GETAWAY TO A BEACH NEAR TALLAHASSEE

Payne (1838-1927) proudly bore multiple middle names─and distinguished himself in yet other ways from laborers and men of his era. In George Washington Richard Henry Lee Payne’s displayed formal portrait he distinctly dons his ‘Sunday best’ ─ a dapper bowler hat, suit jacket, crisp white shirt and bow tie. When he wasn’t firing up wrought iron and meticulously bashing it into form, he was pastor of Shiloh African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and a 32nd Degree Scottish Rites Mason. Letters discovered at The Biltmore Estate include correspondence in 1893 that George penned to his lofty employer, asking to take off from work to attend a Sunday school convention. Biltmore’s 1893 payroll archives reveal that my forefather was paid $2.25 per day. To put his earnings in perspective, a highly trained white stonemason earned $3.50 per day, while general laborers of any race earned less than half of his wages─approximately $1 per day. Blacksmiths were among the more specialized tradesmen of the times. The trade encompassed innovative creation of every metal object then in common use. George W. Payne’s high demand entrepreneurial prowess is evident. By 1904 he was working for himself. Records show that he remained self-employed through the 1920s, performing the physical tasks of blacksmithing well into his 80s.

The celebratory viewing of George Washington Richard Henry Lee Payne’s exhibit presence called for wearing my Blacksmith Kimono, an original design, embedded with historical documents and handscribed letters honoring my forefather’s life. The sweeping curvature of his signature on the kimono’s lapel captures his exquisite penmanship. It’s said that he taught slaves to read and write.

Fabrics used in the Blacksmith Kimono capture the authenticity of the 1890s─the Biltmore Estate construction period, an era when blacksmiths wore linen, cotton and duck cloth, which allowed them to stand over a sweltering hot forge without overheating.

While George is remembered for his work at America’s largest historic mansion─ his life story reminds us that no fire burns as hot as the inner-fire that ignites mastery of skill ─and self-sufficient preservation.

Veteran publicist and luxury lifestyle experience-aholic, Regina Lynch-Hudson, pens MadameXhales, slated towards the vintage of woman that according to studies: enjoys more time to travel, indulges in longer trips, and selects more extravagant travel accommodations. The exacting taste of MadameXhales finds her exploring destinations, cruises, resorts, spas, and extracurricular activities—where like-minded Xhalers have experienced inner-exhilaration! © Contact MadameXhales: thewritepublicist@earthlink.net

Tallahassee might not be a beach town but if you ask me, it’s close to so many beaches sometimes it’s hard to choose which one to go to. If you are looking for some fun in the sun this summer, check out some of these beaches located in the surrounding areas:

1. Alligator Point or as the locals call it “The Point” is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Located about 45 miles from home it’s a great spot to check out if you want to make a day trip to the sun. While you are there, do some fishing or even better – go to Bald State Park or my personal favorite the nearby St. Marks Wildlife Refuge. It is the oldest refuge in Florida and home to many animals including bald eagles.

2. St. George Island is a must see. It is 98 miles from Tally and a little further than Alligator Point but trust me when I say you don’t want to miss it. There is a nice lighthouse and miles of beautiful beaches and even camping grounds if you love nature and want to spend an evening amongst the stars.

3. Panama City Beach or PC is one of the most beautiful beaches I have been to in the world. Sure Acapulco, Barcelona, and Dubrovnik were amazing but coming home to PC and stepping foot on its sugary sands puts them all to shame (in my opinion). Sit back and watch the dolphins in the background as you soak up the sun. Although its 100 miles from away it’s well worth the trip.

4. Seaside is a tucked away gem a lot of people do not know about. It is 145 miles away it’s a small resort town that hosts lots shopping spots. Fun fact: the Truman Show was filmed there. It’s a picture-perfect little town. Rumor has it our own Southwood was inspired by this town.

5. Mexico Beach is where my family and I would vacation to every year growing up. It is 102 miles away and makes an easy weekend trip. Known for its sportfishing and emerald waters you will keep coming back for more. If you want a laid back, relaxing vacation with the family; this is your spot!

DID SOMEONE SAY BEACH?

By Cristina Carter