Western Tidewater Living Spring 2018 by The Tidewater News

Western Tidewater

Living

Collectors' paradise

Brady Jefcoat's museum houses extensive Americana

Helping their brethren

Emmanuel Episcopal packages food for the hungry

SPRING 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ vol. 9, no. 1

m o c t o d s w e s n w r e e N t t a s e t w a L it de the r u o Y

o t y Ke

Time and again, the

TREASURE IS HIDDEN.

The V Villag lage at Woods W Edge

Small town charm. Engaging senior living.

The deeper value of a beautiful person or place is often hidden from plain view. That’s certainly the case when it comes to The Village at Woods Edge — you may be dazzled by the lovely cottages and apartment homes or wooed by the stunning views, but there’s even more to this vibrant senior living community than first meets the eye. For starters, it’s a great value, offering unusually spacious residences, high-quality services and amenities, and a variety of classes and events to keep you happy and well. And then there are the activities, like strawberry picking, that residents initiate themselves. To schedule a visit and get started on the journey of finding your own personal treasures here, call 757-562-4259 today.

1401 North High Street · Franklin, VA 23851 · 757-562-4259 · VillageAtWoodsEdge.com

4 western tidewater living

Western Tidewater

Living

Well, it was quite a winter, wasn't it? People will likely be remembering and talking about that bitter cold and snow for quite awhile. While we're on the subject, though, you might want to recall those chilling memories when the summer sun bakes and broils at the same time. Meanwhile, here's a new batch of stories to warm you this spring: If you're wanting to get out of the house and travel, but not too far, then consider a short drive to the Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. If you yourself have a hobby of collecting, then this is the place for you to see. There you'll find room after room and shelf after shelf of objects featuring early model Victrolas, 78s, hunting trophies, tape measures, church collection plates and glassware, to name a handful of the extensive variety of objects. You might well see things you have in your own home as well as those you never knew existed, such as spiked collars to wean calves. Sarah Halman, a young woman with close family ties to Ivor, has found her place in the world. Now, at least, she's teaching English in Shanghai, China. Learning that she was coming stateside around Christmas, contributing writer Merle Monahan arranged an interview to find out what Halman's been doing as life takes her here and there. As all Christians should know, going to church is not just a matter of attending worship services or Sunday

introduction School. They must be engaged with the people who live in the surrounding community, and to provide help whenever possible. Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Franklin knows this to be true, and each month for the past few years has prepared and presented small bags of beans and rice to feed the hungry. The congregation goes even further to grow produce and distribute the tomatoes, potatoes, etc., to organizations such as the Franklin Cooperative Ministry. Long before Mahone's Tavern became a museum, the site served as a place for travelers to eat and rest as they waited for their case to be heard right across the street at the Southampton County Courthouse in Courtland. Later, the building changed from a public business to a private residence. That's where Harwood and Virginia Watkinson reared their sons and daughter for several decades. Ten years ago, it was sold and has become a haven of history and preservation. Also included in this issue are, of course, our calendar, party pictures and features of “Who am I?” and “Where Am I?” As always, we are hopeful you will enjoy this season's edition, and welcome suggestions for featured stories. Stephen H. Cowles Staff Writer Western Tidewater Living

western tidewater living

contents spring 2018

Cover photograph by Stephen H. Cowles

ON THE COVER: Brady C. Jefcoat's collection of glass jugs and bottles includes clear ones, jeweltones and those with interesting designs or shapes. You can see more at the museum in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. \

Western Tidewater

Living

Tony Clark Publisher Stephen H. Cowles Staff Writer Stephen Faleski Staff Writer Merle Monahan Contributing Writer Ryan Outlaw Lead Designer Loretta Lomax Designer Crystal Parker Designer Mitzi Lusk Advertising Director Mary Patterson Vick Advertising Representative Michelle Gray Office Manager Western Tidewater Living is published four times a year by Tidewater Publications, LLC P.O. Box 497, Franklin, VA 23851 757-562-3187 Advertising rates and information available upon request to ads@tidewaternews.com. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state, $24 annually out of state and $30 annually overseas.

INSIDE THIS EDITION

14 western tidewater living

who am I?

PARTY PIX

Tell us who is featured in this photograph and get a chance to win $25.

Look who's having fun

DOMESTIC LIFE THROUGH THE DECADES A visit to the Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana

William Smith correctly identified the woman pictured in the winter edition contest. He wrote, “The lady in the picture is Bertella “Bert” Westbrook, who was the 3-11 nursing supervisor at SMH for many years. My mom, Betty Smith, was the nursing director, and Bert worked for her! NICE LADY!” Westbrook (1919-1988) served at Southampton Memorial Hospital

APRIL 1-30

CATCHING UP WITH SARAH HALMAN Local woman with ties to Ivor teaches English in Shanghai, China.

MAHONE'S TAVERN

Trustees keep history preserved for future generations.

will be entered for a chance to win $25. So, if you know who is this person, Bertella Westbrook let us know. If Winter 2017 you're right, you could be a winner. Email your answers to magazine@ tidewaternews.com.

16 western tidewater living

what to do

from 1965 to 1981, and her service is commemorated with a painting in the facility. A nursing scholarship was also named in her honor. The plaque notes, “She is remembered for her encouragement to her nurses, her approachability and her desire to learn something every day.” In this issue, as you see, we've a new personality. Whoever can identify the person pictured here

Clean Rivers Month: This a community effort to clean up the Blackwater and Nottoway Watershed. The Historic Southside Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists and theFranklin Garden Club are sponsoring the event this year. Start looking at river and swamp bridge crossings or ditches in your area and scope out a place for your team to clean. Please try to register by Saturday, March 31. If your group wants to participate, contact Dick Gilbert at rbgilbert124@ gmail.com or call 562-2682 or Anne Parker at annegbparker@gmail.com or call 5624804.

MONDAY, APRIL 2 Spring Break Camp: The Franklin Department of Parks and Recreation will have a Spring Break Camp April 2-5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. Camp is open to boys and girls ages 6-14 and includes bowling, library, video games, outside play, movie time, arcade games and more. Daily breakfast and lunch are included. Cost to participate is $50 per child.For more information, call Eric Benton at 653-1667. To register, go to www. camp25.org. Spring Break Week: Franklin's Department of Parks and Recreation presents Spring Break Week 2018 from April 2-6 in the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 683 Oak St., Franklin. Monday, April 2, is Bingo Night, starting at 4:30 p.m. Winners will receive prizes. Tuesday, April 3, is Game Night starting at 5 p.m., and will include board games, Wii, PS4 and indoor bowling. Light refreshments will be provided. Wednesday, April 4, is Movie Night starting at 5 p.m. The movie will be “Annie” and popcorn will be provided. Thursday, April 5, is the city's fourth annual Easter Egg Extravaganza, held from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. The egg hunt starts at 2:30 p.m. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. There will be activities for two age groups: ages 6 and under and ages 7-9. Bring your Easter basket or container for the egg hunt. Additional activities include inflatables, food, games, a D.J. And face painting. Friday, April 6, is a Rec Hang Out Party from 3:30 to 6 p.m. The party will include play music, snacks and karaoke. All activities, unless otherwise noted, are for all

school ages. For more information, contact Sammara Bailey, program specialist at 5622475.

TUESDAY, APRIL 3 Happy Scrappers: The Happy Scrappers Quilting Group meets at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library, 280 N. College Drive, in Franklin on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Make new friends, and get inspired to work on your choice of projects. No experience is necessary and all skill levels are welcome. Kits for a simple first project and instruction will be provided for beginners; intermediate & advanced quilters may bring their own UFOs to work on. Everyone should bring a basic sewing kit and fabric scraps to trade and use. Registration is required, please call 562-4801 or email broblin@blackwaterlib. org. Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@ blackwaterlib.org for more information.

Emmanuel Episcopal continues generous food ministry.

SATURDAY, APRIL 7

Southampton Renaissance Faire: The 10th annual event will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday at the Southampton County Fairgrounds. Parking and admission are free. The family-friendly event will feature kings and queens, princes and princesses, knights (but no dragons,) vikings, pirates, gypsies, animal, sword fights, shows, games, archery, dances, vendors, crafts and food and drink.

THURSDAY, APRIL 5

MONDAY, APRIL 9

Mah Jongg: Enjoy a game of Mah Jongg at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library every Thursday from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. Beginners are welcome. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin.

Friends of the Franklin Library: Join the Friends of the Franklin Library from 6 to 7 p.m. to learn about volunteer opportunities and how you can be a part of your community library. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin.

Story Time: Story Time at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library is from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday and may include stories, fingerplays, songs and action rhymes. Simple crafts are also sometimes part of the fun. Knitters Anonymous: Get some help deciphering that new pattern or learn about the basics of knitting and purling at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library. The club meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Share ideas, fun and fellowship at our weekly meetings. All skill levels and drop-ins are welcome.

TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Bingo night: Bingo will be at the Walters Ruritan Club at 7 o'clock. There will be food, drinks and instant bingo available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, call Mike Perry at 642-0833. Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@ blackwaterlib.org for more information.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6

THURSDAY, APRIL 12

Spring Teen Fling: Spring Teen Fling will be from Friday, April 6 through Sunday, April 8 at the Airfield 4-H Center, 15189 Airfield Road, Wakefield. Activities include campfire, canoeing, dance, movies, sports and games. For more information, visit www.airfield4h-

BEAN COUNTERS

center.com.

Golf Tournament: The seventh annual Child Abuse Prevention Golf Tournament will be on April 7 at Cypress Cove Country Club. This event is sponsored by the Joyner Gray Yale Ruritan Club and Southampton Social Services and all proceeds will be returned to the community through programs to support child abuse prevention. Registration begins at noon and the shotgun start is at 1 p.m. The $75 entrance fee includes green fees, cart and a barbecue dinner after the event. For more information, call Jerry Stivers at 630-8604 or Michelle Stivers at 556-2623.

western tidewater living 21

where am I? In each edition, our magazine staff provides a challenge of sorts for readers, testing how much of Western Tidewater they really know. We photograph a scene in Western Tidewater that is visible to motorists or pedestrians. Whoever can identify the location pictured here will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate. So, if you know where this issue's photo was taken, let us know. If you're right, you could be a winner. Email your answers to magazine@tidewaternews.com.

Susan Vick of Boykins correctly identified the former High Light restaurant in Boykins. She wrote, "During my childhood it was called 'The High Light' and some people called it the Witch's Hut. It was many eating places through the years.”

Check out some of the activities and events happening in the area this spring.

Tell us where our photographer took this photo and get a chance to win $25.

party pix

6 western tidewater living

Chamber of Commerce fiesta 2018 Top left: Mandy Hall of Westat, left, with Craig Sawyer of Repair Tech and Jeff Hall of Hubbard Peanut Co. Top right: Belinda Long, left, and Mellisa Rosario, both of Care Advantage. Bottom left: From left are Micah Dillon of the Franklin-Southampton United Way, Chris Howell of the Blackwater Timber Co. and Angela Sproul of the James L. Camp Jr. YMCA. Bottom right: Catarina Johnson of the James L. Camp Jr. YMCA, left, with Trish Tsitsera of the Franklin-Southampton United Way. PHOTOS BY STEPHEN H. COWLES

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party pix

8 western tidewater living

Paul D. Camp Hurricanes Baseball Top: Paul D. Camp Community College Dean of Student Services and Professional Counselor Trina Jones with Ronald Jones at a PDC Hurricanes game on Armory Field, in Franklin. Bottom: Cayla Christmas, left, Emily Kubik and Kim Kubik, all of Zuni, at a PDC baseball game on Armory Field. PHOTOS BY STEPHEN H. COWLES

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Piney Grove Baptist Top: Bruce Turner, center, with the Rev. Alfred D. Brown Sr., senior pastor of Piney Grove Baptist Church, and the Rev. Delores Manley, assistant pastor. Bottom: Janice Joyner, left, with Thelares Williams, Charlotte Blacknall, Thelma Edmonds, Paulette Lawrence and the Rev. Mary Hilliard. PHOTOS BY STEPHEN H. COWLES

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who am I?

western tidewater living

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16 western tidewater living

what to do APRIL 1-30 Clean Rivers Month: This a community effort to clean up the Blackwater and Nottoway Watershed. The Historic Southside Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists and theFranklin Garden Club are sponsoring the event this year. Start looking at river and swamp bridge crossings or ditches in your area and scope out a place for your team to clean. Please try to register by Saturday, March 31. If your group wants to participate, contact Dick Gilbert at rbgilbert124@ gmail.com or call 562-2682 or Anne Parker at annegbparker@gmail.com or call 5624804.

MONDAY, APRIL 2 Spring Break Camp: The Franklin Department of Parks and Recreation will have a Spring Break Camp April 2-5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. Camp is open to boys and girls ages 6-14 and includes bowling, library, video games, outside play, movie time, arcade games and more. Daily breakfast and lunch are included. Cost to participate is $50 per child.For more information, call Eric Benton at 653-1667. To register, go to www. camp25.org. Spring Break Week: Franklin's Department of Parks and Recreation presents Spring Break Week 2018 from April 2-6 in the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 683 Oak St., Franklin. Monday, April 2, is Bingo Night, starting at 4:30 p.m. Winners will receive prizes. Tuesday, April 3, is Game Night starting at 5 p.m., and will include board games, Wii, PS4 and indoor bowling. Light refreshments will be provided. Wednesday, April 4, is Movie Night starting at 5 p.m. The movie will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Annieâ&#x20AC;? and popcorn will be provided. Thursday, April 5, is the city's fourth annual Easter Egg Extravaganza, held from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. The egg hunt starts at 2:30 p.m. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. There will be activities for two age groups: ages 6 and under and ages 7-9. Bring your Easter basket or container for the egg hunt. Additional activities include inflatables, food, games, a D.J. And face painting. Friday, April 6, is a Rec Hang Out Party from 3:30 to 6 p.m. The party will include play music, snacks and karaoke. All activities, unless otherwise noted, are for all

school ages. For more information, contact Sammara Bailey, program specialist at 5622475.

center.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 7 Golf Tournament: The seventh annual Child Abuse Prevention Golf Tournament will be on April 7 at Cypress Cove Country Club. This event is sponsored by the Joyner Gray Yale Ruritan Club and Southampton Social Services and all proceeds will be returned to the community through programs to support child abuse prevention. Registration begins at noon and the shotgun start is at 1 p.m. The $75 entrance fee includes green fees, cart and a barbecue dinner after the event. For more information, call Jerry Stivers at 630-8604 or Michelle Stivers at 556-2623. Southampton Renaissance Faire: The 10th annual event will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday at the Southampton County Fairgrounds. Parking and admission are free. The family-friendly event will feature kings and queens, princes and princesses, knights (but no dragons,) vikings, pirates, gypsies, animal, sword fights, shows, games, archery, dances, vendors, crafts and food and drink.

THURSDAY, APRIL 5

MONDAY, APRIL 9

FRIDAY, APRIL 6

THURSDAY, APRIL 12

western tidewater living

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18 western tidewater living Story Time: Story Time at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library is from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday and may include stories, fingerplays, songs and action rhymes. Simple crafts are also sometimes part of the fun.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14 Down Home Day: This year's event at the Southampton Heritage Village/Agriculture & Forestry Museum has been expanded an hour to give people more time to see the demonstrations and exhibits, as well as enjoying food and fellowship. Jimmy Ricks and his Shiloh Grass bluegrass band will perform. The gristmill will be running, providing fresh cornmeal. Bill Vick will have a display of hand shellers for corn. The model trains will also be running, including one that children can operate. For more information, call 654-6785. Community Day of Prayer: Join with area clergy and church members as we celebrate a Franklin Community Day of Prayer. Events will take place at 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, on Armory Field between games of the PDCCC Hurricanes versus Stratford University. This is a grassroots clergy effort to enrich and unite the community. The opening game of the double-header begins at 1 p.m. with the second game starting at 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 Happy Scrappers: The Happy Scrappers Quilting Group will meet at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library, 280 N. College Drive, in Franklin on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Make new friends, and get inspired to work on your choice of projects. No experience is necessary and all skill levels are welcome. Kits for a simple first project and instruction will be provided for beginners; intermediate & advanced quilters may bring their own UFOs to work on. Everyone should bring a basic sewing kit and fabric scraps to trade and use. Registration is required, please call 562-4801 or email broblin@blackwaterlib. org. Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@ blackwaterlib.org for more information.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 LEGO Club: The LEGO Club meets every third Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Walter Cecil Rawls Library in Courtland. LEGO clubbers channel creativity into building designs and challenges. Open to ages 3 and up. For more information go to www. blackwaterlib.org, visit our Facebook page, call 653-2821 or email tcooley@blackwaterlib.org. Franklin Cruise-In: The 2018 season will be driving into the Main Street parking lot downtown each Wednesday through Sept. 5. Show hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. This will be open to antique, classic, custom-made, motorcycles and contemporary speciality vehicles, and is free to both participants and visitors. For people who bring their chariots for viewing, free entries will be available to win $1,000 in each of the following categories: Vehicles before 1972; vehicles from 1972; and vehicles in unique categories, such as golf carts, motorcycles, pickup trucks. There will also be giveaways for Monster Energy drinks, and 50/50 raffle drawings will take place weekly. Free hot dogs for people with participating vehicles will be available from Fred's Restaurant. The Grand Finale will happen on Saturday, Sept. 8. That's when prizes will be awarded. New this year will be a raffle for a custom golf cart. The Casey Rich Scholarship is new this year, and will be awarded to a student toward furthering education in the field for which they have a passion. Volunteers are also sought. If you would like to get involved, send an email to FranklinCruiseIn@ yahoo.com.â&#x20AC;? People may also contact Mike Smith at 438-2981 or Ray Smith at 6218956 or visit the Facebook page for Franklin Cruise-In.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Prospective & Small Business Consultations: The Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chamber of Commerce is accepting reservations for prospective and small business owners to meet with a consultant from the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads. To schedule a free appointment for April 19, call 357-3502 or email chamber@theisle.org. Family Game Night: The Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library, 280 N. College Drive, Franklin, holds Family Game Night on the third Thursday of each month. Drop by the

children's area to play one of several games set up from 5:30 to 7 p.m. All ages welcome.

FRIDAY, APRIL 20 Environmental Education Camp: This event will be from Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 22, in the Airfield 4-H Center, 15189 Airfield Road, Wakefield. For more information, visit www.airfield4hcenter.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 21 Wakefield Ruritan Club Bash: Join us at the Ruritan Clubhouse in Wakefield from 3 to 8 p.m. for fun, food and entertainment. This year's event will host various children's activities, display with the history of the Wakefield Ruritans and Shad Planking, cornhole tournament, a live band, BBQ and Shad, raffle with with four prizes and a beer truck. Community Day: High Street United Methodist Church will be hosting Community Day on Saturday, April 21, 2018 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Hot dogs will be served, and there will be various fun activities such as a bounce house. For more information, contact Jane Riddick-Fries at 653-9118 or email her at jfries@feridies.com.

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@ blackwaterlib.org for more information.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 DIY Teen Night: DIY Teen Night at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 22511 Main St., Courtland, offers fun and crafty creations for teens to enjoy on the fourth Wednesday of each month. This will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Registration is required. Call 653-2821 to register.

THURSDAY, APRIL 26 Mah Jongg: Enjoy a game of Mah Jongg at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library every Thursday from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. Beginners are welcome. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin. Story Time: Story Time at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library is from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday and may include stories, fingerplays, songs and action rhymes. Simple crafts are also sometimes part of the

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20 western tidewater living Simple crafts are also sometimes part of the fun.

fun. Knitters Anonymous: Get some help deciphering that new pattern or learn about the basics of knitting and purling at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library. The club meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Share ideas, fun and fellowship at our weekly meetings. All skill levels and drop-ins are welcome.

SATURDAY, APRIL 28 PDCCC Craft Show: The Paul D. Camp Community College Upward Bound program will benefit from a free upcoming event: the Hometown Annual Spring Fling Craft Show. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the college’s Regional Workforce Development Center, 100 N. College Drive, Franklin. Crafters and other vendors are needed. For more information, call Shirley Billups at 620-5499.

TUESDAY, MAY 1 Happy Scrappers: The Happy Scrappers Quilting Group meets at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library, 280 N. College Drive, in Franklin on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Make new friends, and get inspired to work on your choice of projects. No experience is necessary and all skill levels are welcome. Kits for a simple first project and instruction will be provided for beginners; intermediate & advanced quilters may bring their own UFOs to work on. Everyone should bring a basic sewing kit and fabric scraps to trade and use. Registration is required, please call 562-4801 or email broblin@blackwaterlib. org. Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@ blackwaterlib.org for more information.

THURSDAY, MAY 3 Mah Jongg: Enjoy a game of Mah Jongg at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library every Thursday from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. Beginners are welcome. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin. Story Time: Story Time at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library is from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday and may include stories, fingerplays, songs and action rhymes.

Knitters Anonymous: Get some help deciphering that new pattern or learn about the basics of knitting and purling at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library. The club meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Share ideas, fun and fellowship at our weekly meetings. All skill levels and drop-ins are welcome.

SATURDAY, MAY 5 1st Saturday's Artisan Market: Capron, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Corner of Highway 58 & Main Street, 18001 Southampton Parkway at Gallery 1606. This is a monthly free exhibition and sales event. Artisans and crafters featuring specialties in stained glass, wearable art, jewelry, metal art, turned wood, garden art, quilts, pallet furniture, demonstrations and more. There's no fee for a space, but reservations are required. For more information, email gallery1606@ gmail.com, or call Lynette Allston 434-6584454.

TUESDAY, MAY 8

Campbell Memorial Library every Thursday from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. Beginners are welcome. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin. Story Time: Story Time at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library is from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday and may include stories, fingerplays, songs and action rhymes. Simple crafts are also sometimes part of the fun. Knitters Anonymous: Get some help deciphering that new pattern or learn about the basics of knitting and purling at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library. The club meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Share ideas, fun and fellowship at our weekly meetings. All skill levels and drop-ins are welcome.

MONDAY, MAY 14 Friends of the Franklin Library: Join the Friends of the Franklin Library from 6 to 7 p.m. to learn about volunteer opportunities and how you can be a part of your community library. The library is located at 280 N. College Drive, Franklin.

Bingo night: Bingo will be at the Walters Ruritan Club at 7 p.m. There will be food, drinks and instant bingo available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, call Mike Perry at 642-0833.

Serving Franklin Since 1984

Story Time: Story Time for ages 2-5 at the Walter Cecil Rawls library, 2511 Main St., Courtland, is every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for story time, music, crafts and more. Call 653-2821 or email tcooley@blackwaterlib.org for more information.

THURSDAY, MAY 10 Mah Jongg: Enjoy a game of Mah Jongg at the Ruth Camp

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22 western tidewater living The Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana was once a high school in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. Today the building serves a similar purpose of informing people through the late Jefcoat's extensive collections. Photo by Stephen H. Cowles

western tidewater living

Domestic life through the decades story by Stephen Faleski

photos by Stephen H. Cowles

n a narrow hallway on the second floor of what was once the town of Murfreesboro's public high school sit several rows of shelves, filled with over 900 antique irons, the largest collection of such in the country. On either side of the hall, former classrooms are now filled with Victrolas of all shapes and sizes, and at the end of the hall is a room containing over 2,000 record albums. But that isn't all visitors will find in the building now known as the Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana. The school-turned-museum also boasts the largest U.S. collection of washing machine equipment and butter churns, a complete collection of Daisy Air Rifles, and period furniture, that includes a courtship couch used in the 1939 movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gone with the Wind.â&#x20AC;? Everything on display at one time belonged to the late Brady C. Jefcoat of Raleigh, North Carolina, for whom the museum is named. According to the museum's curator, Colin Ballance, Jefcoat began collecting period household items in 1972 after his wife succumbed to cancer, and continued his hobby for over 30 years.

24 western tidewater living

A Victrola is positioned across the room from "Nipper," which was part of the trademark for "His Master's Voice," used once by the Radio Corporation of America (RCA.) In addition, this room on the first floor has a polyphon music box (front left,) harp and organ. The red couch was reportedly used in the movie "Gone With the Wind."

Today, the museum has over 10,000 items on display formerly belonging to Jefcoat, including glassware, toasters, farm tools, and Watt pottery — a popular brand of cookware created by the Watt family of Crooksville, Ohio, from 1922 to 1965. “Whatever caught his eye, he would collect,” Ballance said of Jefcoat. “He went to yard sales, flea markets, estate sales, auctions and people gave him things.” When asked about some of Jefcoat's more peculiar choices of what to collect, which included several wooden commodes, Ballance explained that his career in the skilled trades also influenced his hobby. “He was a plumber [and contractor],” Ballance said. “He built a lot of rental houses in the Raleigh area and sold them before the market crashed [in

2008].” Ballance added that Jefcoat was still living at the time the museum was founded, and that items were moved into the museum from his home in Raleigh over seven years. Jefcoat had agreed to donate his collection to the museum following negotiations with the Murfreesboro Historical Association, during which he mandated that the museum never break up his collection and that his entire collection be on display at all times. The museum opened to the public in 1997. “He would come down several times per year to see his collection,” Ballance said. “He could tell you where and when he got everything in here, he had that kind of memory.” Jefcoat died in April 2013 at the age of 96. While Jefcoat's success as a contrac-

tor helped sustain his collecting hobby during his lifetime, today the museum, which operates as a division of the Murfressboro Historical Association Inc., relies on several fundraisers throughout the year to keep up with operating costs. One of its biggest fundraisers is its Pork Feast, which will be held on Saturday, May 19, this year. Ballance said the museum also maintains an endowment it can draw from should the building, which dates from 1922, need any major repairs. The museum, located at 201 W. High St., Murfreesboro, North Carolina about 11 miles south of the Virginia/ North Carolina border, is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. More information on the museum can be found at http://murfreesboronc. org/jefcoat.htm. 

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Above: A large collection of shoehorns. Below: The trophy room, which includes a hornet's nest, rattlesnake and peacock, but none of the creatures were hunted by Jefcoat.

26 western tidewater living

Washboards line the walls in the room where early washing machines await the next load of laundry.

Ornate hairpins stuck in a pincushion.

This is but a fraction of the gramophones, polyphons, stereos, Victorlas and other music- playing devices on the second floor. There's also an extensive collection of music recorded on 78's, 45's and 33's, not forgetting some cassette tapes, 8-tracks and even compact discs.

A sample of the collection

You won't find a more complete assembly of irons than in Jefcoat's museum.

western tidewater living

Brady C. Jefcoat's portrait greets Watt Pottery from the Chris and Linda White Collection is attractively displayed visitors at the end of the entrance hall. In the former home economics building. According to the brochure, this pottery was produced by the Watt Family of Crooksville in central Ohio from 1922 to 1965.

Looking more like instruments from the Spanish Inquisition, these are actually polished copper bull rings, cowbells and weaning collars, some of which are obviously spiked.

Peacock and rattler.

at Jefcoat Museum

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30 western tidewater living Sarah at the Ponte Vecchio Bridge in Florence, Italy, was her first destination for teaching.

Sarah Halman story by Merle Monahan

hen Norfolk native Sarah Halman, an English teacher in Shanghai, began her class one day last fall, someone mentioned the upcoming Christmas holiday. She realized the day was fast approaching, and thought how nice it would be to spend the occasion with her parents. “I can do it,” Halman told herself and, on the spot, decided that she was going home for the holiday. “I knew it would take some planning, as this was a last-minute decision,” said the 24-year-old, “but Christmas has always been a wonderful holiday for my family, and since I had missed spending this time with them for the last two years, I was determined that I would not miss 2017.” So the young teacher immediately began to make plans. Halman made arrangements to take about three weeks off prior to Christmas using part of her vacation time. Then she started scheduling flight time. Ultimately, Halman came up with a plan that would put her in Norfolk the day before Christmas Eve. Although her flight from Shanghai to Norfolk would take 20 hours, including a two-hour layover in Chicago, she would make it. “Perfect,” she thought. “I was excited,” Halman admitted. “Even though I had seen my parents during the summer, Christmas is special.” “I decided to surprise mom,” she added with a smile. “Dad knew that I was on my way, but mom had no idea that I was coming until she saw me.” This is not unusual for Halman. She has made many “spur-of-the-moment decisions,” and fortunately, always lands on her feet. The daughter of Tracey and Karen

western tidewater living

Halman of Norfolk, Halman also is the granddaughter of Massey and Alice Joyner of Ivor. She was raised and educated in Norfolk, but frequently spends time with her grandparents. A graduate of both Granby High School and Tidewater Community College in 2011, Halman managed this by taking college courses while still in high school. She then enrolled at Sweet Briar College as a junior, graduating in 2013 with a B.S. in history. “I worked hard to finish when I did,” Halman said, “and was happy when it was all behind me. “But the thing was,” she added with a laugh, “after all that work, I had no idea what I wanted to do.” Halman soon decided what she would do, however — she would teach English abroad. “One of my college classmates happened to mention this to me and it sounded good. So I looked into the possibility, and after meeting all the requirements, such as certification (TEFL-Teaching English as a Foreign Language,) etc., I was on my way to Florence, Italy.” Halman said she taught in a small school in Amantea, Italy, from January 2015 until August 2016. From September 2016 until the present, she has been teaching in Shanghai and has signed up for another school year. Halman paid her own expenses to Italy, but the China trip is funded by the Walt Disney Corporation. “I have loved teaching abroad because it’s so rewarding seeing students progress with a new language,” she said. “I remember once we traveled to London with a bunch of teenaged students and watched them use English in a realistic setting — it was impressive.” Halman noted another instance when one of her younger students who was

Top: Students wave in the background where Sarah Halman and others are conducting a class. Bottom: With other Disney "voluntEARs" is Sarah Halman, wearing Minnie Mouse ears and polka-dotted bow. Halman said this was taken at a migrant workers childrens' summer camp during a Disney VoluntEARs event that she led, where they partner with a local company called Stepping Stones. Everyone in the picture is an employee of the Disney English Company.

32 western tidewater living having a hard time reading volunteered one day to read off the board in front of the class. “He managed to pronounce all the words without any assistance and when he finished, he had the biggest smile. Learning to read had boosted his confidence so much that he’s been a shining star in class ever since.” “There are many perks that go along with teaching abroad,” Halman added. “For instance, in the years I taught in Italy, I had the opportunity to visit Rome, Sicily, Venice, Milan, Amsterdam, Munich, Paris and London. “From China, I’ve traveled to South Korea and toured the DMZ on the border of South and North Korea. Also Tokyo, Osaka, Japan and the Philippines. These are places I never would have seen otherwise.” Asked if she will continue teaching when her time in Shanghai is up, Halman said, “Well, I don’t think I’ll teach, but I would like to work abroad.” 

Right: Sarah Halman, at right, said, "My learning partner Linda and I after receiving awards for having the most number of students from our classes compete and win in a national Disney marketing competition."

Sarah at Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Behind her at left is Mt. Vesuvius.

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Mahone's Tavern

story by Stephen H. Cowles

he architecture of a place can give it character, and in the town of Courtland that's particularly exemplified by two buildings: The Southampton County Courthouse and, directly across the street, Mahone's Tavern. In addition to their individual styles, their history is linked by location and purpose. Driving by car to those sites is a matter of minutes for most people depending on where they live in Western Tidewater. Yet more than 200 years ago the journey to conduct business at the courthouse was done by horse and buggy, which more likely required hours â&#x20AC;&#x201D; if not a day or two â&#x20AC;&#x201D; again, depending on where people lived in this region.

Above: This is how Mahone's Tavern looked in the early 20th century. At one time, there was a hyphen on the right connecting to the house next door, which was part of the hotel it had become by then. Photo Courtesy Mahone's Tavern & Museum Once at the destination, there was no guarantee that a person's court case was going to be resolved right away. Or, even so, returning the same day wasn't always feasible. Where then to stay? Conveniently and strategically, a tavern was built right across the street in 1796 by Henry Adams and Thomas Hunt. Fitting for the time, it was designed in what's referred to as the Federal Style. For those interested, structure details can be found at www. mahonestavern.org.

Not only did people find refreshment and rest, but were also able to gather the latest news, gossip and discuss the cases just heard or impending. The gallows where condemned prisoners were hanged were within easy view. Reportedly, guests or even passersby would pay to witness from the porch those executions. The place changed hands to become known as Kello's Tavern and then Vaughan's Tavern. During the latter's ownership was when Nat Turner's led

western tidewater living

d e v r e s e r p y r o t s i h p e s e n k o i s t e a e r t e s n u e Tr g e r u t u f for

The Mahone's Tavern & Museum today. Notice how the front has changed. The balcony has been reduced to the ornamental one in the center, and the post supports are reduced from six to four. Photo by Stephen H. Cowles

36 western tidewater living

his insurrection against slavery in August 1831. The history recorded on the website notes that Vaughan's sister-inlaw was Rebecca. Her house was the last place where Turner and his band had killed white people, the target of their wrath. That building also stands, and has been the focus of restoration by the Southampton County Historical Society. It will also become part of the Nat Turner Trail, which the organization is developing for education and historic tourism. In 1840, the new proprietors were Fielding Jordan and Martha Drew Mahone, whose son, William, was born on Dec. 1, 1826, in Monroe of the county. During his ownership, Fielding expanded his tavern by connecting it to what was once Hart's Tavern (also known as the Bell House) next door

The Watkinsons at Christmas. In front, from left, are Sarah Watkinson, Jeanne Coe Watkinson, Michael Watkinson and David Watkinson; back, Penn Watkinson, Patti Watkinson, Dennis Hancock, H. Paige Watkinson, Virginia Davis Watkinson, Wayne Watkinson and Brenda Laine Watkinson. Not pictured is Woodie Watkinson. Photo Courtesy Mahone's Tavern & Museum with a hyphen, the evidence of which can still be found. (A graduate of Virginia Military Institute, William become a civil engineer and president of the Norfolk Petersburg Railroad Co. In the War Between

the States, also known as the Civil War, he was commissioned as a lieutenant colonel of infantry troops. By midNovember 1861, William had been promoted to general. After the war, he resumed work with railroads and even served in the Virginia Senate. He died on Oct. 8, 1895, in Washington, D.C., and is buried at Blandford Cemetery in Petersburg.) Nearly 20 years after Fielding's stake, attorney John Joseph Kindred Sr. of Newsoms took possession for 10 years. His son, John, became a medical doctor as well as serving as a Democrat for five years in the House of Representatives from New York. As a physician, Kindred became noted for concern for people with mental illnesses. He is also credited with drafting the original federal Narcotics Act.

western tidewater living

Ownership continued to pass on, and the tavern developed more into a hotel before becoming a private residence. One of those homeowners was E. Lucille Gillette, who had the place from 1939 to 1953. After her, it became the home for Harwood Paige and Virginia Davis Watkinson — who was Gillette's niece — and their children, Woodie, William, Wayne and Patti. ••• Jump to the morning of July 8, 2017, when Wayne and Patti and their respective families were able to tour the place before meeting Woodie and others for a reunion later that afternoon. “It still looks the same,” said Brenda, who is Wayne's spouse. She added then the last time they came down to visit from their home in Mechanicsville was almost 10 years before.

Patti Watkinson remembered that she slept with her parents in their bedroom. The boys were in the room across the hall. She also recalled that her father, who was one time a sheriff 's deputy, often made things to make living in the house more comfortable or convenient, such as an in-house speaker system. Patti laughed to remember her father had built a little bed with the idea that she could sleep in a space underneath the stairs that led to the scary attic, as Wayne called it. She would have none of that. Wayne said that at Christmas, he and his siblings would come down the stairs in reverse order of when they were born, Woodie being the oldest and Patti the youngest. “We had a really nice time,” Wayne

A display in the museum includes a cannon ball and a photo of the tavern, judging by the people's attire, perhaps late 19th or early 20th century. Photo by Stephen H. Cowles remembered about living there. As they walked around, one could see he and sister looking about and remembering. ••• In early 2008, the Watkinsons put up a For Sale sign in front of their home. Wayne added that the family thought about keeping the place, but everyone had “other lives and other jobs.” That's where the Urquhart-Gillette Camp No. 1471, Sons of Confederate Veterans come into the history. The

38 western tidewater living

Framed and preserved behind glass, the Southampton Calvary Flag was reportedly given by ladies of the “Helping Hand Society of Southampton County” to the Southampton Cavalry, which was led Capt. Joseph Ezra Gillette in April 1861.

Tidewater News reported on Sept. 7, 2008, that the members didn't want the place to fall into disrepair or even in the hands of indifferent owners. In May that year, the SCV declared it would seek a way to buy the house and convert it to become a meeting place and activity center for the SCV camp and the local chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. “We had worried that someone would want to do something else with it, turning it into a bed-and-breakfast, tearing it down or interfering with its historic status in some other way,” said

Tommy Simmons, an SCV commander at the time. ••• Sometime after the meeting with the Watkinsons, three trustees of the Mahone's Tavern and Museum Inc. — C. Earl Blythe, Warren Simmons and William Wolfe — spoke in detail about the building's history, as related above. As they explained, instead of the SCV purchasing the site, another group of concerned citizens formed the company with the intention and ability to buy it. Simmons said the organization has a three-pronged approach for the tavern:

Restore and maintain the building; educate the public about its history; and establish it as a museum. As it turned out, a man whom the trustees preferred not to name had read about the situation, bought the place and resold it to the preservation group. Simmons added that the benefactor was paid back by 2013. “He was more than generous,” said Wolfe, noting that there's no mortgage that must be paid. As with all buildings, though, Mahone's Tavern needs periodic maintenance. Remember, that place is 122 years old. Fundraisers such as the Christmas ornament sales, local history seminars and annual dinners help in that matter “little by little.” Simmons mentioned that William's descendants, Mahone V and VI, have aided in past projects. Understandably, the trustees would like for another benefactor to help them not only with the necessary repairs, but also to enhance the interior such as acquiring period pieces of furniture or utensils circa 1836. That's based on a found inventory from that year. There's also a desire to expand exhibits to include local artifacts from the war. Tours are available on the first floor only; there are liability issues that prevent visitors from going up the narrow stairs, though there's nothing to see in the way of furnishings. The porch balcony no longer exists; it's reduced to an ornament where the door was once used. In summary, Blythe said, “We want to preserve our local history for future generations and for the public.” To learn more about the tavern or how to help in its preservation or education opportunities, come to the site at 22341 Main St., Courtland, VA 23837. You can also visit www.mahonestavern.org. 

western tidewater living

Welcome to Isle of Wight County, VA The Town of Windsor Founded in 1902

The Hidden Jewel of Western Tidewater Join us this year in for our Summer Concert Series & Celebrations! May 4th, 7 pm July 4th, 6 pm Concert at the Gazebo July 4th Celebration

June 1st, 7pm Concert at the Gazebo

August 3rd, 7pm Concert at the Gazebo

For more information about upcoming meetings and events: Visit us online at www.windsor-va.org • 757-242-4288

Open every Saturday thru Oct. 9AM to 12PM Behind the Bank of Southside Virginia, 115 Main, Historic Downtown Smithfield

Propane • Premium Fuel Oil • Premium Diesel Heating & Air Conditioning Sales/Service Discounts for Senior Citizens

Tidewater Petroleum Cooperative, Inc.

(757) 942-2145

www.tidewaterpetroleum.com

Live Music Each Week More than 50 Vendors Named to Top 101 Markets in the U.S.!

Smithfield Vintage Market Sat. May 5: 10AM – 5PM • Sun. May 6: 12PM – 4PM Isle of Wight County Fairgrounds Vintage Market Manager

Cheryl Ketcham • 757-375-3031 cketcham@isleofwightus.net

Farmers Market Manager

Meredith Marchant • 757-759-4118 mmarchant@isleofwightus.net

SmithfieldFarmersMarket.org

Visit the historic town of Murfreesboro, N.C.

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Choose a new start. Choose a second chance. Choose affordability. Choose choir. Choose community. Choose compassion. Choose competition. Choose confidence. Choose diversity. Choose extraordinary. Choose faith in your future. Choose family. Choose gratitude. Choose growth. Choose home. Choose impact. Choose individual attention. Choose innovation. Choose involvement. Choose joy. Choose legacy. Choose love. Choose momentum. Choose possibilities. Choose progress. Choose service. Choose significance. Choose something different.

Choose Faith in Your Future.

www.chowan.edu 1(888)4-CHOWAN

40 western tidewater living

Kathy Mason, left, seals the bags, each containing three pounds of beans and three pounds of rice. Pam Payne, in turn, puts the bags within another for distribution the following Saturday.

Bean Counters L

Emmanuel Episcopal continues generous food ministry

story and photos by Stephen H. Cowles

ike so many churches throughout Western Tidewater, the congregation of Emmanuel Episcopal Church does its part to help feed the hungry. One of those ways is the beans and rice program. Following worship on the first Sunday of the month, volunteers will meet in the parish hall to set up for measuring, pouring and bagging 3 pounds of dried beans and 3 pounds of rice out of the 150 pounds of each. The members are undaunted by the amounts. As the expression goes, 'Many hands make light work,' and the number of volunteers participating is often around 18,

“The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'” Matthew 25:40 (NIV) but that varies. Jones there have been as many as 30 to 40 people to assist. Regardless, the task is efficiently and quickly completed. Included with the 6-pound bags are instructions for cooking and even a little something extra, such as small boxes of muffin mix. Distribution takes place at the church from 9 to 11 a.m. on the second Saturday of the month. If there are any packages left over, these are taken to the Franklin Cooperative

Ministry or even the Southampton County Social Services. The beginning of this ministry was simple enough. Senior warden Tom Jones said that Ames and Julia Herbert had attended a diocesan council a few years ago and learned of a similar program being done in Alabama and decided to try it here. “It's been a good ministry,” Jones said. “Nothing goes to waste.” Ginna Cutchin, who's been a mem-

western tidewater living

Eric Cooke pours pinto beans into a large tray with Joy Cartwright ensuring none spill over. Working with them is Betsy Jones.

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Betty Howe, left, reaches to put bags of beans into a larger container for distribution next week. With her are Pam Payne, Diane Cooke, Betsy Jones, Ginna Cutchin and Kathy Mason. They also added small boxes of muffin mix to the packages.

western tidewater living

It's been a rough winter, even for gardens, but already crops have been planted for the upcoming season.

ber since 1997, said the monthly preparation and distribution is a time for “lots of fun and fellowship.” That includes the Chat and Chew, a simple repast on the second and fourth Sundays. Cutchin added, “It's nice to know you're doing something to help other people.” Emmanuel Episcopal also has a garden dedicated to the community. Collards and kale, potatoes and tomatoes, etc., are sent to the FCM depending on

the seasonal harvest. “We try to get two to three crops a year out of each box,” said Jones, who added that the most active gardeners are Eric Cooke, Ash and Ginna Cutchin, Stephanie Drzal, Tom Fariss, Ames Herbert, Laurie Ross, Joanne DeLancey and Joy Cartwright. Even the children's Sunday School class has the responsibility of one box. In addition to feeding people, the women of the church organize an an-

nual clothing and yard sale. The items are inexpensive, and the money raised helps to support the aforementioned FCM or even the Jackson Feild Home for Girls and Boys Home of Virginia. Emmanuel Episcopal is located on the corner of Fourth Avenue and 400 N. High St. To learn more about the church and its ministries, call 5624542, email emmanuelfranklin1882@ gmail.com or visit www.emmanuelepiscopal.com. 

Pecht Distributors, Inc. 514 New Street Lawrenceville, VA 23868