has been the

down-home hospitality while the coffee shop

Littleton

features delicious coffee and gourmet treats.

downtown,

addition of Daphne’s Coffee Shop and Blue

wonderful food, excellent wine and a close

boasts

thriving

Jay Bistro among other places that have grown

proximity to beautiful Lake Gaston.

as part of a revitalization project in downtown.

In addition to the mainstays in downtown

The Bistro is an upscale dining experience,

Visitors and residents can spend an entire day shopping in downtown Littleton. Main Street Books offers something for everyone while the Union Mission Thrift Store is available for those looking for a unique find – from clothing to kitchen ware and the like. Once Upon A County Line - an eclectic emporium featuring vintage items, antiques, gifts, quilts, jewelry, candles and home furnishing and decor. Items are both new and sold on consignment. Grandpa’s Kitchen is a staple of Littleton with some of the best barbecue in the region. It combines good food with a friendly atmosphere. As Littleton business owner Buddy Isles said, “I believe you can walk into any business in Littleton and be greeted with a smile. It doesn’t matter if you live here or not.”

Sylvan Heights Bird Park For nearly two decades, the Lubbock

of Mike and Ali Lubbock. The couple moved

aviaries are surrounded by tranquil gardens

family has used their extensive knowledge of

to the United States and began breeding rare

and lush natural areas.

waterfowl to make Sylvan Heights Bird Park a

waterfowl before moving the entire operation

destination for people from near and far.

to Scotland Neck in 1989.

In addition, there is the Landing Zone, which is popular amongst visitors, where

The waterfowl park, which is home to over

The 18-acre facility located in southern

those entering the facility can feed parakeets

2,000 waterfowl, parrots, toucans, flamingos

Halifax County is well-attended by everyone

and the birds will land on shoulders or hands

and other exotic birds, came about because

from senior citizens to school groups. The

and, sometimes, even someone’s head. Currently the facility, which is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Park Way in Scotland Neck, welcomes more than 55,000 visitors per year. In the summer (April through October), the park is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults (13-61), $11 for seniors and $9 for children three to 12. Children two and under are free. In addition to self-guided tours, Sylvan Heights offers guided tours and multitude of events which are available to the general public. Seeing the entire park will take most guests about two hours though many choose to stay even longer. For more information or to plan a visit, go online at shwpark.com.

Eagle Tavern One of America’s true historic towns in the county seat of Halifax County – the town of

that served Halifax County in the 1800s. The North Carolina Department of Cultural

the premises. As the center of town shifted westward, he moved his shop to a storefront.

and Natural Resources indicate that by 1824,

His descendants remained in the home

Boasting history that dates back to before

the buildings around the original lot was

until his great-granddaughter, Nannie M.

the Revolutionary War, Halifax has some of

known as Eagle Hotel, and in 1925, Marquis

Gary, left the house and lot to the Catholic

the most historical buildings in the state of

de Lafayette stayed there during his tour of

Diocese in Raleigh. They in turn donated the

North Carolina. There is even a visitor’s center

America.

property to the State of North Carolina and it

Halifax.

in Halifax to help tourists and history buffs enjoy their day. One of the historic buildings that has the most charm is The Eagle Tavern, which dates back to 1774. A house was originally constructed on Lot 51, as it was known, but it had been converted to a tavern within just a short time. At the time it was known as “Sign of the Thistle” and was called “the best place of public entertainment in Halifax,” according to historical references. Located at 2-8 St. David Street in Halifax, The Eagle Tavern is part of a cluster of buildings

In 1838, businessman Michael Ferrall purchased the property and moved onto

was moved to its current place in the Historic Halifax State Historic Site in 1976.

East Carolina Timber, LLC

Buyers of Standing Hardwood & Pine Timber Vince Taylor

3930 Bear Grass Rd. Williamston, NC 27892

Mobile/Office: 252-799-7857 Fax: 252-792-6717 eastcarolinatimberco@embarqmail.com

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5Perquimans

COUNTY

The Newbold-White House and the Periauger Project through analysis of wood) has pinpointed its construction to 1730, four years after the Sanders’ purchased the property. In its day, its size and high quality construction materials would have given it near mansion status in a time when oneroom homes constructed on wooden poles driven into the ground were common. The bucolic setting invites visitors to explore the grounds, complete with a Vineyard, gardens and out buildings. The property is also home to The Periauger, a long-lost Colonial boat recently Located on the Perquimans River, the Newbold-White House was the home of Abraham and Judith Sanders, a colonial Quaker family and is a Perquimans County visitor’s “must see.” Dating to 1730, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized as the oldest brick house in the state of North Carolina. Authentically restored by the Perquimans County Restoration Association (PCRA), the

Story by John Foley Photos by John Foley & Contributed

Perquimans

River,

and

the communities that hug its banks are the highlights of

Perquimans County. The coastal waterway, a tidal estuary, directly drains into Albemarle Sound slowly flowing past the communities of Belvidere, Snug Harbor and Durant’s Neck and the towns of Hertford and Winfall. Meaning "land of beautiful women," Perquimans was named by its earliest inhabitants, the Yeopim Indians, a branch of the family of Algonquians. The history that began then, is embedded in the county’s flowing fields of cotton, corn and soy and while farming is the backbone of these communities, the county boasts an abundance of history, river activities, site seeing and small town Southern Hospitality.

reconstructed in Beaufort at the North Carolina Maritime Museum by The Periauger Project. The project was a unique partnership of the Perquimans County Restoration Association and the North Carolina Maritime Museum, Perquimans County and East Carolina University’s program in Maritime Studies. The project was made possible by a successful private fundraising campaign and through a grant from the N.C. Department of Transportation’s Enhancement Program.

house features enormous fireplaces, pine

The PCRA offers numerous events

woodwork and a winding corner stair. Period

throughout the year open to the public. The

furnishings help recapture the flavor of early

property is located at 151 Newbold-White

18th-century life.

Rd., in Hertford and is open to the public on

Standing back from the banks of the

Saturday, May through October from 10 a.m.

Perquimans River, the brick house was the

- 4 p.m. Tours are available with two weeks

centerpiece of the plantation. Originally

notice.

thought to have been built as early as 1685,

For

dendrochronology (dating of structures

perquimansrestoration.org

information:

One of the highlights of the Perquimans

Black Crappies.

the river and its tributaries. Native Girl guide

River is its slow moving current due to the level

For those who would prefer to kayak

Casandra Ivey has been exploring the water of

topography that encourages its flow to the

or canoe, the river is a haven for kayakers

the Perquimans for 25 years and knows all the

Albemarle Sound.

adventuring through the waters just off of

spots kayakers enjoy.

This makes it the perfect waterway for water

Hertford’s town docks. Locals and visitors alike

sports for the novice and the experienced.

venture through the waters highlighting the

Whether the captain of a kayak, a paddle

neighboring communities while paddling past

board, a bass boat or a canoe, the Perquimans

cotton fields that appear like ground cover

contact

is the water adventurers’ dream come true.

clouds as you glide around the next bend.

Department at 252-426-5695. To book a

Bordered by Cypress Swamps the river

For visitors without kayaks, Native Girl

is perfect for catching Largemouth Bass and

Kayak tours will arrange a paddle through

One can also enjoy a day at the pier off of White Hat Road for picnicking and fishing. For more information on water activities Perquimans

County

Recreation

Kayak Tour contact Native Girl Kayak at (252) 404-2266.

Layden’s Country Store Passing homes from yesteryear, and

the street.

cotton fields that will become future fabric,

Three generations later, Charles Layden

Layden’s Country Store suddenly appears at a

sits in the same office as his grandfather once

crossroads in time.

did on the other side of the wall where meat

Located at the intersection of Belvidere

hangs to cure.

Road and Perry-Bridge Road, the clapboard

In times when meat comes prepackaged

building, boasting the names C.E., C.D. and

from whereever, it’s refreshing to see an

C.E. Layden and the dates that particular

original butcher shop, one that feeds the

“Charles” operated the shop, is a landmark

mouths of a community, still operating.

that continues to make its mark on the dinner tables of the surrounding community.

Hardly a tourist attraction to the residents who frequent the store regularly, Layden’s is a

A local culinary institution that has served

step back in time for those visitors who have

the residents of Perquimans County for the

only read about the aromas of an authentic

past 70 years, its reach extends to Virginia,

butcher shop brushing the face as one walks

when the butchers package about 4,000

Washington D.C. and beyond.

through the front door.

pounds of the sought after products. Layden’s is a landmark where locals go to visit and

The building, originally constructed in

Known for its sausages - local Cub

1860, was a Post Office and Blacksmith shop.

Scout Pancake breakfasts highlight the

It became home to C.E. Layden’s butcher

craftsmanship of Layden’s butchers - the store

Layden’s Country Store,1478 Belvidere

shop in 1952 when C.E. Senior purchased the

sells about 400-500 pounds of sausage a

Road, Belvidere, can be reached at (252) 297-

building and moved his business from across

week. That count increases during Christmas

2875 facebook.com/laydenssupermarket

Baseball enthusiasts the world over make

from every year he appeared in the league,

the sports icon.

a special trip to this tiny town of 2000 to pay

magazine covers, letterman jackets, and so

homage to the hometown hero who captured

much more.

the hearts of fans with pinpoint accuracy and a blazing fast ball. Although postage stamp in size, The Catfish Hunter Museum, is packed with memorabilia

Retired banker and Hertford resident Roy Chappell will tell of the day “Jimmy” walked

It also includes autographed pictures, advertisements

visitors go to feel local.

which

featured

Hunter’s

likeness, and books written about his life and accomplishments.

into the Hertford Savings Bank, with the scout, to cash his $250 check. Stories like that abound. The Catfish Hunter Museum is located in

that will bring the boy out in old timers that

Always known as Jim or Jimmy in

remember Yankee Stadium, Fenway and that

Hertford, seldom “Catfish,” the nickname

the Perquimans County History Museum, 104

famous May 8, 1968 Twins no-hitter game.

bestowed upon him by Charles Finlay, it’s not

Dobbs St. in Hertford. The museum is open

Everything from pictures with MLB icons, A’s

uncommon to mention his name and have

Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 2pm. For more

and Yankees paraphernalia, baseball cards

one of the town folk tell a tale or two about

information call: 252-404-2910.

Perquimans Art League Gallery The Perquimans Art League Gallery is a world-class styled gallery that is one of the major attractions in this quaint historic river bank town. Brightly capturing the eye of visitors, from around the globe the gallery offers an array of local artwork in a variety of media. Housed in one of Hertford’s newly remodeled historic buildings, the League went through an extensive fundraising program and opened the gallery earlier this year. Quintessential

American

artist

and

Hertford resident Jack Pardue frequently displays

his

iconic

portraits

and

epic

landscapes at the PAL gallery. From the Smithsonian and White House

Located in the Historic District of Hertford, the Perquimans Arts League exhibits and sells the work of approximately 95 artists and craftsmen from the surrounding area.

walls, Pardue’s work has captured the essential

In addition to paintings and photography,

people, places, scenes and events that have

visitors will find an assortment of hand-

contributed to the fabric of America.

crafted jewelry and pottery, fiber art, glass and

wood items, as well as books by local authors. Exhibits change frequently. The Gallery located at 133 North Church Street is open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. -3 p.m. For more information call 252-426-4041 or visit perquimansarts.org.

Visit Historic

Plymouth, NC Photo Courtesy of Washington County TTA

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Donna Shaw Owner, Designer

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5Martin

COUNTY

Story by Deborah Griff in Photos by Deborah Griff in & Contributed

artin

County,

community

an where

agrarian U.S.

to the sandy beaches of Outer Banks beaches.

The Roanoke River Paddle Trail No visit to Martin County would be complete without soaking up aspects

highways 17 and 64 intersect,

But more than just a rest stop along the

of the mighty Roanoke River, which has

and the county line is defined by the twists

way, Martin County holds its own as an

sometimes been referred to as North

and turns of the mighty Roanoke River, is a

entertaining destination not to be missed.

Carolina’s Amazon.

stopping off point for many as they journey

A stroll along the boardwalk, only minutes from downtown Williamston, provides

scenic

glimpse

the

watercourse which has played a significant role in the region throughout history. Visitors can also paddle its waterways, which have recently been designated as the 12th North Carolina State Trail. The Roanoke River Paddle Trail runs 140 miles from Roanoke Rapids to the Albemarle Sound. Kayakers and canoeists can experience the wild beauty of the river by spending a night, or several, on primitive camping platforms dotted along the river. Over 25 years ago, the non-profit Roanoke River Partners (RRP) established a system of river accesses with 20-plus

Bob Martin Agricultural Center Almost any given weekend, excitement will be stirring at the Senator Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center (SBMEAC) in Williamston, a state-of-the-art show facility, boasting a 108,000–square-foot indoor coliseum on 168 acres of land.

center is constantly booked with weddings, conferences, and banquets. Thousands come to our county to watch and participate in these events, which increases our population by at least 20 percent on weekends, keeping our hotels, restaurants and businesses busy." SBMEAC Marketing Supervisor Susan

Equestrian shows, concerts, dirt bike races,

Tyre said, “As an entity of the North Carolina

monster truck shows, tractor pulls and rodeos

Department of Agriculture and Consumer

bring entertainment to the region and visitors

Services, our foremost priority is to promote

from across the country.

NC Agriculture. We are looking to our future

Conveniently located off U.S. 64 (exit 512),

as we plan different ways to get more citizens

there is also 10,380-square-foot Meeting

involved with our facility. This summer we

Center Exposition Hall for smaller venues.

tried something new and partnered with the

Director Chase Conner of Martin County Tourism Development Authority said, "The

Martin County 4-H Program and hosted a “Down on the Farm Day Camp” for youth.

Ag Center is such a huge asset to [the area’s]

For more information call 252-792-5802

tourism. It is one of the largest facilities of its

or 1-888-792-5802; visit them on Facebook;

kind on the East Coast. The arena stays booked

or go to www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/

44 weekends of the year; and the meeting

agcenters/eastern/index.htm.

camping platforms, interconnecting Martin County with surrounding communities and five counties in the region. Seven of the platforms can be found in Martin County. With its recent state trail designation, the river qualifies for state funds. As the non-profit overseeing the trail, RRP will use the funds to upgrade the platforms and complete renovations to the Hamilton Rosenwald School, which will serve as a river/visitor/community center, and historic site celebrating both the school and its tie to the Underground Railroad. Camping is available year-round, but reservations are required. Visit www. roanokeriverpartners.org and click on River Camping or call 252-792-3790. Some platforms have screened in areas, others are an open deck. Costs are $25 for up to two people, $10 for each extra. No running water or electricity.

Farm Life Disc Golf For those who like to play, The Farm Life Disc Golf Course, nestled among the backwoods of a family farm, was built to challenge. Oaks, beeches and pines line the tight fairways and the 18-hole course provides plenty of “hazards” such as swamps and ponds. “It is one of the shortest, yet hardest, courses in North Carolina,” according to co-

South Everetts Motor Speedway The thrum of revved-up engines can be

creator Perry Hardison. Located at 1233 Kent Roberson Rd. in the community of Farm Life outside Williamston,

traced to the unlikely rural town of Everetts,

Hardison designed and built the course with

less than 10 miles outside Williamston.

his friend and founder Kent Roberson 26

South Everetts Motor Speedway, at 3698

years ago, when there were only a handful of

Everetts Rd., was once a lowly pumpkin-

disc golf courses in the state. Now there are

patch. Now, the lighted, dirt-packed, track is a

over 300.

speed arena for thrill-seekers, free of charge.

Upon Roberson’s death a year ago, the

Go Kart racing, a growing phenomenon,

Farm Life Disc Golf club designated the course

has taken root here and exploded. A recent

as private, but players are welcome to join the

race in June registered 53 participants and

Club for a nominal yearly fee, said Hardison.

over 400 spectators.

As a courtesy, players are asked to call the

“It was the biggest crowd we’ve had,” said Noah Wynn, 24, who originally built the track for backyard riding-lawnmower races.

number listed at Hole One to report they are playing. The course is open year-round and is for

With the purchase of his own go-kart, or “flat kart,” interest among Wynn’s friends grew like wildfire.

both professionals and amateurs. A member of the PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association), the course has an expert

His dirt-track stadium has three sets of

rating. A yearly tournament has taken place

bleachers, but crowds quickly outgrew the

every first weekend in June since it opened in

stands. The oval track is bumpered with

1996.

old tires to keep drivers from veering off, so viewers line the track with lawn chairs.

members help keep the course’s grounds up

Food truck offerings are usually available for purchase.

in memory of Kent. Hardison said club dues help pay for lawn mowing, upkeep and repairs

Wynn grew up watching his father race mini-stock

Roberson’s widow, Debbie, and FLDG club

cars

Robersonville’s

to the course.

East

He said aside from some storms taking

Carolina Motor Speedway, so the inherent

down a few trees over the years, the course

need-for-speed runs in his blood.

has remained unchanged and is still a

Participants must have their own kart. He said they can be found on Facebook

challenge for all who play it, visit Facebook for more information.

Fort Branch Civil War Site For history buffs, a visit to Fort Branch Civil War Site (2883 Fort Branch Rd., Hamilton) is a trip back in time. The Confederate earthen fort is on private land, maintained by the Ft. Branch Historical Society. The fort sat high on a bluff, 70 feet above the Roanoke River, which provided troops a safe, clear view of Union gunboats approaching from down river. Eight of the 12 original cannons, as well as many other artifacts are displayed in a museum. Ft. Branch comes to life annually, the first Saturday and Sunday in November (this year, Nov. 5 and 6). At 5:30 p.m., battles on horseback are reenacted both days. During the day Saturday, reenactors display scenes of everyday life - what people wore, what they crafted, what they ate and how they took care of their wounded as part of a living history program. Civilians (men, women and children), as well as calvary, artillery and infantry are represented. About 4,000 people including volunteers, spectators and reenactors, descend on the property throughout the weekend. The cost is $10 per car for one day, $15 for both days. Also, an annual Christmas at Fort Branch

Marketplace and Craigslist and can also be

is every first Saturday in December (this year,

purchased new.

Dec. 3), and is free.

There are no age restrictions and children

Reenactors lead a quintessential Christmas

as young as four compete. The maximum

service and reenact scenes related to the war

speed that can be reached on the speedway

around the holiday.

is 30-35 mph, he said. Up to 12 cars race at a time. “We try to keep it as family-friendly as possible,” said Wynn. Visit Facebook for a schedule of events.

The preserved grounds are privately owned, but tours can be arranged by calling Don Torrence at 252-217-2216 a couple of days in advance. Visit fortbranchcivilwarsite. com, or visitmartincounty.com.

5Tyrrell

COUNTY

Story by John Foley Photos by John Foley & Contributed

yrrell County, with a population

over alligator and rose-crested orchids and

The county hosts a wealth of water and land-

of 3719 residents, is the least

pitcher plants.

based ecotourism venues and is embraced by

populated county in North Carolina

The step back in time town of Columbia is

but boasts a diverse economic and ecological

the county seat and is the hub for commerce

destination.

and recreation offering a quaint Main St.

Located between the northeast North

that comes alive for the Scuppernong River

Carolina urban mainland and the Outer Banks,

Festival celebrated yearly on the second

it was founded in 1729 and named for Sir John

Saturday of October.

Tyrell, one of its original Proprietors.

Commerce is also at home in Tyrrell County

the Scuppernong and Alligator Rivers and the Albemarle Sound. Trails and boardwalks allow visitors the chance to walk with nature and enjoy all the county has to offer. For those less inclined to coat themselves with insect repellent, highly

While its population is minimal it hosts a

where world-class agri-business and fishing

recommended by Katerina Ramos, Program

special and abundant environment where

help feed the world. Home to the Cherry

Coordinator at the Pocosin Nature Center,

red wolves howl and black bears and bobcats

Seed Company, Columbia provides seeds

downtown Columbia offers a step back in

roam. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons soar

for others to chart their economic harvests.

time experience.

Downtown Columbia

Red Wolf. A large mounted Red Wolf in the

retailer in town. Opening in June, the Mercantile

coalition window captures the awe of visitors.

offers a variety of beach accessories, home

Antique stores and a county museum

furnishings, and the town’s coffee bar and

intermingle with a real estate and insurance

features Ladyfinger’s frozen meal alternatives.

Only a handful of blocks make up this tiny back-in-the-day town, but they offer an inviting stroll into the way life once was. The flagship store - Pledger Hardware - opened its doors in 1948 and has proven over the past 77 years to be a staple in the community. Mason jars assorted with a selection of sorted fasteners line the back shelf of the main two-sided store. Screws and bolts, possibly, as old as the store itself share shelves with Xtra-Tuff boots and rain gear to protect any sailor or fisherman. Bags of snacks and candy capture the eyes and palates of visitors as they walk through

office, while the Southern Dreams Gallery featuring the works and tastes of local seed entrepreneur and professional photographer Ken Cherry serves as the Chamber of Commerce outpost. While Cherry’s Southern Dreams Gallery is only open when Chamber Director George Haislip is at his desk, it is a must-see. Aside from Cherry’s work capturing the feel of the county, a portion of one of the brick walls hosts a full-size antique barn-side circus poster, affixed to the brick, and although

the garden center and appliance department

tattered, reminds visitors that once elephants

boasting washers, dryers, wheelbarrows and

inhabited Tyrell, if only for a day or two.

rakes. A must-see for the gadget guru in search

For those seeking flavors of town, the recently

opened

Hillbilly

Cafe

serves

of that one nut or washer you can’t find in a

breakfast, lunch and dinner Wednesday

big box store.

through Saturday. For authentic Mexican

The Red Wolves Coalition sits down the block and up a step or two and serves as the Headquarters for the protection of the

dishes, Tienda Mexicana Authentic Mexicana Grill rounds out Main St. eateries. Outer Banks Mercantile is the newest

Red Wolf Education Center A highlight of the area, Red Wolf Coalition Director Executive Director Kim Wheeler explains the plight of the twelve remaining Red Wolves in North Carolina. Wheeler

explains

with

passion

that

14-year-old Manny and 8-year-old Sage enjoy their den at the Red Wolf Education Center, which is open to the public on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturdays and is located at the Pocosin Lakes Wildlife Refuge. To take a peak-https://ncwf.org/wildlife/redwolves/#live-cam

Pocosin School of Fine Arts Tucked away on the banks of the Scuppernong River, at the end of Main Street in Columbia, North Carolina, The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts has been

attracting students, teachers, tourists, and art

and students whose work may one day hang

enthusiasts from surrounding communities

in galleries and shops across the globe.

and distant shores since its inception in 1995.

It was Feather Phillips who saw the need

The tiny gem has a glowing reputation as a

for the school as a way to bring the talents

catalyst for collaboration between instructors

of the community and the diversity of its residents together. An Art and English teacher, Phillips and her family relocated to the area in 1987 filling their need for a place with “clean water” in support of her husband’s boat building. The artist soon realized the talents of the residents as she watched locals craft art from piles of wood, heaps of metal, and scraps of fabrics. Her goal was to bring those creations to the public as a way of introducing the various cultures of the community to each other, today visitors enjoy the artwork in the school’s gallery.

Paddling the Scuppernong

trees, and there is a general lack of motor

birds, flora, and fauna.

boats, which makes paddling here even

Rare animals include the Rafinesque's big-

more enjoyable. The water can sometimes

eared bat, spotted turtle, American alligator,

get rough as you get near the mouth of the

and black swamp snake. Brackish water

relatively short Scuppernong River. There are

river which is about a mile wide. There are also

intrusion — due to accelerated sea level rise

launch points from Everton Point out at the

numerous creeks and tributaries to explore

and declining river flows —is a key concern at

mouth of the river to the dock area adjacent

while observing the numerous species of

this site.

If one likes swamps and brown water with a ton of wildlife, there are plenty of opportunities on various portions of the

to the visitor's center in Columbia. Upriver from Columbia, the river is very quiet and there are numerous opportunities to spot airborne and terrestrial wildlife representative of the area. Paddlers near the mouth of the river have reported being escorted by a pod of dolphins, although they are rarely seen that far up the Albemarle Sound. Spanish moss dangles from the Cypress

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge conserves a rare type of wetland habitat,

Interpretive Boardwalk was designated as a National Recreation Trail in 2005.

known as "pocosin," derived from a Native

The boardwalk is part of the Walter B.

American word meaning "swamp on a hill."

Jones Center for the Sound, which is operated

The refuge encompasses vast acres of natural

by Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

wetlands, including the unique southeastern

and the Partnership for the Sounds. Followers

pocosin peat wetlands, open water on Pungo

of the Charles Kuralt auto trail or one of the

and New Lakes, upland pine forests, and

extensive network of canoe trails that lace the

managed moist-soil and agricultural units that

sounds, regard the boardwalk as one of the

provide high-energy food for waterfowl.

treasures of the area. Other activities along the

More than 100,000 ducks, geese, and

trail and at the Wildlife Refuge include fishing,

swans congregate on the refuge in winter,

canoeing,

and the refuge supports one of the densest

birdwatching, and hiking.

kayaking,

wildlife

observation,

populations of black bears ever reported. The

Features of the Pocosin Lakes National

refuge is the site of one of the country’s largest

Wildlife Refuge include beautiful scenic

wetland restoration projects, restoring natural

overlooks, a well-maintained picnic shelter,

hydrology to the pocosin peatlands.

and numerous historic features. The trail

The

Scuppernong

Boardwalk

Interpretive

is complete with interpretive signs and

anglers,

vacationers,

the visitors center offers a knowledgeable,

school groups, and local users. The 0.75-mile

friendly staff along with water and restrooms.

loop meanders through a cypress swamp, and

The Visitors Center and Refuge are located

along the Scuppernong River, leading into

at 205 South Ludington Dr, Columbia, NC

downtown Columbia, North Carolina. The

27925.

attracts

River

Simply Natural Creamery With its large front porch lined with rocking chairs, scenic farmland views and the quiet surroundings of Ormondsville, Simply Natural Creamery allows its customers a simple way to enjoy life and all its sweet treats – including ice cream made from the creamery’s very own Jersey cows. Family owned and operated; the Creamery began as a Jersey cow farm by Greene County in 2009. Milk was sold to co-ops before the creamery opened and began offering their milk and ice cream products on site. “Simply Natural Creamery is exactly that – simply natural. Our cows live in a natural environment. They are not confined to concrete all day. They roam, graze and lounge naturally in our pastures. They eat natural food, which is grown right here on our farm,” said Holly Rollins, chief financial officer. Jersey cows are special in the milk that they produce, Rollins added. “They are the Cadillac of Milk. The Jersey cow produces a special protein in their milk. It’s an A2 beta casing. It helps people that are lactose intolerant to eat and drink our milk,”

5Greene

Rollins said. The creamery has since expanded to have

COUNTY

three locations – Ormondsville, Greenville and Morehead City – with each location offering more than 38 flavors of ice cream from cones, cups, sundays, shakes and more. Simply Natural is more than sweet treats

Story & Photos by Donna Marie Williams

and a meeting spot. It also serves as a place nown for its agriculture history,

for education and provides tours, offers field

travelers and vacationers.

Both homegrown and run by Greene

trips, birthday parties and group experiences

more than just farms and rural

County natives, Simply Natural Creamery

providing insight on where milk comes from

and The Farmer and the Dail have quickly

and how it is processed into the things we

risen to fame and grown into destination

consume daily.

Greene

County

home

homesteads. Nestled along the Contentnea Creek, Greene County has an abundance of life

spots for the county and beyond.

and vitality. At it’s heart lies Snow Hill,

While the County has continued to

whose downtown is full of unique shops,

progress forward, it remembers its history

eateries and the Greene County Museum.

with

Not far from central downtown lies Wooley

its borders including the Nooherooka

Swamp – a true hidden gem of the County

Monument. This monument gives honor to

– providing recreation as well as a retreat for

the County’s Tuscarora history.

many

historic

landmarks

within

“A lot of kids don’t know where their milk comes from. Some people think the calf out front is a deer. We wanted to educate kids and families,” Rollins said. For

information

simplynaturalcreamery.com

visit

www.

Downtown Snow Hill authentic Mexican cuisine. Also downtown is Half Moon Marketplace place, a unique shop of its right. Filled with one-of-a-kind local to North Carolina items, the store serves as the county’s only gift store and provides gifts as exquisite as its wrapping paper. Broadcasting

from

the

streets

downtown is GoMix Christian Radio. Heard on stations throughout North Carolina, GoMix provides Southern gospel Christian music. Across from GoMix and the town’s pocket park, is Greene County History Museum whose focus is to highlight local artisans. Just

behind

the

Greene

County’s

Courthouse and within walking distance to the main street shops is Snow Hill’s Boat Landing. The heart of Greene County, Snow Hill

coinciding with newer stores such as Aggie’s

Newly improved, the landing provides

bolsters economic promise for the county

Pizza & Hot Subs, downtown Snow Hill

access to the Contentnea Creek and offers a

while providing eateries, shopping, and more.

provides a mix of charm and atmosphere.

handicap accessible ramp for fishing, walking

With stores such as Harper’s Insurance

It’s eatery options extends beyond Aggie’s

and Hardy’s Appliance and Furniture thriving

menu to the well-loved La Flama and Los

downtown since 1975 and 1954 respectively,

Periquitos Tienda Mexicana, both providing

trails and a boat ramp. For

information

visit

www.

snowhillnc.com.

Nooherooka Monument Erected in 2013, nearly 300 years after the Tuscarora War, the Nooherooka Monument serves as a reminder of the once great Tuscarora nation that called Greene County home.

Carolina and have a presence in the county today. The monument is encircled by a 30-foot diameter circle consisting of concrete. A

The Tuscarora were a mighty force in North

15-foot-high steel arch stands prominently

Carolina and, while spread throughout the east

representing the entrance to a longhouse. A

from the Neuse and Roanoke Rivers, a large

bronze plaque depicting a longhouse, corn and

concentration of Tuscarora people lived-in

hemp is located on the left arch while a bronze

modern-day Greene County and chose Greene

plaque depicting a wampum belt is on the right.

County for its final stronghold against colonists.

Inside

the

circle,

bricks

were

laid

In March 1713, during the Tuscarora War,

representing the tributary where the fort is

Col. James Moore of South Carolina along with

situated. Geometric shapes, filled with crushed

troops of both North and South Carolinians,

stone lie on the outside of the bricks, with

laid siege to the Tuscarora fort. Moore defeated

one shape representing the outline of the

the warriors by mining an outer wall and setting

Nooherooka fort and the other depicts the

fire to the fort and its structures.

counterclockwise spiral of a traditional dance.

At the end of the war, more than 1,000

An arc of six concrete tree stumps

Tuscarora people and 200 whites were killed,

represents the six nations of the Iroquois or

1,000 Tuscarora peoples were sold into slavery

Haudenosaunee.

and more than 3,000 were forced from their home. Some Tuscarora remained in North

For more information visit: docsouth.unc. edu/commland/monument/369/

Farmer and the Dail The Farmer and the Dail had a simple

operating five days a week.

Farmer and the Dail not only grew in size,

beginning with owners Zac and Stacy Bailes

Business continued to grow for the Farmer

but in popularity with people coming from all

conducting sugar cookie decorating classes.

and the Dail, leading the Bailes to move from

over to sample their delectable menu items. It

It grew to the selling of sweets on Saturdays

their 1,600-9 square-foot facility on Middle

is now a must visit destination spot for Greene

only. With business becoming more in

School Road to its current 7,500-square-foot

County.

demand, the Bailes expanded their hours

facility off U.S. 258.

“We wanted to build a place that would be a destination for the county. Something for people to aspire to visit and to help draw attention to the county. We wanted to be a part of growing the community,” Zac said. “We want to help grow the vibrancy of Greene County.” Farmer and the Dail offers an assortment of sweet treats including cupcakes, brownies, cookies and more. Its menu expands beyond just treats and includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. The family run business also offers coffee and specialty drinks. “There is not just one thing we’re known for,” Zac said. “There is a lot of room for people to choose what they like.” For

information

visit

www.

farmerandthedail.com.

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Wooley Swamp Farms One will find no “things that will make a strong man die from fright” or the “ghost of Lucius Clay” at Wooley Swamp in Snow Hill. Instead, this hidden gem offers a quiet retreat to all who need solace, comfort or a get-a-way. Owners

Sherry

and

David

Madures

established the camp and R.V. site as a sanctuary or safe place for anyone seeking an escape. The site began with one small cabin and has grown throughout the years to include four smaller cabins, one larger two-story cabin that accommodates seven people and nine R.V. sites. A six-acre pond lies in the center of the campground providing space for fishing, kayaking or canoeing. Kayaks are available for rent along with life jackets for children. A bait shop is also conveniently located on the property.

2809 NC Highway 903 • Stokes, NC 27884

The site also allows access to the Contentnea Creek where visitors are welcome to fish, explore or walk along the walking trails. The campground has been enjoyed by many and has been the site of family vacations, weddings, hang-out spots, temporary homes following hurricanes and more. “It’s a good place for military members to come to decompress. It gives children a place to fish and a place to walk the creek. It gets them off the phone and gets them into nature. We have all kinds of wildlife – ducks, geese, turtles,” Sherry said. Wooley Swamp is open to all and for $5 the public is welcome to fish the pond and creek.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

C: 252.717.5671 O: 252.752.6423 F: 252.752.6499

GA APPLIASN SALES &CE SERVICE

Children 15 years and younger fish for free. For more information visit wooley-swamp-

email: jmizell@stokescongleton.net

website: www.stokescongleton.com

farms.business.site.

5Pasquotank

COUNTY

Museum of the Albemarle Established in 1967, the Museum of the Albemarle is dedicated to preservation and education of the Albemarle's long and storied history. The museum is the northeast’s regional branch of the North Carolina Museum of History. Constructed

along

Elizabeth

City’s

downtown waterfront in 2008, the museum’s newest location is a massive four-story structure that can be seen as far away as neighboring Camden County. The primary exhibit in the museum is “Our Story - Life in the Albemarle.” The display features a 6,200-square-foot gallery with

Story by Tyler Newman Photos by Tyler Newman & Contributed

over 700 artifacts that interpret the area’s rich history – both good and bad. From Native American artifacts to decades-old farming and firefighting equipment, the exhibit features something for everyone. Hosting several events year round for locals and visitors alike, the museum is an active part of the Pasquotank County community. Other current exhibits include “High on the Hog,” which details the region’s relationship with hog farming and barbecue (until July 2022), “Women Breaking Barriers in Northeastern North Carolina” (until October 2022), “Picturing Women Inventors” (until September 2022), “Guardians of the Land: Discovering Indigenous Americans” (until August 2024) and “Reliving the 1970s: Toy

Edition” (until March 2023). asquotank

County,

part

North Carolina’s historic Inner Banks region, stretches from the

Great Dismal Swamp in the north to the Albemarle Sound in the south. Communities from Newland to Weeksville dot the bucolic landscape, which is predominantly vast forest and farmland dedicated to generations of harvesting.

A gift shop is also available on the premises that sells mementos and memorabilia from the entire region, from Dare County’s Outer Banks to the Roanoke River. The museum is located at 501 South Water Street in Elizabeth City and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission for the public is free, however donations are appreciated.

Arts of the Albemarle Situated in the heart of Elizabeth City’s up-and-coming

downtown

district,

Arts

of the Albemarle (AOA) is a non-profit arts organization that stands as a cultural centerpiece in the greater community. Hosting concerts, art events, performing arts displays and even weddings from inside the historic Lowry-Chesson Building, the space has been catered and molded to fit the region while still providing an intimate approach to both the local and national art scene. Exhibits rotate on a regular basis. An art gallery, located downstairs in the main building, is open to the public. Various shows are held throughout the year to showcase the best and brightest of the Albemarle’s artists and talent. Over

250

artists,

craftsmen

and

photographers have found a home within AOA’s walls. Upstairs in the Maguire Theatre, one can find string concerts and dramatic performances, as well as recitals and dances. The Center Players are housed here, a local award-winning children’s theater group that performs plays and musicals. The innovative design of the theater allows for a variety of events to be hosted, from seated performances to cabaret-type events to private receptions and even a violin camp. Arts of the Albemarle is also a wonderful entry point when partaking in Elizabeth City’s First Friday ArtWalk. The ArtWalk is held on the first Friday of each month from 4 p.m.

In the center of it all, straddling a bend

to 7 p.m. The ArtWalk is a night of visiting

in the Pasquotank River, lies Elizabeth City,

participating studios, stores and restaurants

the economic, cultural and educational hub

downtown to meet the featured artists and

of northeastern North Carolina. A small city

musicians who showcase their talents.

of 18,000, it boasts one of the largest and

Arts of the Albemarle is located at 516

busiest Coast Guard stations in the country

East Main Street in Elizabeth City and is open

as well as a resurgent downtown district.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Here are some of Pasquotank County’s top spots to visit.

There is no admission fee unless attending a scheduled event or performance.

Dixieland Speedway Located 12 miles north of Elizabeth City near the community of Morgan’s Corner is Dixieland Speedway, a 3/8 mile oval track that hosts a variety of motorsport events throughout the warmer months from April through August. It is known as “Northeast North Carolina’s premier action track.” Long straightaways and tight turns lead to intense on-track action. The clay track is 55 feet wide and turns one and two are banked at 12 degrees, while turns three and four are eight-degrees. Events include 1-, 15-, 20-

Stock Fours. Winners crowned for each can

and 30-lap races are popular at the venue,

win cash prizes and the adoration of the local

depending on the division.

audience.

and the flag at 8 p.m. General admission is cash only and is typically $15 for adults (unless it is a special

On Friday nights since 1983, the speedway

Dixieland Speedway is located at 1520

event) and $5 for children between ages six to

is known for hosting five divisions of intense

Northside Road in Pasquotank County. Gates

11. Children ages five and under are free. Pit

side-by-side racing: Allstar Late Models,

on Fridays typically open around 5 p.m. with

passes and season passes are also available, as

Superstreet, Sportsman, Super Fours and

practice around 6:30 p.m., qualifying at 7 p.m.

are track rentals for up to four hours.

Historic Districts

surrounding residential streets.

Revival, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival,

There

are

five

historic

districts

Pasquotank County, all being centered in and around Elizabeth City’s corporate limits. Beginning in 1789 and continuing onward, the districts can be arranged in a walkable tour of the city that contains both historic and architectural sights and marvels. The most prominent of the districts is the Elizabeth City Historic District. Containing 592 buildings, one site, one structure and one historic object, the district is located in the city’s heart – the central business district and

It includes examples of Greek Revival, Federal and Lake Victorian style structures,

Bungalow/American Craftsman and Tudor Revival styles.

as well as the 1789 Grice-Fearing House and

The Elizabeth City State Teachers College

1882 Pasquotank County Courthouse. The

Historic District, on the campus of Elizabeth

boundary of the district has increased twice:

City State University on the city’s south side,

in 1994 and 2021.

contains seven sights and emphasizes Colonial

The Riverside Historic District is just over a

Revival and Bungalow/American Craftsman

quaint little bridge that spans Charles Creek.

styles that were popular when ECSU was

Developed after 1893, the district borders the

once known as the Teachers College.

Pasquotank River and is known for its tree-

Northside, a predominantly residential area

lined streets and easy walkability. Riverside

of town, is the location of the fourth historic

boasts homes and structures built in Greek

district. With over 398 contributing structures, its styles mimic those found elsewhere in town, such as Greek Revival, Queen Anne and Classical Revival. The final historic district in Pasquotank County is the Shepard Street-South Road Street

Historic

District.

Comprising

161

buildings in a historically African American section

Elizabeth

City,

this

district

holds more unique styles compared to its predecessors. First made a historic district in 1994, it features Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Bungalow and American Foursquare styles throughout. For a guided walking tour of Elizabeth City’s historic streets, visit the Visitor’s Center located in the Museum of the Albemarle at 501 South Water Street for a tour brochure.

Craft Beer Scene New to Elizabeth City – and growing – is the craft beer scene. With three breweries now on tap for the town, residents and visitors have eclectic locales to choose from when opting to go out for a cold one with friends. Ghost Harbor Brewing Company, Seven Sounds Brewing Company and recently

city can now market itself as a destination for craft beer.

AVDET opened just a few months later,

With two breweries downtown – Ghost

opening at the cusp of spring. Elizabeth City’s

Harbor and Seven Sounds – and one in

newest brewery is a veteran owned and

midtown – AVDET – a so-called “brewery

operated 3.5 barrel nanobrewery inside of

trail” could be established for local folks and

Kenyon Bailey Supply that pays homage to

out of state tourists alike to enjoy the city’s

the Coast Guard aviation history located in

alcohol-oriented establishments and historic streetscapes. Ghost

Harbor,

Elizabeth

City’s

first

opened AVDET Brewing Company – named

microbrewery,

for USCG lingo “aviation detachment” – make

Colonial Avenue adjacent to Pailin’s Alley,

three in total for Elizabeth City, meaning the

now a popular social destination for young

opened

2017

along

adults. It features a taproom and access to outdoor seating in a beautifully lit alleyway just beyond the premises. Seven Sounds came next, opening around New Year’s 2022. Seven Sounds was born five years ago in the local community and finally

ready to host any and all.

the area. Ghost Harbor Brewing Company is located at 602 East Colonial Avenue in Elizabeth City and is open 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed on Monday. Seven Sounds Brewing Company is located at 112 North Water Street in Elizabeth City and is open 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Friday

came together in the old Hurdle Hardware

and Saturday and 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Building on Water Street. The business

AVDET Brewing Company is located at

was named after seven of North Carolina’s

407 McArthur Drive (Kenyon Bailey Supply)

sounds – there are eight in total. Featuring

in Elizabeth City and is open 3 p.m. to 10

panoramic views of the Pasquotank River, a

p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 12 p.m. to

waterside beer garden and a 6,000-square-

10 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on

foot upstairs event space, the brewery is

Sunday. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

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5Bertie COUNTY

Story by Lewis Hoggard Photos by Lewis Hoggard & Contributed

ertie County offers natural beauty

groups of Algonquians also being in the area.

and history as its best calling

The county has remained mainly an

cards. The Bertie Precinct was

agricultural community for its entire history

established in 1722, while prior to that date

and its population has been twenty thousand

being part of Albemarle Precinct which was

or less for most of its time since the creation

formed in 1660.

of the United States basically.

The first European settlers came to the

The county is 741 square miles or

county from Roanoke Island and the Lost

470,000 acres, which works out to about a

Colony as far back as the late 1500’s, while

person for every twenty-three acres, more

the land was already populated by the

or less. Bertie county is the definition of a

Tuscarora for hundreds of years with various

rural place.

Bertie Beach The Bertie County Beach Access is part of the “Tall Glass of Water” project that provides both natural beauty and history. Just walking down to the sandy beach with cypress trees rising up from the water is a spectacular vista. The land is owned by the county and was bought to provide sound access and many more amenities to its citizens and others, who otherwise may not have the opportunity to experience sound life. The one hundred and fifty acre property has great natural beauty, as well as historic significance with an archeological site that has uncovered artifacts that point to members of the Lost Colony moving from Roanoke Island to here in the late 1500’s. That site is located on the bluff that looks down the Albemarle Sound. The development of this property is just beginning with permanent restrooms, outdoor showers, campsites, a picnic pavilion and hiking trails all set to be built in the near future. This property is located off Bal Gra Road which is reached by automobile from the intersection of U.S. 17 which will become

Livermon Park & Mini-Zoo Livermon Park and Mini-Zoo is open all year round with no charge for admission. There are a wide variety of animals, including a Zebra and Buffalo just to name a couple of the local inhabitants. A wide variety of birds, including a number of peacocks. An

The Cashie Wetlands walk is also located on the property. The walk allows visitors to walk through a swamp and wetlands without getting wet or having to wear hip boots. The walkway is elevated and ADA accessible and features an observation deck and a stop at the Cashie river. The facility is operated and maintained

excellent place for children to see animals

by the town of Windsor. The park is located

and birds up close and in person.

in the downtown area at 102 North York

There is also playground equipment and numerous picnic tables and shelter to handle large school and church groups.

Street and is open during daylight hours. The park is named for former Mayor L.T. Livermon Jr.

Interstate 87. Additionally, the State of North Carolina has designated over 900 acres a state natural area with plans for a state park in the future and land purchases of adjacent properties to occur. That state property is located off Salmon Creek.

Roanoke/Cashie River Center

Occano Occano, which was formerly named Scotch Hall Preserve, shows what sound side

In Windsor, a hidden gem of a facility

living can be like. This resort property has an

which is a wonderful place to visit is

Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course that is

the Roanoke Cashie River Center. Most

being brought up to date with renovations to

people know this place has the home of

reestablish the course as one of the finest in

the Freedom Fireworks show every July.

the land.

The center is part of the Partnership of

Occano is more than a golf course. The

the Sounds which also operates the North

resort offers slip and dock space for the

Carolina Estuarium in Washington.

traveler by boat, but also overnight stays are

The property is located on the Albemarle

available on site. They welcome visitors as

sound and has a street address of 105 Scotch

well as future homeowners.

Hall Court with a Merry Hill address it is located

There are exhibits inside the main building which concentrate on the history and wildlife of the area. The center is well staffed and open from Tuesday to Saturday. Kayaks and canoes may be rented and launched from the site. Visitors may explore the riverwalk and the grounds of the property, including a small amphitheater along the river. Every Saturday while the weather is nice, pontoon boat rides are offered for free with trips down the Cashie river where you can see the Cashie Treehouse Village. These trips start at 10 a.m. or so and are piloted by Coast Guard approved captains, who offer interesting facts on the river and wildlife. The center is located at 112 West Water Street in Windsor just off U.S. 17 Business.

Historic Hope Historic Hope is much more than an old house occupied by a former North Carolina Governor. While the centerpiece of the forty-five acre property is the 1803 plantation home of Governor David Stone, Historic Hope also includes the 13,000 square foot Roanoke

The property has 834 acres of residential

even more of a resort location and maritime destination site.

off of Avoca Farm Road and Sutton Road.

waterfront in addition to an incredible golf

The property is a gated community, but

course that has views that are breathtaking.

has a restaurant and a golf course that is open

The property has hosted numerous events

to the public with much more planned in the

in its past, including professional golf

future.

tournaments and competitions such as Pound the Sound, a triathlon.

Bertie County offers numerous homes, buildings, churches which are worth visiting

The property has current amenities of a

as well as the seven municipalities located

beach club and pool, boat launch, dock and

in the county. The county has been heavily

slips, restaurant and bar, golf course and pro

influenced by the African American presence,

shop and many more amenities on the way.

Native American presence and the European

The

new

ownership

group,

Dilweg,

colonists.

which is headlined by former NFL and Duke

A truly beautiful county to visit, with a

quarterback Anthony Dilweg, is a leading

great and varied history with stories waiting

commercial real estate firm in the Southeast

to be told behind it. Just a slow drive through

with over a billion in assets. Their vision for

the highways and backroads is well worth the

the already incredible property is to make it

time spent.

Chowan Heritage Center, as well as the 1763

and well worth finding out about.

King/Bazemore house.

What makes Historic Hope truly special

The center has permanent exhibits that

is the educational programs and events that

present the Native American culture prior to

are offered all year. Also, wonderful tours are

and during the arrival of the European settlers

offered by entertaining guides. Contact can

and the African American experience during

be made at the website, hopeplantation.org.

slavery and on the grounds. The property is

There is a fee for a guided tour, otherwise the

a wonderful site for weddings, gatherings,

visit is free. School, church and large groups

meetings and celebrations and may be rented

need to contact ahead before arriving.

for such happenings.

Additionally, walking trails have been built

The governor’s mansion has been restored

so the whole property may be explored. The

in the last fifty years, as it had become in

property is open to the public during normal

disrepair and was about to crumble away.

hours.

Through the hard work of volunteers and

Historic Hope is located about four miles

donors the house and some of its outbuildings

west of Windsor off Governors Road. The

have been restored inside and out with period

property is maintained by a non-profit

piece furniture and other items. Information

organization,

about how life at Hope was when the Stone

which gladly accepts new members for a

family occupied this property is fascinating

small yearly fee and has a board of directors.

Historic

Hope

Foundation,

5Gates

COUNTY

Story by Gene Motley Photos Contributed

rom the quiet rolling waters of

From Gates to Sunbury to Gatesville

the Chowan River to the majestic

to Eure to Hobbsville and every place in-

history of its 1836 Courthouse,

between, it boasts a little something for

and something that’s stored within, to the

everyone.

bronco-busting’ at the county arena and

The locals like to say: “We may be rural

the mouth-watering treat awaiting you at its

and we may be small, but Gates County has

landmark restaurant, there is something to

it all.”

draw people to just about every portion of Gates County.

Here is a look at five places you won’t want to miss during your trip.

Tarheel Bar-B-Q “Their menu is full and they hope your stomach is empty.” It won’t be for long after a visit Tarheel BarB-Q in Eure. While the primary menu is pork

establishment for over 30 years. “We strive to all be family here in a family environment where you can sit down and just enjoy each other’s company.”

Merchants Millpond State Park Discover one of North Carolina’s rarest ecological communities as coastal pond and swamp forest mingle under the magnificent

barbecue, chicken and ribs with accoutrements

One thing that enhances the barbecue

that include slaw and hushpuppies, among

dome of nature. Massive cypress and gum

chicken, pork and ribs is the ‘special sauce,’ a

others.

trees covered with Spanish moss form a

guarded secret among the family.

canopy for the dark waters of the 750-acre

Located at what is now the intersection

“I don’t even know what’s in it,” adds Wall.

of U.S. 13N and U.S. 158, the restaurant was

“She (Paige) learned it from her Daddy and we

started by local entrepreneur Grant Eure back

put it in the barbecue when we make it. Pretty

in the 1960’s. Later, ownership passed to his

much our whole menu is homemade.”

daughter, Paige (Hedgepeth), and soon will be run by the third generation: Eure’s grandson, Timothy Hedgepeth. “I think it’s because we’re the ‘middle point’ to a lot of different places: Tidewater, Greenville, the beach,” says waitress Renee Wall, who has been a waitress at the

Open seating is all that’s available now as

for wetland wildlife. Paddle quietly through the pond and creek and encounter native wildlife which includes beavers, otters, owls, etc.

the large party room has been converted.

There are over 10 miles of hiking trails,

Still, Tarheel survived COVID (never stopped

though one will have to pay a fee for

serving) both from locals and travelers

camping and canoe rentals, or bring bring

stopping through.

their own kayak or other watercraft.

The restaurant is open Tuesdays through Fridays for lunch and dinner beginning at 11 a.m. Saturdays, they open at 7 a.m. and serve a breakfast menu as well. Closing time is 8 p.m. “It makes me happy to know we give people a happy feeling when they stop here,” Wall noted with a smile. “They always tell us they’re coming back.” The address is 9 U.S. 13 South in Eure and for more information call the main number at: (252) 357-1094.

cypress millpond ~ a wilderness sanctuary

There is primitive camping for singles and groups, non-electric campsites or improved group camping. The family campground, with 20 sites for tents and trailers, is in the midst of a pine/hardwood forest just beyond the park office. The park is open year-round. Visit their website: merchants.millpond@ ncparks.gov for camping specifics. You can also call these toll-free number for reservations: (252) 357-1191 or (877) 7226762 or visit www.ncparks.gov.

The Thad Eure Museum Housed on the second floor of the historic

by President Ronald Reagan in 1987.

on the western edge of Gatesville which was

Gates County Courthouse – itself a monument

“A grant from the state legislature over

to the county’s proud history having been built

25 years ago kind of got it started,” says Kaye

The 1836 Courthouse is the fifth oldest in

in 1836 – is a tribute to one of the region’s

Barker, who along with other members of the county’s Historical Society and the Eure family

the state and one of the finest examples of

most celebrated native sons: Thad Eure. The Thad Eure Museum pays tribute to

have contributed to the exhibit.

the Gates County native who died in 1993,

Eure rose from a small-town lawyer to

but before his passing Eure – affectionately

mayor of Winton to state legislator and then

called by friend and foe alike “the oldest rat

on to 13 four-year terms at his most renowned

in the Democratic barn” – lay claim to another

post.

distinction.

dedicated in 2019.

federal period architecture in the country.

Among the artifacts are cartoons, a straw

He holds the record for the longest tenure

boater, red bow tie, pens with the trademark

as an elected official in the United States,

green ink he used to sign official documents

after serving for over half a century as North

and his law books. Unrelated to the

Carolina Secretary of State from 1936 to 1989.

museum is a highway marker located at the

He was recognized for that accomplishment

intersection of U.S. 158 Bypass and Business

Beaver Lake (Ski Club) Nestled among the rural beauty of Gates

Beaver Lake has hosted the National

County near the majestic Chowan River

Collegiate All-Stars Tournament and the

The lake also hosted a Polar Bear Plunge

and just off U.S. 13 near the Hertford-Gates

North Carolina State Championships, and will

every winter for eight years in conjunction

county line, Beaver Lake has been the home

host the State’s again in 2024. Competition

with Gates County High School to benefit the

includes the three disciplines of slalom, trick

county’s Special Olympics; however, it was

and jump skiing.

suspended beginning in 2020 due to COVID.

of the Beaver Lake Water Ski Club for the past 25 years located an hour south of Norfolk and two hours east of Raleigh. Each year they host several water ski events from small novice grassroots tournaments to national and world competitions, usually one in mid-June with another in late August. “Back in the mid-80’s my Dad (former

beaverlakeskiclub.com.

“I don’t know many ocean water skiers,”

Thirty-five brave souls took turns jumping into

Mitchell noted. “Most skiers prefer calm, slick

the lakes’ 40-degree icy waters raising $5,500

waters.”

in 2018. Plungers traveled from Maryland,

If interested in attending the Beaver Lake Slalom on Aug. 27, visit: www.

Havelock, Durham, Greenville, Wilmington and Newport News to join in the fun.

Gates County Tax Supervisor Bill Mitchell) knew what local water skiers were looking for, and he noticed this huge pond from aerial photos and scouted it out,” says Ski Club President Jeff Mitchell. The pond became a 25-acre lake and now sponsors the tournaments, as well as a ‘Learn to Ski Day’ coming in August 2022. While the tournament events are free to the public, the private Ski Club boasts roughly a dozen memberships, representing between 20-25 people. “About a dozen of us ski regularly,” Mitchell added. “Our season runs from April to midOctober. The core group is North Carolina and Virginia, but (for tournaments) we have drawn pro-level and open-class skiers from throughout the Southeast and from as far away as Minnesota.”

Photo by William Anthony Photography

Gates County Rodeo For 25 years, beginning in 1997, the Gates County Arena at Slo-Go Ranch at 158 Paige Riddick Rd. in Gates takes on the flavor of the old west, and some of the new west as well. It’s the site of the Gates County Rodeo and it features Breakaway Roping, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Cowgirl Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling and Team Roping among other rodeo events. “It’s held every Mother’s Day weekend,” said organizer Aaron Brown, who along with members of his family has sponsored the annual event. Brown grew up going to rodeos and later moved to Texas before returning back to

Photo by Cal Bryant/Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald

Gates wanting to turn his friends, neighbors and others on to the fun.

Church

He insists, “We even have Bull fighters, rodeo clowns and other specialty acts.”

and

the

Gates

Volunteer

Fire

Department; members of whom also help with the food.

Aug. 27, 2022. For more information visit their website: www.gatescountyrodeo.com.You

can

also

Contestants hail from all over the United

The May event isn’t the only one, there’s

call: (252)209-1473, or email: maryabrown@

States. There is an admission charge and

also the fourth annual Bull Rides and Barrel

gmail.com, or visit their Facebook page: www.

proceeds benefit the Reynoldson Baptist

Races which will take place Saturday night,

facebook.com/Gates-County-Rodeo.

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COUNTY

5Edgecombe

Town of Princeville Princeville, located just across the Tar River from Tarboro, is the oldest town incorporated by African Americans in the United States. It was settled in 1865 and incorporated in 1885. According to a history of Princeville produced by the N.C. Humanities Council and republished on the town of Princeville website, following the close of the Civil War, former slaves seeking protection and freedom left the plantations for Union troop encampments. When the Union soldiers left, many of the newly-freed slaves remained and settled in an area named Freedom Hill — which was incorporated in 1885 and later changed to Princeville in honor of Freedman Turner Prince. Prince, a carpenter born into slavery in 1843, acquired a lot here in 1873, built a house, and constructed other permanent dwellings for the residents. He later built a number of homes in Tarboro. Because of its location in a low-lying area

Story & Photos by John H. Walker

dgecombe County is the 15th oldest county in North Carolina,

having

been

settled by Europeans early in the

Princeville. While the damage was not as great as 1999, it was significant and the recovery continues to this day. A new Town Hall and a new, elevated Senior Center have been completed and dedicated. A nature trail has been cleared from a completely rebuilt Princeville Elementary School in order to connect with the town museum.

along the Tar River, Princeville has been flooded

While the museum itself has yet to be

at least seven times in its history, including during

addressed and remains closed, a portable

Hurricane Floyd in 1999 when water was 23-feet

museum, constructed by NC State students, was

deep on the streets and took 10 days to fully

built and dedicated in 2019. It is located on the

recede.

grounds of the museum on Mutual Boulevard and

In 2016, history repeated itself when Hurricane Matthew caused the Tar to once again flood

can be accessed by contacting Town Hall at 252823-1057.

Blount-Bridgers House and Hobson Pittman Gallery

18th century, after the defeat of the

— A Federal-style, plantation house built in

Tuscarora Indians who inhabited the

1908 by Thomas Blount, a prominent Edgecombe

area. The colonial assembly created

Lautzenheiser’s firm found an office, a garden

County businessman and U.S. congressman, it is

house, a kitchen, a cat cemetery, a well, a cistern,

today known as a community museum.

and the location of a brick-making operation.

Edgecombe County in 1741. According to historian Alan D. Watson, Edgecombe “reached the peak of its influence and fame in the antebellum period when the county provided a strong voice in state politics and achieved a reputation as one of the most progressive farming areas in the state, if not the South.”

Known as “the Grove,” the structure, which sat at the center of an enormous plantation, is today a national historic landmark and serves as museum for local history as well as an art gallery and the studio of Tarboro-born artist Hobson Pittman. The facility has been blessed with the gifts of

resident Loretta Lautzenheiser.

And, as a result of the survey, a committee formed for the purpose of landscaping the grounds, could map out a garden. The result was a plan developed by landscape architect Chip Callaway and installed completely by local volunteers. Today, volunteers maintain the garden weekly.

Edgecombe County is replete

many examples of 20th Century Jugtown pottery

with history, as evidenced by the

as well as an extensive Batts textile collection of

Also on the grounds is the restored circa 1810

nearly 40 entries in the National

19th Century clothing, quilts, military uniforms

Silas Everette House, an excellent example of

and a variety of household items.

period farmhouse architecture.

include a number of antebellum

In the early 1990s, a state grant enabled

The facility is open from 10 a.m. until noon

homes and structures from across

the archaeological survey of all the grounds by

and 2-4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Access

the county.

Coastal Carolina Research, owned by Tarboro

may be available by calling 252-823-4159.

Calvary Episcopal Church and Churchyard The earliest mention of a church in the

the region in 1742, earliest of all the organized

area came about 1742, when, according

denominations. The asterisk comes into

to the Calvary Episcopal Church history,

play when the discussion turns to the actual

“construction of a small wooden building was

establishment of churches.

envisioned near what is now called Chapel

As previously noted, the little congregation

Springs, about eight miles northwest of

moved into the newly established town of

present day Tarboro.”

Tarborough [cq] after the fire and services

The history noted that the little church building, named Saint Mary’s, was completed in 1747 and served a small congregation until around 1760 when it burned.

were conducted in a variety of places, including private homes. The Calvary history notes that following the American Revolution, the town confiscated

Because the area was part of the English

the primary place of worship, a secular

Royal Colony of North Carolina, Saint Mary’s

building that was located near the corner of

was Anglican and its rector, the Rev. James

Saint James and Saint Patrick streets. That

Moir, reported directly to the Bishop of

parish was called Trinity and the congregation,

London.

already small, began to dwindle further.

Following the fire, the little congregation

After the American Revolution, worship

moved into the newly established town of

along Anglican lines using a Book of Common

Tarborough, as it was spelled in those days.

Prayer was considered treasonous in the

When discussing the presence of the

newly formed republic. That’s because a

Episcopal Church in Tarboro, an asterisk is

prayer was required for the reigning British

needed at some point in marking the history.

monarch.

That’s because the religion was found in

Even so, Yet the Anglican form and

tradition — without the prayer for the monarch — continued with only a few individuals in what is now called the Episcopal Church. At that point, the name of the parish changed. Led by the Rev. William Norwood, The Act of Incorporation of Calvary Parish was drawn up and signed by 17 lay men and one woman. Calvary Parish was admitted into union with the Diocese of North Carolina on May 29, 1833, which is considered the date of its founding. As the history notes, the congregation began to grow and adjoining lots conveyed as gifts formed the present grounds, bound by Church, Panola, East Saint James, and Saint David streets. Two church buildings have stood on these grounds, which comprise roughly a city block or two acres. The first—a wooden structure completed

and

consecrated

1840—

stood within the southwest quadrant of the churchyard. It was deconsecrated in 1929 and later torn down. The present church building, designed by Englishman William Percival and built by Thomas Coats, also an Englishman, was begun in 1858, completed in 1867, and consecrated in 1868. The original furnishings in the chancel remain, including the altar, the bishop’s chair, the deacon’s chair, and the acolyte stalls. According to the church history, all are believed to have been fashioned from oak left from building the Confederate ram, Albemarle. At the time the history was written, the original lectern and pulpit within the chancel were in use within All Saints’ Chapel. The oil burning standing lamps within the nave, modified slightly and electrified around 1900, are original, as are the pews. The Churchyard is, in itself, a memorial to generations upon generations of both Calvary parishioners and friends and it remains an active burial ground. Both the building and grounds are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and the building itself is a designated Historic Living Church.

The Tarboro Town Common Tarboro’s 15-acre Town Common is the second oldest legislated town common in the United States, having been established by the state legislature in 1760 and, other than the Boston Common, the only remaining original common on the east coast. The tree-shrouded park is home to a variety of memorials and historic markers — telling a variety of stories, from George Washington’s visit to Potter’s Raid during the Civil War. It also plays host to a number of community functions throughout the year, such as Happening on the Common, summer and fall appearances by the North Carolina Symphony and various community events and gatherings. The Town Common is also home to the Pilot Club of Tarboro’s Memorial Christmas Tree, which carries thousands of memorial

— Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast

on the National Register of Historic Places in

Christmas lights dedicated to helping those

Guard — in a circle around a taller flagpole that

1971.

with brain injuries and encouraging brain

displays the American flag.

The press was built about 1840 as a cider

Each Monday during the warmer weather

and wine press and was converted to a cotton

months, the Tarboro Golden K Kiwanis hold

press about 1860 because of the growing

Also on the Common and near the Pilot

a memorial flag raising to honor the memory

need to harvest and process the cotton crop

Club tree is the Edgecombe County Veterans

of a veteran who has passed. Since the first

and form bales of cotton for shipping.

Memorial, dedicated to the memory of all

ceremony in November 2002, there have

native sons and daughters of Edgecombe who

been 172 such ceremonies.

safety and health. The program is nearing its 50th year.

served their country.

Built of yellow pine, it is one of three remaining cotton presses known to exist and

Located a short distance from the

was originally built as a cider and wine press.

The memorial is a circular structure that

memorial on the far west end of the Common

The other two presses are located near Latta,

houses the flags of the branches of the military

is the Norfleet Cotton Press, which was listed

S.C., and Derry, La.

Edgecombe County Veterans Military Museum

of Commerce and then in the Bridgers-Clark

Opened on July 4, 2004, the Edgecombe County Veterans Military Museum (ECVMM) was the dream of the late Joel Bourne, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War II. As the effort was getting underway to establish the museum, Bourne told

Building. Today, as has always been the case, the museum is dependent on the generosity of others as it accepts no money from any government agency.

Today, the museum collection includes approximately

1,000

photographs

Edgecombe County natives in their respective uniforms. It is also home to the Gen. Henry Hugh Shelton Collection — memorabilia of the

When the museum first opened, it had

former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,

about 50 items to display. Two weeks later,

the highest ranking military officer in the

according to a story in the Rocky Mount

United States military.

members of the Edgecombe County Board

Telegram, the collection had grown to more

of Commissioners: "It will be to honor all

than 300 artifacts.

The Shelton Collection includes photos of him as a youngster at Speed showing

Edgecombe County veterans and remember

Eighteen years later, there are more

his livestock in a 4-H Club Show, awards

our deceased veterans. It will also educate our

than 20,000 artifacts — ranging from the

presented to him by foreign governments as

young people about our country's history.”

Revolutionary War to the present day and

well as his own support staff.

While many people associate the museum

including weapons, ammunition, medals,

with its current location at 106 West Church

uniforms, bivouac equipment and items

St. in Historic Downtown Tarboro, it actually

brought back from war, such as a “Rising Sun”

had two early homes — the former Chamber

flag from World War II.

Shelton’s memorabilia also includes his final paycheck — in the amount of 82 cents. In its collection, the museum also houses a World War II Jeep — still operational — that is

Thanks Yall!

Shaw’s Bar-B-Que

New additions to our menu and services: To help make ordering easier: Drop-In, call-in or order online

Daily Specials: New items all the time, fresh made desserts daily

Keep checking our

Ashe County Cheeses of all kinds: Hoop, Gouda, Mild, Sharp & Pepper Jack

special activities

Don’t forget our pick up window!

Call 252-792-5339 Gmans sausage made fresh

Hog Pen: Outdoor dining at its finest

facebook page for specials daily and we have going on! Keep checking our facebook page for Events going on at “The Hog Pen”

Stop by and check out all of our new editions! We are here to serve you!!

202 West Boulevard • Williamston, NC • 252-792-5339 According to the N.C. State Historic Preservation Office, the press is “a rare survival of a once frequent plantation structure.” The press was moved to its current location in 1938 and restored in 1976. A pavilion resembling the original shed was built to protect the press from the elements

often driven in local parades and on display at local functions. Twice annually, on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, the museum holds memorial brick-laying ceremonies along the south wall of the Colonial Theater. The museum is also responsible for a large mural on that same, southern wall. The mural depicts Edgecombe County residents at war, beginning in the Revolution and continuing through present-day.

• 2 Pools • Tennis

• Boating • Fishing

FAMILY CAMPGROUND

• Par 3 & Mini-Golf • Entertainment • Camp Store

• Cabin Rentals

• Climate-controlled Clubhouse • Propane Refills

• Planned Activities

252-792-3939

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL: 888-792-3939

1679 Green Acres Rd. Williamston, NC 27892

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.greenacresnc.com

Family Memberships are available for day use of the Green Acres Facilities

The mural, at 50-feet tall and more than 200-feet long, is one of the largest in the state. Currently, ECVMM is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Volunteers and tax-deductible donations are always welcome and appreciated.

For Reservations: wfd43@embarqmail.com or 252-724-0994

Be a kid again – sleep in a treehouse!

Nestled along the Cashie River the treehouses ar the perfect place to relax and enjoy the awesome view and the sounds of nature. You may also use them as a base to explore the river on kayak/canoe, or hunting or fishing.

Town of Windsor (252) 794-2331 www.windsornc.com

Windsor is more than a lifestyle!

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FAMILY Multi-generation

Welcome to

Our

Carolina Pine & Hardwood, Inc. PO Box 607 231 US 13 Bypass Windsor, NC 27983 www.carolinapinehardwood.com Phone: (252) 794-2780 Mobile: (252) 209-5582

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Spruill Farms

McKellar Law

Powell & Stokes

Family roots run deep in Tyrrell Co.

Father & Sons serve Northampton

Serving neighbors for over a century

Pick a copy up at 109 S. King St, Windsor, NC 27983 Eastern Living Magazine Phone:

Fax:

Bertie County

where

Phelps Insurance Group Russell Phelps, President Dianne Phelps, Vice President 103 S. King Street, Windsor, NC 27983

252-794-4036

2nd Annual

Seafood & Music Festival Sat. August 6, 2022 Noon - 7:00 p.m.

Rain Date: Sun. August 7, 2022

Seafood • Music • Vendors We offer complete insurance programs with small town service. Personal lines and commercial lines.

Thankfully Serving Bertie County for 50 Years!

COMMUNITIES WINDSOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BERTIE COUNTY

Bertie Ledger–Advance Community News at your Fingertips Thadd White Group Editor twhite@ncweeklies.com

Golden Skillet

Littl

In memory of Dotsie Dunlow

103 W. Granville St., • Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3468

Andre’ Alfred Sports Staff Writer aalfred@ncweeklies.com

NGIRL SMALLTOW summer Beachboard says Leslie brings a time of change. A4

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5Hyde

COUNTY

Story & Photos by Sandy Carawan

mid Hyde County’s vast 1,424

Today, the mainland and Ocracoke Island

square miles, a little more than half

offer a variety of unique experiences for

of it water, exists many beautiful

people of all ages and interests to enjoy.

and distinctive sites, natural and manmade,

Whether you are driving west along U.S.

from the top of Mattamuskeet Lodge on the

264 or south along N.C. 94 on the mainland

mainland to the top of Ocracoke Lighthouse

or using the one-way fare ferry from Swan

on Ocracoke Island and all places in between

Quarter to Ocracoke Island or driving south

along its winding roads of vast farmland and

on N.C. 12 and using the free ferry at Hatteras

its sand-covered roads spanning between the

Island to get to Ocracoke, these are five

Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

recommended places you should plan on

One of half a dozen of North Carolina’s

experiencing.

oldest counties, historic Hyde County and its

During the summer, it’s best to obtain

cultural landscape and waterscape have been

ferry reservations. For ferry fares, schedules

influenced and shaped by its first inhabitants

and reservations, visit online at https://www.

more than a few hundred years ago.

ncdot.gov/divisions/ferry/

Mattamuskeet National

where your senses are heightened in the

Martelle’s Feed House Restaurant and Oyster Bar After your adventure at the refuge, be sure to follow U.S. 264 to enjoy a meal at Martelle’s Feed House Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Engelhard at 33301 U.S. 264 where the food is served southern comfort style. For 25 years, Martelle Marshall has been serving cuisine not only rooted deep in tradition that reflects his background and Hyde County, but food that is contemporary and innovative upon which he prides himself.

Wildlife Refuge

silence of nature.

Martelle’s specializes in eastern North Carolina

The Central Canal Road and the East Main

cooked-over-coals

barbecue,

fresh seafood, steak, pork and chicken.

On the mainland, the Mattamuskeet

Canal Road start behind the Mattamuskeet

While the menu offers a wide variety of

National Wildlife Refuge, home to Lake

Lodge and lead to various boat ramps and

appetizers and sandwiches, there are other

Mattamuskeet,

observation decks where more impressive

options such as wraps and salads.

North

Carolina’s

largest

natural freshwater lake, is not only host to

views and experiences are possible.

Friday

and

Saturday

nights

offer

diverse habitats within its waters, marshes

The Mattamuskeet Lodge, a famous

and woodlands, but provides opportunities to

landmark, not only served as a hunting lodge,

learn more about the species that exist there.

but hosted various community events before

Each Sunday’s buffet - unique every

The Charles Kuralt Trail on N.C. 94 has

closing in 1974. From 1909-1932, it originally

Sunday - features mainstays such as fried

an information panel and a gazebo with an

served as a pumping station in an attempt to

shrimp and fried chicken, but alternates

observation deck.

drain the lake to create additional farmland.

between other savory meat choices always

From N.C. 94, the 2-mile Mattamuskeet

The

Mattamuskeet

National

Wildlife

specials such as Prime Rib, Cowboy Chops or Grilled Tuna.

complimented by various succulent sides.

Road leads to the Refuge Headquarters.

Refuge, located nine miles east of Swan

When in season, the oyster bar serves

Midway, another wildlife drive connects and

Quarter, is accessible via U.S. 264 and N.C. 94.

a peck of fresh, local oysters any way you

runs along the south side looping back to N.C.

For further information, visit online at

want — fried, grilled, steamed or raw with

94. Both roads offer spectacular views. The

Refuge

Headquarters

provides

interactive, interpretive exhibits regarding the habitats of not only black bear, deer, bobcat

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/mattamuskeet

either horseradish, Texas Pete, melted butter or Martelle’s homemade oyster sauce. Open

year-round

but

closed

and otter, but also wading birds, shorebirds,

Monday, lunch hours are Tuesday through

birds of prey and waterfowl. One can also

Thursday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and dinner hours

learn about the habitats of amphibians and

are 5 to 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday’s

reptiles.

lunch hours are 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and dinner

The New Holland Trail Boardwalk bends and laces through a bald cypress wetland

hours are from 5 to 9 p.m. The Sunday buffet is 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The Pony Pen at Ocracoke Island

the mainland bought the ponies for farm or saddle use or gave them to their children as gifts. The ponies were also periodically

The Pony Pen is located along N.C. 12’s soundside and is one of the first stops after

rounded up and sold to the public to prevent overpopulation.

getting off of the Hatteras Island ferry or one

While the National Park Service rangers

of the last stops at the north end of the island.

used to ride them for beach patrol, members

Regarded as ponies, this rare breed of

of the Boy Scouts Troop, first formed on the

short-backed and short-legged horses are

island in 1953, had to catch, tame and teach

different in size and weight due to their

his pony navigation.

different number of ribs and vertebrae.

During the 1950s, however, when NC

Few in number today, different historical

12 transitioned from sand to pavement,

accounts claim that they are the offspring of

the increase of vehicles threatened their

either Spanish, Arab or English stock driven

independence.

to the island as a result of storm-wrecked

The Pony Pen provides adequate parking. For more information, visit online at https:// www.nps.gov/caha/learn/historyculture/ ocracokeponies.htm These must-see places not only teach us about a fascinating history and how the past

Since 1959, the National Park Service has

has shaped the present, but how important it is

been caring for them. They are corralled within

to teach younger generations the importance

180 acres with freedom to roam and graze on

of preserving the history and culture of our

the late 1800s and early 1900s, people from

marshland or feed on hay near their stables.

communities.

Springer’s Point Nature Preserve

to a winding tunnel of thickets beneath a

voyages more than a few centuries ago. According to newspaper accounts from

About a quarter-mile from the lighthouse is Springer’s Point, a 122-acre nature preserve that offers an easy hike set in tranquility. It’s best to access Springer’s Point by walking. There is a bike rack outside of the gate, but do not plan on leaving a golf cart

According

historical

canopy of age-old twisted live oaks and let

Blackbeard’s severed head was secured on

yourself wander in the magic of this maritime

the bowsprit of Maynard’s vessel and taken

forest.

to Williamsburg, Virginia for public display.

The trail eventually opens to a scene of

But his body was left at Springer’s Point, and

billowy waves on the southeast shore at Teach’s

according to local legend, his ghost still roams

Hole in the Pamlico Sound. The infamous

among the trails.

pirate, Edward Teach, or Blackbeard, used

Springer’s Point Nature Preserve, located

Springer’s Point as one of his many places to

at 104 Loop Road, is open from 8 a.m. until

rejuvenate from his piratical plundering. This

6 p.m. daily

or car – there is no space to park near this

is where Lieutenant Robert Maynard of the

residential area.

Colonial Navy captured, shot and decapitated

Blackbeard in 1718.

springers-point-preserve/

Go beyond the gate where the trail opens

Ocracoke Lighthouse For nearly 200 years, the Ocracoke Lighthouse

has

endured

tempestuous

weather standing strong in its watch guiding sailing vessels through Ocracoke Inlet. Surrounded by cedar thickets and live oak trees, the lighthouse and the keeper’s quarters stand upon some of the island’s highest land where it was built in 1823 by Noah Porter.

visit

online

While the Ocracoke Lighthouse is the shortest in height among other North Carolina lighthouses, it is not only the oldest operating lighthouse in the state, but the second oldest lighthouse still in continuous operation in the United States. Listed on the National Register of Historic 360 Lighthouse Road and is open year-round.

height, and covered its exterior walls with a

Parking is provided, but is limited. While

hand-spread mortar.

visitors can visit the grounds, climbing the

has changed from whale oil to lard to kerosene

information,

https://coastallandtrust.org/lands/

a 250-watt quartz-halogen marine bulb.

walls five feet thick to support its 75-foot

its structure strong and functional. Its lighting

and now a stationary light that operates from

Places, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is located at

undergone changes and renovations to keep

For

to a fourth-order Fresnel lens to electric bulbs

Porter constructed it with brick, built its base

Through the years, the lighthouse has

accounts,

lighthouse or visiting the keeper’s quarters are prohibited. For more information, visit online at https:// www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/ols.htm

5Washington COUNTY

Story by John Foley Photos by John Foley & Contributed

ashington County hosts travelers

Bobwhite Quail and Wayne’s Black Throated

and tourists from the world over

Green Warblers, making the area an adventurers

each year.

wonderland and a birders paradise.

The 424-square-mile county, hugs the southern

portion of Albemarle Sound and the Roanoke River - referred to by some residents as the American Amazon. With a population of just under 12,000, the county boasts a wildlife population that easily tops that. The American Black Bear, White-tailed Deer,

Located on the edges of Bertie and Tyrell counties, Washington County was formed in 1799 and has historic roots that run deep in the State. It was named for George Washington and has become a destination for history buffs, sightseers, nature lovers, hikers and paddlers.

Eastern Wild Turkeys of astronomical proportion,

While numerous communities dot the county,

along with Gray Squirrels, Marsh Rabbits and

the towns of Plymouth, Creswell, and Roper play

Eastern Cottontail Rabbits mingle with Northern

host to most of those who visit.

Lake Pungo, Phelps Lake Both lakes are located within the Pocosin

visitors from around the world.

Lakes National Wildlife Reserve was established

It was the site chosen for the reintroduction of

in 1990 and while originally, 12,000-acre the

the endangered red wolf in 1987 and today there

southwestern portion of the refuge is now known

are twelve wolves in the reserve. It is located along

as the Pungo Unit and was established in 1963 as

the Atlantic Flyway and is home to more than 200

the Pungo National Wildlife Refuge.

species of birds.

It was merged in 1990 with Pocosin Lakes.

The Pungo Lake unit is a notable overwintering

The National Wildlife Refuge today encompasses

site for Tundra swans, snow geese, and many

110,106 acres. The refuge is named for the pocosin

species of ducks, with about 100,000 waterfowl

peat wetlands that make up the majority of the

in residence between November and January,

protected habitat. Home to indigenous animals such as the black bear, alligator, two species of fox, bobcat, raccoon, coyote, opossum, beaver, river otter, mink and red wolf the reserve plays host to

yearly. Lake Phelps is North Carolina's second largest natural lake. It has a surface area of 16,600 acres, and it is located primarily in Washington County. The lake is a beautiful mystery formed on a vast peninsula lying between the Albemarle Sound and the Pamlico River and is believed to be more than 38,000 years old. The Phelps Lake Loop Trail is a moderate, 6.4mile loop hike with a 1060 foot elevation gain with an average slope of just seven percent. The trail features mild elevation gain, several bridge crossings and other trail obstacles, such as exposed roots and rocks. One of the major attractions of the lake is the Phelps Lake Jumping Rock. Located on the northeastern shore of Phelps Lake, the Jumping Rock rises about 25 feet above this serene glaciallyfed body of water. The lakes are perfect for boating, kayaking and paddle boarding. Location: 2252 Lake Shore Rd, Creswell, NC 27928

Barnyard Betsy’s A trip to Creswell, would not be complete

Much more than a simple sandwich shop,

without visiting the newly opened eatery,

Horton and her team of culinary experts add

Barnyard Betsy’s. The property is owned by

warmth to cold sandwiches and heat up the

Creswell Town Entrepreneur Paulique M.D.

place with their friendly, hospitable vibes that

Horton is the center of activity in this tiny

were obviously instilled by a family that cared

hamlet that serves as the gateway to Somerset

about food and each other.

Place and Lake Phelps and Lake Pungo.

Currently the anchor store for this town

Named after the owner’s grandmother,

on the rise, Horton and her team are now

“Who served as a friend, mentor and

undertaking a town renovation that will include

inspiration,”

other retailers and services.

according

Horton,

has

an array of incredible handmade desserts

modernized sandwiches to fit today’s appetites.

The Barnyard Betsy menu reads like a

While named after Horton’s Grandmother, this

Philadelphia Cheesesteak and Hoagie playbook.

is not your Grandmother’s Sandwich shop. The

Realizing the needs of the community and the

portions are large, the ingredients fresh and the

early morning traveler, BarnyardBetsy’s also

ambiance delightful.

offers breakfast along with lunch. The outdoor

It’s also open on Sunday. Location: 106 East

The recently renovated Bright Barnyard Red

patio, nestled under the pines is complete with

Main St., Creswell, NC 27928, Hours: Monday

building has provided the town residents and

tables, chairs and a house cat that purrs along

through Wednesday: 11a.m. – 7p.m., Thursday

tourists with some of the best Hoagies and

with every bite.

through Friday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m.

Cheesesteak Sandwiches on the East Coast.

Unlike other sandwich shops, Betsy’s offers

complete with chocolate or caramel sauce if you dare. Open seven days a week Betsy’s is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

– 8 p.m., Sunday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Town of Plymouth The quaint town of Plymouth is currently

A diverse community of 3,320 with a rich

experiencing a resurgence as its Main Street

history, Plymouth used its location on the

is becoming revitalized with eateries, antique

Roanoke River to become an important hub

stores and retail that fits the needs of the

for commerce and trade.

community and those who visit.

In 1808 a federal customs house opened

With two bookend museums, the Port

in Plymouth and by 1831 the United States

O’Plymouth Museum on one end of Water

Congress funded a lightship that was anchored

Street, with a replica of the Albemarle docked

at the mouth of the Roanoke River.

at its banks, and the Maritime Museum and a

In 1867, the Roanoke River Lighthouse

replica of the Roanoke Lighthouse No. 2 on

was lit to serve this purpose. A replica of the

the other end is a window shopping stroller’s

lighthouse, including a Fresnel lens, can be

delight.

visited across from the Maritime Museum on

owned by Lou and Jill Manring offers a

the banks of the Roanoke.

serene view of the Roanoke in the recently

Located in the Inner Banks of northeastern North Carolina the town was first established in 1787 and now is the county seat.

With a rich Civil War history, The Port

remodeled building.

O’Plymouth Museum offers a wonderful visual

The Riverview also offers a wide selection

overview of what took place on the banks of

of local artisan-crafted artwork and a selection

the river. Museum Curator Scott Liverman

of antiques of days past.

is quick to share his knowledge of the many

Down the block from the Riverview, Bistro

artifacts on display, including a massive 30-

116, (116 E. Water St.) the creation of Chefs

star flag that once hung above the Federal

Daniel and Sylvie Boutique offers a weekly

House.

changing menu focused on relaxed fine dining

Plymouth also plays host yearly to a summer Boat Show, a Bear Festival and visitors casting a line or two. For those in search of culinary adventures, the Riverview Cafe, (108 East Water St.)

in a beautiful scenic river setting. After dinner, guests may enjoy ice cream at the recently opened Le Rendez Vous Cafe (111 Water St.) where Batigue shares her taste for ice cream and her style with gifts and more.

Somerset Place National Historic Site The bucolic setting of Somerset Place is

sawmills turned out thousands of feet of

the perfect backdrop for history enthusiasts

lumber. By 1865, Somerset Place was one of

looking to picture days gone by as one can

the upper South's largest plantations.

almost hear the string music from the 1700’s

According to Bill Barber, a site docent,

whispering through the pines. Somerset Place

“When people first moved here in 1660 they

Historic Site Manager Karen Hayes provides

cut timber. They started making shingles in

a yearly Days Gone By gathering during the

the early 1700s. From 1768 to 1775 over 5

summer months.

million shingles were exported. They would

The Somerset Place Plantation offers

bring back sugar, flour and rum,” said Barber,

a realistic view of 19th-century life on a

adding, “We had the wood. We had the white

large North Carolina plantation. Originally,

cedar and cypress, very valuable woods.”

this unusual plantation included more than

According to Barber, shingling began to

100,000 densely wooded, mainly swampy

taper off in the early 1900’s. Today one can

acres bordering the five-by-eight mile Lake

tour the grounds and visit the dwellings of

Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays

Phelps, in present-day Washington County.

enslaved plantation workers, walk through

Admission to the site and self-guided tours

During its 80 years as an active plantation

the Pines and tour the plantation’s grounds

are free. Guided tour fees: $2/adults; $1/

(1785-1865), hundreds of acres were converted

and outbuildings. Somerset Place, 2572 Lake

children (ages 5-12); $1/ seniors (ages 65 &

into high-yielding fields of rice, corn, oats,

Shore Road,Creswell, N.C. 27928 Hours:

older) Contact: 252-379-6020 somerset@

wheat, beans, peas and flax; sophisticated

Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed

ncdcr.gov

Davenport Homestead Built around 1790, the Davenport Homestead in eastern Washington County is listed on the National Register of Historic Properties and is the oldest surviving homestead open to public in the region.

Home to generations of the Davenport

into the 1970s, leading lives little changed

line, the building first housed the family of

from those of their ancestors nearly 200 years

Daniel Davenport, Washington County’s first

before. Without the convenience of either

representative to the North Carolina Senate.

electricity or running water, the homestead’s

After his death in 1808, Davenport descendants continued to live in the structure

final occupants – Harriet and Jerd Davenport – led lives of true simplicity. Both the original home and a collection of outbuildings have been furnished with pieces that tell a visual story of life in Washington County in the years following the American Revolution. The Davenport Homestead is located about three miles off of U.S. 64 just west of Creswell, in the community known as Mt. Tabor. It is owned and maintained by the Historical Society of Washington County. It has been renovated by the Historical Society and several outbuildings have been added. Daniel Davenport and his family lived in the house in the late 1700's. Daniel was Washington County's first state senator from 1800 until 1807. Davenport Homestead: Mt Tabor Rd, Creswell (NC), 27970, For More Information:

https://www.facebook.com/

Davenport-Homestead-115206958582792/

We just made buying or selling your home simple.

Angela Waters Broker-in-Charge/Realtor Cell: 252-714-9952 Fax: 252-792-5200

www.roanokerealtyteam.com angelagwaters@hotmail.com 118 W Main St. Williamston, NC 27892

252-217-3938 Corky House REALTOR/BROKER, Certified Appraiser 118 W Main St. Williamston, NC 27892

Office: 252-792-2300 Cell: 252-943-1231 Fax: 252-792-5200 www.roanokerealtyteam.com corky@roanokerealtyteam.com

Mary Anne Corey Crowe, Brokere Office: 252-792-3141 Home: 252-792-3565 Fax: 252-792-4569 maccro.maryanne@gmail.com 118 West Main St. Williamston, NC 27892

252-792-2300 Jacki A. Bryant, Broker/Realtor Cell: 252-558-2206 Fax: 252-792-5200

Janie N. Bryant

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118 West Main St. Williamston, NC 27892

118 W Main St. Williamston, NC 27892

Story by Tyler Newman Photos by Tyler Newman & Contributed

hile Chowan County is the smallest county in North Carolina, it makes up for

that with broad appeal to both historical tourists and nature-lovers alike. One of the first counties formed in the state, Chowan County boasts one of North Carolina’s colonial capitals: Edenton. Retaining much of the heritage and history that made it so vital in the 18th century, Edenton is the cultural, commercial and tourism hub of the county, situated along an extension of Albemarle Sound along the southern coast. Despite Edenton holding a majority of the county’s attractions, there is still

5Chowan COUNTY

Edenton Historic District Featuring 18th and 19th century history, North Carolina's second oldest town

Edenton - was one of early America’s political, cultural and commercial centers. The town was established in the late 17th century and incorporated in 1722. Once North Carolina’s second largest port, Edenton provided enslaved men and women with a means of escape via the Maritime Underground Railroad before Emancipation. Today, it features an extensive historic district with architectural styles spanning 250 years, such as the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse National Historic Landmark, Cupola House, Iredell House and Historic Hicks Field.

If one cares to hear from a local expert, sites in the historic district can be toured via guide with an All-Sites Tour at either 10 a.m., noon or 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Guided Docent Tours are $5 per adult and $2.50 per child (3-15). Individual Site Tours can also take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at $2.50 per adult and $1.50 per child (3-15). For tour information, visit the Historic

Walking to visit various sites downtown

Edenton State Historic Site Visitor Center at

are free and self-guided, with brochures and

108 North Broad St. in Edenton on Tuesdays

Here are some worthwhile visits

maps available at the town’s welcome centers.

through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

if one happens to find themselves in

Historical markers dot Edenton’s streets,

and can be reached at (252) 482-2637 or at

Chowan County.

denoting the history and legacy of many of

www.historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/historic-

the sites, both good and bad.

edenton.

eight fireplaces. Penelope Barker, the home’s

purchase tickets to ride on Edenton’s historic

namesake, was one of 51 ladies who signed

trolley, which provides guests and locals alike

their names to a petition resolving not to buy

with a fresh look at the town’s sites via a one

or use British goods because of taxes levied by

hour trip.

plenty to see across its 233 square miles from Sign Pine to Sandy Point.

Penelope Barker House Perhaps Edenton’s most famous house – aside from the Cupola House – the Penelope Barker House glistens on the waterfront as a shining example of Edenton’s colonial heritage. The house today wears many hats, including being a visitor’s center for the town, a museum of local history and the home of the Edenton Historical Commission nonprofit. A gift shop is available downstairs, with books and reading materials in the parlor. Upstairs holds various museum exhibits, including the history of Edenton’s women, the Edenton Tea Party, Penelope Barker’s family and a revolving exhibit which currently features the history of colonial chairs in the region. The house itself was built in 1782, consisting of the parlor wing and a half hall. It was added onto three times by 1840 to its present state, which includes three floors and

the king. Their protest in 1774 became known as the “Edenton Tea Party.” Downstairs in the gift shop, one can also

The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and can be reached at (252) 482-7800.

Bennett Millpond Located approximately seven miles north of Edenton in the middle of the county, Bennett Millpond is tucked away in nature, surrounded by forest on all sides and gentle farmland beyond that. The millpond gives way to a creek which eventually opens wide to join the Chowan River just a few miles beyond its source. Like Merchants Millpond to the north in Gates County, Bennett Millpond is a hidden gem of Chowan County and a good option for beginner and seasoned paddlers alike. Bennett’s Millpond offers about five miles of upstream paddling through cypress trees, past beaver lodges and amidst flocks of diverse waterfowl. Folks can also paddle Rocky Hock Creek down to its conclusion in the Chowan River. Both millpond and creek paddling can be enjoyed from the same put-

millpond as well as an N.C. Birding Trail site.

2100 Rocky Hock Road during daylight hours.

in.

Birds that can be seen from the trail include

For more information on the millpond or

anhinga, blue heron, hooded merganser,

reservations, contact the Edenton-Chowan

hooded

Recreation Department at (252) 482-8595

Expect anywhere from three hours to a half day of paddling if one chooses to take the Bennett Millpond/Rocky Hock Creek routes. A pavilion, boardwalk, primitive campsites and picnic area are also available at the

1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse The 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse is a popular and beautiful visitor attraction in North Carolina’s first colonial capital. It is one of the last surviving screwpile lighthouses of its kind in the United States. The lighthouse originally stood sentry in the mouth of the Roanoke River as a guide for ships navigating the waters of the Albemarle Sound into the river itself, and then, after being decommissioned in 1941, was moved by barge to private land, where it ultimately became worn down as a neglected residence. “After

being

acquired

the

local

Edenton Historical Commission and gifted

warbler,

prothonotary

warbler,

summer tanager and wading birds. Public access to the pond is located at

Historic Edenton State Historic Sites at 108

be confused with the replica of the 1866

North Broad St. in Edenton on Tuesdays

Roanoke River Lighthouse in Plymouth, the

through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse that once stood

can be reached at (252) 482-2637.

in Croatan Sound, or the replica of Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse on the waterfront near Manteo. The lighthouse in Edenton is original. This beautiful structure is open for tours, giving a total and complete look at life on the water from the vantage point of the lighthouse keeper. It is also located within easy walking distance from downtown Edenton and is renowned as being a great spot for shooting photos of Edenton Bay and the wider surroundings. Period furnishings inside the lighthouse are provided by the Edenton Historical

dedicated volunteers, public officials and

Commission, headquartered at the nearby

preservationists brought it to its final home,”

Penelope Barker House.

the website proudly states. “With state funds,

There is also plenty of parking nearby, wi-

the structural restoration work was completed

fi and bathrooms in adjacent Colonial Park as

as volunteer donations and furnishings were

well as picnic benches and a playground for

gathered.”

the family. important

note,

however:

the

shannon.ray@chowan.nc.gov.

1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse should not

to the state of North Carolina, a band of

One

or email Recreation Director Shannon Ray at

Tours can be arranged by contacting

National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium Just

outside

Edenton’s

thriving

downtown, en route to Windsor via West Queen Street, is the Edenton National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Department of the Interior, the hatchery is one of more than 80 federal hatcheries throughout the country dedicated to the preservation of America’s fishing tradition. Since

1898,

Edenton

National

Fish

Hatchery staff have produced warm water fish for public use, restoration, and/or threatened/ endangered species recovery. All of the current fish programs are in cooperation with and supported by the state of North Carolina. Typically, the hatchery hosts fishing

at various points in the year and see fish

derbies for locals and visitors to come out and

species ranging from striped bass and lake

The Edenton National Fish Hatchery and

test their mettle. However, this year those

sturgeon to white shiners, Johnny darters,

Aquarium are open for free to the public

derbies are on hiatus due to replacement of

Cape Fear shiners and gopher frogs.

Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

pond kettles. Visitors can come by the public aquarium

The hatchery also boasts a short trail to a dock along Pembroke Creek that can be fished

from to one’s heart’s content.

and can be reached at (252) 482-4118 or www. fws.gov/edenton.

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5Pitt COUNTY

Story by Donna Marie Williams & Thadd White Photos by Donna Marie Williams & Contributed

itt County is one of the region’s most vibrant centers of commerce, trades and the arts. In addition to being

home to the state’s premier eastern North Carolina University – East Carolina University – it is home to a variety of opportunities to spend a day, a weekend or a longterm visit. In addition, the county is one of the leading places for medicine with East Carolina Health – a partnership between East Carolina University and the former Vidant Medical – being the premier medical provider. The county is also home to a host of parks, craft beer and good food of just about every

BBQ capital of Pitt County Ayden, where ‘Que Marks the Spot,’ has a rich history of wood-smoked barbeque with two families – the Jones’ and the Dennis’ dominating the barbeque market for many years. Together Bum’s Restaurant and Catering and Skylight Inn have drawn large crowds into town with their savoring barbeque and sides and helped define the town. Cooked on site, Bum’s eastern style BBQ is enjoyed by many. It began with Latham “Bum” Dennis in 1963 and has continued with his family. “Our eastern-style BBQ sauce, which is vinegar based, is unique to eastern North Carolina and an instant identifier for our

Named for William Pitt, Earl of Chatham,

the years, our commitment to serving our customers quality food with a familyfriendly atmosphere have never wavered,” Dunn said. Better known as Pete Jones’ BBQ, Skylight Inn has been serving BBQ the old-fashioned way since 1974. Cooked over wood, the whole-hog BBQ is rich in taste and flavor. Skylight’s renown is known throughout the east and has been served to many including President Ronald Reagan and Vice President Bush. Skylight has also been featured on multiple television networks, such as the Travel Channel, Food Network and History Channel and in many print publications.

BBQ. Locally, we don’t chop our cue as fine

For more information visit skylightinnbbq.

as other restaurants. We prefer to leave

com and facebook.com and search for Bum’s

bigger chunks of meat because we feel it

Restaurant and Catering on Facebook.

helps preserve the flavor and texture of our BBQ,” said Emily Dunn, granddaughter of Bum. The BBQ is cooked over oak wood with a sourced as locally as possible.

Pitt County was broken away from Beaufort

Bum’s offers breakfast, lunch and dinner

County in the 1760s. It is home to slightly less

and is a local hangout spot for the Ayden

than 180,000 people – led by Greenville’s

community. “Some of our current regular customers

92,000-plus citizens.

Winterville Brews Fun Winterville

breweries

–

Local

Oak Brewing Company and Nauti Dog Brewing Company - are drawing large crowds downtown while providing fun and entertainment to the Winterville community. Opening in 2019, Local Oak operates

a different beer and is crafted by owner and

Pints and Poses, car cruise-ins, open mic-

brewmaster Ben Self.

night and Boogie Bingo.

The menu at Local Oak is also ever-

Beer

offerings

are

also

consistently

changing with Self crafting new recipes. With

changing as owners Chuck and Janis Smith,

12 beers on tap and wine, seltzers and cider

Miranda Smith and Jon Tart worked find the

offerings, there is something for everyone at

perfect recipes.

Local Oak. “We never brew the same beer twice. We

using a three-barrel operation consisting of

like to experiment with different recipes,”

five seven-gallon tanks. Each tank contains

Self said, adding the exception of their summertime Cerveza.

“(Nauti Dog) is a good place if you want to start getting into beer. We have a little bit of everything,” Miranda said. “We offer table-side service too. We like to come up to you and have conversations.”

Like Local Oak, Nauti Dog also keeps 12

Both breweries provide more than finely

beers on tap, which includes 10 in-house

crafted craft beer, they provide community.

brews. Nauti Dog also has a selection of wines,

The breweries have become a popular hang-

ciders, seltzers and wine slushies.

out spot for young professionals and families.

Since opening in 2020, Nauti Dog

While some things have changed over

little bit of pecan sprinkled in with the wood

variety.

Two

are third and fourth generation patrons.

For

information

visit

www.

operates with a five-barrel system and has

localoakbrewery.com and nautidogbrewingco.

been the site of many local events, including

com.

East Carolina University Sports Whether its a beautiful spring day with one of the nation’s top baseball programs on the field at Clark-LeClair Stadium or an

sports like volleyball, soccer, lacrosse and track and field. There are also cross country, golf and spirit teams for the Pirates. One of the most well-known things

improving softball team playing in friendly

about ECU is the team mascot “Pirates.”

confines of Max R. Joyner Family Stadium, a

East Carolina University adopted Pirates as

fall Saturday inside state-of-the-art Dowdy-

an athletic namesake because the school is

Ficklen Stadium for football or a winter day

located near the North Carolina coast where

inside Minges Coliseum with either basketball

pirates often harbored their ships. Edward

team on the floor – East Carolina University

Teach, known as "Blackbeard," had property in

has something for every sports fan.

Bath and on Ocracoke Island.

East Carolina offers 18 different sports

Those wishing to see the Pirates play

from the well-known teams like the Pirate

can do so by going to ecupirates.com and

football team, which draws record crowds on

clicking on the link to tickets. There one can

Saturdays, and the ECU baseball team, which

find tickets to any event for which admission

website and click on the individual sport and

is a perennial national power, to lesser known

is charged. For other sports, go to the same

find the appropriate schedule.

Wildwood Park Whether wanting to spend a day fishing, a night camping or an afternoon with family, Wildwood Park in Greenville is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauteous outdoors of Pitt County.

Fishing is permitted at Wildwood from any

Bicycling and hiking are allowed at

location on the banks of the park. Some banks

Wildwood around the 1.5-mil nature surface

are easier to access than others, with the

trail, which follows the perimeter of the lake.

eastern banks steeper than the others. There

ATVs, dirt bikes and golf carts are not allowed

is no charge for visitors to fish, but anyone

at this time.

over 15 will be required to have a fishing license from N.C. Wildlife. The only boats allowed at Wildwood at the current time are of the non-motorized variety, including canoes, kayaks and standup paddle boards. Greenville Parks and Recreation encourage launching from the accessible dock behind the large covered pavilions.

A Time for Science What began as a way to enhance science literacy and education has grown into so much more with a partnership with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. With two locations, A Time for Science provides unique educational opportunities in the realm of science, nature and astronomy. In Greenville, the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences provides exciting exhibits, mind-

those wishing to use the facility should call 252-329-4567 for more information about how to use it. Other amenities at the park include the natural surface trail, kayak launch, floating deck, sand beaches and the camping platform.

Camping is allowed at platforms which

Wildwood Park is located at 2450 Blue

require hiking or biking from the parking lot

Heron Drive in Greenville and is open from

or by boat from the Tar River. To do so, one

dawn to dusk each day. Everyone is asked to

should call River Park North at 252-329-4560.

leave the park by sunset each day.

Science provides a space for children and adults to get into nature, explore and learn.

For more information visit atimeforscience. org.

With a focus on astronomy and environmental education and outdoor recreation, there is so much to enjoy on the 380 acres of Bray Hollow Conservancy land. Here one can explore four distinct habitats – stream, forest, swamp and ponds – with each habitat home to unique creatures, plants and more. A Time for Science in Grifton also features

opening programs, science camps, fairs,

the Chia-yu- Li Planetarium, nature classes,

e-mentoring programs and has a goal to

kayaking, observatory and more. It’s remote

engage children in science, technology,

location far from the light-pollution of the

engineering, mathematics and arts (STEAM)

world provides ample opportunity to gaze at

education.

the night sky with telescopes as you wander

Along the Contentnea Creek, A Time for

There is a large pavilion at the park and

from stars, galaxies and planets.

5Nash

COUNTY

Story by Nancy West-Brake Photos by Thadd White & Contributed

ash County has an extraordinary

two places you’ll love to explore: the Rocky

delicacies their grandparents loved at Smith’s

talent for taking the ordinary and

Mount Mills and The Imperial Centre of the

Red & White in Dortches.

transforming it into something

Arts and Sciences, both in Rocky Mount.

unexpectedly delightful.

Round out your experience with a trip

The sprawling Tar River Reservoir is a

to the Corner Coffee Café in Nashville for a

A desire to preserve history while creating

magnet for fishing and boating, and one

milkshake or coffee and pastry… and then feel

unique space for the present has produced

can smell, taste and shop for Southern food

free to start all over.

Imperial Centre For The Arts and Sciences Visitors to the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences at 270 Gay Street in Rocky Mount are always surprised at what’s inside. Named for the Imperial Tobacco Company, which once occupied the major portion of the 135,000-square-foot site and sat dormant for fifty years, the Centre is owned and operated by the c ity of Rocky Mount and was opened in 2006 after two years of restoration and renovation.

Perhaps the most-visited

section is the Children’s Museum and Science Center. Cummins Planetarium can set up to 50 for full-dome planetarium and laser light shows such as the seasonal “Legends Of The Night Sky” and “Colors Of The World.” They are included with museum admission. “Human Plus.” a current exhibit, allows visitors to use high-tech tools to extend the abilities of the human body, including how to “feel” music with a special touch panel and discover how people can control neuroprosthetic limbs with a thought. The PNC Live Animal Gallery has a living marsh exhibit featuring a 2,800-gallon saltwater aquarium housing a variety of Atlantic Ocean sea creatures, a live alligator and a variety of displays about North Carolina and World flora and fauna. Also on site is an Art Gallery and a variety of seasonal theatre productions, including YouTube recordings of Shakespeare Sonnets. The Imperial Centre for the Arts and

from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from

information on shows and exhibits, visit

Sciences is open Tuesdays through Saturdays

1-5 p.m. It is closed Mondays. For more

imperialcentre.org.

Tar River Reservoir The Tar River Reservoir, a 694-acre lake with hundreds of miles of shoreline, makes its claim to fame not for the water that it supplies to the city of Rocky Mount, but for what’s in it. Especially popular with fishermen because of its Largemouth Bass, Channel Cats, Black Crappie and Bluegill, the Tar River River reservoir is the location for approximately thirty fishing tournaments each year, including the locally promoted DownEast Youth and Adult Bass Fishing Tournament. Professional fisherman Dustin Wilks, who hosts “Catching Bass With Dustin Wilks” on the Sportsman Channel, said fishing is the biggest recreational use of the reservoir, so

Larger boat traffic is limited to the northern

Monitored by Sound Rivers and the Tar-

much so that during Covid, fish populations

end of the reservoir because some of the

Pamlico Riverkeeper Jillian Howell, with

took a hit from the pressure.

bridges, such as South Old Carriage Road, are

weekly water sampling from May 26-Sept.

The Reservoir’s large surface makes for

too low for larger boats, making the southern

3, the Tar River Reservoir consistently has

ideal water sports. Recreational boating tends

end ideal for kayakers and smaller craft. Public

a 100 percent passing rate for 2022 water

to be higher on holiday weekends when water

boat access is available at the Bend Of The

quality standards, with results published at

skiers, jet skiers and tubers enjoy the waters.

River Boat Ramp.

theswimguide.org.

Smith’s Red & White

pounds of sausage a week using a 60-year-

stores, such as hog knuckles and chitlins. An in-

old recipe. Prosnit said he’s met people from

store Deli offers pork shoulders for barbecue

New York, Michigan and Ohio who load up

and also sells chicken pastry, Brunswick stew,

their shopping carts with the sausage, which

collard greens and home-made pimento

they transfer to coolers.

cheese.

Most can remember treasuring a trip to a candy store at a young age to get the likes of nik-l-nips, atomic fireballs, mary janes, sour balls, and chocolate gold coins. Nash County doesn’t have a candy store, but it’s got something better: Smith’s Red

Country ham is another store specialty, along with cuts of meat not found in other

Smith’s Red & White is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

&White at 3635 North Halifax Road, Rocky Mount, that has an unparalleled candy selection. Bushel baskets of hard-to-find candy is one of the first things shoppers see, particularly at Christmas time. Smith’s Red & White, whose name was handed down from Red & White grocery stores that dotted rural Southern towns in the 1930’s and 1940’s, isn’t just famous for its candy. It’s also the meat. “Our fresh meat is what put us on the map,” said owner Bruce Smith, who got the place from his Dad, Sherwood Smith. Rick Prosnit of Red Oak, a frequent shopper, couldn’t agree more. “The meats are fresh, and you know it’s good quality. Honesty, it’s the best sausage you can get,” Prosnit said, who called the seasoning “absolutely delicious.” Smith’s Red & White produces over 10,000

Not one to rest on her laurels, Laura Wood, “Build a better mousetrap, and the world will beat a path to your door,” as Ralph Waldo Emerson may have said. But in Nashville, the Corner Coffee Café makes a better milkshake, and the locals beat a path there to partake. Owners Laura and Randy Wood bought the shop at 201 West Washington Street in 2020. It already served coffee, but the Woods felt they could do more.

who had no prior food service experience, said she teaches herself by watching YouTube videos. “I practiced every day,” Wood said. “I try to stay on top of all things popular so that’s how I added milk teas and boba and then the loaded energy teas. I want to offer things you can get in a bigger city without leaving our small town.”

“We offer regular and loaded milkshakes,”

Expect to spend some time poring over

Laura Wood said, describing the loaded

drink options, because screen after screen

milkshakes as “extreme.”

listing Espressos, Lattes, Mochas, Frappes, loaded

Smoothies, Hot Chocolates, Teas and Iced

milkshakes, which are 16 ounces and come in

and Hot Coffee options leave customers with

cups that are frosted and dipped, are “Smore’s

plenty to choose from as they stand at the

Galore,” “Strawberry Cheesecake,” “Chocolate

counter to order.

Among

the

most

popular

“Part of what makes us different is that we work with other small, local businesses, and the hospitality at our coffee shop sets us apart from others,” Laura Wood said. “Plus, we love

Extreme,” “Cinnamon Toast Crunch” and

Corner Coffee Café also offers a variety of

being in such a great community and it’s easy

“Vanilla and Oreos.” Part of what pushes

fresh-baked goods including bagels, muffins,

to love what you do when you have such great

the creamy concoctions above and beyond

Danishes and apple fritters from partner

customers!”

are the toppings, which range from actual

businesses Winde Jackson Cakes (Rocky

The Corner Coffee Café is open from 7 a.m.

cheesecake to cupcakes and, as Laura Wood

Mount), Around The Table (Nashville).and

to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8

said, “anything in between.”

Farmer and the Dail (Snow Hill).

a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. It is closed Sundays.

Rocky Mount Mills

exposed steel or timber beams and interior

Community College nearby. An 1891 canteen

brickwork invite walkers to explore or walk

now houses the coffeehouse “Books and

with a beer in hand amid the comfort of air

Beans.”

One of the most popular social gathering spots in Nash County is Rocky Mount Mills, located at 1511 Falls Road in Rocky Mount. Formerly an 1818 cotton yarn mill - the second to be built in North Carolina and on the National Register of Historic Places - the “Mills” is now home to five breweries with

conditioning.

Paddlers on the Tar River Paddle Trail or

Above the falls, an intricate array of steel

other visitors may book overnight stays at

girders, pulleys and winches bear testimony

some of the 20 tiny homes on site, managed

to the cotton mill’s legacy, to be remarked

by River & Twine, or in a renovated 1900s mill

on while visitors enjoy the shade and flowers

house.

amid artfully placed tables and chairs.

For more information about the Rocky

pubs, four restaurants, one coffeeshop and

Some of the breweries are nestled in what

Mount Mills, including its ongoing series

offers a unique combination of commercial

was once a 1901 shipping warehouse, with

of musical and entertainment events, visit

and residential space with plenty of parking.

a Brewing & Entrepreneurial Lab for Nash

rockymountmills.com.

Beautifully landscaped with crepe myrtles and a combination of brick or concrete multilevel pathways, the Mills, located directly on the Tar River Falls, offers multiple indoor and outdoor nooks with seating ideal for quiet conversation. Two main mill buildings include office or restaurant space on the ground floor and 50 loft apartments for residents above. The former Power House, managed by Rose Hill, has 5,000 feet of event space available for weddings, receptions, conferences and meetings. Plank floors, regular skylights, cutouts with

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Folks u ought to yo know

5Northampton COUNTY

Story by Thadd White Photos by Thadd White & Contributed

sk most folks in Northampton County where they live and

The river is home for Black Bear, River

During spring and summer, birders can

they’ll gladly tell you it is

Otter, White Tail Deer, Bob Cats, Beaver, Mink

see large numbers of neotropical migrants

and WildTurkey. There are 200 bird species

including Prothonotary warbler, Louisiana

including Bald Eagles, owl’s, and Osprey. A

waterthrush, American redstart, and the rare

Bird Watchers Paradise.

cerulean warbler. Other commonly seen birds

“God’s country.” It is hard to argue. The beautiful landscape of the county’s farms and wildlife draw those who enjoy nature’s beauty. Add to that the waters of the Roanoke River and Lake Gaston and there are stunning views all around. Add to the natural beauty a historic downtown in Jackson, one of the most beautiful veterans monuments in the region and a state-of-the-art shooting range and it is easy to see why Northampton County residents love their home.

Roanoke River

The Roanoke River flows over 137 miles across North Carolina’s coastal plain and contains the largest intact bottomland forest ecosystem remaining in the mid-Atlantic. These bottomland forests and wetlands provide critical habitat for wildlife and more than 200 species of birds have been observed

include wood duck, mallard and eastern wild turkey. TNC's Roanoke Preserves are not open to the public, but the Roanoke River can be accessed via the Roanoke River Paddle Trail and the paddle trail's camping platforms.

in the floodplain - including 51 species of

For information on planning paddle trips

neotropical migrants. TNC has helped to

on the Roanoke, visit the Roanoke River

protect over 94,000 acres in the Roanoke

Partners website; also check out the Fish and

River floodplain.

Wildlife's bird checklist.

Lafayette’s Tour Jackson was one of the sites visited by

Revolution, despite a royal decree prohibiting

American hero and French aristocrat Marquis

French officers from serving in America.

de Lafayette. He visited Northampton County

Shortly

on February 27, 1825. There he reunited

Congress

with Col. William Polk, an old friend fro the

general and he became a member of George

Revolutionary War. He was received and

Washington’s staff.

addressed inside the Northampton County Courthouse by the first chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court, John Louis Taylor. Currently,

the

William

Pomeroy

Foundation is organizing the trail which was taken by Lafayette, which included stops in Murfreesboro, Enfield and on to Raleigh and then to South Carolina and Georgia. According to battlefields.org, Gilbert du

after

arriving,

the

commissioned

him

Continental a

major

Lafayette was invited to return to the United States four decades after his service in the Revolutionary War. In 1824, Marquis de Lafayette was invited to visit the United States for the first time in 41 years, the Pomeroy Foundation says. As an American hero and one of the only surviving commanders from the Revolution, Lafayette’s visit to the U.S. was highly anticipated and met with a great deal

Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, better known

of enthusiasm and excitement. Lafayette’s

simply as the Marquis de Lafayette, was born

Tour extended from 1824 to 1825. During

into an extremely noble family in Chavaniac,

this period of time he visited Washington

France in 1757. In April of 1777, Lafayette

D.C., as well as other major cities and small

embarked on the Victoire—a ship paid for

communities across 24 states.

with his personal funds—for North America desperate to serve as a military leader in the

Jackson and other cities Lafayette visit plan to celebrate his trip in 2024.

Veteran’s Memorial The northern Northampton County town of Conway took a step to honor veterans and provide a beautiful memorial to the same on Main Street in the town. Back in May of 2007, the town broke ground on the memorial which was a project of the town’s board of commissioners. In a letter, the veteran’s committee said, “This memorial will honor the service of the men and women who have defended freedom in the past, those who stand watch today and those who will carry the flag of this nation into the future.” Residents and others were encouraged to buy bricks for veterans or to honor other special loved ones to help make the memorial a special place. In November, 2008, a dedication was held at the site, which is located near the Conway

large American flag, as well as a North Carolina flag and a POW/MIA flag. There is also a World

Town Hall. The Veteran’s Park includes five

War II Memorial given by Winfred S. Outland

pillars for the branches of service along with a

Sr. and Janie Martin Outland.

Bricks scatter the landscape with names of those who have served or are serving. For

information,

conwaytownhall@mchsi.com.

Boon’s Mill Boon’s Mill, a former Civil War battleground

On July 28, 1863, Union Troops clashed

site, has become home to a variety of wildlife

with Brig. Gen. Matt W. Ransome’s Confederate

and a quiet place for folks to spend an

forces at Boon’s Mill. Ransom and his men

afternoon.

were in Petersburg, Va. When they hurried

The site, just west of Jackson, is home to a place to hold a family picnic and fish off the pier. There flowing waters of Boone’s Millpond is surrounded by foilage that makes for a scenic spot right off U.S. 158. The site itself is home to a N.C. Historical Marker for the battle fought there. According

to Garysburg by rail upon hearing about the battle. For Ransom, the situation was grim as his plantation “Verona” was located only a few miles from Boon’s Mill and was in the path of the Union advance. The battle was a five-hour skirmish which

to the N.C. Department of Cultural and

effectively ended the Union’s effort to destroy

Natural Resources, that occurred in July of

the Weldon bridge in 1863.

1863 when the Union Army made advances

While the site was one of a historic battle,

towards Weldon with the intent of destroying

it is now a calm and serene place which allows

the railroad bridge over the Roanoke River.

people to relax and enjoy an afternoon.

Odom Shooting Range & Boat Ramp The Odom Shooting Range just outside Jackson, provides one of the newest avenues for those who like to get outside and target practice or get guns prepared for the various hunting seasons. “We are constantly trying to expand our range program,” said N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Shooting Sports Coordinator Josh Jernigan. “Any time we have the opportunity to do so, we do.” The Odom Shooting Range basically was a “right time, right place” situation, according to Jernigan. N.C. Wildlife was already involved with the Department of Public Safety, who operated the now closed Odom Correctional Institute, in providing a new boat ramp. Those wishing to use the Odom Safety Range can show up any time during the hours of operation, which include Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. “To begin with, you have to watch a fiveminute safety video if it’s your first time shooting at a range,” Taylor said. “Those who wish to shoot should bring their own eye and ear protection and their own paper targets.” Those interested in using the facility can use anything except 50 BMG or tracer rounds. Those are prohibited. The Odom Shooting Range is located at

709 Striper Lane in Jackson. In addition, just a short drive down the dirt path is Odom Boating Access Area, which allows visitors to put a boat in the water or just

get an closeup look at the beautiful waters of the river. The boat ramp is located at 1017 Striper Lane in Jackson.

5Hertford COUNTY

Story by Sarah Davis Photos by Sarah Davis & Contributed

ertford County is home to one of the most historic towns in the region – Murfreesboro – and one

of the centers of commerce in Ahoskie. Scattered in between are small towns with histories of their own from Como to Harrellsville and all spots in between. The result is a wonderful county that is not only a wonderful place to live, but also a terrific place to visit – year round.

Spring in Como Connecting U.S. 258 as it heads north from Murfreesboro to Virginia with U.S. 158, which heads east from Murfreesboro to Winton before turning north to head to Virginia, is one of only three two-car cable ferries remaining in North Carolina. Existing in some form since the early 1900s, the ferry has been run by the North Carolina Department of Transportation since the 1930s. In early 2018, it was taken out of

service for a major refurbishing, and, thanks in

pavement before it becomes a gravel road

part to COVID, did not return to service until

that eventually is mostly sand as you arrive at

late 2020.

the river.

The major operation begins in spring each

Once on that road, one is in the Chowan

year with hours from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. March

Swamp Game Land, and will definitely feel

through September; from September through

the atmosphere. On this side of the river one

March, it only operates from 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

must honk your horn to get the ferry operator’s

One can access the ferry by heading from

attention. It takes him about five minutes to

Winton to Murfreesboro on 158, turning

make a pick up, and in another five minutes or

right onto Parker’s Ferry Road, just beyond

so, one will find themselves in Maney’s Neck,

the Hertford County Courthouse. There the

just south of Como.

visitor should continue about a half mile on

Summer in Harrellsville (Ruby Junes in June) Head south on N.C. 45, and just before one leaves Hertford County, they will find one of the true gems of the area: Griffin’s, a family farm that has furnished produce to area grocery stores for more than seventy years and for at least thirty has permitted individuals to pick their own strawberries, from a one-acre patch. Strawberry farming has changed through the years, from dirt to plastic beds and with the type strawberry grown. Currently the favorite is one called Ruby June (replacing earlier favorites, the Chandler and Camarose); a large berry, it picks easy, caps easy, and keeps easy. If one is lucky enough to go at a time to

aid of a computer. Debbie was born into farming life and

continuing the tradition solo. Visit, and one will see not only the land but

meet Debbie and/or Dot, they are in for quite

has never wanted to do anything else. She’ll

a treat. Dot started farming with her husband

regale visitors with stories of riding on a

in the late 1940s, and, at age 92, she might not

tractor with her father when she could barely

be quite as active in the fields as she once was,

walk, eventually graduating to accompanying

but she is still active in the business, keeping

him to grocery stores, then delivering with

plant foliage or the ruby red or the berries, all

the books, old school as she says, without the

him, and finally, following his death in 2004,

are jewels in the Hertford County crown.

Autumn in Ahoskie

D.C. and western North Carolina to enjoy what

of a major portion of the population. Also

has been recognized by the North Carolina

always present is the mascot, a giant rabbit

Haunted House Association as one of the top

which regular Gallery goers will remember

Like local history? Love horror? Looking for a safe scare? Then, the Haunted Hotel on Railroad Street in Ahoskie is the place come Halloween. Begun in 2017 by Tommy Hurdle and thespian friends, the Haunt, originally called The Basement, was located in the basement of the Ahoskie Town Hall. Since then it has migrated to the former Garrett Hotel (built by

fifteen haunts in North Carolina. Each year a different theme is selected, and this year may feature monsters from different time periods. Just as no two years

the equipment that keeps it up, including a tractor in operation for more than fifty years. Whether the emerald green of the grass and

from Batboy. Those unable to make a performance might spot some of the actors on the street

are the same, so no two performances in a

prior to performances, or they might schedule

single year are the same, but there are always

a ghost tour of the upper floors of the former

clowns because clowns address a major fear

hotel.

the same person as the Richard Theatre, now the Gallery) and been renamed The Hotel. Each year, it names a local charity to receive the proceeds, donating to the Ahoskie Food Pantry for several years, raising $710,000 per year for that organization. Actors, usually about 25, join other volunteers in the labor of love, accepting no salary and funding much of the production themselves. Many actors are local, but some drive as much as two hours one way to participate. Visitors come from as far as Washington,

Winter in Winton Since 1948, youngsters of all ages (usually 150-200 of them) converge on the Fire Department on Main Street in Winton at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve to participate in a parade. All fire vehicles are moved to the street, and the youngsters climb aboard to participate in a parade that takes them southeast to the C.S.Brown School where they turn around in front of the Cultural Arts Center and move back up the street toward the river, ending at the town Christmas Tree. There, Santa Claus (who has been on the last vehicle in the parade) meets with each child, listening to Christmas wishes and giving each child a bag of fruit and candy. Originally riding on a fire truck, in recent years Santa has arrived via boat (a part of the

Provided entirely by the Winton Volunteer

Brandon Williams, currently chief, is a

WVFD fleet), and although he originally came

Fire Department, this event attracts people

fourth-generation member of the Winton

alone, lately, he has brought Mrs. Claus and

who attended as children and now bring

VFD. Remembering Christmas Eve of his

even some elves to help him. After all, he is in

their children and even grandchildren, some

youth, he looks forward to the event every

Winton very close to the time he has to begin

from great distances who come “home” for

year and says it is definitely one of the places

his world-wide travels.

Christmas.

worth visiting in Hertford County.

Any Season in Murfreesboro

the breakfast and lunch crowds (going to

the 1934 Murfreesboro High School Football

or interrupting the workday for a meal), the

Championship Team, other ball teams, high

families who enjoy supper or the late-night

school homecoming courts, veterans, bands,

Chowan students with their DJ.

and a legendary Bob Burke picture.

For almost eighty years, Walter’s Grill has been a Main Street attraction in Murfreesboro whether beckoning those hungry for food (especially its hot dog), history or local culture. Opened in 1944 and owned until 1977 by the late Walter Liverman, the name has remained even though successively owned by Katherine Umphlett (1977-1987) and Billy Theodorakis (1987-present). The hot dogs make it famous, but it’s the fixin’ and the fixin’s that set them apart. Regulars can remember Liverman lining them up (sometimes as many as fourteen) on his arm to fix with mustard, chili and slaw. When

Theodorakis

bought

it,

determined not to fix what wasn’t broken and so kept the hot dogs and the reputation for down-home cooking at reasonable prices, but he did make some changes, doubling the seating area, first for outdoor dining, then enclosing it as well as adding central heat and air. If the walls could talk, they would tell of

And the walls do “talk” with stories of

As a poem on the wall proclaims: “The

Murfreesboro–a 1926 letter to the Mayor of

Town of Murfreesboro has its place/Walter’s

Murfreesboro, old newspapers, pictures of

Grill, a saving grace.”

5Beaufort

Rivers meet forming the brackish water the

Story & Photos by Deborah Griff in

county seat of Washington, emptying into

COUNTY

Turnage Theater A block from Washington’s Waterfront, located at 150 West Main, is the historic Turnage Theater, a N.C. designated historic site. The structure, built in 1913, has been preserved through multiple revisions. The 32,000-square-foot building houses two theaters. The multimillion-dollar restored structure is headquarters for the region’s state-designated

t’s impossible to experience Beaufort County apart from the waterways that give this coastal inlet its personality. Two

region has become inseparable from. The Pamlico and Tar rivers mingle, then split the county in two, passing through the the Sound, flowing on to the Atlantic Ocean.

The council also hosts music acts and stage performances on the renovated stage in the palace-style theater, which has 432 seats. In the early 1900s, the original theater, a vaudeville playhouse, was located on the second floor. In the 1920s, silent movies became popular and the theater began showing them regularly. Then, in 1927, “modern” films with sound

Turnage from demolition more than once.

were shown. But its location on Main Street

Most recently the Turnage received a new

made hearing over outside traffic almost

serves a vibrant connector for eastern North

roof after $1.4 million was raised through

impossible. So, in the mid-1930s, a man

Carolina with cultural events and activities.

private donations, foundation grants, local,

named C.A. Turnage built a second theater in

state and federal government sources and

the rear, away from the street noise.

historic preservation funding,

arts council, the Arts of the Pamlico, which

The arts council’s calendar is packed each month with a plethora of artistic opportunities,

Over the years, decay, lack of use and

including acting camps, professional acts,

damage threatened to condemn the building

music workshops, concerts, festivals and

to destruction.

exhibitions.

St. Thomas, Bath Nine miles from Goose Creek State Park, is the historic community of Bath, North Carolina’s oldest town. North Carolina’s oldest church is located there, only yards from Bath Creek, a tributary of the Pamlico. For three centuries, St. Thomas Episcopal Church has served as a silent sentinel of this picturesque coastal town. The unassuming, single-room, red brick church has held strong — a testament to the unshakable faith of the early founders. Bath first was settled in 1695, then incorporated in 1705. St. Thomas was built in 1734.

Forward-thinking

kept

the

events,

visit

www.

artsofthepamlico.org.

Services continue to be held here each Sunday morning, as well as at special times throughout the year. Just like the black walnut trees, and longleaf and loblolly pines which adorn the grounds, St. Thomas has remained deeply rooted in the community. The church is located at 101 Craven Street, just off of Bath’s Main Street. Both streets meander out to Bonner Point, a State Historic Site situated on the edge of the Pamlico River, on land between two tranquil creeks. Tomlinson said the faith of her current flock is built upon the faith of the first congregations and those throughout the ages. She feels a sense of obligation to those who

or without a resident priest. Even when the

came before.

list

at St. Thomas since October 2014.

congregation throughout its history, with

faithful members still held services there,

according to the Rev. Diane Tomlinson, priest

The church has enjoyed a perpetual

church fell into disrepair in the mid-1800s,

to come. For

residents

which will

preserve the historic theatre for generations

“It is our responsibility to keep the church going,” she added.

“As a historic church, we acknowledge where we have come from and embrace where we are going.”

Goose Creek State Park

detailed exhibits explain the flora, fauna and

Twelve miles down river from the Estuarium is Goose Creek State Park, covering 1,672 acres. The park is located just off the Pamlico Sound, at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. Overnight

accommodations

include

wildlife of the area. Easy access into or onto the waters of the sound include swim beaches, boat ramps and a paddling launch. Paddling is suggested, for a peaceful way to enjoy tree-lined creek

primitive camp sites and R.V. hook-up sites.

banks and watch graceful waterfowl. Paddlers

Sleeping cabins (no running water) can

must make arrangements to bring vessels

be reserved with a two-night minimum.

with them, as there are none for rent in the

Reservations, required, can be made online or

park. Park rangers warn paddlers to be aware

by calling 1-877-722-6762.

of incoming storms and always wear a life

Photo by Nathan Summers bass, bluegill, and white and yellow perch. State fishing licenses are required and the rules

Eight miles of trails, some board-walked

vest. Day users can access Goose Creek from

of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission

for easy accessibility, lead visitors through

Dinah's Landing while overnight campers can

and Marine Fisheries apply. There is no fee for

Spanish Moss draped forests, coastal wetlands

put in at the end of the campground road.

fishing at Goose Creek State Park.

Fishing the creeks and river offer anglers

and cypress swamps of the Pamlico Sound.

Visit

ncparks.gov/goose-creek-state-

education/visitor

plenty of fresh and saltwater fish, especially in

park/home for hours of operation and more

center, is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and

warmer weather. Species include largemouth

information.

N.C. Estuarium

vital ecosystems for many reasons, including

that greets visitors. It demonstrates how water

the fact that over 90 percent of the seafood

that flows from the North Carolina mountains

species caught by North Carolina’s fishermen

all the way to the sea, is everlasting.

environmental

Just minutes from the Turnage Theater is the North Carolina Estuarium, located on the river at 223 East Water St. It is, according to Director Tom Stroud, the world’s first of its kind. Estuaries are the wide part of a river where fresh and saltwater mix. “They are

— such as blue crab, flounder and shrimp —

“The water cycle is eternal,” Stroud

spend at least part of their lives in estuaries,”

continued. “The molecules of water that

Stroud said.

you brushed your teeth with this morning,

Thousands of square miles of estuaries lie inside North Carolina’s barrier island shoreline. “People love the rivers and waterways of

Four rooms of exhibits explain how pollution and hurricanes affect the fragile life

that talks about why they are so special, what

growing in the estuaries.

lives here — in addition to people,” he added.

picturesque,

harbor-town

the county’s eclectic tie to art, culture, history, education, eateries, breweries and

Stroud said. Reservations are required for the free boat

science of the region, but also tries to make

tours offered Wednesdays - Fridays at 10:30

an emotional connection to the water, he said.

a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and Saturdays at 1:30 p.m.

A towering sculpture made of driftwood

For reservations, call the Estuarium at 252-

restaurants and businesses. is

“Estuaries are like the womb of the oceans,”

The estuarium not only explains the

scavenged from the Pamlico is the first thing

This

years ago.”

eastern North Carolina. We are the only facility we need to do to take care of them, and what

Downtown Washington

a dinosaur might have bathed in millions of

Many of the downtown eateries are unique and make use of beautiful, older buildings. The posh Hackney, 192 West Main, is

948-0000. At the corner of Main and Gladden streets is the Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum, located in a restored Seaboard Coast Line Railroad Caboose.

located inside a refurbished 1922 bank,

The Pamlico River itself can be experienced

complete with marble floors. Across the

by paddle board or kayak which are rentable,

Jonathan

street, at 189 West Main, The Mulberry House

along with bicycles, at several local outfitters.

Russel said, “Our number one asset is our

features a rooftop bar where visitors can sip

Beaufort County boasts of two recently

geographical location — the riverfront,” on

on drinks as the sun sets over the river.

installed kayak launchers.

entertainment. The waterfront is Washington’s Crown Jewel. Washington

City

Manager

Water Street.

Around the corner on Gladden Street, only

“People of all ages and income levels are

steps from the Pamlico, is the original, famous

able to enjoy the beautiful waterfront,” Russel

Bill’s Hot Dog Stand which has served up a

said.

simple fare of deep fried hot dogs and a spicy

Main Street, which runs parallel to Water Street, is a mix of art galleries, retail shops,

white bean chili since 1928. Long lines testify to the popularity of the franks.

A CHANGE IS COMING... STAY TUNED

Explore Washington Treat yourself to world class restaurants, eclectic shops and one of a kind boutiques

Great Rates & Service Since 1950 Home Flood Life Auto Business Boat 245 W. Main St., Washington, NC

252-946-6114 www.sloanagency.com

ALL IN A

Story & Photos by Meghan Brown Grant

Warrenton

If you are looking for a day trip to take, look no further than Warrenton. This little town has quite a bit going on and a gem of a spot for a day trip. Rosemont of Virginia Vineyards Take a drive up to Rosemont Vineyards for an afternoon of good wine and beautiful views. Take a few minutes to stop at JB Jones & Co., which is a gas station less than half a mile from the vineyard, to grab a baked good or two to take with you up to the vineyard. Rosemont Vineyards is offering wine tastings of four wines for $10. You may make reservations for 1 hour and 45 minutes to enjoy the wine tastings, which is highly recommended. They also have various items available

make

your

own

charcuterie board while there. This gem of a place is definitely worth the drive. It's only about 25 minutes from Warrenton. Also, there is the cutest pup, Maddie, who you should absolutely give pets to because she's a good girl. Rosemont of Virginia is located at 1050 Blackridge Rd., La Crosse, VA 23950. P.S. I brought home a bottle of Virginia Red and Virginia White.

George’s of Warrenton Chilly Chicken Creamery No trip to Warrenton is complete without a stop at Chilly Chicken Creamery. They make 16 flavors in house, including seasonal flavors, that can be served in cups or cones or in delicious milkshakes. They also have sundaes, homemade ice cream sandwiches and floats. When I visit in the fall, I will always order a milkshake with pumpkin sorbet and pumpkin spice latte ice cream and wow was it delicious. Chilly Chicken also serves gourmet grilled cheeses and soup. The Sophomore paired

George’s

recently

opened

Warrenton and offers a menu of pizzas, pastas and a variety of sandwiches and wraps. The restaurant is also open for lunch, too. There is ample seating, friendly staff and a very familiar and comfort food driven menu. George’s of Warrenton is open seven days a week starting at 11 a.m. MondayThursday, it is open until 9 p.m., FridaySaturday until 10 p.m. and Sunday at 8 p.m.

with Tomato Soup is on my list of things to try the next time we visit. Chilly Chicken Creamery is open MondayThursday 3-9 p.m., Friday 3-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.. It's located at 111 Bragg St., Warrenton, NC 27589.

Have Lunch at Drip Coffee + Market Make your first stop to Drip Coffee + Market! My go-to order is the BLT croissant and a Chai Latte to go. Drip is such an adorable spot right in downtown Warrenton. Their turkey club is another great option. The space is warm, welcoming and spacious. They have a delicious menu, including mini donuts and soup of the day options. On Fridays and Saturdays, they are offering casual dinner options and homemade ice cream. Drip is located at 108 S Main St., Warrenton, NC 27589.

Mill Hill Taproom Mill Hill Taproom is right outside of the historic downtown area and has ample outdoor seating. They offer live music and food trucks so be sure to check their social media channels for their line-ups.

Locorum Distillery Locorum Distillery is a beautiful space right in the historic district. It's a great spot to stop for a drink and sip a cocktail featuring their distilled spirits.

Meghan Brown Grant is the author of I’m Fixin’ To, a lifestyle blog focusing on North Carolina, and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living. She lives in Willow Springs with her husband, David, and two dogs.

biography

obersonville might seem to some like the mythical town of Mayberry with its small-town friendliness and unhurried living.

But Pete Hendrick, the town’s new Chief

of Police, wants people to understand the Robersonville Police Department is on par with some of the biggest cities in America when it comes to training, technology and tactical gear. Hendrick, who came to Robersonville in December, left Fort Myers, Florida after a 29year career in police work. He was looking for a slower pace. “I’ve come in every morning, and I haven’t hit a traffic jam yet,” he said. “One thing I had to learn is you have to wave at everybody.” He liked being here so much, a monthand-a-half later he convinced his coworker and friend, Tim Short, also from Fort Myers, to come to Robersonville and be his Deputy Chief. The pair admit it is not a typical move. Both were at a place in their lives where they could pick up and move their families.

F INDING A N EW H OME

Hendrick has three children ages 6, 17 and 19. Short’s children are all grown. Hendrick explained why he wanted Short for the position. Besides being used to working together, he said, “You usually try to find someone you can really trust. We bring a slightly different approach [to police work] because we come from such a bigger place.” They went from a department of 1,700 people in Lee County, Florida to a staff of six. Their previous department had more people than the 1,500 people who live within Robersonville city limits. Both said that is why they came here. Short said, “I don’t want to run homicides all day, every day.” Hendrick and Short want to bring a more professional approach to law enforcement. “The officers here have been receptive to it,” Hendrick said. One of the first things he worked to

implement was police uniforms and marked

took that money [from the cut position] and

police cars.

spread it out over the people who remained. I

“There have been times the town has struggled to maintain the police department. We want it to be something they can be proud of,” he said. He said he also pushed for better equipment. “[These officers] face real world threats,” he said, just as in any town. “They need the same

felt like it was something we had to do.” He eventually hopes to bring that position back. Even though it made the overall workload heavier, Hendrick said, “I think it let the officers know they are valued and showed them we are trying to keep up with the times. We had fallen so far behind. It was tough.”

equipment that big cities have. We’ve done

Another thing he found difficult was a

well so far. The town has really helped out and

disconnect between the townspeople and the

done a lot with helping us move forward.”

department.

“

We try to make bad times people are having just a little bit better. - Pete Hendrick, Robersonville Chief of Policce

The department has new guns, holsters,

“We want to reconnect with the town,”

tasers, body armor and new chemical agents,

he said. “They feel like the department hasn’t

not rushed. Police officers across the United

“so we have less lethal choices when we have

been very responsive in the past. We want

States are literally running from call to call

people out of control,” explained Short.

to change that. It’s going to take time, but we

to call to call. They get about five minutes

He added the department needed new

want to follow through on issues – small or

with people because there are three other

guns because “15-year-old firearms, if not

big. We want people to know that if you call

calls stacking up. There is no personalized

properly maintained, or armored by a certified

us, we are going to treat it as serious.”

treatment.”

armorer, become a liability over time. We

The crimes they see in Robersonville are

were able to replace the firearms; and just

like what they saw in Florida, only on a much

as importantly, we were able to replace the

smaller scale.

sighting system. This system is much safer for the officer,” improving accuracy. “Small things like that show the officers

Hendrick and Short bring 59 years of experience between them. “If there is a shooting, stabbing or robbery

“We see a lower number than we see in the big city, but it is all the same, everywhere you go,” Hendrick said.

— we’ve been trained to handle it,” he said. Concerning the school shooting in Texas, Hendrick said, “We have years and years of

we are willing to invest in them and the

He has met with civic leaders and churches

training in those type of things. We are well-

equipment. We are going to bring the latest

and is planning a National Night Out in August.

positioned to handle [something like] that.

technology that we can afford to bring here,” Hendrick said. Training, one of Short’s specialties, has been a priority. Henrick said the next step will be updating the computer system. So far, the crime fighting duo has felt welcomed. “People are very supportive of the police department,” Hendrick said. Working in a small town, means working with a smaller budget. “Everybody wants more. If we had more money we could do more. If we had more

He appreciates the fact the town wants its own police department.

Those experiences benefit the town.” Hendrick said the slower pace allows him

“We are currently under the auspices of the Local Government Commission [LGC]. One of the first things they do when they

to impact more people. “In a place this small, you can make meaningful change pretty easily,” he added.

come in is to see where they can cut and save

Hendrick was drawn to police work as

money. They saw the value in having their

a child because it was exciting, but as he

own police department and fought to keep it,”

matured, he said he likes the job because he

Hendrick said. “When people are supportive

can help people.

of law enforcement, it makes you feel good.” Besides Williamston, Robersonville is the only other town in Martin County that has their own police department. Hendrick

admits

there

“We try to make bad times people are having just a little bit better,” he said. “I love it that the town is a lot like Mayberry,” said Hendrick.

are

some

Short said it was one of the attractive

people we could do more. We’ve been trying

conveniences he misses, but “being able to

to find that balance,” he continued.

know your neighbors, and wave at people and

“People will know my name,” said Short. “I

they wave back – is something I’ll trade [for

will know theirs. They wave at you and will talk

convenience] any day of the week,” he said.

to you at breakfast [in a restaurant]. Those are

One of the hardest decisions Hendrick made was to cut a position. “We had to pay our people more,” he explained. “We were so underpaid. We were

Both men are still adjusting to the slower pace.

things about being here.

the important things. Then they will feel safe enough to reach out when they need you.”

at a point we potentially could have lost over

“We are used to being busy,” said Hendrick.

Deborah Griffin is News Editor of The

half our staff because they could have gone

“We welcome calls. We may only get five or

Enterprise in Williamston and a Staff Writer for

somewhere else and made more money. We

six calls a day now, but the good thing is we’re

Eastern North Carolina Living.

Grandma’s

Kitchen Sylvia Hughes with her grandmother, Bertie Dameron.

Talking to my cousin, Wayne, recently, he was reminiscing about the vegetable garden my mom and dad planted every year. We could hardly wait for the garden to start producing. Wayne and I were raised like brother and sister. He was remembering my mom telling him, “Go out to the garden and pick whatever you want to eat and I will cook it.” My dad often chose our meals the same way. Our table was always full of freshly picked food in the summer. Is there anything better? I ate very little meat when there was so much goodness on the table. My mom cooked many things the same way her mom cooked vegetables from her garden. She cooked other things her own way. I didn’t cook with my mom, but watched what she did. Our favorite thing from the garden was fried corn. Fried cabbage was a close second. We also liked fried okra and squash. Seems like a lot was fried, right? But other foods balanced it out. We had cucumbers in vinegar, sliced tomatoes, green beans, peas and many other vegetables. As the garden began to produce more than we could eat, mom and I canned for the winter months. Not only did we can vegetables, but we canned fruit and made relishes and jams. The hardest thing we did was chow chow.

It involved a lot of vegetables diced very small and we made a lot of batches at one time. We continued to can together even after I was married. I had my own garden then and we gathered enough from both gardens to can for two households. There is something about sharing work that makes it fun and draws you closer together. Seeing all the jars on the counter ready to be used when the garden is gone is very satisfying. Knowing that you will have something for your family that is better than you can buy at the grocery store is a feeling of a job well done. I have gotten too old now to plant a garden and can its surplus, but I still cook some of the vegetables the same way my mom and grandmother did. Grandmother’s recipes were brought with her from her home in the Shenandoah Valley. All of her family lived there from the 1700’s. They were Scot-Irish and she married a man who was of German descent. Her cooking was some of both. I have not seen anyone who cooked fried corn or cabbage this way, so I will try to tell you how it is done. They are cooked almost the same way. Sometimes it is hard to turn what you have always done into measurements someone can follow. It is worth it though because it is the best corn and cabbage I’ve ever eaten.

Fried Corn bottom of skillet.

6 ears of corn meat

One slice of streak of lean or a little bacon grease

d fry Put corn in the skillet an until charred

Cut all the corn off the co

Add just enough water to t the

In a cast iron skillet, fry ou

ase.

meat or heat the bacon gre Remove the meat

grease You do not want much to cover in your pan. Just enough

come

almost to top of corn. te

Add salt and pepper to tas

ter is Cover and cook until wa gone

Fried Cab bage

Cut one small cab bage into turning un about 1 in til charred ch by 2 in and wilted ch pieces A dd enou Fry two gh water pieces of to cover streak of cabbage. lean mea t in cast ir on skillet until Add salt a browned. nd peppe Remove m r to taste eat C over and Put cabba cook unti ge in skille l water is t and kee p gone and cabba ge is almo st soft.

Sylvia Hughes is a retired newspaper editor and columnist residing in Windsor. In addition to three sons, she has a gaggle of grandchildren, many of whom love cooking with her just as she did with her mother and grandmother.

Grace & Truth

5 things to see here was born in Hertford County. I have lived in Bertie County my entire life except when I pastored a church near Raleigh for a few years. By God’s grace, I

have returned to pastor my home church and now live in Chowan County. I have also been so fortunate to travel the world. My thirty-six years have seen remarkable things. No one can see more potential and enjoy this area more than I. I hope you can see the things I love about these plains in plain view. Here are five things you can see here: Genuine People

“Yes, we may

world. So many want to be accepted by the ways of so-called experts and those that laud aside their intuitive beliefs and understandings to align with the prevailing thoughts. But, here, you might still find people who will live their whole life according to what sits

place for you here. Gentlemen In a world that’s increasingly becoming

not have many attractions here, but the people are astonishing.

Societal expectations are a weight in our

their education or experiences. So, they lay

the wind. If it’s gentleness you crave, there is a

“

P ASTOR WEBB H OGGARD

known her, and yet she abundantly blesses everyone she meets. Yes, we may not have many attractions here, but the people are astonishing.

right in their spirit - no ax to grind and no war

Gentler Speed of Life

to fight. They live a life that says, “That’s how I

Many are living at that breakneck speed,

see it, and that’s enough for me.” I love meeting people who are “what you see is what you get,” and that may just be what

hostile to all discussions of gender, I’m glad that some of the “patriarchy” still see their place as a position to help and serve others. In the “good ole days”, the word gentleman referred to a landowner. Today, this word means a nice way of treating one another. During the 1800s, people began to connect the idea that those with the most should be the most generous. The word generous means “like royalty,” and kings and queens should use their authority to bless those around them. All that to say, you can still find men that put others before themselves. We have people who live the golden rule. Generations in One Place The last thing I think you might see are families who stay together. I pastor a church blessed with many new families, and I’m so grateful for each of them. But, we also

but if you look closely, you may see some

have children whose grandparents and

letting life come to them.

great-grandparents began, built and stayed

In our world of hurry, “dog eat dog,”

committed to the work here in Bertie.

production first, it’s an absolute joy to see life

My boys are growing up in the same church

Generous People

lived one day at a time. Farmers have such an

that I did, and I grew up on the same road

I’ve seen people who looked like they

impact on our culture here that the seasons

where my mom lived her childhood. Many

could barely make it, but they would invite

still influence many things. Businesses change

generations have settled here and, as far as

you to dinner and give you everything that

their hours to accommodate their families and

I’m concerned, after traveling and living in

isn’t nailed down.

the town’s life flow. People recognize the need

some other places, being home is not settling at all.

you find around these parts.

I know a lady in whose home you’ll see no

for rain and talk about when we need less of it.

personal luxuries, but it’s filled with cleaning

These people are much more in tune with

Emanuel Webb Hoggard is Pastor at

supplies, food and everyday items she takes

the earth and each other than our TVs and

Askewville Assembly of God and a resident

to an orphanage annually. She wears the same

media. Maybe walk down one of our streets

of Edenton. He can be reached via email at

dresses I’ve seen her wear all the years I’ve

or stop and watch some corn stalks dance in

pastorwebb@hotmail.com.

Town of Ahoskie

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County: Halifax Marker ID: E-106 Date Cast: 1995

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PLUMMER BERNARD YOUNG Journalist. Publisher of Norfolk Journal & Guide, 1910-1962, leading black-owned newspaper in the South. Birthplace nearby.

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Information courtesy of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

orth Carolina native Plummer Bernard Young (1884-1962), best known by his initials P. B., for over fifty years published the largest black newspaper in the South. P. B. Young’s father Winfield Scott Young, born into slavery, emerged after the war as a member of the African American elite in Halifax County. In 1870 he moved to Littleton on the line with Warren County and there operated a dry goods store. By 1884 Winfield Young had established in that town the True Reformer, a weekly newspaper. P. B. Young attended Reedy Creek Academy and, from 1900 to 1906, was a part-time student at Saint Augustine’s College. In 1907 P. B. Young, recently married, moved to Norfolk, Virginia, to take a position as plant foreman for the Journal and Guide, the newspaper owned by the Supreme Lodge Knights of Gideon, a fraternal order to which his father belonged. Norfolk in 1907 was thirty percent African American with a thriving black business community. The newspaper was then distributed to about 600 subscribers, mostly lodge members. In 1910 the Gideons sold the paper to Young for $3,050. Young increased

investment in the business and by 1918, while maintaining the primary readership and advertising base in tidewater Virginia and northeastern North Carolina, had readers nationwide and was competing with black papers in Chicago and Pittsburgh. By 1935 the Norfolk Journal and Guide had forty-two employees and a readership of 35,000, the most of any black-owned paper in the South. Editorially Young was conservative or accommodationist, from his support of the uplift philosophy of Booker T. Washington in the 1910s through to criticism received from civil rights activists in the 1950s. Henry Lewis Suggs, who wrote a biography of Young, concluded that “three words from P. B. Young’s basic philosophy best epitomized his overall character: arbitration, negotiation, and compromise.” Young was active in the Commission of Interracial Cooperation, working with James E. Shepard, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Frank Porter Graham among others. Historian Carter Woodson and educator Charlotte Hawkins Brown were among the contributors to his newspaper. For ten years Young served as trustee chairman of Howard University and Hampton Institute.

U.S. 158 northeast of Littleton REFERENCES Henry Lewis Suggs, P. B. Young, Newspaperman: Race, Politics, and Journalism in the New South, 1910-1962 (1988) Thomas C. Parramore, Norfolk: The First Four Centuries (1994) Jeffrey J. Crow, Paul D. Escott, and Flora J. Hatley, A History of African Americans in North Carolina (1992)

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PARTING SHOTS By Thadd White

One of the best things about Eastern

promote other counties in our All in a Day’s

the outdoors, physical activities or sports –

North Carolina Living is being able to visit the

Trip feature, but there are plenty of things

Eastern North Carolina is a wonderful place to

18 counties in our coverage region. I’ve had the

people should see right here in our home

live and to visit.

opportunity to be in all of them and I enjoy

counties.

each one for its own unique draws. As we work to provide stories for our magazine, we each have the chance to visit new places, meet new people and explore the counties we call home. Personally,

live

Northampton

County, work in Bertie, Martin, Chowan and Perquimans counties and visit almost every other one for both work and pleasure.

Bertie County, my home, is one of the

of our stories, learn about the places that

poorest counties in North Carolina, but has

interest you and plan visits to these wonderful

things that draw people on a regular basis –

places. Just remember, we’ve only hit the tip of

the Cashie Tree House Village, Livermon Zoo

the iceberg with the five places we’ve chosen.

and Historic Hope. Pitt County draws people to visit on a daily basis and there are literally dozens of reasons to spend a day in the county. From East Carolina University sports to beautiful parks, there is something for everyone.

As we were deciding themes for this

There are historic sites in beautiful

magazine, it occurred to us that we often

Chowan County, wonderful places of nature

Whether you’re a person that loves the arts, the outdoors, physical activities or sports – Eastern North Carolina is a wonderful place to live and to visit. 82

We hope you’ll take the time to read each

in Northampton County, incredible variety in Halifax County and beautiful and wonderful places in Martin County. And they are just to name a few. There is something in just about every

There are literally hundreds more that are equally impressive. We’ll be back in September with our next issue. In it, you’ll meet some of the people who coach our youth in sports from recreation league all the way to college. If you have ideas of someone we should feature, feel free to drop me at note at twhite@apgenc.com. Until next time, remember… all who wander are not lost. Continue joining us as we wander through Beaufort, Bertie, Chowan, Edgecombe, Gates, Greene, Halifax,

county that you our readers will be surprised

Hertford, Hyde, Martin, Nash, Northampton,

to find. You’ll discover new reasons to spend a

Pasquotank,

day or weekend right here near home.

Washington and Wilson counties.

Perquimans,

Pitt,

Tyrrell,

It is always fun to get out and explore, but

Thadd White is Editor of five Adams

I think this magazine will prove its easy to

Publishing Group publications in Eastern North

do that right here in Eastern North Carolina.

Carolina. He can be reached via email at

Whether you’re a person that loves the arts,

twhite@apgenc.com.

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Eastern North Carolina Living - July 2022

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