EASTERN
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Give me that
Old Time
Religion
Take a trip through our community’s celebrated houses of worship and discover their unique stories
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LET’S EXPLORE.
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FEATURES
52. EARLY CHURCHES IN NC Historical churches about in North Carolina
58. ARBORETUM
Admire the landscape in Nashville
ON THE C OV E R
54. AURORA FOSSIL MUSEUM Step back in time and learn paleontology
#.
THE WALL THAT HEALS
A stained glass window at Howard Memorial Presbyterian Church in Tarboro. Photo by Thadd White
Vietnam Memorial comes to Tarboro
VOL. 11, NO. 5 SEPTEMBER 2019 STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
66.
LIVERMON PARK & ZOO
Zebra is one of many attractions
70. OUT & ABOUT
Events happening in and around the 12 counties
Publisher
Staff
Kyle Stephens
Gene Metrick
kstephens@ncweeklies.com
gmetrick@rmtelegram.com
Editor
jgreen@ncweeklies.com
Jim Green Thadd White
Sarah Hodges Stalls
twhite@ncweeklies.com
shstalls@ncweeklies.com
Creative Services Director
lbeachboard@ncweeklies.com
Leslie Beachboard
76. VIEWS FROM OUR 12
Green’s Cross Baptist Church hosts ‘Sonshine Ranch’
82. SIX QUESTIONS
80. ALL IN A DAY’S TRIP
Duke Chapel is one of state’s most beautiful
86. GRANDMA’S KITCHEN
Pastor Wallace Phillips enjoys his Church Homecoming always role as a pastor brought special food
Michelle Leicester
Amelia Harper
mleicester@ncweeklies.com
lharper@rmtelegram.com
Layout & Design
jwhite0225@gmail.com
Jenny White Becky Wetherington
Deborah Griffin
beckyweth@gmail.com
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Advertising Executives
Editorial Contributors
Lou Ann Van Landingham
Corrine Luthy
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Sandy Carawan
Jessica Mobley
Doward Jones Jr.
jmobley@ncweeklies.com
Sylvia Hughes
Lewis Smith
Rudy Coggins
lsmith@rmtelegram.com
Meghan Grant
Eastern North Carolina Living
Janice Cole Hopkins
Sarah Davis
#. 88. BIOGRAPHY
Pastor Richard Gurganus was drawn to church planting
94. REEL STORIES
Mike Sweeney shares stories about fishing with his grandfather
Magazine
Peri Wheeler
P.O. Box 69, Windsor, NC 27983
Lewis Hoggard
252-794-3185
Mike Sweeney
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Sarah Louya
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.
5
Martin
Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls
Rich Legacy of Praise Uniontown Church of Christ
Thrives Today T
he history behind Uniontown Church of Christ in the Piney Woods Community of Martin County is as diverse as the community surrounding it. In service before 1836, the church is still active today. Just miles off U.S. 64 East in Martin County, only a short distance from its original home. “We are legacy rich,” said Deacon George Keyes. Documented history adds to the validity of his statement. Previously a Free Will Baptist Church, the church was located in a log house located in the Uniontown (Free Union) community was a melting pot of Native American, White and Black congregants. According to the writings of historian Francis Manning, the Christian denomination was not prevalent in the area until 1841. It was then the Disciples of Christ - Christian Church made its first local appearance near Welch’s Creek in the Jamesville Township. From this arose Uniontown. “According to original talk through the old people, the first church was formed up the street about a mile,” explained Keyes. “That’s where the whites, the Indians and the blacks all worshipped together.” This was under the Baptist church. Keyes said when the church left the Free Will Baptist Church, the whites taught the blacks how to minister. William Anthony Barber, George Keyes’ grandfather, was the first recorded minister of the church, as it is known now, serving from 1798-1823. Based on records of the WashingtonNorfolk District Assembly, Uniontown Church
6
was known as the “mother church” of the
put together with wooden pegs instead of
assembly. At one time there were more than
nails,” he said.
70 churches formed under and with the guidance of the church. “A majority of the ministers back then did their preliminary work here and branched out to other churches,” according to George Keyes. “Dr. William Barber started here,” added Herman Gay. Known as “Billy” to the community, both
Much of the history from the building’s
He said, “If you go somewhere and
tie parishioner’s horses, was lost when the area
mention this church, people always know
was cleared for expansion.
someone who goes there.”
contribution to the church. “Elder Joe James he built the first baptismal pool on the other side,” he said. The pool was taken up when the fellowship hall was erected, but a stone marker
known as Piney Woods.
commemorates the location’s first baptismal
“I think what it was, like so many times, people started having different ideas and things,” he said. The current location of the church has a historic structure, tying it deeper to the
“Even when people move away looking for
George Keyes remembers his uncle’s
the little church called Uniontown in an area
split Uniontown grew from.
church as “ a welcoming church.”
original days, such as rings in the trees used to
Barber and his father first took to the pulpit in
Fellow deacon Teddy Keyes spoke of the
Deacon Herman Gay, who married into the church and the community, describes the
jobs and such, they always come back to this church at some point, at least for a while,” Gay said. “It’s one great big family,” both Keyes gentlemen added. Today Elder Gregory Boston leads the congregation. He stepped into the role
site. “It means the world to me that I have a part
following the death of his father, Daniel
in this,” George Keyes said about the church
Boston, who served from March of 1978 to his
continuing after so many decades.
death in September 2016.
“It lets me know that I am becoming part
Stones in the church cemetery read like a
of that same history our folks fought so hard
local history book, honoring generations of
for,” explained Teddy Keyes.
those who made Uniontown Church of Christ
The church has services every Sunday, with
what it is today. And it is the prayer of many
“Most of the lumber that this church was
a different choir supporting the service each
still at the church; their work is far from being
built from was cut right up the road,” George
morning they meet. On each fifth Sunday, the
done.
Keyes explained.
church meets at the Assembly office in Roper
community.
The wood was then processed at the community-run sawmill. “What’s so unique at this church is it was
Eastern North Carolina Living, the Martin County
for services. The family feel is no more evident than in the pulpit.
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for Enterprise & Weekly Herald and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
If you go somewhere and mention this church, people always know someone who goes there. - Deacon Herman Gay
Left: George Keyes and Teddy Keyes, deacons at Uniontown Church of Christ, search through the oldest graves in the church cemetery. Right: Herman Gay, Teddy Keyes and George Keyes, three of the church deacons, in the sanctuary of the historic church. Inset: Uniontown Church of Christ, also known as Free Union, is the iconic home church of people all over the east coast.
7
BERTIE COUNTY BERTIE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE RECREATION PLAN RECREATION PLAN 2018-2028
2018-2028
Prepared by:
Paige P. Viren, Ph.D. Daniel Pilgreen, Graduate Assistant East Carolina University
Prepared for:
Bertie County Board of Commissioners Bertie County Recreation Department
J. David Hodges, Jr. Principal and President Good Consulting Services, LLC
Prepared by:
Paige P. Viren, Ph.D. Daniel Pilgreen, Graduate Assistant East Carolina University
Prepared for:
Bertie County Board of Commissioners Bertie County Recreation Department
J. David Hodges, Jr. Principal and President Good Consulting Services, LLC
To see the full recreation plan, please visit:
http://www.co.bertie.nc.us/departments/rec/rec.html 8
At the pool, or at Bertie Beach, Bertie County is striving to ensure that all citizens have access to swimming education.
For more information, or to find a local swim class, please contact the Bertie County Cooperative Extension Office at 794-5317. 9
edgecombe
A
beautiful
history Howard Memorial is proud of past, excited for future Story & Photos by Thadd White
T
he ornate building which houses worship services for the people
of Howard Memorial Presbyterian Church is as stunning as the storied history of the congregation. Formed in the 1800s, the current stately structure on St. James Street in Tarboro was built in 1909 and maintains its grand beauty while still having the comforts of a church many years its junior. Such is the charm of Howard Memorial,
He said they were people who had college
The original request for a Presbyterian
and indeed Tarboro itself, it drew a vowed
degrees from quality institutions across the
Church in Tarboro came in October 1868, and
“city boy” to become the church’s pastor five
state and region. He said all of those people
although nothing happened for nearly five
years ago, and his ministry there is still going
could easily function in the big city.
years, the early history records “…the Holy
strong. The Rev. Dr. Benjamin E.E. Kane said he had told his wife – a child reared in small towns –
“They could if they wanted. But they wanted to be here and create something locally,” he said.
he planned to live a city life after having grown
The desire of the Tarboro community in
up in California and, more recently, Nashville,
general and Howard Memorial in particular,
Tennessee.
drew Rev. Ben and his family to want to be a
Such is Howard Memorial’s legacy as in the Presbyterian community; it drew Rev. Ben to visit Tarboro to learn more.
part of the church and community.
Spirit was at work…” A small Carpenter Gothic church was built on the corner of Saint James and Saint Patrick streets in Tarboro and was christened Tarboro Presbyterian Church. In 1908, ground was broken to construct a new building and the church was renamed
Rev. Ben said he found the church holding
Howard Memorial in honor of the Judge
to traditional worship, but willing to change
George Howard family, who donated the
“We came here on a beautiful December
and grow with the times. They have increased
money to build the new building.
day,” he recalled. “Every person we met – all
children’s participation in worship and replaced
Prior to completion of the new church, the
of the pastor nominating committee – every
the Austin organ, which had been in the
former building was moved to serve an African
one of those individuals wanted to be here at
church since 1909. The new Cornell Zimmer
American congregation at Eastern Star Baptist
Howard Memorial, and here in Tarboro.”
organ was a gift to the church from a member.
Church. Unfortunately, the building was
10
Contributed Photo
The church itself has grown and changed, but the history of beauty and touching lives for God’s kingdom remains very much intact. destroyed during the flooding from Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Howard Memorial wasn’t destroyed, but was ravaged by those same floodwaters with several feet of water inside the sanctuary and education building. A major restoration project was completed in 2001. In the sanctuary, the original pews and floors remain to beautify the nearly 110-year old building. The church’s main addition, an education
Another minister whose influence can
building, was built in the 1950s with the
still be seen on Howard Memorial is the
cornerstone being laid in 1953 and final
Rev. Robert E. Burns III, who served the
construction ending in 1958.
congregation from 1968 through 2002.
Another source of historic pride for the
Rev. Ben said, “Rev. Burns’ legacy of
church is the pastorate of Dr. Daniel Iverson
nurturing and sustaining strong lay leadership
from 1922-1926. He served the church, and
continues to be a hallmark of HMPC.”
many believe it is where he authored the
In recent years, Howard Memorial has
music for his song “Spirit of the Living God,”
taken over the Old Town Cemetery, which
which remains a popular song today.
was deeded to the church, and the members helped restore it to its former glory. Under the leadership of former pastor, Rev. Dr. Christopher Edmonston, they cleaned it,
Pastor Benjamin E.E. Kane
added seating and made it once again a source of pride. More than 100 trees were removed from the cemetery and it was transformed into a beautiful green space. It also has Miss Mattie’s Chapel, named in honor of Mattie Shackleford. “The restored cemetery has been a source of pride, not just for our church, but the entire Tarboro community,” Rev. Ben said. Another source of historic pride that has been renewed is Howard Memorial’s role as a mother church to six Presbyterian congregations in Edgecombe and Halifax counties. The idea came about in 2018 when it was suggested Howard Memorial as the larger of the churches would reconnect with some of
Contributed Photo
Top: Members of the Howard Memorial Presbyterian Church participate in a candlelight service. Middle: Howard Memorial Pastor Benjamin E.E. Kane sits in the church sanctuary. Bottom: Children at HMPC prepare for an Easter Egg hunt. 11
“The relationship was almost gone, but we have restored it and it has been wonderful for all of us.” The churches held a joint worship service Aug. 25, and plan to continue those services on a semi-regular basis. Howard Memorial offers Sunday School September through May with classes ranging from nursery to a variety of adult classes. The congregation also offers children’s church. The congregation also offers men and women’s Bible study and first Wednesday Supper. Howard Memorial has approximately 300 members of the congregation and employs a full time minister – Rev. Ben – as well as part-time Music, Children, Youth and Communications Directors. “We have a lot of strong volunteers who help make our church work,” Rev. Ben said. “We are thankful for them.” The church itself has grown and changed, but the history of beauty and touching lives for God’s kingdom remains very much intact. Rev. Ben said he was drawn to Howard Memorial, in part, because he felt God there.
Hurricane Floyd flooded Howard Memorial in 1999. This photo shows how deep the water got at the church. those smaller churches and form a bond. Rev. Ben said Howard Memorial and the other churches have indeed reformed that bond, although one has unfortunately closed. “It has been life-giving for our church and those churches,” he said.
12
“The sanctuary itself is such a draw,” he said. “The natural light is a reminder of God’s presence.” That presence has drawn people from Tarboro, Edgecombe County, and even far away places to a beautiful and historic church nestled neatly in a quaint town called Tarboro. Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living, as well as the Bertie Ledger-Advance and The Enterprise.
13
Tyrrell
Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls
S ta n d i n g
on the
WORD Historic Tyrrell County Church Still Lifting Praises
F
ebruary 23, 1874 - A group in Tyrrell County met to organize a Free Will
The first conference ended with “praise and prayer,” according to records.
location. The new church was building in the center
Baptist Church. Reportedly influenced
In the fall of 1890, the church purchased
of the purchased property. In 1891, the
by William H. Slaughter, a schoolteacher,
one acre of land from John W. Hopkins in the
congregation took the name Malachi Rider’s
people from the surrounding community of
Rider’s Creek Community. The new location
Creek Church. This is the same location where
Rider’s Creek established the church known
was one mile east of the Sharon Church
Malachi Chapel Church is located today.
today as Malachi Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church. The first meeting was held at Sharon Church, about three miles south of Columbia in the area known as Pleasant View. Malachi Linton preached the sermon and then acted as moderator in order to oversee the establishment of the church. Charles Brickhouse was appointed clerk during the meeting. Abram Swain was named deacon along with W.W. Walker and James Litchfield who were named ruling elders. David Cooper was appointed clerk. Linton was named pastor for the next year. “He began the work,” explained a current congregant.
14
Growth afforded three different additions to the church as it sits today, according to church members.
“The atmosphere is different from a lot of churches. It feels like a family.” And it was this family that embraced
Today, parishioners like Lawrence Swain
Furlough as their minister. His blindness
consider the church, “a cornerstone of this
did not keep him from answering the call
community.” Now in his 70s, Swain has spent
to ministry and Furlough’s love of the Lord
most of his life connected to the church.
overshadowed his inability to see the same
In the late 1960s, he spent his last weekend
things everyone else sees.
before heading off to Vietnam pulling up
“As far as I know, I am the only blind
bushes to make room for the bricking of the
minister in our denomination in the state,”
church.
Furlough explained.
Swain vividly remembers the days of outhouses out back, in a much simpler time.
But that was where the discussion of his challenge ended.
“Before all the modern conveniences,
His parishioners do not cut him any slack.
there was standing room only in here for any
When asked what makes this congregation
service,” Swain explained from a room off the
special, Furlough responded: “Fellowship, love
sanctuary.
for the Lord and the oneness here with the
Their numbers are no longer at standing room only capacity, however this congregation maintains hope growth is in their future, if that is what the Lord wants. They remain loyal and trust the numbers to a higher power but are clearly excited new members have joined the fold this year.
word.” “And deviled eggs,” chimed in Marietta Liverman, “don’t forget the deviled eggs.” The 80-year old snickered as Furlough began laughing. “My prayer is this church will return to what folks remember,” Furlough said.
At the heart of Malachi Chapel Church is
Liverman, Swain and friend Carol Holliday
a special minister. David Furlough has been
agreed on one specific reason this church hold
pastor for a year now, but was no stranger to
such a special place in their hearts. They all
the congregation, even though he grew up a
grew up here.
county a way in Creswell. “This is a special place,” Furlough explained.
When asked what makes this congregation special, Furlough responded: “Fellowship, love for the Lord and the oneness here with the word.”
Hal Fleming agreed. “We didn’t always have a choice but to
Pastor David Furlough, seated; Carol Holliday, left; Hal Fleming, right
Above: Lawrence Swain and Marietta Liverman are now two of the senior members of Malachi Chapel Free Will Baptist Church. Left: The history of Malachi Chapel Free Will Baptist Church is celebrated in every aspect from the congregation to the music. 15
come, but it was good,” Holliday added. He explained the history goes back to the people who made it possible for worshipers to come to Malachi today. Fleming
said
today
he
still
remembers where many of the “old folks” sat each Sunday. And more than the visual memory of each generation’s pioneers sticks with him today. “People left a lasting legacy here,” Fleming said. “There are memories Top Left: The children’s Sunday School classroom has been where the foundation was laid for many church members. Top right: The pastor may be blind but from the pulpit he sees the heart of each parishioner. Bottom: Believed to be from the 1940’s, this photo reminds the congregation of this church’s historic past.
here, both good and bad, but that’s what keeps us together.” Services are held on Sunday morning and evening. Swain reminded, “You’re welcome to visit us.” Furlough extended the invitation, “Everyone is welcome.” Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for Eastern North Carolina Living, the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
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Bertie
Mother church Sandy Run is one of state's oldest congregations Story & Photos by Leslie Beachboard
N
estled in the small Bertie County town of Roxobel is a church whose history goes back farther than the naming of the town. Bertie Church, or Sandy Run Baptist Church as it is now called, is the oldest church in Bertie County and the fourth church established in North Carolina. The church’s first known location was somewhere in the vicinity of Bishops Mill Pond, not too far from the town of Roxobel. Due to lack of records, the date of the church’s organization is unknown, but one record states Sandy Run Baptist Church was formed from a branch of the Meherrin Church of Hertford County (Murfreesboro) in 1740. During the next decade the church was closely associated with the Kehukee Church, located across the Roanoke River, and then was established as an independent church in 1750. Like other Baptist churches established in North Carolina before 1775, Sandy Run was originally a General Baptist Church, which adhered to the Arminian or Free Will doctrine. During the 1750s, the General Baptist of North Carolina began to feel the influence of the Particular Baptists. Sandy Run Baptist Church was re-
18
established in 1756 under a constitution, which would adhere to the beliefs of the Particular Baptists. In 1769 the Kehukee Organization was formed with Sandy Run as one of the original churches in the organization.
Albington died in 1772. After his death the church fell in disorder. Its membership was greatly reduced and a division took place. According to church historian Linda Pruden, Lemuel Burkitt, a Chowan County
During the early years, the church seemed
native, became minister of the church. Under
to remain pastorless. The earliest pastor
his guidance the church witnessed a great
mentioned was Thomas Pope, a native of
revival, and in 1777 the church membership
Virginia who probably began his service in the
grew to 217.
1750s.
During the same time, several branches
In 1764, James Albington, a resident of
of Sandy Run Baptist Church gathered near
Bertie County, became pastor of Sandy Run.
the areas of Potecasi, Connarita and Pleasant
Grove. These units eventually became independent churches from Sandy Run. According to Pruden, many thought Burkitt was responsible for Sandy Run becoming one of the most outstanding churches during the late 1700’s through the early 1800s due to his preaching to large crowds of over 4,000 people in Kentucky during the Great Revival in the beginning of the 19th Century. Sometime between 1803 and 1821, Sandy Run Baptist Church
original wooden structure was struck by lighting and burned on July 24, 1936. Work began immediately to replace the church with the brick structure, which now serves the congregation. Julius Shoulars was 11 years old and witnessed the church burning. “There came a severe thunder and lighting storm. We heard a loud crack of thunder and saw a sharp streak of lighting. Soon we learned that Sandy Run Church had been hit and was on fire. We ran as fast as we could to get to
Over the last 80 years there have been a lot of changes and we have lost many great members. I have always and always will love Sandy Run Baptist Church. - Buck Bishop, 92, lifelong member of Sandy Run Baptist Church.
moved from its first location to about one mile from the town of Roxobel. In 1854 the church moved again to its present location. The church joined the West Chowan Baptist Association in 1883. Sandy Run Baptist Church’s
the scene of the fire. For an 11 year old this was really something,” said Shoulders. “When we joined a group of onlookers, several of the ladies were crying and all of the men had grave expressions on their faces. But nothing could be done but let it burn. I remember honey
The Sandy Run Baptist Church Board breaks ground for the new fellowship hall in 2004. running down the side of the church from the eaves,” he added. Sandy Run worked with Connaritsa Baptist Church to have G.M. Singletary to be pastor for both churches. He began his duties on July 1, 1945 and served as pastor through August 1947. George E. Reynolds, a Louisville Seminary student, became the pastor of Sandy Run, Connaritsa and Horton churches in June 1948. On July 5, 1950 Sandy Run Baptist Church celebrated its 200th Anniversary with a homecoming service. A history of the church was
prepared and given by John E. Tyler, a member of the North Carolina Society of County Historians. The next month it was discovered the church was infested with termites and the building had to be treated and all damaged lumber had to be replaced. The church acquired a parsonage for the housing of the church’s ministry and family in the fall of 1952. The debt for the parsonage was paid off in April 1953. A dedication service for the parsonage was held on the lawn of the house on Aug. 28, 1953.
Left: Sandy Run Baptist Church celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2000. More than 400 people attended the special program and dinner on the grounds. Middle: During renovations to the church, one of the church’s members painted a mural for the new baptism pool. Right: Two church members browse a display of pictures during the 250th anniversary celebration.
19
An extensive building project began at Sandy Run in early 1954. The construction included two new classrooms, remodeling of the pulpit, and refinishing the walls and pews of the church. The church held a dedication service and the unveiling of the monument in memory of the late Rev. Burkitt. Many of Burkitt’s family traveled from all over the country to come to Roxobel for the ceremony. Dr. W.W. Barnes from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas gave the main message. The monument still sits on the lawn of the church today. Additional improvements to the church were made in 1957, including new bathrooms and new carpet. The next year the Brotherhood of the Church purchased one acre of land for
the purpose of establishing a playground, which housed two tennis courts, swings, a badminton court and horseshoe rinks. Sandy Run purchased an organ in 1968. The deacons of the church recommended native, Willie (Billy) A. McLawhorn to be licensed for the gospel ministry. “Mr. Alvah C. Smith Day” was declared on Sunday, May 24, 1981. This was in celebration of his 76 years of dedicated church service and membership, and in honor of his 85th birthday. The church began its Parents Dedicated Their Children to God service in February 1986. Sandy Run Baptist Church celebrated its 236th Anniversary and Homecoming with over 400 members, previous members, former pastors and guests. Under the guidance of the Rev. Michael S. Jones, the Youth of Sandy Run reactivated in 1992 and has continued to be an active part of the church. According to Pruden, it was by the grace of God that the church and community was spared major devastation caused by the flooding of Hurricane Floyd in 1999. The church’s vestibule suffered some water
damage and part of the ceiling fell in. It was also discovered that the steeple was in need of repair. Even after the repairs were made, the church had to have professional cleaning due to mildew problems. The church celebrated with a 250th Anniversary and Homecoming in 2000. “Willie Lou Bishop, Pauline Johnson and myself worked hard to make this one of the biggest celebrations in my time at the church. Homecoming day was such a beautiful day,” said Pruden. “The 250th Anniversary and Homecoming was the greatest day in my 65 years of being a member of the church,” added Bishop. The church added a large fellowship hall and kitchen in 2004. “For 250 years Sandy Run has been a constant reminder to the people of this area that we are fortunate to have our freedom of religion. We are proud of our heritage, but we must live in the present by doing God’s will and then look to the future as God directs us,” said Pruden. The church still is thriving, even after the deaths of 54 members since 2000. The church currently has active members of all ages. A Roxobel resident and lifelong member of Sandy Run Baptist Church is 92-year-old Buck Bishop. “Over the last 80 years there have been a lot of changes and we have lost many great members. I have always and always will love Sandy Run Baptist Church,” he said. Bishop has held almost every position in the church he could including deacon, Sunday school teacher, choir member and most committees. Sandy Run Baptist Church is located at 310 East Church St. in Roxobel.
Top: A monument in memory of Rev. Lemuel Burkett sit on the lawn of the church. Rev. Burkett Leslie Beachboard is News Editor of the played an instrumental role in the growth of the church. Bottom: A commemorative painting of Sandy Run Baptist church hangs inside the church. Right: The original Sandy Run Baptist Church Bertie Ledger-Advance and a Staff Writer for burned due to being struck by lighting on July 24, 1936. Eastern North Carolina Living.
20
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1078 Hwy 48 Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870
854 Tiffany Blvd. #101 Rocky Mount, NC 27804 21
Hertford
Story by Sarah Davis Photos by Leslie Beachboard
All are
Welcome
Pleasant Plains has storied history
H
alfway
between
Winton and Ahoskie,
on the east side of U.S. 13 South, stands Pleasant Plains Baptist Church - the most colorful church in Hertford County. Across the highway, on the west side, is Pleasant Plains Community Building, originally
Murfreesboro
worshipped
Hoggard (serving 1851-1875), and
ordained pastor of color in 1885.
Pleasant Plains School, adjacent
at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church
the pastors for the first 30 years
Dr. Brown also taught at Pleasant
to the site of the original church
(established 1829), but by the
were Caucasian, with Dr. Calvin
Plains
building.
1840s, most had migrated to the
Scott Brown becoming the first
Academy (now C.S. Brown High
That
original
building,
and
(Union/Pleasant
“Free Colored Baptist Church,
California/Oak Villa) and were
worshipping at Pleasant Plains,
worshipping at Ahoskie Baptist
Hertford County, North Carolina,�
Church. Desiring
their
own
place
of worship, they petitioned to
Church (1993). The first church
establish a separate congregation
for people of color in the entire
and church building (purchasing
Roanoke Chowan area, it was
the land for $10) and were granted
established as a result of action
that petition in 1851. Initially
overseen
by
a
Baptist Church (now Ahoskie First
committee
Baptist, established 1804).
including James Delk - a professor
of
Caucasians,
Free people of color (many
at and the son of one of the
Meherrin Indians), who would
founders of what is now Chowan
become
University - the original group
part
of
the
first
congregation, originally lived in
numbered about 40.
the area between Winton and
pastor was the Rev. Thomas
22
Chowan
Plains/Little
in her history of Pleasant Plains
taken on Dec. 5, 1851, at Ahoskie
while
area between Winton and Ahoskie
constructed in 1851, housed the
as named by Corrine H. Brummel
School
The first
The original Pleasant Plains Baptist church was used as a Rosenwald School for local African American students after the new church was built.
School
As church members speak of the
Deacons); within the first decade of the church’s existence, a school
identity with all Pleasant Plains
was organized. The first building for Pleasant
was, is, and will be.
Serving as pastor until 1911, he continued teaching until his death
church
emphasis
Terry Hall, Chair of the Board of
One can feel their loyalty to and
of the construction.
the
on “School,” according to Dr.
church, the attitude is palpable.
School-STEM) prepared to open.
(with
Plains School was built in 1866 and the second in 1917, through the Likewise,
Julius Rosenwald Foundation with
oversee
funds from the Foundation, PP
members
maintenance and upkeep.
community, and Hertford County
in 1936. The current pastor is the
The Fellowship Hall serves
with much of the materials and
Rev. Robert Ashe, who has served
as a site for celebrations of
labor provided by the community.
the church since 1982.
baby showers, birthdays and
Becoming part of the Hertford
structure,
anniversaries; a meeting place for
County Public School system in
Carolina and a founding trustee
features floor-to-ceiling stained
the Pleasant Plains Senior Citizens
the 1920s, it remained a school
of Shaw University) in the Congo
glass windows on the north and
Club; a monthly movie showing;
until 1949. In 1950, the church
and Liberia; later Denyce Chavis
south sides of the building, and
as well as repasts at funerals - a
bought the building from HCPS for
(Mrs. Terry Hall) in Guatemala; and
a faceted stained glass window,
general gathering place.
$1, and it has since been renovated
presently, Yale-graduate I’noli Hall,
The
beautiful
framed as a Greek cross, over
To the south of the church is
as a community building. It is on
in inner-city New Haven, on the
the doors in the front. It is the
the cemetery, established in 1927
the National Register of Historic
Crowe reservation in Montana,
third Pleasant Plains building
when persons began needing
Places.
and now in Columbia, South
and was built 1949-1951, being
and/or desiring a place for burial
Likewise, the church has a
America.
finished in time for the Centennial
other than the family farm. When
long-standing relationship with
Other
Celebration.
current-day
global
towers
a cemetery plot is purchased,
Shaw University, whether calling
mission projects include helping
Hampton
one pays a care fee, the principal
pastors
Divinity
Yvette Everette sponsor a child
Palace, architect Roulus Archer of
being invested with the interest
School or sponsoring youngsters
through Child Fund International
Washington, D.C designed it.
accruing to maintain the plots to
for summer camp at Shaw.
and joining the Rev. Mike Mills
reminding
With one
of
from
Shaw
Attached to the rear of the
perpetuity. Inside the Assembly
Pleasant Plains has supported
church are two-story Sunday
Hall, a cemetery diagram hangs on
missions around the world and
School
the wall, displaying plot locations.
through the centuries, beginning
They also support missions
classrooms
and
a
of Hollister, for a mission trip to Ecuador.
a
with Clinton Boone (son of the Rev.
around the corner (or the curve in
Following tradition,
priority at Pleasant Plains, a large
Lemuel Boone, founder of the first
the road), including Boy Scouts,
church members completed most
emphasis was placed on Sunday
Black Baptist Association in North
the
Fellowship Hall, completed in the late 1980s.
Education
always
being
Backpack
Food
Ministry,
Left: Pleasant Plains Baptist Church have many traditions including September revival, Valentine’s socials, and a Christmas Eve service. Right: Sunday School classes are offered for children to adults of all ages. 23
Basket,
It may no longer have 700
Operation Inasmuch, and the
members, as it did in the latter
Pinewood Manor Nursing Home
half of the 19th century, but it is
(among others).
still a vital force in the community.
Operation
Clothes
According to Corrine Brummel,
Worship services are held the
“people of color considered the
second, fourth and fifth Sundays,
church a place one could identify
and traditions continue, including
with. Their deepest loyalties were
September
in the church.”
socials, and the Christmas Eve
Although she was writing of the middle of the 19th century,
revival,
Valentine’s
service with a play and distribution of fruit and candy sacks.
it is obvious that same attitude
Like Jones, most of the present-
still exists in the 21st century. As
day members are descendants of
church members speak of the
the original congregation, being
church, the attitude is palpable.
born into the church, such as
Inside the adult Sunday school classroom, the walls are lined with pictures of important individuals throughout the rich history of the church.
One can feel their loyalty to and
McCoy Pierce, who describes it as
but “All are Welcome,” even the
fathers built a house of hopes and
identity with all Pleasant Plains
“outstanding, my heart.”
was, is, and will be. According to Marvin Jones, great-great grandson of one of
goat that came to Vacation Bible
His sister, Jean Parker, echoes
dreams and visions where the love
School and the guinea who came
his sentiment when she reverently
to services regularly, until one day
of Christ ends divisions. Indeed,
says, “It is all our hearts.”
crossing U.S. 13 proved to be too
the founding members, it has
Others marry into it, such as
always been a magnet for the
Wallace Banks, who describes it
community;
the
radiated from it.
24
infrastructure
much.
all are welcome in this place. Sarah Davis is a retired librarian
Marty
and a regular contributor to Eastern
as “simply beautiful;” and others
Haugen hymn, “All are Welcome,”
North Carolina Living and the Bertie
migrate there for myriad reasons,
the Pleasant Plains
Ledger-Advance.
Paraphrasing
the
founding
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Beaufort
An
Story & Photos by Deborah Griffin
ANCHOR through the centuries,
a BEACON
to the future
E
arly settlers in Bath were faced with
The church has enjoyed a perpetual
Early founders of the church united
deadly Yellow Fever, severe drought
congregation throughout, with or without a
together to form the St. Thomas Parish – long
and violent coastal storms after sailing across
resident priest. Even when the church fell into
before they had walls within which to worship.
oceans trying to escape persecution from
disrepair in the mid-1800s, faithful members
During those early years, records indicate
their various homelands.
still held services here, according to The Rev.
the parish was a small group, without a building
Diane Tomlinson, priest at St. Thomas since
or minister, which began holding services with
October 2014.
lay leaders in local homes around 1701.
They also had to contend with a fierce Tuscarora tribe and the dreadful pirate Blackbeard, who made his home on this peninsula for a short time. Amid the town’s tumultuous history, one thing has remained steadfast.
Services continue to be held here each
Records also show books from England
Sunday morning, as well as special times
were shipped to leaders of the St. Thomas
throughout the year.
Parish in 1701, to establish the first public
Just like the Black Walnut trees, Long Leaf
For three centuries, St. Thomas Episcopal
and Loblolly Pines which adorn the grounds,
Church has served as a silent sentinel of this
St. Thomas has remained deeply rooted in the
(now) sleepy, picturesque coastal town. The
community, located on Craven Street, just off
unassuming, single-room, red brick church has
of Bath’s Main Street.
held strong – a testimony to the unshakable faith of the early founders. Built in 1734, it is the oldest church, in North Carolina’s oldest town.
26
library in the colony. (Bath was first settled in 1695, then incorporated in 1705.) It was not until 1734 construction began on the building.
Both streets meander out to Bonner Point,
Evidence shows that Blackbeard (some
a State Historic Site in this old harbor town,
historians believe he was Edward Teach) made
situated on the edge of the Pamlico River, on
Bath his headquarters for his nefarious piracy
the land between two tranquil creeks.
exploits during the early 1700s.
a b r i e f h i sto ry
Since the church’s parish (or following) was established by 1701, one can imagine brave parishioners might
have
approaching
been the
tasked fierce
who were willing to think and reflect,” Tomlinson said. The
tranquil,
one
square-
with
mile fishing village of Bath makes
pirate,
reflection seem as easy as the
beseeching him to turn from his evil ways.
coastal breeze. Most parishioners walk to church.
Researchers believe many of
“We are lost today in our inability
his motley crew were the sons and
to just ‘be,’” she said. “Today, people
slaves of Bath’s plantation owners.
have to know what is coming. If they a
would just take a moment to be
bloody battle off Ocracoke Island in
Blackbeard
was
killed
in
quiet and just sit – it is very hard for
November of 1718, which means he
this generation to do. We know what
would have not lived long enough to
everyone is doing all of the time. We
see the walls of St. Thomas erected.
all have FOMO (the fear of missing
As Tomlinson was considering her
out).”
move to the quiet, historical church
To just “be,” she suggests listening
from her home in Detroit, Michigan,
to great music, “closing our eyes,
she said she was intrigued by the lore
sitting outside and listening to the
surrounding the building and the
birds. If we don’t recharge, we are no
town.
good to anyone.”
She also was looking for a group of parishioners not stuck in religious ritual. “I was looking for a congregation
Tomlinson enjoys the diversity of her congregation. Many residents are retirees who have migrated to the peaceful, relaxed pace of the waterfront town. “Bath has people from all different backgrounds because of the draw of the water and the weather,” said. “The people who live here are mostly transplants, so, it is a very friendly climate,” she said. “We attract people from all ages, political views and social aspects. We feel like it is an honor to love one another despite our differences,” she
The Rev. Diane Tomlinson
added.
In 1823 St. Thomas was formally accepted into the Diocese of North Carolina and consecrated in 1826. Until the Civil War, St. Thomas was served by at least 15 clergymen. In 1840 a fierce storm blew off the roof and damaged the interior. As part of the restoration, new furniture and fixtures were installed reflecting the Victorian era. Some of these items remain and are now historic as well. The church has in its possession a number of artifacts: • A silver chalice engraved with John Garzia’s name, believed to be the first rector of the church. • Two silver candelabra presented by King George II in 1740 when the church was consecrated • The Queen Anne Bell, cast in 1732, bears the inscription “Cast in England in 1732 - Recast in New York in 1872,” making the bell 21 years older than the Liberty Bell, which was cast in 1753. • A Bible printed in England in 1703, one of the oldest in the state, presented to the Vestry of St. Thomas by Samuel Ashe in memory of his ancestors, who were prominent members of the Parish when they lived in Bath. In all probability, the Bible was used when services were held in member’s homes before the present building was erected. The church’s structure is similar to that of other Anglican churches of the period, but with rustic features indicative of the colonial frontier. The old brick walls of the church are two feet thick at the base, and were brought over from England. On either side of the doorway are markers in memory of John Lawson, Joel Martin, Simon Alderson and Thomas Boyd — the founders of Bath. The floor of the church consists of the original English tiles, under which are the graves of many early settlers. Until a short while ago the tiles were laid in sand, presumably to make it easier to bury the dead. In 1932, a newspaper article said there were as many as 60 persons buried under the floor at St. Thomas. An archaeological study conducted on the north side of the church in 1993 revealed 11 unmarked gravesites dating from the earliest years of the church. “It can now be assumed that many other such graves, interred before the 1820s, surround the church,” the study said.
27
The unassuming, single-room, red brick church has held strong – a testimony to the unshakable faith of the early founders. Tomlinson said she reflects
an education scholarship to
on what life was like for the
Beaufort County Community
first
College and donate to such
settlers,
acknowledging
the hardships they endured to
ministries
establish the town and church.
Volunteers of Beaufort County
“They were people willing to take a risk,” she said.
as
the
Literacy
and The Blind Center. “We find that volunteering
She said the faith of her
our
services
and
helping
current flock is built upon the
those in need, locally and
faith of those first congregations
abroad,
and those throughout the ages. She feels a sense of obligation to those who came before. “It is our responsibility to keep the church going,” she added. She does not view the church building as a monument to the past. “The building is something to relish and enjoy. But I see it as something that represents always looking to the future,” she stated. “As a historic church, we acknowledge where we have come from and embrace where we are going,” she added. Tomlinson said St. Thomas is an anchor for the town. “If there is any kind of celebration in Bath, this is where it is held,” she said. But the weathered church also serves as a beacon of hope, The church is involved in the local elementary school, with a reading program and a backpack ministry, which sends food home with underprivileged children. are
also
involved
with the Salvation Army, have
28
our
faith
and strengthens our sense of community,” she added. Tomlinson is the 51st rector of St. Thomas. She was ordained into the Episcopal Church in 2006 and has served parishes in Detroit and Bloomfield in Michigan, as well as in Baltimore. She has been married to Mark for 34 years. Tomlinson said the church doors are never closed and people from all walks of life are welcome. “Whether you are wearing a suit and tie or shorts and flip flops you are welcome here,” she said. “It is a great place to worship,” Tomlinson added. “We take the work of the gospel seriously. But we don’t take ourselves too seriously.” St. Thomas is located in Bath
she continued.
They
enriches
at 101 Craven Street. Sunday worship services are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Deborah Griffin is a Staff Writer/Photographer for the Daily Reflector in Greenville and Eastern North Carolina Living.
This Bible was printed in England in 1703, and is one of the oldest in the state. It was presented to the Vestry of St. Thomas by Samuel Ashe, in memory of his ancestors, who were prominent members of the Parish when they lived in Bath. In all probability, the Bible was used when services were held in member’s homes before the present building was erected in 1734.
29
Hyde Story & Photos by Sandy Carawan
Enter to Serve,
Depart to Worship
P leasant G rove
B
continues mission begun in
1900 s
esides age, there are a number of
Pettigrew Gibbs and his wife, Sarah Elizabeth,
facets which add to the historic
was being written down for their gift of one
Today, 115 years later, beneath a canopy
nature of a church. But the driving force that
half acre of land for the purpose of building
of sweet gum trees surrounded by blackland
enhances the history of a church is its people
a house of worship deeded to Samuel Tildon
fields
who, encouraged by the past, gather ideas
Pledger, J. H. Midyette, and W. B. Sawyer, the
woodlands, there stands majestically, just
and decide at the present what they together
Board of Trustees of the Christian Church,
less than a mile from the marshy shoreline
will do better that will positively impact many
because of “. . . the love [they bore] for the
of Lake Mattamuskeet, the historic Pleasant
in the near and distant future.
cause of Christ and from [their] earnest desire
Grove Church of Christ. It is roughly splitting
to promote his heritage on Earth� (Deed Book
the distance between Fairfield and Engelhard.
On July 5, 1904, during a time when Hyde County was not only concerned with putting telephone wires in place, but also improving its public roads especially with the transition from the horse-drawn carriage to the automobile, a more important decision was being made. It was so important it would impact future generations for more than 100 years. Inside a stifling courthouse room, stirred slightly by a coastal breeze blowing in from a nearby window, a conversation among court officials, a witness and Charles Ebenezer
30
29, pages 97-98).
bordered
beyond
by
bands
of
Prior to the church being built, services had
This church, like any community church, has always been a hub of activity not only serving its congregation, but serving the larger community in its service to God.
been held at the Pleasant Grove schoolhouse with the Rev. H. C. Bowen and the Rev. H. S. Davenport, members of the traveling clergy, officiating. Rev. Davenport, who was preaching in Hyde County as early as the 1890s, helped to found the church on November 27, 1904, and continued to serve as minister until 1910. Rev. Davenport, perhaps unknowingly, helped to record some of the church’s early history by sending the Washington Progress
numerous missives not only about the church,
peas in. There was coleslaw and hushpuppies,
but the Pleasant Grove community as well.
too.
and holiday celebrations. Pleasant Grove’s history is one that has
Much of the list of ministers who served
“We were serving sandwiches at night in
been woven with the fabric of its families, past
the congregation throughout the twentieth
case people needed something and the next
and present, whose ideas, decisions, love and
century is fragmental, but the following names
morning the ladies fixed breakfast,” Maclyn
hope for future generations have been backed
appear in the records of the church’s history:
said. “People came from all over the county
by their love for God.
T. Yarborough (1911-1913), W. H. Marler (1916-
and around, even faraway, and would have
1918), J. L. Green (1925-1926), S. Tyler Smith
campers and to camp out on the lawn.”
Today’s congregation is large, has great musical talent and is made up of many
(1927), G. Winter (1930) and John Lough (1965).
For eighty years church services were
children. But it is these children, as Pleasant
During much of the early twentieth century,
held in its first sanctuary, but with a growing
Grove advances into the future, who will
a local man, Walter P. Armstrong, served the
congregation grew the need for a larger
continue to care for the church and ensure
congregation from 1921-1924, 1928-1929, and 1932-1950. This church, like any community church, has always been a hub of activity not only serving its congregation, but serving the larger community in its service to God. Similarly, Rev. Marler, who in 1917 preached every fourth Sunday, also submitted articles to the Washington Progress about the church and community. In one of his articles he wrote about how the church ladies not only held Sunday picnics, but held an apron party in which they raised $49 for the benefit of the church. Maclyn Gibbs, 86-year-old resident of Engelhard and one of Pleasant Grove’s oldest church members, who not only attended church services there as a child and became a member in 1948, but whose parents and maternal
grandparents
attended
church
there, too, remembers. “Church used to be real full, especially during revival when people were near about
Above: Church men cooked pigs late into the night to feed large crowds during Brush Arbor. Top Right: Pleasant Grove church members break ground for a new sanctuary in 1984. Bottom right: Groundbreaking services in 1984 for a new and larger sanctuary being conducted. (Photos courtesy of Martha O’Neal)
hanging in the windows to hear the preacher sanctuary. With no outside funding, the
that its congregation continues to thrive and
Maclyn considers her fondest memories
church raised money to build a new and
flourish so that it can continue not only guiding
of the church to be during the time of Brush
larger sanctuary, which began in August,
and helping people in reaching a God-driven
Arbor, a two-day outdoor camp-style meeting
1984. Then, in August 1988, construction was
purpose in their lives, but also worshipping
that featured gospel preaching, singing and
complete and later a steeple was added to the
and praising God.
fellowshipping with meals included. The
new building.
and the music,” she said
church’s first Brush Arbor started in 1965 and the tradition continued for 20 years. “During Brush Arbor there were different
“We use the old sanctuary for classrooms and dinners. It even has a kitchen,” adds Maclyn.
Pleasant Grove Church of Christ is located at 10314 North Lake Road, Fairfield, NC with the Rev. Steven Mills Jr., officiating. Sunday School is at 10 a.m., Sunday
ministers and different groups singing for
The church is active in facilitating activities
morning worship service is at 11 a.m., Sunday
the two days,” she said. “John Lough was our
for all members of its congregation and the
evening service is at 6 p.m., and Wednesday
minister and he really drew a big congregation.
community. In addition to homecoming
night Bible Study is at 7:30 p.m.
The men started about midnight on Friday
and revival held every August, the church
Sandy Carawan is an English Language
night putting the hogs on for a big pig-picking
conducts various activities such as Vacation
Arts teacher at Mattamuskeet Early College
because we fed on Saturday. They had a big
Bible School, sporting events, cookouts,
High School in Swan Quarter and is a regular
ol’ iron washpot that they cooked black-eyed
family movie nights, festivals, spiritual retreats
contributor to Eastern Living Magazine.
31
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Northampton
Story and Photos by Leslie Beachboard
Friends still gathering
Quaker church has long tradition in Northampton County
T
he Cedar Grove Friends Meeting
preparative meeting house so they could
House in Woodland continues a rich
meet for the three weeks closer to home
Sometimes the sense of spiritual power
history for the Quaker community throughout
before the large group meeting on the fourth
descending upon the group was so powerful
North Carolina and eastern Virginia.
week.
that the people would tremble. This is where
Cedar Grove Friends Meeting House Clerk
Construction was finished on the Cedar
Barbara Gosney said, “the initial Friends
Grove Friends Meeting House the next year
Meeting House was the Rich Square Meeting
in 1869.
House in Rich Square, which started in 1760. The Meeting House is no longer there.”
“This is the only meeting house left out of several in the area,” she said.
“Many people would travel from the
Gosney explained the Quakers call their
Albemarle Sound area and Tidewater Virginia
meeting place a meeting house and not a
for meetings here. They began having what
church because the meeting is the people.
they called preparedness meetings. They
The Religious Society of Friends began
would meet somewhere locally each week for
as a religious movement during the Puritan
three weeks and would all come together in
Revolution in England.
Rich Square to be together for one week,” she added. The Friends decided to construct a
34
In the early Friends meetings, small groups of people sat together in silence waiting upon the Lord, speaking only as divinely inspired to
share a message.
the term Quakers originated. “We were given the name Quakers in
Visitors come to visit this 150-year-old meeting house and say they can feel the presence of God and sense the people. - Barbara Gosney
England many years ago because it was said that people would ‘quake before the Lord’,” said Gosney. According to Gosney, The first Friends Meeting House in North Carolina was established near the Albemarle Sound in 1665, and as people began to move inland the Rich Square Meeting House was formed in 1760. The groups would have nine large monthly business meetings throughout the year and meet each week closer to home. According to Gosney, the families that were important to the Friends Meeting Houses in Northampton County were the Outland family from Virginia, the Parker family, the Peele family, the Brown family and the Copeland family. During the early 1800s there were several hundred Quaker families in the area, and preparative meetings started to take place. These smaller meetings would take place in the communities for three weeks out of each month to minimize the struggles of families having to make the long journey with a horse and carriage. Between 1820 and 1830 families from the area began migrating to Ohio and Indiana due to slavery. “The Quakers do not believe in slavery. It was more difficult to free slaves in the southern states. The families would move to Ohio and Indiana and take the slaves from the area to help them become free,” said Gosney. “In the areas where families migrated to, there are towns and meeting houses named after local places here,” she added. Around 1904 the Quaker government had a separation. Members of the yearly meeting felt it was right for
Top: Families would travel from all over the state for the yearly Quaker meeting held in Woodland. Middle: During their one week stay for the meetings, families would gather for food and fellowship at the meeting house. Bottom: The Rich Square Meeting House was the initial meeting house for the area which began in 1760. The original site is located 6 miles down the road.
them to maintain a conservative outlook and to maintain the doctrines of the immediate and perceptible guidance of the Holy Spirit, of the headship of Christ over all things to his Church, and of the waiting of worship and inspirational ministry. The members decided to meet in the capacity of the North Carolina Yearly Meeting of the Society of Friends at Cedar Grove Friends Meeting House. “The conservative group began to have their yearly meetings here each year,” Gosney added. The yearly meetings were hosted at the meeting house until sometime in the 1970s. “People that live in the area who are in their 80’s remember when the yearly meetings were hosted here. People would line the streets and watch the cars come through town to read the license plates. The visitors would stay in the houses of locals and sleep on mattresses on the floor. Everyone would help serve
35
meals during the week they were here,” said Gosney. Today the Cedar Grove Friends Meeting House is comprised of about 42 members. “Friends come from everywhere in the area. We have one family that drives about three hours to join us. The majority of the members come from generations of Quakers, and others have joined from other denominations,” Gosney continued. The Friends meet every Sunday with Sunday school at 10 a.m. and the meeting service at 11 a.m. Inside the meeting house, there is no pulpit but pews on all four sides of the room face the center. “This way everyone is facing one another, and all has the desire to seek and share equally. There is no pastor or leader for the service, only a clerk for monthly business meeting purposes. Gosney explained the Friends Meeting House does not have many children within the congregation. But it does not stop her from providing an outreach to the children in the community. On the grounds of the meeting house, Gosney provides a “Little Free Library” for children. “Children can stop by and pick out a book, take it home, read it, return the book and get another,” said Gosney. Gosney also helps children create a community garden on the corner of the property. “This is a way for the children to learn about growing food and not having to eat fast food so much,” she added. While walking the grounds of the property, Gosney pointed out an area enclosed with white lattice. She explained this was the original site of a natural spring used from the beginning of the church to water horses and provide water to visitors for the large yearly meetings. “Visitors come to visit this 150-year-old meeting house and say they can feel the presence of God and sense the people,” Gosney closed. Leslie Beachboard is News Editor of the Bertie LedgerAdvance and a Staff Writer for Eastern North Carolina Living.
36
The Cedar Grove Friends Meeting House has several historic books of minutes for its yearly meeting.
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Halifax
Story by Thadd White Photos by Jim Green
D edication
& Faith Halifax congregation
stands strong through trials
H
alifax United Methodist Church has sort of juxtaposition in terms.
The church is among the oldest in the
nation, and yet their minister is embarking on his inaugural voyage in pastoring. That contract in terms, however, is just one of the many reasons a church with a proud history has continued to thrive despite serving congregants in a small town. “I was excited about starting in ministry, and really excited about coming to a place with deep historical interest from a church, state and national perspective,” said the Rev. Avery Lail, Pastor of Halifax UMC. “I have enjoyed seeing how lively the church is despite being in a small town. We have people come out and worship who don’t
necessarily live within the town of Halifax.”
Early history indicates what was possibly a
Halifax region isn’t certain, but meetings likely
“Free Church” stood in Halifax as early as 1755,
began somewhere around 1774 when Robert
and was used by Methodists, Episcopals and
Williams organized the first Methodist Society
Baptists – each meeting there at their own
and started preaching on a six-week circuit
schedule.
which began in Petersburg, Va. and moved south.
The Rev. Avery Lail 38
Haywoods and Bradfords.
Exactly when Methodism arrived in the
In 1784, preachers met at Lovely Lane Chapel in Baltimore, Maryland and organized
According to Allen’s History of Halifax
the Methodist Episcopal Church, which led to
County, the church in Halifax was built soon
the formation of the current Halifax UMC and
after along with congregations at Ebenezer,
many other churches which were originally
Far left: A commemorative plate for Halifax United Methodist Church. Left: A wood etching of the Last Supper which was made and donated to the church in the 1970s.
under the Methodist Episcopal banner. The original church was known as Granville Street Methodist Episcopal Church, the deed for which was secured in November of 1866. It is assumed the building was built shortly thereafter, but there is no record of when it was completed. The original structure was an oblong building believed to have been about 40 feet by 80 feet, and was made of heart pine. It was a white clapboard building, and there was no corner stone. The steeple contained a “sweet toned bell” which was rung for all services. The vestibule extended across the entire
I was excited about starting in ministry, and really excited about coming to a place with deep historical interest from a church, state and national perspective. - Rev. Avery Lail, Pastor
front of the building, and at the south end, winding stairs led to a balcony. The church was used until it burned to the ground on a Sunday in February of 1947. The piano and a few pews were saved, along with the bookcase, a few songbooks, Bible hymn board, marble top table, a few chairs and the pulpit furniture.
had to be abandoned because of the church’s need for funds from the Church Extension Board, who required a larger lot. Early history indicates, “Not only the church members, but the whole town became involved, and finally caused a split in the membership for a short time.” In 1948, Dr. Robert Young and his wife gave church officials the southeastern portion of his yard, sometimes called “Old Hill Place.” A campaign to raise money began, and the first bricks for the new building were laid on the morning of Oct. 12, 1948. The cornerstone was dedicated on Oct. 28 of the same year, and the church building was dedicated two years later on Oct. 15, 1950. It is believed the name of the church was changed during the time of the move, as the deed to the property it is built on was conveyed to “The Halifax Methodist Church.” As the church has continued to serve over the years, congregants have remained
In addition to consuming the church, the fire damaged trees and shrubbery in the cemetery.
active in Methodist organizations and their community. Rev. Lail said he is excited about the
Church members continued to meet during the two-year hiatus of the new facility
coming Christmas in Halifax because the church participates in the annual program.
being built. They held church services at
“It is apparently a big celebration for the
Halifax Elementary School in the town limits.
town and I’m excited to experience that,” he
“The
amount
of
history
in
this
said.
congregation, and the sort of ups and downs
Halifax United Methodist Church meets at
they have faced is interesting to learn about,”
11 a.m. each Sunday morning, and is located at
Rev. Lail said. “There has been a resilience to
144 South King St. in Halifax.
keep Halifax United Methodist Church here.” The work of building a new church was arduous at best as the Granville Street location
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living, the Bertie Ledger-Advance and the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
39
Nash
Story & Photos by Rudy Coggins
A proud past of
‘Help’
Catholic church has been a beacon for all I
n the mid-1800s, the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad became a staple in
Rocky Mount. The industry helped develop the city and fight unemployment.
blocks.
Nearly three decades later, the residing
One parish, in particular, could be
priest at OLPH opened a school in a two-story
considered the cornerstone - Our Lady of
house near the church. He asked The Sisters,
Perpetual Help Catholic Church (OLPH).
Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
Built in 1910 on the corner of South Franklin
to staff the school. They lived on the second
Families settled within the community and
and Chester streets, the church served its
floor and taught classes on the first floor.
churches - large and small - began to spring
community for nearly five decades as the
The property, according to historians, was
up on every corner. When traveling the inner
railroad - now known as the Rocky Mount
destroyed in the 1970s. The nuns left what is
workings of the City on the Rise these days,
Railroad - became prevalent and assisted in
now the church's rectory in the 1990s.
one will see steeples pierce the sky on many
the growth of the city.
40
A new parish was constructed on the
Catholic means ‘embracing the totality.’ The
Catholic church is
present in every
country and we
Left: A cross outside Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. Above: Gate hinges rusted from age and weather remain lodged in the stone pillars that mark the church’s entrance near Franklin Street.
have that [cultural
diversity] here in
the church, which is very amazing.
-Rev. Timothy Meares
corner of Hammond and South Pearl streets
The vibrant, pro-life community can participate in many celebrations and pray in an adoration chapel located inside the rectory. There are Bible studies and youth groups.
in 1954. OLPH opened a new school where
Parishioners in need benefit from a food
the old church existed in 1957. Gate hinges,
pantry and Caritas, a humanitarian and peace-
rusted from age and weather, remain lodged
building initiative which assists those who are
in the stone pillars that mark the church's
most vulnerable in society to gain the tools to
entrance off of Franklin Street.
lift themselves out of poverty.
"It has a wonderful identity and history," Meares said. Celebrating its 80th year, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School has entrenched itself in the academic ranks. The oldest parochial school in the Rocky Mount area, its faculty teaches students in grades pre-K through eighth. The tradition of offering a quality education to parish children and those of other faiths remains part of its
"We have a small parish here," the Rev.
Meares is also in charge of Immaculate
Timothy Meares said. "There are a lot of good,
Conception Catholic Mission (ICCM) on
wonderful people who are involved in the
The curriculum is the standard core of
Virginia Street. Established during World
math, science, language arts, history, social
church ... very generous in giving as well. That
War I, ICCM is a historically African American
studies and religion set by the Diocese of
makes it a good place to be.
parish.
Raleigh.
foundation.
"There are a lot of opportunities and challenges that make it interesting," he added. Meares, who arrived at OLPH in 2007, conducts three Sunday masses - one in English, one in Spanish and one in Latin. His homilies reach a diverse community that has become home to Catholics from African, Asian and South American countries. "The people from Mexico who may be from a rural area, I'm sure they would have never imagined being here in Rocky Mount as they got older," Meares said. "I never would have imagined growing up in South Carolina as a child being their pastor. The ways of God are very wonderful. "He brings you to places you'd never expect and people to gather who you'd never expect," he continued. OLPH offers parishioners plenty of room for spiritual growth.
The sanctuary of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
41
Meares
said
the
students
to our teachers and principal who
participate in the annual "Battle
do a great job running the school.
of the Books" with Rocky Mount
[The school] is kind of a mission of
Academy, and fare well on a
the church because we want to teach
consistent basis.
about Jesus ... proclaim the good
Just recently, OLPHCS middleschoolers participated in "Future Cities," a statewide competition with
Catholic faith. "Catholic
means
'embracing
other parochial schools and returned
the totality.' The Catholic church is
home with several awards.
present in every country and we
Students who attend OLPHCS
have that [cultural diversity] here in
continue their high school education
the church, which is very amazing,"
at either a Catholic-based or public
Mears closed.
school.
The Rev. Timothy Meares stands at the doorway of the church.
news about Jesus Christ and the
Rudy Coggins is a longtime Sports
"Oftentimes, I've had teachers
Editor in Tarboro, Goldsboro and
from public high schools recognize
Rocky Mount. He has covered prep
our children because they're well-
sports for more than two decades,
behaved, very respectful and they
and is a regular contributor to Eastern
do well," Meares said. "That is due
North Carolina Living.
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Gates
Story & Photos by Thadd White
More than
outward
beauty Philadelphia UMC is truly home
I
t’s a beautiful historic structure located in
earlier churches in the Sunbury community.
Church, which is just half a mile from
a town overflowing with them.
One such church was Constant’s Chapel, an
Philadelphia UMC. In addition, Damascus
Philadelphia United Methodist Church was
Anglican congregation about a half-mile from
Christian Church, located across the street
built in 1911, and is an example of a Gothic
the present day location. The church seems to
from Philadelphia UMC, was started when
Revival structure located in its home of
have collapsed due to the lack of support from
two brothers had a dispute over a ladder,
Sunbury.
the Church of England following the war.
The church isn’t just a beautiful old building
Isaac Hunter, who had been prominent in
– it’s also home for those who still regularly
the Constant’s Congregation, was instrumental
attend services there.
in forming Philadelphia Methodist Episcopal
Ed Morgan was born and raised at
Church from the remnants of Constant’s.
Philadelphia UMC and follows in the footsteps
The earliest documentation indicate the
of four generations of his family in attending
land for the church was deeded from Hunter
services there.
to the church trustees – John Walton, William
“Both of my parents grew up here and
Cater, Edward R. Hunter, Noah Harrell, James
went to church here,” Morgan said. “It’s a
Lassiter, Henry Lassiter and William Brothers.
family type church, and most of those who
The church had its earliest foundations
attend live right here in Sunbury.” That has been the case for much of the history of the church, which dates back to the pre-Revolutionary War days. Philadelphia UMC had its origins from
44
from Hunter’s relationship with the Rev. Frances Asbury, who was the first Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America. Bishop Asbury was also instrumental in forming St. John’s African Methodist Episcopal
according to Making Disciples by the Rev. Lisa Creech Bledsoe (1997).
Morgan left Sunbury to attend college and remained in the Raleigh area until returning
The current church was built in 1911 and
in 2001. He went to work at Kellogg-Morgan
featured a cross-gable building focusing on
Agency across the street from the church. He
a central partially inset two-stage tower. The
also settled back in Sunbury.
strong pyramidal roof shelters an open belfry. The interior of the church follows what is called the “Akron Plan,” featuring curving pews
When
he
considered
his
church
destination, Morgan mused at the thought of going anywhere else.
which are arranged in a fan-like manner facing
“Never any doubt,” he said.
the recessed chancel.
Returning to the church he was raised in,
The appointments include a handsome
Morgan said he was pleased to see his own
turned baluster communion rail as well as a
children brought up in the same congregation
beaded tongue-and-groove sheathing on the
he was.
ceiling and wainscot. The building also featured beautiful threepane stained glass windows which allow an abundance of natural light to flow in.
“We don’t have a lot of young people, but it has been great to have my children grow up in this church,” he said.
Such is the beauty of the design of
his grandmother sat when he attended church as a young boy. He said it is comforting to be
design for their own buildings. They included
in his home church each Sunday.
Parkers Methodist Church near Corapeake as
It’s a sentiment shared by most in the small
well as Newland in Pasquotank County and
congregation as they enjoy the beauty and
Woodland in Perquimans County.
splendor of a historic congregation – but to
church are remembered through history books, those in attendance at Philadelphia UMC remember it much more personally. Many, like Morgan, never considered any other church.
It’s a sentiment shared by most in the small congregation as they enjoy the beauty and splendor of a historic congregation – but to them it is simply home.
Morgan also said he remembered where
Philadelphia UMC, other churches used the
While the structure and history of the
Far left: The pulpit area of Philadelphia United Methodist Church is as beautiful as it is historic. Left: The stained glass windows allow natural light to flood into the sanctuary. Above: A cross stands outside the church.
them it is simply home. Philadelphia United Methodist Church is located at 85 N.C. 32 North in Sunbury. Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living, the Bertie Ledger-Advance and the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
Ed Morgan in the pew his grandmother sat in all his life. 45
Washington
Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls
Faith Remains Still Standing Up and Reaching Out
W
ar and the economy marked
church cemetery was established. Both were
the history of Plymouth’s First
accomplished for $800.
Baptist Church. For much of the Civil War, Plymouth was a town divided by allegiance or wealth. In the aftermath of the Battle of Plymouth and the war as a whole, one thing joined all residents – devastation. “Over three quarters of this town were destroyed,” according to Paul Lilly, church member.
Today the original building is still being utilized, following renovations, and is the home of Mt. Hebron AME Zion Church near Madison and Fifth streets.
church members.” In 1967, another renovation brought on the enlargement of the sanctuary and it was
Within a year, the church was renamed the Washington Street Baptist Church. It was in the late 1940s when the church
years surrounding 1866, but that did not stop
it to face Third Street. Around this same time,
12 brave souls from establishing a Missionary
the membership had reportedly risen from 79
Baptist Church, known as “Plymouth Baptist
to over 400. The church was again renamed,
Church.”
this time to Ludford Memorial Baptist Church. Enoch and Ellen B. Ludford had donated “lot number 49,” according to the town’s
It would be nearly three years later when
original plat, for the 1915 church construction.
their first church structure was built and a
According to church history, the couple also
46
built, according to church records, “largely by
In 1915, a new brick building was erected at
underwent extensive renovations in order for
The first pastor of record was J.M.C. Luke,
In early 1950s, the education building was
the corner of Washington and Third streets.
Finances were a struggle for residents in the
who served from 1868-1870.
donated “$4,000 towards the new building.”
The financial devastation of post-Civil War Plymouth paved the way for the first economic crisis to impact religion in the area.
attached to the education building.
Karen Pruette, they are maintaining as much
The final name change of the church occurred in 1971 when it became Plymouth First Baptist Church. The church’s educational building was renamed the “Enoch Ludford Memorial Education Building.”
normality as possible. “She’s really carrying the load right now,” Brenda Bullock said of their youth pastor. Church members celebrated what they describe as an “active youth program.”
The economy’s impact on Plymouth’s
Whether it is through the summer Vacation
First Baptist Church has been directly linked
Bible School Block Party or the backpack
to Domtar Paper Mill, formerly known as
ministry that helps feed local children during
Weyerhaeuser, and its predecessors.
the school year, the congregation believes
“I came here in 1974 and there were lots of active Weyerhaeuser employees in the church,” Lilley said.
strongly in reaching out to help others. The annual Turkey Trot, their Thanksgiving dinner for others, is a long-time event at the
Plant downsizings and retirements have impacted the congregation over the years.
church. Last year, members say about 200 meals were prepared for shut-ins and others
“There’s almost nobody in the church now that is an active employee,” according to Lilly. The church had a strong influx of West Virginians whose descendants remain in Plymouth today.
Enoch Ludford is a primary figure in the history of this church, which bared his name at one time.
nearby in conjunction with other churches. “We’ve got the kitchen,” Lilly said. The commercial kitchen was no accident, according to the members, and well used. “This is truly a loving group,” Bullock
“They relocated when the Kieckhefer came here,” Lilly explained. Kieckhefer-Eddy,
The sanctuary of Plymouth’s First Baptist Church receives light much differently than many churches due to the fact that they do not have stained glass windows. The clear glass makes for beautiful natural light.
explained. First Baptist Church of Plymouth is home
which
originated
in
West Virginia, was the predecessor to Weyerhaeuser. Today the congregation is seeking a full-time pastor. With the assistance of an interim pastor and the church’s youth pastor,
to an active Men’s group. “The Men’s group does a lot of ramp building around the area,” according to Ken Watlington. And the list of outreach and activities goes far beyond this story.
Music plays an important role in the First Baptist Church, from the vocal choir to the handbell choir.
The annual Turkey Trot, their Thanksgiving
dinner for others, is a long-time event at the
church. Last year, members say about 200
meals were prepared for shut-ins and others
nearby in conjunction with other churches.
A 2019 mission trip to Miami, Florida gave the youth group an opportunity to help lead Vacation Bible School at the Jamaican Parkway Baptist Church.
47
with the church for 30 years. “Between Denita and Karen, they carry us,” Bullock said. Lilly and Watlington both arrived in the area in the mid-1970s. Bullock has been a part of the church for more than 50 years. Music and many things have changed over the decades; however, this church has remained in its original area and still open to all who come to the door. First Baptist Church of Plymouth is located at 309 Washington St., on the corner of Washington and Third Streets. Bible Study is at 9:45 a.m. each Sunday. Worship service follows at 11 a.m. Plymouth FBC hosts a variety of programs
The church’s original building was moved blocks away. It would later be renovated and remains a house of worship today. It is currently housed by Mt. Hebron AME Zion Church. “There’s an awful lot of people in this
arrived was “the men do all the cooking.”
church not from here and I’m one of them,”
“And it’s a blessing,” Bullock laughed.
Lilly said.
Another blessing, according to Bullock, is
One thing that surprised Lilly when he
their secretary, Denita Davis, who has been
and mission groups for all ages. The church office can be reached at (252) 793-5026 or via email at fbcoff@embarqmail. com. Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for Eastern North Carolina Living and the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
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The Spin Man • Bouncy Houses • Train Rides Video Gaming Trailer • Craft & Food Vendors Aulander Ruritan Club Cornhole Tournament • Face Painting by Tudi
Bertie Ledger–Advance Community News at your Fingertips
The Windsor/Bertie Chamber of Commerce represents and advocates business interests, promotes economic growth, provides leadership in community affairs, enhances the quality of life for the people of Bertie County and provides services and programs for its members.
121 Granville Street, Windsor, NC 27983 www.windsorbertiechamber.com (252) 794-4277
Thadd White Editor twhite@ncweeklies.com Jim Green Sports Editor jgreen@ncweeklies.com Leslie Beachboard News Editor lbeachboard@ncweeklies.com Michelle Leicester Creative Services Director mleicester@ncweeklies.com Jessica Mobley Advertising Manager jmobley@ncweeklies.com
history meets adventure
• Roxobel • Windsor • Merry Hill • Powellsville • Lewiston Woodville Aulande r • Colerain • Kelford • Lewiston Woodville • Merry Hill Aske • Powellsv wville ille • Roxobel • Aula • Windsor nde r • Cole rain • Kelf ord • Lew iston B1 S Woo dvill e • Mer ry Hill DECEMBER 26, 2018 • Pow ellsv WEDNESDAY ille • SportS B1 Roxobe • DECEMBER 19, 2018
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109 S. King St • PO Box 69 Windsor, NC 27983 Phone: 252-794-3185 Fax: 252-794-2835 oss Americ continues annual trad a ition Founder
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51
Early Churches Story by Janice Cole Hopkins
N
ot surprisingly, early church growth in North Carolina
started near the coast and spread west because this was the pattern of first settlement and growth. At first, Britain tried to establish the Church of England in its colonies, but North Carolinians didn’t like paying taxes to support the church, so other denominations also have an early history in the state. Records show that the Society of Friends (Quakers) began in North Carolina in 1692, followed by the Anglicans (or later Episcopalians) in 1700. The Baptists came into the state in 1727, the Presbyterians in 1730, the Lutherans in 1740, the Moravians in 1753 and the Methodists in 1772. After the Revolutionary War, the Anglican Church was no longer welcome in the new nation, and those churches were changed to Episcopal
Churches.
Therefore,
many of the older churches in the Eastern Region are Episcopal. In fact, the oldest church in the state is St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bath. It was founded in 1734, although its history dates back even earlier. A Spanish clergyman, who could barely speak English, and went unpaid for four years, baptized 635 people in a single year. The Rev. John Garzia secured valuable gifts, like a silver communion chalice, from the bishop and two silver candelabra from King George II, when the St. Thomas
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Edenton.
Church building was consecrated in 1744. Early in its history, St. Thomas
52
in North Carolina Wherever they came from, however, religion played an important part in the history of North Carolina. For much of the state’s history, the churches set the standards for a community and its society.
new constitution for the state of North Carolina. Joseph Hewes would sign the Declaration of Independence, and Samuel Johnston would first be governor and later a senator. It’s not easy to find and sequence the oldest churches because the exact dates are often unavailable for a variety of reasons. First of all, someone must determine what event the
Parish had more resources than most in the
church will be dated by. Is it when the first
colonies. Through Dr. Thomas Bray's efforts
group of people began to meet, when they
to make appropriate books and pamphlets
were officially organized into a congregation, or
available to missionaries in the colonies, the
when the first building was erected? Those who
parish had a library of 1,050 items. Donated in
go by when people began meeting informally,
1701, the library was first housed at a plantation
find it becomes difficult to pin down their
in the parish but moved to the church when it
history and come up with a date. Shiloh Baptist
was built. This would have also been the first
Church in Camden County is a good example
library in North Carolina.
of this.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Edenton
The earliest known existing record of the
is another church of historical significance.
Shiloh Baptist Church is a petition to the Court
Built 1736-1766, the pretty, brick church was
of Pasquotank Precinct, which requested that
considered a large one in its time. It’s part of St.
the court record the meeting of the new Baptist
Paul’s Parish, established in 1701, and is still in
congregation. William Burges and others had
use today.
signed it.
The graveyard beside St. Paul’s is the final
By 1727, people were worshipping in the
resting place for people like Thomas Pollock,
home of Burges, who was listed as the pastor.
Henderson Walker, and Charles Eden, who
This makes Shiloh Baptist Church the oldest
gave his name to the town. This graveyard
continually worshipping Baptist church in North
began in 1722, when Edenton became the
Carolina. The number of worshipers
capital of North Carolina.
grew so much that in 1736
The oldest possessions of the church are
they built a small church
the book of vestry minutes, beginning in 1701,
next to Burges’ home. The
and a chalice and paten that Edward Mosley
petition for this church was
gave the church in 1725. Not many churches in
made to the King's Court
the country have artifacts as old.
Sept. 5, 1729. This is the date
A large number of Revolutionary leaders
denominations
and
ethnic
background.
The Quakers were one of the groups that experienced persecution in England and came to the New World looking for more freedom to worship as they thought best. German groups brought with them a strong Lutheran presence and a few Moravian communities. Along with the large waves of Scotch-Irish immigrants came Presbyterian beliefs. Wherever they came from, however, religion played an important part in the history of North Carolina. For much of the state’s history, the churches set the standards for a community and its society. Attending church became the acceptable thing to do. Janice Cole Hopkins is a professional writer with numerous
published books, and is a regular
contributor
to Eastern North Carolina Living.
that the state highway marker lists
from the state attended St. Paul's, and most
for the establishment of the church, and
of them continued to be noteworthy after the
it calls it, “the oldest Baptist Church in North
war. James Iredell became a Supreme Court
Carolina.”
Justice. Thomas Jones may have written the
church history is the connection between
Another
factor
influencing
early
53
One of the more popular features of the Aurora Fossil Museum is being able to dig for your own fossils in the “Pits of the Pungo.”
Aurora Fossil
MUSEUM Story and Photos by Jim Green
Want to step way back in time and learn about paleontology? How about digging for your own fossils in
“A lot of museums are founded based on a local unique characteristic, said Cynthia Crane, executive director of the museum.
to Aurora.” The town partnered with East Carolina University, Texas Gulf, NC Phosphate Company
what is affectionately dubbed “The Pits of the
The Aurora Fossil Museum is no exception.
Pungo?”
The main museum houses a wide variety
The Learning Center across from the
of Miocene and Pliocene marine fossils with
museum houses a world class collection of gems
most displays showcasing specimens collected
and minerals as well as a fluorescent mineral
Look no further than the Aurora Fossil Museum, located at 400 Main St.
and others in getting this started,” she added.
The museum, founded in 1976 and opened in
from the neighboring Nutrien Phosphate Mine
room. There is also a collection of fossils from
1978, is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) science education
(formerly known as Texas Gulf Sulfur, PCS
around the world including Cambrian trilobites
resource center. Its mission is to increase
Phospate, PotashCorp. Features in the shark
and the remnants of the Ice Age Mastodon.
knowledge of the geology, paleontology and
hall are remnants of the terror of the Miocene-
prehistory of coastal North Carolina in an
Pliocene seas, C. meegalodon.
engaging and enjoyable manner.
After spending time learning, guests can dig for their own fossils in the Fossil Park.
“When they were mining for phosphate
These pits, consisting of fossiliferous material
The museum asscomplishes this through
and extracting it, they discovered fossils and it
donated by the neighboring Nutrien Phosphate
exhibits, interactive inquiry-based activities,
ended up being a premier location for Miocene
plant, offer visitors the opportunity to search
outreach programs, events, field studies and
and Pliocene marine fossils,” said Crane, herself
and discover their own Miocene age fossils.
involvement in the annual Fossil Festival held on
a paleontologist and geologist. “As an economic
In these pits, one may discover the remains
Memorial Day weekend.
idea, they founded the museum to being people
of ancient sharks, whales, bony fish and coral,
54
just to name a few.
with marine life and native American
“This is material that went through
rooms. Over the past few decades,
the process of phosphate extraction,
a mine room, shark room, gift shop,
so it’s material they don’t need,” Crane
learning center and the park have
said. “They donate it to the museum
been added.
for our visitors to sift through and take home a piece of Aurora with them.” The Aurora Fossil Museum is one of only two museums in the United States that has a fossil dig directly
“As the years have rolled on, it has expanded to become three corners of a crossroads on Main Street in Aurora, Crane said. The
megalodon
shark
teeth
associated with a museum that
exhibits are popular, as it’s the state
houses a collection of those fossils,
fossil of North Carolina, she said.
Crane said. The other one, located in Michigan, is now closed.
The
nonprofit
organization
encourages and accepts donations
“People come from all over the United States and the world to visit
and is working on a strategic plan for future expansion.
Aurora and the museum,” she added.
“We have goals for our future,
Since Crane took over directorship
which will be exciting to increase our
of the museum five years ago, it has
services and what we offer,” Crane
increased visitorship from around
said. “We plan on more fundraisers
14,000 a year to 20,000 during
and want to keep this museum
this past fiscal year. They also hold
admission free.”
a calendar year campaign where a
“It’s a unique experience which
visitor from every state receives an
brings out the kid in everybody,” she
ornament with the logo on it.
added.
By June of this year, someone
Hours of operation are 9 a.m.-
from all 50 states had visited the
4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday
museum.
and 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sundays.
The museum has also actively
Check the social media pages
increased its social media presence
(Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) for
on Instagram (Aurora Fossil Museum),
updates regarding schedule changes.
(AuroraFossilmus)
and
Facebook (Aurora.Fossil.Museum). The museum opened in 1978
For more information, call 252322-4238 or send an email to info@ aurorafossilmuseum.org.
Top: The Layers Under Foot display shows layers of sediment created by the rise and fall of sea levels millions of years ago when North Carolina was comprised of a rocky coastline. One of the artifacts on display at the museum.
A young visitor to the museum digs for his own fossils. (inset) 55
Let the healing begin
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56
PRESENTED BY THE NORTHAMPTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
57
Extension Master Gardener Sue Moore, left, and Master Gardener Volunteer Linda Tippette work in a garden at the Nash County Arboretum.
Admire the landscape Story by Jenny White Photos by Sarah Louya 58
O
ne
Nash
perfect
County
for
location
admiring
the
it be the flitting of busy pollinators, the wafting of floral aromas, something
changes in the landscape is
budding or blooming, the forming
the Nash County Arboretum.
of new leaves and twigs and yes,
Located in front of and around the Nash
even weeds popping up.” Master
County Agriculture Center on Eastern Avenue
Gardener
in Nashville, the arboretum is a living mural of the plants and trees found in eastern North
garden to visit is the Tranquility
Carolina.
Garden, but she spends most of
Nash County Horticulture Agent Matt
said
her
Linda
Tippette
favorite
her time planning and working
Stevens is the official superintendent of
in the Homestead Project and
the arboretum, but Nash County Extension
Garden area.
Master Gardeners conceptualized it in 2000
“I’ve learned a lot from seeing the
and have provided the ideas and manpower
gardens here at the Arboretum and have
to nurture and grow it since then.
applied what I’ve learned to my gardens at
“
Stevens said after much prep work, the
home. That’s the beauty of the arboretum —
first plants for the arboretum were planted in 2004.
“Today there are 11 demonstration gardens in the arboretum and what you can see in
each garden changes through the seasons and over the years,” Stevens said.
The demonstration gardens include the
Rose Garden, Woodland Garden, Rain Garden, Pollinator Garden, Terraced Garden, Patriot
Garden, 4-H Garden, Screening Garden, Tranquility Garden, a Holly Garden and a
Homestead Garden that’s located behind the
There is always something in motion in the gardens,
Master Gardener volunteers curate a large
of busy pollinators, the
perennials, trees, shrubs, vegetable plants,
wafting of floral aromas,
will be garden accessories, a silent auction and
something
budding
or
blooming, the forming
which has been moved to the property.
and
educational.
to noon on April 27 at the Agriculture Center. collection of plants to sell including annuals,
Agriculture Center beside a historic log cabin
through and enjoy, Stevens said they’re also
the Spring Plant Sale, will be held from 8 a.m.
whether it be the flitting
of new leaves and twigs
While the gardens are beautiful to walk
Sue Moore looks out to admire the beauty of Arboretum at the Nash County Arboretum.
yes,
even
weeds
popping up.
-Master Gardener Sue Battle Moore
herbs and fruit plants. Tippette said there also a raffle with a generator as the prize. “The best thing about the Plant Sale is all the Master Gardeners you can consult with and get good free advice on how to plant and grow what you’re buying,” Tippette said. “Master Gardeners know the best dirt.” Moore said she and the other volunteers see the arboretum as a hidden gem in the
“People in the community can come and
Twin Counties and do the work to cultivate it
see options for their gardens at their homes.
and nurture it because it’s an important part of
If you’ve got a shady spot where you can’t
you can learn and enjoy at the same time,”
get anything to grow, our Woodland Garden
Tippette said.
the community. “It’s really something to be proud of, here in our little corner of eastern North Carolina.
can offer up some ideas. We try to show the
While neither Stevens nor Moore would
community the diversity of plants you can
pick a favorite garden at the arboretum,
plant in our area that are proven to work well
Moore said she’s spent a lot of time in the
sit and relax and be closer to nature,” Moore
with our climate,” Stevens said.
Holly Garden in the past year.
said.
It’s a beautiful place, to come and learn, or just
“It was left relatively unattended for
The Nash County Extension Master
a while, and it’s been fun researching and
Gardeners are always looking for new
Master Gardener Sue Battle Moore of
designing an up to date Holly garden with new
volunteers. Master Gardeners go through a
Rocky Mount says the arboretum is one of her
species,” Moore said. “As with all gardens, it’s a
training and education program to receive a
favorite places anywhere.
work in progress.”
master gardener certification. Stevens said
Self-guided tours are offered every day, from sunrise to sunset.
“I see our arboretum as a virtual outdoor
In addition to maintaining the Nash County
museum and classroom featuring Mother
Arboretum, Nash County Extension Master
Nature at her best,” she said. “There is always
Gardeners also raise money to support the
something in motion in the gardens, whether
arboretum. Their biggest fundraising event,
interested residents can contact the Nash Agriculture Center at 252-459-9810. Jenny White is a Staff Writer for the Rocky Mount Telegram.
59
Chubby’s Carpet Center, Inc. East Ceramic, Carpet, Vinyl & Wood Flooring, Carolina Luxury Vinyl Tile & Plank –We Also Bind Area Rugs – 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
We are very excited to introduce our new Design Consultant, Liz Catapano She has nearly 20 years of experience as a flooring specialist in residential and commercial sales along with the artistic experience in interior decorating and home design. From carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, LVT and ceramic tile (backsplashes & showers too), she can help you design your home on whatever budget is comfortable. Liz loves her customers, and will be happy to assist them from the time they walk thru the door until their installation is complete, and they are satisfied. Come on by and talk with Liz about your next renovation or new construction.
CHUBBY WOOLARD Ph. 252-975-7544 Fax 252-975-7593
3654 Hwy. 264 East Washington, NC 27889
chubbyscarpetcenter@embarqmail.com
eAsTern nc InDOOr shOOTInG rAnGe
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axE throwIng 60
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61
I
n
October,
“The
Wall That Heals,”
something, we think, that is very special.”
a three-quarter-scale replica of
The Wall That Heals contains
the Vietnam Memorial, will be in
58,276 names, including eight
Tarboro. It will be presented by
women, 31 sets of brothers and
the Edgecombe County Veterans
three sets of fathers and sons.
Memorial Museum.
“The average age of the service
The stop, set to be held from
members of The Wall is 22 years
Oct. 17-20 at Braswell Park, will be
and nine months,” Hale said. “The
one of 33 across made across the
youngest, Don Bullock, was only 15
nation. The wall will be open from 9
years old when he was killed, and
a.m. on Oct. 17 until 2 p.m. on Oct.
he was from Goldsboro. He was 14
20. The Wall That Heals (TWTH)
when he altered his birth certificate
will be open to all visitors 24 hours
so that he join the Marines.”
a day and is free to the public.
Bullock graduated from boot
In addition to The Wall, a mobile
camp at Parris Island on Dec. 10,
education center will also be open
1968, and died on June 7, 1969,
24/7, and includes a “Wall of
during a night attack on An Hoa
Heroes,” a digital history of local
Combat Base when he was killed
and area servicemen who fell in
instantly while perimeter security.
Vietnam. According to government archives,
34
Edgecombe
servicemen County
died
Nearly 400,000 people visited
from
The Wall That Heals exhibit in
in
2018. Since its debut in 1996, the
Vietnam. The Wall That Heals honors the
exhibit has been on display in more than 500 U.S. communities.
more than 3 million Americans who
“We hope that by bringing The
served in the U.S. Armed forces in
Wall That Heals to eastern North
the Vietnam War and it bears the
Carolina that we offer as many
names of the more than 58,000
people as possible to pay their
men and women who made the
respects and have closure,” Hale
ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.
said.
The replica wall is 375-feet long
Hale said tours will be available
and 7 1/2-feet tall at its highest
for school children and the mobile
point. It is an exact scale replica of
education center will include video
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial,
displays that teach about the
and is constructed in a manner that
history and impact of The Wall
allows visitors to make rubbings of
as well as a map of Vietnam and
the names of those who died in
a chronological overview of the
service to their country.
Vietnam War.
TWTH allows many Americans
The
Edgecombe
County
the opportunity to recognize the
Veterans Military Museum is a
sacrifices made and to pay their
volunteer organization honoring
respects to the fallen.
the
men
and
women
from
“We’re extremely excited to be
Edgecombe County who have
able to bring The Wall That Heals
served their nation in the military. It
to Tarboro,” said Veterans Museum
operates on donations and accepts
President Donnie Hale. “To have
no government funding.
the opportunity to recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice is
62
For more information, email TWTHtarboro1019@gmail.
The Wall That Heals
63
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Zenley is one of the top attractions of the Livermon Park & Mini Zoo.
Livermon Park & Mini-Zoo
Story by Peri Wheeler Photos by Lewis Hoggard
L
ocated across from the Cashie
a variety of animals to see from pigs to a
to join the zoo. She is from King George’s,
Wetlands Walk, there’s a sight to see.
zebra. Find potbelly pigs, llamas, emus,
Va. and she is now 4 years old. She enjoys
Those who have missed out on the
miniature horses, alpacas, bighorn sheep
eating her hay and standing in the shade.
opportunity should visit the free Livermon Park & Mini-Zoo – located in the heart of Bertie County. Instead of traveling hours to go visit
and a buffalo.
Zenley is like the other animals in the
There are also many feathered friends
park and cannot be touched. Since her
such as peacocks, pigeons, doves, turkeys,
arrival there has been an increase in people
geese, guineas, pheasants and chickens.
that travel to the park, mainly to see her
a zoo and paying entrance fees, there is
In 2015, the Livermon Park and Mini-
one right around the corner. There are
Zoo gained Zenley, who was the first Zebra
and the buffalo. Cathy Wilson, who oversees the zoo in
Left: Peri Wheeler takes a look at the turkeys. Right: Hunter Frazer, 7, loves visiting the park for the slides and peacocks. He is pictured with a couple of turkeys. 66
her role as a Windsor Commissioner, said, “Livermon Park and Mini-Zoo provides a safe, fun and exciting place for thousands of children and adults. Especially in the Spring there are busloads of students from many
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counties enjoying all that the park and minizoo offer. For many it is the first time they have seen a buffalo, lama, zebra, etc.” There are some fun facts about zebras. A zebra basically does not do well as a domesticated animal. In other words, Zebras are not normally ridden. The zebra is part of the equidae family. This family also consists of horses and donkeys. Like most horses and donkeys, they stand up to sleep, they eat grass and hay, and they have amazing vision and hearing. Since the equidae family enjoys being in herds, it was concerning when Zenley arrived at the park and she was young and slightly lonely. She now shares a pen with a pair of sheep who keep her company. Additionally, a baby goat is next door with its mother. No one zebra has the same black and white stripes; they are all different and
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252-792-2250
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unique. A zebra’s stripes also work as bug repellant and they keep the bugs and horse flies away. “Every year the Town of Windsor appropriates funds to maintain the facility and on occasion purchase new playground equipment,” Wilson said. “We have discussed adding a small giraffe but as with any new animal we have to thoroughly research all aspects. “The park and mini-zoo run smoothly due to the dedication of Wayne Hill, who has been the department head for many years, and has recently celebrated his 30-year anniversary with the town of Windsor,” she continued. “Throughout the year there are unannounced zoo inspections. Thanks to Wayne we always pass ‘with flying colors’.” Wilson said while there is much on site already, there are more plans for the future. “Our future plans include moving the one room school house and possibly The Freeman Hotel to open space for a new attraction,” she said. Peri Wheeler was a summer intern for the Windsor/Bertie Chamber of Commerce.
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The
Guardian
Beacham knows the story behind nearly every gravestone in the cemetery, even recalling which stones the family helped put down.
WILLIAMSTON MAN’S SERVICE
PRESERVES HISTORY Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls Those who regularly drive past the historic Skewarkee Cemetery are likely to have seen a green truck parked under the trees. The
driver,
Beacham,
has
Johnny
Those who know Beacham know one of many reasons is to
Frank
developed
“I can’t help but wonder,” he said.
a
special attachment to caring for the grounds that has connected them for decades.
The
cherished
connection
with his aunt and uncle continued
two years in Conetoe living with
to strengthen over the years.
extended family.
There was one day, following
continue caring for the sacred
Around the age of 15, Beacham
Beacham’s 1990 retirement from
ground first tended to by his
returned to Martin County to live
Thurston Motor Lines, which
special guardians.
with Fenner and Gladys Bonds,
cemented his connection to the
his aunt and uncle. Gladys was
Skewarkee Cemetery itself.
It’s hard to imagine the now pristine cemetery so thick with
Beacham, who recently turned
underbrush, burials would have
90 years old, struggles with why
been extremely difficult, but that
he remains here when so many
was the case just a few decades
others have passed away.
ago.
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As a child, Beacham lost his father at an early age. He spent
the sister of his late father. “They were so good to me,” he explained. “He kept me out of trouble,” Beacham said of his Uncle Fenner.
“I don’t know where I was going, but I came by the cemetery and saw my uncle and aunt out here and she was pushing a lawn mower,” he explained.
this place straight,” speaking of the cemetery. The Bonds’ had been members of Skewarkee Primitive Baptist Church since the 1970’s and had ties to the church which went back even farther.
Biggs, fallen Confederate soldier and many members of the Skewarkee Primitive Baptist
myrtles that dress up the cemetery grounds. In 1999, Bonds and Beacham received the
That was when Beacham put his aunt in the truck and took her home. He fought back tears as he continued. “I told her right then I never wanted to
Governor’s
Award
for
Outstanding
Volunteerism for their work at the Skewarkee Cemetery. Although not technically brothers, which no one could convince them, Beacham and Bonds’ son, Noah Ray, became a team in many ways throughout their lives. Once Noah Ray retired, the cemetery upkeep was just another way they worked
Church congregation are laid to rest or remembered in the historic cemetery. Beacham knows the story behind nearly every stone. Another remembered there is Cecil Bradford Bonds, Fenner’s brother. “Yea, I sure do remember him,” Beacham said pointing to his stone markers. Only 21 years old at the time, Bonds was a member of the second battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, FMF; and was killed on June 15, 1944 in the Marianas Islands area.
together. And the generations began helping.
It is just one more link to the past and one
More help comes from his wife, Bessie.
more resting place for Beacham to watch over.
see her out here pushing a mower,” Beacham
She keeps flower arrangements ready to be
recalled.
place around the cemetery.
“I promised them then and there we’d get
Elder Cushing Biggs Hassell, a leader of
hours out here,” Beacham said as he cracked
set out most of the bushes and the crape
difficult.
was laid to rest. the local Primitive Baptist Church; William
Beacham, along with his aunt and uncle,
Her health made the task even more
is where a great deal of Martin County history
“Me and him (Fenner Bonds) had many a smile.
Johnny Frank Beacham, 90, takes great pride in caring for the historic Skewarkee Cemetery in Williamston.
Skewarkee Primitive Baptist Church next door,
Skewarkee Cemetery, originally utilized by
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for Eastern North Carolina Living and the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
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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.
Sept. 15 Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present “The Sound of Music” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but a $5 donation would be greatly appreciated. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Educational Program GATESVILLE – Merchants Millpond State Park will host “The Wonderful Beaver” from 2:30 p.m.- 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15. The program will discuss in detail the effects of beavers at Merchants Mill Pond and the effects wolves have on Yellowstone National Park. Merchants Millpond State Park is located at 176 Millpond Rd. in Gatesville. For more information, call 252-3571191. Sept. 17 Open Mic Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host an open mic night Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Historic Turnage Theatre. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504.
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Watercolor Painting Class WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host a watercolor painting class for adults from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17. Participants will paint an 8”x10” watercolor painting under the guidance of Carolyn Dail. The cost of the class is $50 for members and $55 for nonmembers. All materials are included. The Bertie County Arts Council Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor. For more information or to register, call 252-794-9402 or email bertiecountyartscouncil@gmail.com. Sept. 19 Digital Art Show WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts Council will host a digital art show open reception from 6:30 p.m.8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19. Submissions to the exhibit will be received Tuesday, Sept. 10 through Saturday, Sept.14 during regular business hours from noon- 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m.2 p.m. on Saturday. The Martin County Arts Council is located at 124 Washington St. in Williamston. Sept. 21 Annual Benefit Auction COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Art will host its annual Benefit Auction Saturday, Sept. 21. The auction will include over 100
handcrafted works of art along with food and entertainment. The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft is located at 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, visit www. pocosinarts.org/benefit-auction.
22 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Tickets are $12 and $10. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504.
Laboring in Halifax: 18th Century Trades Fair HALIFAX – Laboring in Halifax: 18th Century Trades Fair will be held from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21. Spectators will see demonstrations of working in the 18th Century in Halifax. There will be traditional crafts and trades. The event will be held at Historic Halifax, 25 St. David St. in Halifax. For more information, call 252-5837191.
Sept. 23 & 25 Taylor Religious Heritage Lectures MURFREESBORO – Chowan University will host the Taylor Religious Heritage Lectures at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 23 and Wednesday, Sept. 25. Admission is free and open to the public. The lectures will be held in the Turner Auditorium inside McDowellColumns Hall at Chowan University, 1 University Place in Murfreesboro. For more information, contact Lou Ann Gilliam at 252-398-6317 or email gillil@chowan.edu.
Sept. 21-22 Dylan Moore Days Celebration HALIFAX – The Riding to RememberDylan Moore Days Celebration will be held Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22. The event will be held at the Halifax County 4-H Horse and Livestock Complex, 1 Dog Pound Rd. in Halifax. For more information, call 252-5784964 or visit www.dylanmooredays. org. Performance WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s AOP Players will present “Greater Tuna” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept 21 and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept.
Sept. 27 Art Walk WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host wine tasting and Chuck Phillip’s Acoustic Music from 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Sept. 27 & 28 Carolina Country Stampede WILLIAMSTON – The Carolina Country Stampede will be held starting at 7
Smoke on the Water is planned for Oct. 18 and 19 in beautiful downtown Washington.
p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 and at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. The event will include food, vendors, rides and entertainment. The Carolina Country Stampede will be held on Main Street in Williamston. Halifax County Harvest Days HALIFAX – The Halifax County Harvest Days will be held from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 and 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. There will be entertainment, food, crafts and vendors. The event will be held at the 4-H Rural Life Center, 13763 Hwy 903 in Halifax. For more information, call 252-5835161. Sept. 28 Hand On Art Festival WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host a hands-on art festival Saturday, Sept. 28 at Haven’s Gardens. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Couples and Singles Dance WASHINGTON – The USA Dance Chapter 6046 will host a couples and singles dance at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Tickets are $12 and $10. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Classic Car Show SCOTLAND NECK – Scotland Neck’s Annual Classic Car Show will be held Saturday, Sept. 28. The car show will host dozens of classic, vintage and muscle cars. Admission is free. The car show will be held at The Town Commons, 1310 Main St. in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-8263152. Bigfoot In The Park HOLLISTER – The Cryptozoology and Paranormal Museum will host “Bigfoot In The Park” from 9 a.m.5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. Participants will see the location of multiple Bigfoot sightings. There will be guest speakers and local vendors. Admission is free.
The event will be held at Medoc Mountain State Park, 1541 Medoc Mountain Rd. in Hollister. For more information, call 631-2201231. Oct. 1 Children’s Art Class WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host a Spooky Halloween Wall Hanging Art Class for Children from 4 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1. Students will create Halloween wall hangings using four 5”x7” canvasses. The class is for ages 6 through 12. The cost 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. Auditions WASHINGTON – Auditions for “A Christmas Carol” at 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1. The auditions will be held at Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 W. Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact 252946-2504. Oct. 4 Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present “Kinky Boots” at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but a $5 donation would be greatly appreciated. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504.
Oct. 5 Painting Pumpkins and Gourds COLUMBIA – The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Arts will host creatively painted pumpkins and gourds Saturday, Oct. 5. Participants will create their own oneof-a-kind painted pumpkin. The Pocosin Arts School of Fine Arts is located at 201 Main St. in Columbia. For more information, call 252-7962787. Oct. 6 Educational Program GATESVILLE – Merchants Millpond State Park will host “The Wonderful Beaver” from 2:30 p.m.- 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. The program will discuss in detail the effects of beavers at Merchants Mill Pond and the effects wolves have on Yellowstone National Park. Merchants Millpond State Park is located at 176 Millpond Rd. in Gatesville. For more information, call 252-3571191. Oct. 8 Acrylic Painting Class for Adults WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host an acrylic painting class for adults from 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8. Instructor Tina Fielder will guide participants step-by-step to paint a rustic barn scene. The cost of the class is $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers. The Bertie County Arts Council Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor. For more information or to register, call 252-724-2880 or email bertiecountyartscouncil@gmail.com. Highland Echoes WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host Highland Echoes from 7:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8.
Tickets will range from $10 to $35 in advance and $15 to $40 at the door. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 910-3380787 or visit www.highlandechoes. com. Oct. 11 Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho WASHINGTON – Clay Johnson Productions will present Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” from 7:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11. The film is rated R. The cost of tickets is $7 for adults and $5 for students. Concessions will be available for purchase. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19 & 20 On Golden Pond LITTLETON – The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center will host “On Golden Pond” starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, Saturday, Oct. 12, Friday, Oct. 18, Saturday, Oct. 19 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20. It will tell the story of Ethel and Norman Thayer and their family, who have spent over 48 years in their home on Golden Pond. Tickets are $16 for adults and $9.00 for students. The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center is located at 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton. For more information, call 252-5863124. Oct. 12 Aulander Peanut Festival AULANDER – The 6th Annual Aulander Peanut Festival will be held from 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12. There will be live entertainment, craft and food vendors and a cornhole tournament.
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OUT OUT OUT ABOUT! ABOUT! ABOUT! Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present “Hocus Pocus” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is $5. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504.
Oct. 22 Sons of Serendipity WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Concert Association will host “Sons of Serendipity” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 W. Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9472076.
Annual Fundraiser SCOTLAND NECK – Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host its annual fundraiser from 6 p.m.- 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12. The event will include entertainment, refreshments and a live and silent auction. Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Parkway in Scotland Neck. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact 252-826-3186 or visit www.shwpark.com.
Oct. 24 Quilts and Fiber Arts Show WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host Threads Through Time: Grandma’s Quilts and Fiber Arts Show from 5:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24. The Bertie County Arts Council Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor.
Oct. 13 Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present “Ruthless” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but a $5 donation would be greatly appreciated. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Oct. 17-19 “The Turn of the Screw” WASHINGTON – East Carolina University will present “The Turn of the Screw” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, Friday, Oct. 18 and Saturday, Oct. 19 at Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Oct. 18-19 Smoke on the Water Festival WASHINGTON - The Smoke on the Water Festival will be held Friday, Oct. 18 and Saturday, Oct. 19. The festival will include entertainment, food and craft vendors, chili cookoff, barbeque contest and a car and truck show. The festival will be held on the downtown Washington waterfront.
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Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Traditional Music Association’s Concert Series and Arts of the Pamlico’s Historic Turnage Theatre will host the Celtic band, “Twisted Knot” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 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 252-9462504. Oct. 26 Bear Grass Chicken Mull Festival BEAR GRASS – The Bear Grass Chicken Mull Festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 26. The festival will include food, vendors, games and entertainment. The event is held on Bear Grass Road in Bear Grass. Bertie Spooktacular 5K Jamboree WINDSOR – The Bertie Spooktacular 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk (color run) and Jamboree will be held starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. The Spooktacular will be celebrating 10 years with the color fun run/ walk. Participants do have the option of opting out of the color. For more information, visit www. spooktacular5k.com or The Good Shepherd’s Food Pantry’s Spooktacular on Facebook. To register, visit www.runtheeast. com or mail the entry form and payment to Bertie Spooktacular 5K, Attn: Virg Siefker, P.O. Box 895, Windsor, NC 27983.
Homecoming MURFREESBORO – Chowan University will host Homecoming against Elizabeth City State University will kickoff at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. During halftime the 2019 Distinguished Alumni class will be recognized along with the 2019 homecoming court and the crowning of the 2019 Chowan University Homecoming Queen and King. Chowan University is located at 1 University Place in Murfreesboro. “The Legends of Sleepy Hollow” WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Bubblegum Theatre will present “The Legends of Sleepy Hollow” at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Tickets will be $7 for adults and $5 for students. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Adult Dance WASHINGTON – The USA Dance Chapter 6046 will host a dance for couples and singles from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. The dance will be held at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Oct. 31 Trick Or Tweet at Sylvan Heights Bird Park SCOTLAND NECK – Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host Trick or Tweet from 5 p.m.- 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct 31. Children will participate in trick or treating in a safe, family friendly environment. An adult must accompany children, and there is no admission fee for adults accompanying children. Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Parkway in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-8263186 or visit www.shwpark.com. Until Nov. 1 Digital Art Show WILLIAMSTON – The Martin County Arts County will host a digital art show during regular business hours through Friday, Nov. 1. The Martin County Arts Council is located at 124 Washington St. in
Williamston. For more information, call 252-7898470. Film Festival WASHINGTON – The Marquee on Main North Carolina Film Festival will be held from 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1 through 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Nov. 2-3 Fort Branch Civil War Re-enactment OAK CITY – The Fort Branch Civil War Re-enactment will be held from 8 a.m.- midnight Saturday, Nov. 2 and from 7 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3. The event will include children’s activities, a time era correct dance, shooting of the canons and a battle re-enactment. The Fort Branch Confederate Civil War Site is located at 2883 Fort Branch Rd. in Oak City. Nov. 3 Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present “Driving Miss Daisy” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but a $5 donation would be greatly appreciated. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Nov. 5 Children’s Art Class WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host a children’s art class “Getting to Know Van Gogh” from 4 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5. Students will learn the fork scrape painting technique to paint Van Gogh’s painting, “A Starry Night.” The class is for ages 6 through 14. The cost of the class is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. The Bertie County Arts Council Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor. For more information of to register, call 801-920-3773 or email rsusie@ aol.com.
Nov. 5 & 6 Auditions WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host auditions for the Christmas Variety Show at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 and Wednesday, Nov. 6 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Nov. 7-9 Hearthside Craft Guild Holiday Sale WILSON – The Hearthside Craft Guild will host the 32nd annual Holiday Sale from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 and Friday, Nov. 8 and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. Artists and craftsmen will be selling locally produced arts and crafts. Admission is free. The holiday sale will be held at the Wilson Agriculture Center, 1806 South Goldsboro St. in Wilson. Nov. 8 Movie Night WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico’s Broadway on the Bigscreen will present William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. Admission is free, but a $5 donation would be greatly appreciated. The Theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, contact Arts of the Pamlico at 252-946-2504. Nov. 9 Concert WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host the Emerald City Big Band at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Nov. 10 Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Community Orchestra will host a Veteran’s Day Concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. Nov. 12 Art Class for Adults WINDSOR – The Bertie County Arts Council will host an art class for adults, “Beginner Tapeloom Weaving with Abbey” at a time to be announced on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Students will learn how to weave ribbon using a tapeloom.
The Bertie County Arts Council Gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor. For more information or to register, call 252-794-9402 or email bertiecountyartscouncil@gmail.com. Nov. 14 Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Concert Association will host “Shades of Buble” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 at the Historic Turnage Theatre. The theatre is located at 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-9462504. 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 show 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 844-7785483 or visit www.rrlive.com. 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 252-9462504. 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. and 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 252-9462504. 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 McDowell-Columns Hall. The service is free and open to the public. Chowan University is located at 1 University Place in Murfreesboro.
On the Border - Eagles Tribute will return to the Rapids Rapids Theatre on November 16. Photo by Randy Wrenn/RRSpin.com 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 252-9462504. 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 252-9462504. 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. 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 252-7923540. 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 252-7943140 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. Jan. 27 Hike 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.
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Washington 601 Hackney Ave. 252-946-0169
Downtown Bear Grass, Martin County
Saturday, October 26, 9AM-5PM Petting Zoo • Car Show Chicken Mull Cook Off Children’s games and amusements Archery range from the NC Wildlife Commission Fossil Dig courtesy of the Aurora Fossil Museum ENtErtAiNMENt iNCluDES: 11:00 Bear Grass Charter School Marching Band 12-2:00 James Hawkins and the Classic Combo Band 2-3:00 laura Davis 3-5:00 Martin County ramblers 75
12 Views From Our
76
V acation B ible School
Sonshine Ranch Green’s Cross Baptist Church in Windsor
Photos by Leslie Beachboard 77
Mountain Storms
Mountain Storms is the first book in a trilogy set in the Old West. Like all of this author’s books, however, it has a definite ending and can be read as a standalone. When her family situation worsens, Aileas Douglas runs away, but she’s unprepared for the Wyoming mountains. A friendly dog leads her to safety, but his master just might pose the most danger of all, especially to her heart. Wounded in the Civil War and deserted by his betrothed, Ian MacGregor becomes a recluse in a remote cabin in Wyoming Territory. He thinks Aileas might be an angel when she appears beside his sickbed, but even later, he’s drawn to her in ways he doesn’t understand. However, no woman would ever be interested in him now, and he needs to protect himself from another heartbreak, but is this even possible where Aileas is concerned?
Get the book
Available on Amazon and other sites, and bookstores can order them for you. Or send $9.37 + $.63 tax + $2.99 shipping to Janice Hopkins, 127 Jet Drive, Oakboro, NC 27967 (Direct orders can be signed when requested, and more goes into the scholarship fund.)
The Author
Janice Cole Hopkins is a prolific writer who loves a good story. She has traveled to all fifty states and pulls on this knowledge for her settings. Having a background in history and English also helps. Her characters are friends that come alive, drawing readers to them and their stories. All her profits go to a scholarship fund for missionary children.
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79
ALL IN A
Day’s Trip
Duke Chapel The Duke Chapel is a beautiful icon not just Duke University, but
Another feature of the Duke Chapel are its four organs. These
for North Carolina. The Chapel was completed in 1932 and dedicated
organs are designed to provide a powerful soundscape in the
in 1935. Washington Duke and his family were Methodist, but the
Chapel, but also feature beautiful sounds on their own. The carillon,
chapel is interdenominational.
made up of 50 bells, one of which weighs 11,000 pounds, was a gift
This recently renovated building is one for the community, and has been the venue for beautiful weddings, millions of visitors and world-renowned speakers and musicians.
1930, making it one of the first carillons in the South. The bells ring every weekday at 5 p.m. and on special occasions.
Philadelphia architect Julian Francis Abele designed Duke Chapel,
There also are carillon recitals that are free and open to the
and also designed the entire Duke University campus, a project that
public. The University Carillonneur, J. Samuel Hammond, performs
spanned more than a decade and helped him survive the Great
carillon recitals each week and keeps notebooks of every piece he
Depression.
plays from the Chapel. He has played for over the last 50 years and
Despite his vision and design on the Duke Chapel, he never saw his project in person because, as an African American, he was not allowed on campus during that time. In 2016, Abele Quad was dedicated in memory and honor of his work on campus. Abele Quad goes up north to Chapel Quad with the Duke Chapel looming in the background. There is also a dedicated space in Duke Chapel with Abele’s history and contributions to the Duke community. The 77 stained glass windows in Duke Chapel were the first in the United States to tell the complete story of both Testaments in the Bible. The completed chapel would cost over $30 million in today’s currency with all of its details in the woodworking, Guastavino tile, and the over 1 million pieces of stained glass that went into the interior of the Chapel. Duke Chapel has three choirs: the Chapel Choir, the Vesper’s Ensemble, and the Evensong choir. The Evensong choir is the most recent addition and hosts a traditional Anglican Evening service every Sunday. The Vesper’s Ensemble leads a Thursday evening service. The longest standing choir is the Chapel Choir. The Choir performs every Sunday morning and hosts an annual concert of Handel’s Messiah. This tradition of Handel’s Messiah dates back to 1933. When I was a senior in high school, my aunt and I went to hear the concert, and it was an outstanding performance. It is performed annually during Advent and is a beautiful way to kick off the holiday season. The performance is free to the public. Be sure to check the calendar on the website for the exact date.
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from the president and vice-president of the Duke Endowment in
began playing while he was in undergrad at Duke. The exterior of the Duke Chapel was created using local stone from the Duke quarry, located near Hillsborough. There are
approximately 17 different colors of “Hillsborough bluetone” that make up the exterior. Despite the Duke Chapel being interdenominational, there are several sculptures of prominent Methodist leaders, including John Wesley and Francis Asbury. The tower at Duke Chapel is a whopping 210 feet high. A point of interest is that the Dukes - Washington, Benjamin and James - are all buried in tombs in the Memorial Chapel housed in the Duke Chapel. This is located off to the side in the Duke Chapel behind iron gates. Buried in the Duke tombs below the chapel are previous university presidents and their wives. The Chapel is free and open to the public with the exceptions for weddings or other private events. A calendar of events can be found at https://chapel.duke.edu/events, with information on recurring events and BIble studies, dinner opportunities, concerts, and guest speakers. While you’re on campus, be sure to stroll the grounds and check out Abele Quad. There is also excellent dining options at the Brodhead Center or off campus in downtown Durham. Look for parking at the Bryan Center, 125 Science Dr. for a $5 fee. Meghan Grant is the author of the blog I’m Fixin’ To… and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living. There are docentled tours that are free and open to the public. If you’d like to join the tour, meet the docent on the lawn in front of the Chapel. Tours begin at 12:15 p.m., or immediately
following
the 11 a.m. service on Sundays.
The
tours
focus on the interior of the Chapel and last for approximately 45 minutes. Tours are not a requirement for visiting Duke Chapel, but if you’d like to schedule a tour on a different day, email dukechapel@duke.edu or call (919) 681-9488.
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6
Qwithuestions
Wallace Phillips P astor
of
C arpenter ’ s S hop I nternational C hurch
Pastor Wallace Phillips is familiar to many people in the 12-county coverage region of Eastern North Carolina Living. He has been Pastor of Carpenter’s Shop International Church for nearly three decades, and is the author of the syndicated column “The Carpenter’s Tools” which has been published in newspapers throughout eastern North Carolina. The following are his thoughts about ministry in Ahoskie, North Carolina and the world.
1.
When did you become a Christian and what were the
circumstances surrounding it? I first came to Christ at the age of 12 in a small hometown Southern Baptist Church. As I grew to my teen years and entered high school and wandered far away from the Lord and God used a young lady whom I later married to bring me back to relationship with Jesus!
2. When did you feel the call to ministry, and was it always pastoral ministry?
credit goes to my wife who trusted my moves each time. She still sticks with me today and trust the Lord's leadership in our lives. We are in it together!
4. What led you to Carpenter’s Shop International Church and what has kept you there for all these years? I came to CSIC through being assigned to a Chaplain's position at what was then Roanoke-Chowan Hospice in Ahoskie. Pastor R.O. Denton, Sr. was the Presbyter for this region at the time and I contacted him to see if I could try out for the church when I realized the pastor was leaving. He set it up for me to preach there and I've
As I dedicated my life to Christ I felt a deep sense and longing to serve him in ministry; realizing that nothing else seemed to satisfy.
been there for 27 years now. I'm there for the long haul.
I never could seem to find fulfillment and peace unless I was doing
5. What are the benefits of pastoring
something that involved the ministry.
a multicultural church?
3. What role has your family played in your service to the Lord?
The blessings of pastoring of diverse congregation are abundant. Psalms
I could have never made it in the ministry were it not for the
82
133 teaches us that the "Lord commands
wholehearted commitment of my family. They have followed me
His blessings" when we are willing to come
all over the map! We left our homeland for ministry in another part
together in unity. I have seen this first hand
of the state, then left for Florida to attend an Assemblies of God
and would have it no other way. I love the
Bible College. Next we made our way back to North Carolina to
variety. I love the diversity. I love the
settle into the pastorate at Ahoskie. Each move was only possible
people of every culture because they all
with collective effort. When I graduated Bible College I remember
bring something unique and special
getting my kids (who were little guys then) T-shirts that said, "My
to make us what and who we are.
Dad got a degree from SEC and I helped!" Of course the greater
Variety is the spice of life!
2809 NC Highway 903 Stokes, NC 27884 252.717.5671
6. What are you most proud of in your ministry? The thing that brings me the greatest sense of accomplishment is the fact that we have been able to destroy the barrier of racism in our church and bring all of
24 hour EmErgEncy sErvicE
God's people together in one setting for His glory and his honor. To be able to build a church that is alive and filled with His presence is something I am very proud of.
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email: jmizell@stokescongleton.net
website: www.stokescongleton.com
THE MAYOR AND COMMISSIONERS OF THE TOWN OF BEAR GRASS WELCOMES YOU TO OUR
Downtown Bear Grass, Martin County
Saturday, October 26
CHICKEN MULL
COOK OFF IS BACK!
Most Family Friendly Event Around Day Full of Good Food, Music, Games for Kids, Chicken Mull www.chickenmullfestival.com for event details
We hope you enjoy your visit with us and come back again! 83
Call or visit us: Greg Shepherd, CIC Teresa Harrison, CIC Williamston 252-792-5125 www.theboydagency.com
Locally owned & operated Edward, Toby & Greg Casper
84
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85
Grandma’s
Kitchen Sylvia Hughes with her grandmother, Bertie Dameron.
How many of you remember old-fashioned
Children would run and play further back in
Homecomings? A former pastor usually
the yard after they ate. Grownups visited and
gave the morning sermon. It was good to see
enjoyed each other’s company.
and hear from them again. The sermon was followed by dinner on the grounds. Tables were placed under shade trees and piled so high with food you could almost hear them groan. Those with discernment watched the older women to see what they brought because you knew it would be the best of the best. Fried chicken (fried at home and not bought from a store), baked ham, potato salad, sweet potato casserole, Watergate salad and so much more were spread out for all those in attendance. There was a long table full of homemade desserts; there was sweet iced tea
Those who had been a part of the church and moved to other places often came back home for the day. It was exciting to see them again and find out what had been going on in their lives. It was family coming home after a long absence. In the afternoon, there would be gospel singing by quartets, soloists and groups. Some music was lively, some slow but all uplifting and soul-inspiring. You got home about six in the evening, tired but with a feeling of soul full, stomach full and fellowship full - happy and content with a day well enjoyed.
to drink, and it was wonderfully sweet and cold.
Haven’t fixed this ham and Watergate salad
Everyone ate and drank as much as their
in a long time, but looking over the recipes it
heart desired. There was always enough,
makes me want to make them again. Also
although the special desserts went fast. Most
included is a pound cake mama and I used to
of the time there was enough food left over for
make.
people to carry a little home for supper.
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.
86
Baked Ham 1 butt end half ham Whole cloves 1 lg. can pineapple rings ½ cup brown sugar s 1 small jar maraschino cherrie Preheat oven to 325 degrees. . Score Place ham in a roasting pan nally one the fat side of the ham diago you end up way and then the other so ce a clove with a diamond shape. Pla nd. Drain in the center of each diamo
small bowl. juice from pineapple into a Coat the Add brown sugar and mix. ange the ham with the mixture. Arr osed part pineapple slices over the exp cherry in of ham. Place a maraschino secure with the center of each slice and toothpicks. nutes a Bake uncovered for 20 mi asionally. pound, basting with juices occ remove Let sit 10 minutes and toothpicks before serving.
Watergate Salad
1 large container of Cool Whip 1 package in stant pistachio pudding 1 large can cr ushed pineapp le, undrained 1 cup pecans 1 cup small mar shmallows Mix well and p ut in refrigerat or until ready to se rve.
Pound Cake
I’ve had this recipe for more than 50 years. It calls for lard, which is not popular anymore but will keep the cake moist a long time. 3 cups sugar 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 2 sticks of butter or margarine ½ cup Crisco lard 5 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla, lemon or almond flavoring 2/3 cup undiluted Pet milk 1/3 cup water Cream butter, Crisco and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs,
beating after each addition Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Add alternately with milk and water. Add flavoring. Bake 2 hours at 300 degrees. It is good just plain especially after a heavy meal, but you can add a glaze of lemon, orange, caramel, chocolate or any glaze of your choice if desired. A good recipe to follow is 1 cup powdered sugar and 3 to 4 tablespoons of your choice of liquid for flavoring. Another way to serve is with berries and whipped cream. 87
biography •
88
Story by Thadd White
P
astor Richard Gurganus followed a
called to plant a church.
path God laid out for him early in
While knowledgeable of his hometown
Rocky Mount before starting Church on the Rise. They sought blessings from ministers of
life, and it has led him to a powerful
of Rocky Mount, the site for what became
ministry in Rocky Mount, throughout Nash
Church on the Rise wasn’t a foregone
“That focus hasn’t changed,” he said. “We
County and in eastern North Carolina.
conclusion. Instead, Gurganus and his pastor
worked with other churches when we were a
researched Greenville, Rocky Mount and
small congregation, and it has remained that
other cities in Eastern North Carolina.
way even though we are a large church.”
Born and raised in Rocky Mount, Pastor Gurganus went to college at Elon University. He began attending church in Raleigh.
“It became clear over time this was the
“It was a real spiritual awakening,” he said.
place,” he said. “We started here 24 years ago
Despite being raised by Christian parents
with eight people and have grown to 1,250
– Ed and Janet Gurganus - Pastor Gurganus said he had a “stint I was very far away from God.” He said meeting his wife helped move him back toward a good relationship with God, and into his future ministry. Following his graduation from Elon, the pastor attended his church’s school of ministry. Upon completion of ministry
people on two campuses.”
all faiths.
Some of those efforts include summer workshops and the National Day of Prayer. The second point of emphasis was to be a multi-cultural region.
The church met at the YWCA for many
“We wanted to be multi-cultural in a
years before moving to the current campus
region where there is still segregation when
just off Bishop Road.
it comes to church on Sunday morning,” the
There were two main points of emphasis when Church on the Rise was formed, and they reflected the beliefs of their pastor. The first was “do a lot of stuff with other churches.”
pastor said. Currently, Church on the Rise has a membership which is approximately 33 percent African-American, and that number is growing.
school, and becoming ordained as an
Pastor Gurganus said he and his pastor met
“That was a very sovereign thing that
Assembly of God minister, he felt strongly
with leaders in the ecumenical community in
happened,” he said. “Our goal is for our
Pastor
Richard Gurganus
89
biography • church to reflect our community.” Pastor Gurganus said if he had it to do over, he would be more deliberate in making the church multi-cultural, but was pleased it happened naturally. “We had a few African American families visit, and we loved them just as we loved everyone,” the pastor said. “The fact everyone was welcome made our church grow even more multi-cultural. “I think our hearts were right and we loved everybody,” he explained. The pastor said churches who are multicultural have to stay out of politics, something Church on the Rise has done.
spike in growth once it reached its permanent
locations each Sunday morning. He speaks at
location, and he has been pleased to see the
the Nashville campus at 9 a.m. and in Rocky
growth in all areas.
Mount at 10:30 a.m.
They began having two services, built a student life building and added eight acres to
student
the campus.
communicating the Bible in creative ways and
In 2005, the church built a new building which cost more than $1 million.
ministry,
organized
prayer,
community involvement. One of the proudest accomplishments for
Pastor Gurganus also led the congregation
Pastor Gurganus is the beginning of a cohort
to spread out and become a multi-site church.
with Northcentral University in Minneapolis,
In addition to the home church on Bishop
Minn., allowing students to get two- and four-
Road, there is a new site on West Washington
year degrees.
Street in Nashville.
“This is my heart for Eastern North
The church also has the Peacemaker’s
Carolina,” he said. “Now kids can get a two-
Center, which is a holistic ministry for under
year or four-year degree in things like business
“We are Jesus 24-7,” he said.
resourced people in south Rocky Mount. They
or media or pastoral ministry, but they have 12 hours a week of discipleship.”
As the church grew and left the fledgling
center is open six days a week and hosts a
beginnings of the YWCA, where it was housed
food bank, addition recovery, job training and
from 1996 through February of 2000, 10
small groups.
acres were purchased off Bishop Road near the N.C. Wesleyan campus. Pastor Gurganus said the church saw a
90
Some of the church’s focuses include
who apply through Northcentral, but will be
“Becoming multi-site was big for us,” he said. Pastor
The cohort began with four students, located at Church on the Rise. Pastor Gurganus said he hoped to see it
Gurganus
preaches
at
both
grow to 40 or 50 students, and expand to
It is those friendships; the call to ministry and the use of God’s gifts which have made Pastor Gurganus a staple in the Rocky Mount community and helped him pastor a church that truly is
on the rise. other churches in Eastern North Carolina. He has spoken with people in Washington and Ahoskie and other Assembly of God churches in the region. “Part of the agreement is 12 hours a week of hands-on ministry,” he said. The pastor said he loves the people of Rocky Mount, and it has led him to stay there over the course of his ministry.
can’t go outside, but there is plenty of room in there for Christians to do projects together.” Pastor Gurganus said he was proud of and thankful for the team gathered at Church on the Rise. “We have an amazing team,” he said. “We believe in team ministry. We believe in sharing the vision, collaborating with our team. That’s the full-time paid staff, but also the volunteer leaders. They are always open to new and exciting things.” Pastor Gurganus said founding a church gives a pastor a lot of creative liberty. “Being the lead and founding pastor you develop trust of the people over the years,” he said. “We have learned to love the word ‘experiment.’ We try a lot of creative things to keep it fresh.” Recently, Pastor Gurganus and his wife,
In addition, he also is working to minister to other ministers.
Lisa, bought a new home downtown where
“I remember when I came two or three
they want to invest and hope to help see the
guys really took me in,” he said. “I try to do the
town grow.
same thing for some of the pastors who come
He said they felt called to be a part of the
here now.”
revitalization of downtown Rocky Mount, and
One such minister was Howard Kendrick,
people; Rocky Mount has incredible people,”
have loved being a part of living there as it
who handed Pastor Gurganus $20 at their first
he said. “It has great churches all around town.
grows and changes.
meeting and told him it was his first offering.
“What I love about Rocky Mount is the
Whatever flavor of Jesus you want, Rocky Mount has it. That’s what has kept me here.”
In addition to his wife of 28 years, Pastor Gurganus was joined at the first service
Years later, Pastor Gurganus felt led to buy new chairs for Pastor Kendrick’s church.
While being part of the community, Pastor
by Jason Cockrell, who is now the church’s
“We are still friends today,” he said.
Gurganus said he wanted his congregation to
Executive Pastor. He called Pastor Cockrell a
It is those friendships; the call to ministry
be part of the Rocky Mount region, but stay
“big key” in the church’s success and longevity.
and the use of God’s gifts which have made
With all three children grown, Pastor
Pastor Gurganus a staple in the Rocky Mount
“We do have a good reputation in the
Gurganus said he is excited to share more
community and helped him pastor a church
community, and I’m very proud of that,”
ministry work with his wife, who currently
that truly is on the rise.
he said. “Churches see us as for everyone.
oversees small groups at the church. He called
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North
Certainly there are boundaries you have to set
her a “huge blessing” and said she is “very
Carolina Living, the Bertie Ledger-Advance and
to stay true to your doctrinal beliefs that you
gifted.”
the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
true to who they are as a church.
91
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93
94
I
remember getting up before daylight excited about the day that was before me. I was at my Grandparents
house and I was going to go fishing with my granddaddy, who was by all rights my hero when it came to anything outdoors. My father, who is a great man in his own right, will be the first to tell you I learned nothing about fishing from him. When I was awake enough to make
I had great teachers who turned into idols by the time I was in college. Between my grandfather and my uncles I learned to fish for largemouth in the tidal rivers, smallmouth in the mountain streams and blues in the Chesapeake Bay.
it to the dining room table, I could smell the pipe tobacco from granddaddy’s pipe and the bacon cooking on the stove. My grandmother was up early because she knew a good breakfast for the boys would end up in a good dinner for the rest of the family. We sat at the table as I listened to my fishing partner tell me how the spot should be running as well as the croaker, and we may even have a chance at a bluefish if a school comes by. My grandparents lived in Jacksonville and we would visit frequently during the summer months. My favorite thing was to go fishing at the pier with my grandfather. When we got to the pier, I was always surprised at how many people would be up that early in the morning. The person
In the following issues I am going to do my best to bring you some of the stories and tips I have learned while fishing – not only in our state, but in other destinations that you might want to visit and fish just in case you have a bucket list like me.
the fishing in our area, and if you feel the
me focused and keep my eye on the rod
need to contact me please feel free at
tip. It didn’t take long before I saw one rod
fishingwithmike921@yahoo.com or hit me
start to twitch and my excitement grew in
up on Facebook at Fishing with Mike.
an instant. I picked the rod up and set the hook, then began to reel frantically on the reel that was
I would love to see your fishing reports and, better yet, your bragging photos. Till then tight lines and be safe out there.
larger than my hand. In a minute my reward was a keeper spot, and before I could even get it off the hook I was instructed to grab the other rod and reel that fish in before we lost it. Once we got rebaited I had one rod in each hand, and anytime I would feel a strike I would say “OHOH” and my granddaddy would giggle, then watch me set the hook
that was me. We paid our way onto the
supper and I slept all the way back to the
Emerald Isle Fishing Pier and then went out
house. These are the kind of memories I have
You couldn’t have asked for a better
about fishing as a kid. I had great teachers
beginning of the day than to watch the
who turned into idols by the time I was in
sunrise off the end of the pier, and even
college. Between my grandfather and my
a young boy like me sat in awe of the
uncles I learned to fish for largemouth in
spectacle that was upon us.
the tidal rivers, smallmouth in the mountain
It is hard to imagine the lack of patience
enough to find it right in our own backyard.
my elder angling buddy did his best to keep
come around we had filled the cooler with
we hoped for the best.
exciting fishing around and we are lucky
with news and information concerning
by name, then said hello to the young fella
shrimp and squid, we cast our lines out and
Our great state has some of the most
a boy at the tender age of 8 can have, but
on another fish. By the time lunch had
As we baited our bottom rigs with
sometimes fish for both at the same time.
I will do my best to focus on local waters
behind the counter called my grandfather
to claim our spot.
and with our rivers and sounds we can
streams and blues in the Chesapeake Bay. I love to fish in our great state of North Carolina because we have the ability to fish for saltwater as well as freshwater fish,
Mike
Sweeney
is
a
regular
columnist for The Daily Advance in Elizabeth City and a new contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
95
MARKER TEXT
Marker ID:E-96 County: Edgecombe Original Date Cast: 1987-P
JOSEPH BLOUNT CHESHIRE, JR. Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of N.C., 1893-1932; lawyer & writer. Birthplace is one block W.; grave 100 yards S.
MARK IT! Title To Begin Here
Rabore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam Information courtesy of the voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no
I
was born and brought up in Tarborough, Edgecombe County, North Carolina in a house built by my maternal grandfather, Theophilus Parker, in the year 1810.”
So begins the opening sketch in Nonnulla, a collection of reminiscences by Joseph Blount Cheshire Jr. (1850-1932). Cheshire’s father was ordained as an Episcopal priest in 1841. He moved to Tarboro and married Elizabeth Parker two years later. The elder Cheshire played a part in healing the breach between branches of the church in the North and South after the Civil War. The younger Cheshire was educated at Tarboro Male Academy and Trinity College in Connecticut. He taught in Maryland for two years, then returned to North Carolina to study law. Licensed in 1872, he practiced in Baltimore and Tarboro but forsook the profession to study theology. In 1878 he was ordained deacon by Bishop Thomas Atkinson and assigned to Chapel of the Cross in Chapel Hill. Two years later he was ordained into the priesthood and became rector of St. Peter’s Church in Charlotte, where he remained for twelve years. In June 1893 he was elected assistant bishop for the Diocese of North Carolina, and two months later assumed leadership of the diocese upon the death of Bishop Theodore B. Lyman. He thus became the first native of the state to serve in the post. Bishop Cheshire’s accomplishments were many during his long tenure. He strengthened the Episcopal missionary program in the mountain region. Upon his recommendation, the diocese acquired St. Mary’s School in Raleigh. He opposed segregation of the races within the church, but acquiesced when he judged that such was the desire of black churchmen. Throughout his life, Bishop Cheshire studied and wrote about the history of the Episcopal Church and of the state of North REFERENCES William S. Powell, ed., Dictionary of North Carolina Biography, I, pp. 362-365 – sketch by Jacquelin Drane Nash Lawrence F. London and Sarah M. Lemmon, eds., The Episcopal Church in North Carolina, 1701-1959 (1987) Lawrence F. London, Bishop Joseph Blount Cheshire: His Life and Work (1940) Gaines M. Foster, “Gentleman Prophet: Joseph Blount Cheshire Jr.” (M.A. thesis, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1973) (Raleigh) News and Observer, December 28, 1932
Carolina. In 1930 he served as president of the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association. He gained a considerable reputation as a fisherman and hunter, especially of wild turkeys. Numerous honors and tributes were paid to him. Upon his death a writer for the News and Observer claimed that Bishop Cheshire “probably influenced the life of North Carolina as profoundly as anyone who ever lived within its borders.” He is buried in the graveyard at Tarboro’s Calvary Episcopal Church, where his father was rector for almost fifty years.
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Town of Ahoskie
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Thadd White
I grew up attending Ebenezer Assembly of God, which is located on N.C. 305 between Aulander and Windsor. At my young age, I thought the church was ancient. As I moved into my teenage years, and found the church was built in the mid-1900s, I learned it was a fairly new congregation compared to many.
PARTING SHOTS tried to balance the congregations as best we could. We also wanted churches that were still active. One church, which was always on our list, was St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bath. The state’s oldest congregation, it is still vigorous and thriving today. Deborah Griffin’s story will tell you about its storied past, and the current lively group of believers. I was lucky enough to meet the Rev. Ben E.E. Kane at Howard Memorial Presbyterian Church in Tarboro, and learn the awesome history of that congregation. Rudy Coggins joins us again as he tells about the storied past of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Rocky Mount. The congregation has a unique history you’ll love learning about. Sarah Hodges Stalls takes readers on a journey through the history of Uniontown Church of Christ in Martin County. The congregation calls themselves “legacy rich.” Another historic congregation is that of Sandy Run Baptist Church in Roxobel. Leslie Beachboard will guide you through some of the vast history of that congregation in a small town in western Bertie County. Sandy Carawan’s historical account of Pleasant Grove Church of Christ tells the story
As we sat about choosing our themes for this year, we wanted one which focused on faith – and telling the stories of some of our historic congregations fell in line with that. In the 12-county region of Eastern North Carolina Living, we have churches established in the 1700s, and more than a few buildings which were erected in the 1800s. As we sat about choosing our themes for this year, we wanted one which focused on faith – and telling the stories of some of our historic congregations fell in line with that. We were not able to choose necessarily the oldest congregation in each county due to our attempt to provide some history of as many denominations in our region as we could. There are certainly churches older in the communities than the ones we chose, but we
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of the beautiful church in Hyde County. In addition, Sarah Davis recounts the history of Pleasant Plains Missionary Baptist Church in Hertford County, where white pastors originally led a majority-black congregation. Janet Cole Hopkins provides readers with information about some of North Carolina’s most historic congregations, including those in nearby Chowan County. In addition, we have feature stories about the Aurora Fossil Museum, a replica of the Vietnam War Memorial, the Livermon Park & Mini Zoo and a beautiful arboretum in Nashville. Our Biography feature this time focuses on the Rev. Richard Gurganus, who founded and pastors Church on the Rise, an Assembly of God congregation in Rocky Mount. We will be back in November with one of our most unique magazines. We will be featuring things named after individuals including buildings, bridges, etc. We will tell you the story of the individual, and how the item became named in their honor. Until next time, remember… all who wander are not lost. Continue joining us as we meander through Beaufort, Bertie, Edgecombe, Gates, Halifax, Hertford, Hyde, Martin, Nash, Northampton, Tyrrell and Washington counties. Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living Magazine, the Bertie LedgerAdvance and the Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
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