JOHN WHEELER HOUSE

from Eastern Living November 2019

BIOGRAPHY

If these WALLS could talk

John Wheeler House is part of Historic Murfreesboro

Avisitor to historic Murfreesboro (chartered by the General Assembly of North Carolina in 1787) in Hertford

County, one observing the architecture of buildings, some pre-dating its beginning, must often think beyond the brick and mortar (Indeed, the oldest commercial brick building in North Carolina still stands today in Murfreesboro and remains in use, now as the Rea Museum) to the inhabitants and muse, “If these walls could talk . . . .”

In at least one case, maybe they do.

Story by Sarah Davi Photo by Tha White

The Wheeler House, located at 407 East Broad Street, is one of the more imposing sites on the Murfreesboro Historic Tour. With 18-inch brick walls and the only brick dependency remaining in Murfreesboro, it stands out architecturally, but it also stands out because of its residents and their place in local, State, and national government.

Additionally, many have been writers, leaving a legacy of literature, both fiction and non-fiction. Thanks to the John Wheeler family, those walls have talked.

Thought to have been built in 1810 as a store for William Hardy Murfree (origin of the name of the town) and his business partner, George Gordon, the building was purchased by John Wheeler in 1814 and expanded and remodeled as a house.

Wheeler descendant James Elliott Moore, writing for the occasion of the Wheeler Reunion in 1980, calls Murfreesboro “unique to Southern towns” because it was settled primarily by merchants and mariners from New England.

Wheeler, who came to Murfreesboro in 1796, could be numbered among merchants and mariners from New England, but his journey to Hertford County and Murfreesboro was a bit more circuitous than most.

Born in Essex County, New Jersey, to Dr. John Wheeler, a loyalist sympathizer during the Revolutionary War, young John found himself moving frequently - first to Newark, New Jersey, for protection by the royal army, then to Long Island, New York, and later to St. John’s, New Brunswick, before eventually returning to the United States and New York City. There, in business as a bookseller, he made the acquaintance of Zedekiah Stone from Bertie County.

“Thought to have been built in 1810 as a store for William Hardy Murfree (origin of the name of the town) and his business partner, George Gordon, the building was purchased by John Wheeler in 1814 and expanded and remodeled as a house.

Stone persuaded Wheeler to come South and to enter into a partnership in a mercantile business in Windsor.

Stone was the father of Gov. David Stone; Wheeler married Maria Elizabeth Jordan whose sister married Gov. Stone. Following Zedekiah Stone’s death, Wheeler entered into a partnership with Walter Hubbell and moved to Murfreesboro to represent that concern in Hertford County.

Quickly establishing himself not only as a leading merchant (with a mercantile business on the corner of Main and Williams) and mariner (with ships trading between Murfreesboro and the West Indies) but outstanding citizen as well, he served as postmaster for several years.

To John and Elizabeth, eight children were born - three surviving their mother’s death in 1810. One of them was John Hill Wheeler, born in 1806, in a house near where the present Wheeler House, the former Murfree store, stands.

By the time the elder John Wheeler moved into that house, probably 1815, he was again a widower, having married another Bertie County resident, Sallie Ford Wood, who died in 1814, leaving behind an infant daughter, Julia, who would later marry Dr. Godwin Cotton Moore.

Before his death in 1832, he would marry again and father nine more children. Known among his descendants as “Prolific John” for the 19 children he sired, he also began a legacy of literature. In 1831, himself writing a letter to the editor of the Norfolk Herald, providing the public with the first account of Nat Turner’s Insurrection.

John Hill Wheeler (elected to the House of Commons of the North Carolina General Assembly for terms

“In 1970, the house became the property of the Murfreesboro Historical Association, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lee Smith, Jr., of Raleigh, in memory of her father, John M. Camp of Franklin, Virginia.

from 1827-1831; first superintendent of the U.S. Mint at Charlotte; North Carolina State Treasurer; and first American minister to Nicaragua) wrote the first history of North Carolina by a native. Historical Sketches of North Carolina was published in 1851. The first printing of 10,000 copies sold out within a year.

His brother, Dr. Samuel Jordan Wheeler, also postmaster of Murfreesboro, wrote a scholarly history of Meherrin Baptist Church and founded and edited the Murfreesboro Citizen. In addition to writing for his own newspaper, he was a frequent contributor to other state and local papers.

John Wheeler Moore, son of Julia Wheeler and Godwin Cotton Moore, who was instrumental in the founding of Chowan Baptist Female Institute in 1848 (now Chowan University), wrote the first school history of North Carolina; a two volume history of the State of North Carolina that began as Sketches of Hertford County, published in the Murfreesboro Inquirer; and the novel The Heirs of St. Kilda. At the time of his death, he was working on a history of Baptists in North Carolina; the unpublished and unfinished manuscript is housed at Wake Forest University.

At least one other member of the Wheeler family was known for literary publications: Junius Brutus Wheeler, son of John Wheeler and his third wife, Sarah Clifton, was distinguished in service in the Mexican War. A professor at the United States Military Academy at West Point, he published a series of textbooks used in the curriculum there.

And, there is yet another possible manner in which the matter of these walls may speak. Some believe that Hannah Crafts, pseudonym for the author of The Bondwoman’s Narrative, once lived in the Wheeler House when John Hill Wheeler would return to visit his native North Carolina. That, however, is a story for another time and another publication.

After John Wheeler’s death in 1832, his son Dr. Samuel Jordan Wheeler came into possession of the house, which may well have also been the dwelling of John Hill Wheeler on his trips back to North Carolina; in 1866, the Samuel Wheeler family left the house, moving to Bertie County. Three years later, it was sold.

In 1970, the house became the property of the Murfreesboro Historical Association, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lee Smith, Jr., of Raleigh, in memory of her father, John M. Camp of Franklin, Virginia.

Restored and maintained by the MHA (with the financial assistance of endowments established by Mr. and Mrs. J. Guy Revelle and Wheeler descendant James Elliott Moore), it hosts between 500-1,000 visitors each year, according to Lamar Van Brackle, president of the MHA. His wife, Frances, is site manager for the building, and they welcome inquiries and visitors.

Sarah Davis is a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.

OUT & ABOUT!

Out & About is a listing of events happening in and around the 12 counties which make up the coverage region for Eastern North Carolina Living magazine. Those wishing to have an event listed should sent it to: Eastern Living, Attn: Out & About, P.O. Box 69, Windsor, NC 27983. Email events to Thadd White at twhite@ncweeklies.com.

Nov. 16 On The Border- Eagles Tribute ROANOKE RAPIDS – The Roanoke Rapids Theatre will host On The Border- Eagles Tribute with lobby doors opening at 5 p.m., theatre doors opening at 6 p.m., opening act at 7 p.m. and the headliner at 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. The Roanoke Rapids Theatre is located at 500 Carolina Crossroads Parkway in Roanoke Rapids. For more information, call 844-778- 5483 or visit www.rrlive.com.

Intro to Metals COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft will host Intro to Metals from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. This is a family event and admission is free. The show will be held at the Pocosin Arts Metal Studio, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787, email info@pocosinarts.org or visit www.pocosinarts.org.

Nov. 17 Tar Kilns and Long Leaf Restoration WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host Tar Kilns and Long Leave Restorations at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17. Participants will gather in the visitor’s center to learn about the ecological and economical history of the park, and its impact on long leaf pine trees.

Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Nov. 18 Stand Up Comedy WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host a night of stand up comedy Monday, Nov. 18 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is $5. The theatre is located at 150 West Church St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-946- 2504.

Nov. 21 Music Variety Show WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Traditional Music Association will host a variety show at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 W. Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

The Musical ‘Elf Jr.’ ROCKY MOUNT – The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts will host the musical, “Elf Jr.” from 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children. The musical will be held at the Dunn Center for Performing Arts, 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd. in Rocky Mount.

Nov. 22-23 Christmas Craft Show BELHAVEN – The 6th annual Christmas Craft Show will be held from 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 and from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. The craft show will be held at the Wilkinson Center, 144 East Main St. in Belhaven. For more information, call 252-943- 8485 or email sfandrews47@yahoo. com.

A Tribute to Elvis LITTLETON – The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center will present Randoll Rivers as ‘A Tribute to Elvis’ at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 and Saturday, Nov. 23. Tickets are $20 for nonmembers and $16 for members. The show will be held at the Mark Taylor Theater, 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 252-586-3124 or visit www.lakelandcac.org.

Nov. 22 – 24 “Hansel and Gretel” WASHINGTON – East Carolina University will present “Hansel and Gretel” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, at 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-946- 2504. Nov. 23 Flatty Creek Paddle WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host Flatty Creek Paddle at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Participants will meet at Dinah’s Landing for a kayak trip down Flatty Creek with a park ranger. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Holiday Shopalooza WILSON – Shiloh Pentecostal Holiness Church will host its 3rd annual Holiday Shopalooza from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. There will be over 20 local vendors. Admission is free. The event will be held at 5843 Shiloh Church Rd. in Wilson.

Nov. 24 An Afternoon with Patsy Cline ROCKY MOUNT – The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts will host ‘An Afternoon with Patsy Cline’ from 3 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. Tickets are $25. The event will be held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd. in Rocky Mount.

Nov. 23 An Evening with Joe Newberry • 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. COLUMBIA - Pocosin Arts hosts an evening with Joe Newberry. Listen to Joe’s dynamic bluegrass melodies while enjoying an evening in the historic Riverview House on the Scuppernong River. An oyster roast, appetizers, steamed shrimp and adult beverages will be provided with $75 ticket price. Visit pocosinarts.org/25years for more information. The concert will be held at 107 N. Water Street in Columbia.

Nov. 25 Thanksgiving Worship Service MURFREESBORO – Chowan University will host its annual Thanksgiving worship service at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 25. The service will be held in Turner Auditorium inside McDowellColumns Hall. The service is free and open to the public. Chowan University is located at 1 University Place in Murfreesboro.

Nov. 26 “A Christmas Carol” WASHINGTON - The Arts of the Pamlico will present “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but donations will be greatly appreciated. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-946- 2504.

Nov. 30 Couples and Singles Dance WASHINGTON – USA Dance Chapter 6046 will host a couples and singles dance from 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. For more information, call 252-946- 2504.

Mallard Creek Hike WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host a ‘hike the Mallard Creek Loop Trail’ at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. Hikers will participate in a 1.5-mile hike on the Mallard Creek Loop Trail. Participants are encouraged to bring water and binoculars, and wear sturdy boots. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Classic Films Showing WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host classic Christmas films from noon- 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3. Admission is free, but a $5 donation is encouraged. The event will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org. Dec. 1 “Rent” WASHINGTON – The Historic Turnage Theatre will present the musical “Rent” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1 in observance of World Aids Day. Admission is free, but a $5 donation is recommended. The event will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Christmas Concert ELIZABETH CITY – The Albemarle Chorale will host its Christmas concert ‘A Glorious Christmas’ at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1. The concert will feature sacred music for the Christmas season and new renditions of familiar carols. Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. The concert will be held at First United Methodist Church, 201 South Road St. in Elizabeth City.

Dec. 3 Art Class for Children WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host a children’s art class, “Winter Holiday Village Dioramas” from 4 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3. Students will use the fork scraping technique on canvas to create Van Gogh’s painting “A Starry Night.” The class is for ages 6 through 12. The cost of the class is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. The Bertie County Arts County Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor. For more information or to register, call 801-920-3773 or email rsusie@ aol.com.

Dec. 5 Windsor Christmas Parade WINDSOR – The town of Windsor will host its annual Christmas Parade at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. The parade will be held downtown Windsor.

Williamston Christmas Parade WILLIAMSTON – The town of Williamston will host its annual Christmas parade at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. The parade will be held downtown Williamston.

Dec. 6 Christmas Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Choral Society will present a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Admission is free. The concert will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Martin County Community Christmas Chorus WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Community Christmas Chorus show will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for students. The show will be held at the Martin County Auditorium, 1260 Godwin Ave. in Williamston. Advance tickets are available at Mast Pharmacy in Williamston and tickets will be sold at the door. For more information, visit www. matincountyarts.com.

Aulander Christmas Tree Lighting AULANDER- The town of Aulander will host its annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Come join the town of Aulander for fellowship, refreshments, a tree lighting and a mini concert. The event will be held at the Aulander Community Building.

Holiday Ornament Make-N-Take COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts will host a community holiday ornament maken-take on Friday, Dec. 6. This is a free event. The event will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Dec. 6 & 7 ‘Christmas Belles’ Play LITTLETON – The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center will present the play ‘Christmas Belles’ at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7. Tickets are $16 for adults and $9 for students. The play will be held at the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center, 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton. For more information or to purchase, 252-586-3124 or visit www. lakelandcac.org.

Candlelight Christmas Tour and Southern Dinner MURFREESBORO – The Murfreesboro Historical Association, Inc. will host its Candlelight Christmas Tour and Southern Dinner from 4 p.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7. Tickets are $35 for adults, $10 for ages 11 to 16 and children under the age of 10 are free. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 252-398-5922.

Holiday Artists’ Market COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts will host its Pocosin Arts’ Holiday Artists’ Market Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7. The market will be held at 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Dec. 7 2019 Swan Days Festival SWAN QUARTER – The 2019 Swan Days Festival will be held from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.

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The festival will have migratory bird tours, educational programs and craft and food vendors. The festival will be held at Mattamuskeet School and the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. For more information, visit the Swan Days Facebook page or visit www. swandays.com.

Owl Outing WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host owl watching at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Participants will learn facts about owls, which are mostly nocturnal animals. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Holiday Homes Tour WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host a holiday homes tour from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. This is a self-guided tour through beautifully decorated homes in downtown Washington. Advance tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for students. Tickets the day of the event are $25, and are cash only. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Holiday Christmas Shop WASHINGTON – The Holiday Christmas Shop will be open from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. The shop is located at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Aulander Gymboree Vendor & Craft Show AULANDER – Aulander Ruritan Club will host the Aulander Gymboree Vendor & Craft Show from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The show will be held inside the Aulander Gym on Rice Avenue in Aulander.

Jamesville Christmas Parade JAMESVILLE – The town of Jamesville will host its annual Christmas

parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The parade will be held downtown Jamesville.

Dec. 7 & 8 ‘The Christmas Story’ Drama WILLIAMSTON – ‘The Christmas Story’ drama will be performed at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8. Refreshments will follow. The drama will be held at Macedonia Christian Church Family Life Center, 7640 U.S. 17 South in Williamston. For more information, call 252-792- 3540.

Dec. 8 Christmas Open House WINDSOR – Hope Plantation will host Christmas Open House from 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. The Hope Mansion and King Bazemore House will be decorated with time period decorations. There will be live holiday music, refreshments, and horse and carriage rides. Admission is free, but donations will be greatly appreciated. Hope Plantation is located at 132 Hope House Rd. in Windsor. For more information, call 252-794- 3140 or visit www.hopeplantation. org.

Christmas Concert MURFREESBORO – Chowan University will host its annual Christmas concert Sunday, Dec. 8. The concert will feature a wide range of modern and classic Christmas favorites. The concert is free and open to the public. Chowan University is located at 1 University Place in Murfreesboro.

Tarboro Christmas Parade TARBORO – The town of Tarboro will host its annual Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. The parade will begin at the 200 block of Main Street and ends at the Tarboro Shopping Center/Hope Lodge Street. For more information, contact the Tarboro/Edgecombe Chamber of Commerce at 252-823-7241.

Christmas Concert Elizabeth City – The Albemarle Chorale will host its Christmas concert ‘A Glorious Christmas’ at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. The concert will feature sacred music for the Christmas season and new renditions of familiar carols. Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. The concert will be held at First United Methodist Church, 201 South Road St. in Elizabeth City.

Dec. 10 An Evening With Santa WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host an ‘Evening with Santa’ from 5:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. The event will be held at the Roanoke Cashie River Center, 112 W. Water St. in Windsor. For more information, contact the Bertie County Arts Council at 252- 794-9402.

Carriage Rides WINDSOR – The Windsor/Bertie Chamber of Commerce and the Bertie County Arts Council will host horse and carriage rides from 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Take a ride on a horse drawn carriage through downtown Windsor to see the Christmas decorations. The rides will begin at the Bertie Arts Council’s Gallery, 124 S. King St. in Windsor.

Dec. 11 Robersonville Christmas Parade ROBERSONVILLE – The town of Robersonville will host its annual Christmas parade at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. The parade will be held downtown Robersonville.

Farm-City Breakfast ROCKY MOUNT – The North Carolina Cooperative Extension of Edgecombe County, the Edgecombe Martin County Electric Membership Cooperation, the Edgecombe County Farm Bureau and the Tarboro Edgecombe Chamber of Commerce will host the 42nd Annual Farm-City Breakfast at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. The breakfast will be held at the East Carolina Agriculture and Education Center, 1175 Kingsboro Rd. in Rocky Mount. For more information, visit www. tarborochamber.com or call 252- 823-7241.

Dec. 12 Frankie Harrison Bluegrass Band WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host the Frankie Harrison Bluegrass Band Thursday, Dec. 12. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets will be available at the door. The concert will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston. For more information, visit www. martincountyarts.com.

Carriage Rides WINDSOR – The Windsor/Bertie Chamber of Commerce and the Bertie County Arts Council will host horse and carriage rides from 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Take a ride on a horse drawn carriage through downtown Windsor to see the Christmas decorations. The rides will begin at the Bertie Arts Council’s Gallery, 124 S. King St. in Windsor.

Dec. 13 Christmas Variety Show WASHINGTON – The Art’s of the Pamlico will present a Christmas Variety Show at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Dec. 13 & 14 ‘Christmas Belles’ Play LITTLETON – The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center will present the play ‘Christmas Belles’ at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14. Tickets are $16 for adults and $9 for students. The play will be held at the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center, 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 252-586-3124 or visit www.lakelandcac.org.

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Dec. 14 “The Polar Express” WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host the movie “The Polar Express” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. Activities will include hot chocolate and bells for everyone. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. The movies will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Aulander Christmas Parade AULANDER – The Aulander Christmas parade will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. Following the parade, light refreshments and Santa will be available at the Aulander Community Building.

Bear Grass Christmas Parade BEAR GRASS – The town of Bear Grass will host its annual Christmas parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. The parade will be held downtown Bear Grass.

Oak City Christmas Parade OAK CITY – The town of Oak City will host its annual Christmas parade at noon Saturday, Dec. 14. The parade will be held downtown Oak City.

Until Dec. 14 Members Only Art Show and Sale WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host a Members Only Art Show and Sale during regular business hours from noon -4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. on Saturdays. This show highlights the Martin County Arts Council members. The show will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston. For more information, visit www. martincountyarts.com.

Dec. 15 ‘Christmas Belles’ Play LITTLETON – The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center will host the play ‘Christmas Belles’ at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. Tickets are $16 for adults and $9 for students. The play will be held at the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center, 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 252-586-3124 or visit www.lakelandcac.org.

Welcome to Goose Creek WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host ‘Welcome to Goose Creek’ at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. The presentation will introduce all of the recreational activities throughout the park. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Christmas Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Community Orchestra will host a Christmas Concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. The concert will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Dec. 20 Christmas Concert WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will present The Embers featuring Craig Woolard performing a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20. Tickets are $25 for adults and $25 for students. The concert will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Children’s Christmas $5 and Under Shopping Market WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host a Children’s Christmas $5 and Under Shopping Market from 3:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20. Children ages 11 and younger are invited to come shop for family and friends. An adult must accompany children. The market will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston. For more information, visit www. martincountyarts.com.

Dec. 21 All About Bears WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host ‘All About Bears’ at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Participants will learn about the life history of North Carolina’s black bears and examine mounts, skulls and furs. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

“The Elf 2” WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will present the movie “The

Elf 2” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. The movie will be shown in the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Through Dec. 21 6th Annual Christmas Market WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host its 6th Annual Christmas Market during regular business hours, noon -4 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. -2 p.m. on Saturdays through Saturday, Dec. 21. Unique gifts are available from a wide array of handcrafted items created by local artists and craftsmen. The market will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston.

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The Hamilton Christmas parade will be Thursday, Dec. 12.

Dec. 22 Broadway on the Big Screen WASHINGTON – Broadway on the Big Screen will present “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22. Admission is free, but a donation of $5 is greatly appreciated. The event will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org. Dec. 28 ‘Paint in the Park’ WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host ‘Paint in the Park’ at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 28. Participants will create nature-based artwork down by the Pamlico River swim beach tables. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington. For more information or to register, call 252-923-2191.

New Year’s Eve Show WASHINGTON – IC Improv will present a New Year’s Eve Show at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 28. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlicon.org.

Jan. 1 First Day Hike WASHINGTON – Goose Creek State Park will host a First Day Hike at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan 1.

Start the new year with a hike down the Pamlico River. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach /in Washington. For more information, call 252-923- 2191.

Jan. 7 Pottery Class COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Art will host a pottery class from 9:30 a.m.- noon and 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 through Tuesday, Feb. 4. The classes will be held at the Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 7-Feb. 4 Art After School COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft will host Art After School from 3:30 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from Tuesday, Jan. 7 through Tuesday, Feb. 4. The classes are for ages 6 through 9 and10 through 18. The classes will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 8 Metals Class COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Arts will host a metals class from 2:30 p.m.- 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning Wednesday, Jan. 8 through Wednesday, Feb. 5. The class is for ages 18 and older. The class will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 9 Painting Class COLUMBIA - The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Arts will host a painting class from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. on Thursdays beginning Thursday, Jan. 9 through Thursday, Feb. 6. The class is for ages 18 and older. The classes will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 9 - March 26 Children’s Creative Movement Dance Class WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host a children’s creative movement dance class at a time to be announced beginning Thursday, Jan. 9 through Thursday, March 26. The class is for children 4 through 10. Children will learn basic dance concepts. The class is $125 for members and $135 for nonmembers. The classes will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston. For more information, visit www. martincountyarts.com.

Jan. 6-10 Community Yoga COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Art will host free community yoga Monday, Jan. 6 through Friday, Jan. 10. The class will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 11 Guitar Fest WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Traditional Music Association will host its annual Guitar Fest from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 Admission is free. The fest will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org. Jan. 11-16 Community Yoga COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Art will host free community yoga Saturday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 16. The class will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796- 2787.

Jan. 12 Holiday Social WILLIAMSTON – Roanoke River Partners will host its annual Holiday Social from 5 p.m.- 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan 12. Current and Prospective members will get an update on current Roanoke River activities. The event will be held at the Haughton Hall Bed and Breakfast, 203 N. Haughton St. in Williamston. For more information, call 252-792- 0700.

Broadway on the Big Screen WASHINGTON – Broadway on the Big Screen will present “Street Scene” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12. Admission is free, but a $5 donation is greatly appreciated. The showing will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Jan. 14 & 15 Auditions WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico Players will host auditions for Neil Simon’s “The Dinner Party” from 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 and Wednesday, Jan 15. There are six roles for this comedythree male and three female. Auditions will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. artsofthepamlico.org.

Jan. 16 African American Artist Show and Sale Opening Reception WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host an opening reception for the African American Artist Show and Sale from 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16. Admission is free.

The reception will be held at the Martin County Arts Council’s Flat Iron Building, 124 Washington St. in Williamston. For more information, visit www.martincountyarts. com.

Jan. 17 Broadway on the Big Screen WASHINGTON – Broadway on the Big Screen will present “Kiss Me Kate” on Friday, Jan. 17. The showing will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www. historicturnagetheatre.org.

Jan. 18 Annual Gala WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host its annual gala Saturday, Jan. 18. This event will include casino tables, dinner and music. The event will be held at the Washington Yacht and Country Club. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico. org.

Saturday Crafts COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Arts will host ‘Learn How to Make a Clay Whistle’ from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. This is a free event for all ages. The class will be held at Pocosin Arts, 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-796-2787.

Jan. 27 Hiking Trip WASHINGTON – A hike through Mallard Creek is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan 27. Join a ranger for a half-mile hike through the pine woods forest and ending at Mallard Creek. Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear and bring water. Participants will meet in the parking lot of the site park, 2190 Camp Leach Rd. in Washington.