...That's what the birds have been doing so prominently every morning. The weather has been so perfect that I've been sleeping with my bedroom windows wide open, and I can hear the birds start chirping about 4 o'clock in the morning. In addition to the chirping and twittering* there is the low moaning sound of the mourning doves.
I've been taking advantage of the 72 degree temperatures and sunny skies to cut and trim my grass, plant a fig tree, grade Howard Street, fix and maintain my generator and weed trimmer, oil up my bikes...anything to be outside and soak up springtime. I think most islanders are feeling the same way.
*I wonder how many readers looked at today's title and assumed the blog was about social networking?
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of paved roads on Ocracoke. It may not sound very exciting, but there have been dramatic changes on the island because of the construction of paved roads a half century ago. You can read the newsletter, and see some rare photos here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
April Newsletter
I have just published our latest Ocracoke Newsletter. This month I share some of the history of paved roads on the island. The newsletter includes a rare picture of the wide tidal flat & WWII landing mats at the north end of Ocracoke Island in 1956 or 1957. So much has changed in the last fifty years!
You can read our April Newsletter here.
You can read our April Newsletter here.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
More Itinerants
Yesterday I documented several traveling salesmen, performers, and evangelists who visited Ocracoke a century or more ago. In more recent years we've also had our share of eccentric characters make their way through the island. Many islanders will remember some of the following:
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
- Bill Askrin, who drove his car onto a sand dune in the 1950s and just left it there (he lived in the old WWII bunkers at Loop Shack Hill, and was known as an electronics whiz, organic gardener, nighttime wanderer, and early "hippy.")
- The Blanket Man (that's right, he carried his blanket with him everywhere.)
- The Spider Lady (according to her, they were everywhere -- in drawers, under bicycle seats, hanging from lamp shades, crawling around in purses....)
- Hank and his three-legged dog (he stayed for a while, and is often remembered for rolling burning logs under his small house to keep it warm in the winter. Ann Ehringhaus has a photo of him in her book, Ocracoke Portrait.)
- The Car Lady (she was here just a few years ago, and as you might guess, her car was stuffed, and I mean stuffed, from back window to windshield with all of her belongings.)
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Itinerants
We all know that Ocracoke is isolated, and that it was even more isolated in years gone by. But there was always a connection with the outside world. In the 1800s schooners were the main source of information about other places, but various itinerants also frequented Ocracoke. Here are a few I know about:
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
- M.L. Cummings, Evangelist, visited Ocracoke in the 1920s. He held meetings in a large grassy area near what is now called Creek Road, close to Suzie's hair studio. He sold a 32 page booklet, Avenues Leading to Crime, and Blackie of the North Woods, His Life and Conversion, for 25 cents. The chapbook, which told of a life of vagrancy, crime, alcohol, drugs, sex, and conversion, relates details of southern jails and chain gangs, and was probably autobiographical. From what I can gather, he attracted quite a crowd with his stories.
- Traveling salesmen occasionally found their way to Ocracoke. Older folks remember one who carried a leather satchel on his back from which he sold bed spreads, pillow cases, and other sundries. He also brought news from the mainland.
- In the nineteenth century an itinerant photographer went from house to house making photos of islanders in their parlors. (I wonder, could this be who took the photograph of my grandparents that hangs in my living room?)
- The old Toothbrush Man was quite a character who came to the island periodically (you can read his story here).
- The nationally known evangelist Billy Sunday and his song leader Homer Rodheaver held revivals in the old Coast Guard Station about 1913 or 1914.
- My grandfather told of the man with the trained bear who came to Ocracoke (how did he get the bear here??), and made it perform tricks for donations. He must have been quite a sensation!
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
National Poetry Month
I'm a little late in acknowledging National Poetry Month since I only recently learned of it from one of our reader's comments. But at least it's still April. A couple of days ago Outer Banks poet, R. Wayne Gray, from Wanchese, stopped by to pay me a visit. He left one of his poetry booklets, The Shotgun Boogie Blues. In honor of all of our local poets, and National Poetry Month, I am including Wayne's poem Great Blue Heron Revisited for your enjoyment:
In the rugged marshland,
Above the tidal pools,
The majestic blue soldier
Emerges through early morning mist,
Quietly working his way down
To where he will begin
Standing in his own shadow,
Mesmerizing tiny minnows,
His beady eyes
As swift as his sharp beak.
A fisher, he is a part of the land,
His movements uncannily ghostlike,
a ruffled painting of blue and gray.
Bent bullrushes cover his ghostliness
As he patiently stalks his prey.
The wildness and stillness,
Sacred to him,
As he follows the swampy shoreline,
His movements more graceful
Than a dancer.
Wayne Gray is Dare County's Poet Laureate, and his books of poetry are available at Manteo Booksellers. Click here to see a photo of Wayne and to order his newest book, Maggie's Drawers Creek. If you want The Shotgun Boogie Blues you will probably have to email or phone Steve at Manteo Booksellers.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
In the rugged marshland,
Above the tidal pools,
The majestic blue soldier
Emerges through early morning mist,
Quietly working his way down
To where he will begin
Standing in his own shadow,
Mesmerizing tiny minnows,
His beady eyes
As swift as his sharp beak.
A fisher, he is a part of the land,
His movements uncannily ghostlike,
a ruffled painting of blue and gray.
Bent bullrushes cover his ghostliness
As he patiently stalks his prey.
The wildness and stillness,
Sacred to him,
As he follows the swampy shoreline,
His movements more graceful
Than a dancer.
Wayne Gray is Dare County's Poet Laureate, and his books of poetry are available at Manteo Booksellers. Click here to see a photo of Wayne and to order his newest book, Maggie's Drawers Creek. If you want The Shotgun Boogie Blues you will probably have to email or phone Steve at Manteo Booksellers.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
A Busy Day
Yesterday was a full day. It started off at Elizabeth Parsons' shop, Pamlico Gifts. Gary had organized a group of friends to build a railing for Elizabeth from her house to the front door of her shop. We cut and routed 6 X 6s, dug holes, put galvanized pipe together, and assembled it all. By noon we were finished. The best part was hearing one guy's vasectomy story! He really should submit it to the Funny Times.
Stop by Pamlico Gifts sometime soon to see the railing...and make a purchase. Elizabeth is Ocracoke's authentic folk artist.
After lunch Blanche came over and we went to the Assembly of God church for the funeral for Iona Teeter, one more old-time islander whose stories and history are now in the trust of her family and friends.
Later that afternoon I enjoyed the company of Nancy and Wayne Gray from Wanchese, NC. Wayne is a poet, writer, and native Outer Banker. We spent a pleasant hour or so sitting on the pizer and chatting about island history and stories.
Then it was time to stroll down to the Fudge Shop with Lachlan. We sat on the Community Store porch with John Ivey and cousin Ed. John reminded me of a very funny story from years gone by (but unfortunately I can't relate it in a family blog -- sorry...you'll just have to ask me about it some time).
Well, it's time to get outside. Today is the perfect spring day.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Stop by Pamlico Gifts sometime soon to see the railing...and make a purchase. Elizabeth is Ocracoke's authentic folk artist.
After lunch Blanche came over and we went to the Assembly of God church for the funeral for Iona Teeter, one more old-time islander whose stories and history are now in the trust of her family and friends.
Later that afternoon I enjoyed the company of Nancy and Wayne Gray from Wanchese, NC. Wayne is a poet, writer, and native Outer Banker. We spent a pleasant hour or so sitting on the pizer and chatting about island history and stories.
Then it was time to stroll down to the Fudge Shop with Lachlan. We sat on the Community Store porch with John Ivey and cousin Ed. John reminded me of a very funny story from years gone by (but unfortunately I can't relate it in a family blog -- sorry...you'll just have to ask me about it some time).
Well, it's time to get outside. Today is the perfect spring day.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Another Old Photo
Below is a photo of the mailboat Aleta. This is how folks traveled back and forth between the mainland and Ocracoke Island when I was a small boy. The first state-operated ferries didn't begin operation until the late 1950s.
Notice how low the Aleta sat in the water, and how folks are crowded on the upper deck and at the stern (sitting on fish boxes and luggage). There were two wooden benches under the canopy where you could get out of the sun (or rain). Hardly anyone wanted to be inside the cabin in the summer.
The trip took about 4 - 4 1/2 hours to cross Pamlico Sound. What a wonderful adventure it was!
Thanks to Blanche for the photo (click on the photo to view a larger image).
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Notice how low the Aleta sat in the water, and how folks are crowded on the upper deck and at the stern (sitting on fish boxes and luggage). There were two wooden benches under the canopy where you could get out of the sun (or rain). Hardly anyone wanted to be inside the cabin in the summer.
The trip took about 4 - 4 1/2 hours to cross Pamlico Sound. What a wonderful adventure it was!
Thanks to Blanche for the photo (click on the photo to view a larger image).
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
IV
Last night at 7 o'clock the Methodist Church sponsored a performance by George Hamilton IV, a regular on the Grand Ole Opry who is often called the International Ambassador of Country Music. He put on a Gospel Show based on the life of Hank Williams. It was quite interesting, as well as entertaining, with lots of stories about Hank Williams.
He wore his trademark red checked shirt, topped with a black vest embroidered with his logo, IV.
You can read more about George Hamilton IV here:
http://www.georgeiv.net/Site/georgeiv.net.html (This is his new website, still in development.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Hamilton_IV (This is the Wikipedia web page.)
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
He wore his trademark red checked shirt, topped with a black vest embroidered with his logo, IV.
You can read more about George Hamilton IV here:
http://www.georgeiv.net/Site/georgeiv.net.html (This is his new website, still in development.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Hamilton_IV (This is the Wikipedia web page.)
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Ladders & Pickup Trucks
This morning I decided to install a through-the-wall air conditioner in our customer bathroom. I looked all over for my aluminum step ladder, but it was nowhere to be found. I remember loaning it to someone, but now can't remember to whom. So I was on my way to borrow Al's. When I turned the key in my pickup truck I remembered that the battery was dead. It was only a short walk to see Frank, who had just returned from running an errand, and was back to re-open his shop. He was happy to let me use his pickup.
When I brought the truck back and gave Frank the keys he told me (with a sheepish grin) that he had given me the keys to his business along with the truck keys. He had had to crawl through a window to get inside to open up for customers!
If you borrowed my ladder, please bring it back!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
When I brought the truck back and gave Frank the keys he told me (with a sheepish grin) that he had given me the keys to his business along with the truck keys. He had had to crawl through a window to get inside to open up for customers!
If you borrowed my ladder, please bring it back!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Did You Know...
...that Hatteras Inlet opened in 1846? Before then Ocracoke Island was connected to Hatteras Island. In fact, Ocracoke Inlet is the only inlet that has been continuously open since Europeans began keeping records. In years past hurricanes and other storms would periodically open and close inlets all along the Outer Banks. With the advent of paved roads & a burgeoning tourist industry state and local governments have responded to every overwash and formation of new inlets with attempts to stabilize the present configuration of the Outer Banks.
Although Hatteras Inlet is only about a half mile wide, the ferry route from Hatteras village to the dock on Ocracoke is about five miles.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Although Hatteras Inlet is only about a half mile wide, the ferry route from Hatteras village to the dock on Ocracoke is about five miles.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Old Photos
Last week when I was visiting Blanche she brought out several old photo albums, and graciously allowed me to borrow them and scan a number of pictures. Some days later I was visiting with Ward and Linda, and they set up their slide projector and screen. We spent an hour looking at old pictures taken by Harry Osman and Linda's daddy, Frank. Linda and Ward are having the slides digitalized, but it takes many hours to accomplish.
I chose one of Blanche's photos to share today. This is a shot of Frazier Peele's ferry landing at Ocracoke about 1951. Very often he could not get any closer to the shore so he would just put the ramp down, and passengers would have to drive through the salt water to dry land. From Hatteras Inlet it was 14 miles of driving on the hard beach, then across the Plains (tidal flats from the campground to the airport), into the village.
(Click on photo to see a larger image.)
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
I chose one of Blanche's photos to share today. This is a shot of Frazier Peele's ferry landing at Ocracoke about 1951. Very often he could not get any closer to the shore so he would just put the ramp down, and passengers would have to drive through the salt water to dry land. From Hatteras Inlet it was 14 miles of driving on the hard beach, then across the Plains (tidal flats from the campground to the airport), into the village.
(Click on photo to see a larger image.)
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Banjo Workshop
I know this announcement is for an event that is scheduled to take place six months from now, but thought I'd alert our readers to it now. Wes Lassiter, who plays banjo with the Diamond Shoals Band on Hatteras Island, and who joins Molasses Creek now and then, has organized a banjo workshop on Ocracoke Island Saturday, October 10, 2009. If you play the banjo (or know someone who does) please pass along this information. It is a wonderful opportunity, and space is very limited. Here is what Wes has to say:
"I am very proud and excited to announce that none other than Tony Trischka will be joining us on beautiful Ocracoke Island, North Carolina for a one-day Banjo Workshop for Intermediate through Advanced players.
"Please feel free to visit http://acousticbox.com/workshop.htm for all the current details as well as all the updates as they come available.
"This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to study banjo with the person who taught Bela Fleck how to play! Please visit Tony Trischka’s website to learn more about this fascinating pioneer of the 5-String banjo at http://www.TonyTrischka.com and be sure to check into this workshop.
"Seating is limited to 15 persons only to insure quality instruction by this master of the 5-string banjo."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
"I am very proud and excited to announce that none other than Tony Trischka will be joining us on beautiful Ocracoke Island, North Carolina for a one-day Banjo Workshop for Intermediate through Advanced players.
"Please feel free to visit http://acousticbox.com/workshop.htm for all the current details as well as all the updates as they come available.
"This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to study banjo with the person who taught Bela Fleck how to play! Please visit Tony Trischka’s website to learn more about this fascinating pioneer of the 5-String banjo at http://www.TonyTrischka.com and be sure to check into this workshop.
"Seating is limited to 15 persons only to insure quality instruction by this master of the 5-string banjo."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Why?
Why is it so cold in the middle of April? I thought spring had arrived, but when I stepped outside this morning on my way to the shower I was surprised by how chilly and windy it was. The hot water sure felt good!
Not everyone is intimidated by the cold, however. Yesterday, as I walked along the beach I saw a father and daughter swimming. I was sure they must be from Canada, but I was wrong. I spoke briefly with the wife/mother (who was wrapped up in a winter coat and clearly uninterested in taking a plunge). They were from North Carolina.
It's only 48 degrees as I write, but the forecast is calling for gradually warming temperatures for the rest of the week.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Not everyone is intimidated by the cold, however. Yesterday, as I walked along the beach I saw a father and daughter swimming. I was sure they must be from Canada, but I was wrong. I spoke briefly with the wife/mother (who was wrapped up in a winter coat and clearly uninterested in taking a plunge). They were from North Carolina.
It's only 48 degrees as I write, but the forecast is calling for gradually warming temperatures for the rest of the week.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department
If you've been on the island this last week you may have noticed the clearing of land on Highway 12 (just to the left of the Flying Melon restaurant). Julia Hutcherson, owner of the Variety Store, generously donated this tract for the construction of a much needed new fire house.
The Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department has embarked on a major campaign to raise the funds necessary to build the new fire house. On Saturday, May 23 (Memorial Day weekend) the Fire Department will be holding their fourth annual Fireman's Ball. Be sure to put the date on your calendar. There will be a pig pickin', auctions, and live music. I'll post more information as we get closer to the date. In the meanwhile you can read more about the history, activities, and needs of the Ocracoke Fire Department here: http://ocracokevfd.org
As you might imagine, funding organizations on Ocracoke can be a challenge because of the small size of this community (only about 750 men, women, and children live year around in Ocracoke village). But the facilities need to be sufficient to serve a much larger summer community (including thousands of visitors, seasonally occupied vacation cottages, many more automobiles, boats, & airplanes).
Your support for the Ocraocke Fire Department is always appreciated. You can send your check to:
Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department
PO Box 332
Ocracoke, NC 27960
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
The Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department has embarked on a major campaign to raise the funds necessary to build the new fire house. On Saturday, May 23 (Memorial Day weekend) the Fire Department will be holding their fourth annual Fireman's Ball. Be sure to put the date on your calendar. There will be a pig pickin', auctions, and live music. I'll post more information as we get closer to the date. In the meanwhile you can read more about the history, activities, and needs of the Ocracoke Fire Department here: http://ocracokevfd.org
As you might imagine, funding organizations on Ocracoke can be a challenge because of the small size of this community (only about 750 men, women, and children live year around in Ocracoke village). But the facilities need to be sufficient to serve a much larger summer community (including thousands of visitors, seasonally occupied vacation cottages, many more automobiles, boats, & airplanes).
Your support for the Ocraocke Fire Department is always appreciated. You can send your check to:
Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department
PO Box 332
Ocracoke, NC 27960
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Molly the Bunny
I learned yesterday that Molly Lovejoy made the chocolate eggs, and brought them by. Two years ago she was dressed up as the Easter Bunny for the Easter Egg hunt on the Methodist Church lawn. Lachlan was startled when he abruptly came face to face with the Bunny, and from then on wanted nothing to do with anyone in costume. He is gradually getting over his fear of these creatures, but certainly isn't enamored of them. Last week I mentioned the Easter Bunny, to which he replied, "The Easter Bunny isn't very interesting." After a moment's thought, however, he added, "But the candy is very interesting!"
Thanks for the egg, Molly!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thanks for the egg, Molly!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Chocolate Egg
While I was out and about yesterday afternoon (flying our paper kite on the beach with Lachlan and friends) someone stopped by and left me a homemade chocolate Easter egg. Making these eggs is a long-time island tradition. Although fewer islanders have been making them in recent years, it was nice to be remembered...and to be reminded that the tradition still lives on.
Here is Ms. Wilma Williams' recipe:
2 pkgs. powdered sugar
1/2 lb. butter
Sm. jar maraschino cherries, cut up, and their juice
1 sm. can coconut
About 1/2 c. chopped nuts
1/2 box raisins
1 8 oz. pkg. semi-sweet chocolate squares
Put sugar in a bowl. Work in softened butter; add nuts, raisins, coconut and cherries. Add cherry juice slowly until mixture can be molded into egg shapes. If it gets too soft, add more sugar. Set egg shapes on waxed paper. Chill. Melt chocolate in double boiler and spoon over cool eggs on waxed paper; chill. When chocolate is hard, eggs may be decorated with icing, small candied fruits or candy. [And then delivered to friends and neighbors -- I added that!]
I think I know who brought me the chocolate egg. Many thanks!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Here is Ms. Wilma Williams' recipe:
2 pkgs. powdered sugar
1/2 lb. butter
Sm. jar maraschino cherries, cut up, and their juice
1 sm. can coconut
About 1/2 c. chopped nuts
1/2 box raisins
1 8 oz. pkg. semi-sweet chocolate squares
Put sugar in a bowl. Work in softened butter; add nuts, raisins, coconut and cherries. Add cherry juice slowly until mixture can be molded into egg shapes. If it gets too soft, add more sugar. Set egg shapes on waxed paper. Chill. Melt chocolate in double boiler and spoon over cool eggs on waxed paper; chill. When chocolate is hard, eggs may be decorated with icing, small candied fruits or candy. [And then delivered to friends and neighbors -- I added that!]
I think I know who brought me the chocolate egg. Many thanks!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Easter!
Easter morning breaks sunny and clear...but much cooler than yesterday. It's even quite breezy.
Last night's fund raising concert for the Ocrafolk Festival was a big success...and lots of fun. By the end of the performance children were dancing in the aisles. Molasses Creek, of course, was there, along with Baby D and Free Mustache, Coyote, April Trueblood, Was Lassiter, Rob Temple, Sundae Horn, Jamie Tunnel, Noah Paley, Donald Davis, and yours truly.
Homemade desserts and soft drinks were available for sale, along with CDs and books by the performers. It was a great way to kick off the 2009 season.
Keep June 5-7 free on your calendar. That's the Festival weekend, a wonderful time to spend on Ocracoke, enjoying music, stories, auction, pot luck dinner, family, & friends.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Last night's fund raising concert for the Ocrafolk Festival was a big success...and lots of fun. By the end of the performance children were dancing in the aisles. Molasses Creek, of course, was there, along with Baby D and Free Mustache, Coyote, April Trueblood, Was Lassiter, Rob Temple, Sundae Horn, Jamie Tunnel, Noah Paley, Donald Davis, and yours truly.
Homemade desserts and soft drinks were available for sale, along with CDs and books by the performers. It was a great way to kick off the 2009 season.
Keep June 5-7 free on your calendar. That's the Festival weekend, a wonderful time to spend on Ocracoke, enjoying music, stories, auction, pot luck dinner, family, & friends.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
A Seafaring Village
It is often said that Ocracoke is a traditional fishing village. Although fishing has long been part of our heritage, seafaring was more prominent in the nineteenth century. In his book, Howards, Garrishes, Jacksons & Stowes of Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, Their Ancestors and Descendants, Earl O'Neal includes a newspaper article about Thomas Wallace (Mr. Tommie) Howard (1878-1972), by Helen Jolly. She writes, "In the years of his childhood, the Ocracoke Harbor was a busy one, with ships constantly plying between northern cities and New Bern....He learned much listening to the boat-hands tell their stories at the piers."
Sailing ships that passed through Ocracoke Inlet in those days actually traveled from as far away as the Caribbean and Nova Scotia. Many of the owners, crew members, and captains were Ocracoke natives. Some of the schooners were even built on the island.
Earl rightly points out that "where [the article] talks about all the ships coming and going through Ocracoke harbor, it does not mean in the present day Silver Lake. The larger freight boats, schooners and steam boats stayed out in the Pamlico Sound [at] Teach's Channel or Teach's Hole. Silver Lake in those years was called Cockle Creek, and [was] only four feet deep in the center until the 1930s."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Sailing ships that passed through Ocracoke Inlet in those days actually traveled from as far away as the Caribbean and Nova Scotia. Many of the owners, crew members, and captains were Ocracoke natives. Some of the schooners were even built on the island.
Earl rightly points out that "where [the article] talks about all the ships coming and going through Ocracoke harbor, it does not mean in the present day Silver Lake. The larger freight boats, schooners and steam boats stayed out in the Pamlico Sound [at] Teach's Channel or Teach's Hole. Silver Lake in those years was called Cockle Creek, and [was] only four feet deep in the center until the 1930s."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Festival Fundraising Concert
If you are on the island be sure to plan on enjoying some genuine Ocracoke music and storytelling tomorrow evening. The Ocrafolk Festival Easter Fundraising Concert is Saturday evening at 7:30 at the Community Center. Doors open at 7 o'clock.
Be ready for some great home-grown music with guitars, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and more. You'll also enjoy some pirate lore, hear a story about a fascinating 150 year old shipwreck, and be entertained by our own nationally famous storyteller, Donald Davis.
See you there!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Be ready for some great home-grown music with guitars, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and more. You'll also enjoy some pirate lore, hear a story about a fascinating 150 year old shipwreck, and be entertained by our own nationally famous storyteller, Donald Davis.
See you there!
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
You Know You Live in a Small Town When...
...FedEx delivers a package to you by mistake, and you carry it to your neighbor's on your way to the Post Office. No one is at home, so you call on your cell phone and leave a message on her voice mail, then take the package with you. When you get to the Post Office (just moments later) you are greeted with "Valerie's off the island today. She'll be back this evening."
I was dumbfounded. It had only been a couple of minutes since I was at her door. How did he know? Then again, I wasn't too surprised. When you live in a small town, it's best to get used to the fact that life is like living in a fish bowl. Not that that's a bad thing. It's how we look after and care for one another.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
I was dumbfounded. It had only been a couple of minutes since I was at her door. How did he know? Then again, I wasn't too surprised. When you live in a small town, it's best to get used to the fact that life is like living in a fish bowl. Not that that's a bad thing. It's how we look after and care for one another.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
The Black Squall
It has been unseasonably chilly lately. It was downright cold last night. The folks who braved the Ghost Walk were bundled up in jackets, hooded sweatshirts, scarves, and gloves. But it was a great night for a walk down Ocracoke's quiet lanes. The moon was peeking through ominous looking clouds, silhouetting the twisted branches of old live oaks and casting shadows in the graveyards.
This morning I remembered that today is the 148th anniversary of the wreck of the brig Black Squall. This was a very interesting wreck. It occurred before a Life Saving Station was established on Ocracoke, and it is remembered so many years later because of its unusual cargo. You can read the story here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072507.htm.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
This morning I remembered that today is the 148th anniversary of the wreck of the brig Black Squall. This was a very interesting wreck. It occurred before a Life Saving Station was established on Ocracoke, and it is remembered so many years later because of its unusual cargo. You can read the story here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072507.htm.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Sharpie
Sharpies are flat bottomed sailboats that were popular in Carolina waters in the 1800s, and were often used for oystering. They were long and narrow. Although the first sharpies were probably designed and built in New England, they became popular along the Carolina coast because of their extremely shallow draft. Carolina sharpies sometimes had lateen (triangular) sails. Sometimes they were gaff-rigged.
On this date in 1887 the sharpie, Hattie, was stranded near Ocracoke, on Legged Lump. According to the wreck report, the Hattie was 7,800 tons, and carried a crew of two. She was stranded three to four miles from the Life Saving Station, "on the reef almost dry." She was discovered at 8 am. The Life Saving crew arrived at 10 am. All hands worked hard "to get her off as they was in a bad condition." They used pumps, block & tackle, and skids, but failed to free the vessel during two high tides.
The next morning the Life Savers returned to the sharpie, and with anchors, ropes, pulleys, and muscles were able to float the Hattie, after about three hours of "hard work in water." She then "went her way all right."
According to keeper Howard, the captain "gave many thanks for our assistance..." and "sead that if they wold have to stad ther and starve if it wold not bin for our service."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
On this date in 1887 the sharpie, Hattie, was stranded near Ocracoke, on Legged Lump. According to the wreck report, the Hattie was 7,800 tons, and carried a crew of two. She was stranded three to four miles from the Life Saving Station, "on the reef almost dry." She was discovered at 8 am. The Life Saving crew arrived at 10 am. All hands worked hard "to get her off as they was in a bad condition." They used pumps, block & tackle, and skids, but failed to free the vessel during two high tides.
The next morning the Life Savers returned to the sharpie, and with anchors, ropes, pulleys, and muscles were able to float the Hattie, after about three hours of "hard work in water." She then "went her way all right."
According to keeper Howard, the captain "gave many thanks for our assistance..." and "sead that if they wold have to stad ther and starve if it wold not bin for our service."
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Washington
Every now and then I take a short break from posting on our Ocracoke Journal. Saturday morning Captain Rob and I took a short scud (as we say here on the island*) over to "Little Washington" (or as the folks over they say, "Original Washington"), NC. Patti & Frank had invited us there for their inaugural Traditional Music Festival. Of course, Ocracoke's own Molasses Creek was the main attraction Saturday night at the restored downtown Turnage Theater. In truth, the entire day was one terrific performance after another, both indoors and outside on the waterfront. I was fortunate to hear Donald Thompson singing the blues, The Dillards entertaining folks with some great country, bluegrass, and gospel tunes, Carolina Still picking and singing the fastest paced music I've heard in a long while, and the Barnraisers bringing smiles to our faces with their guitar, banjo, and winning personalities.
On the way home on Sunday we were treated to the antics of about a dozen dolphins that frolicked and cavorted alongside the ferry as we neared the island. The lucky folks on that side of the boat were leaning over the rail, smiling, and pointing at the delightful show. What a warm welcome back to my sweet island home!
*A scud is a (usually short) ride in a car or a boat.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
On the way home on Sunday we were treated to the antics of about a dozen dolphins that frolicked and cavorted alongside the ferry as we neared the island. The lucky folks on that side of the boat were leaning over the rail, smiling, and pointing at the delightful show. What a warm welcome back to my sweet island home!
*A scud is a (usually short) ride in a car or a boat.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Kid's Concert
Last night I accompanied Lachlan (and Amy & David) to the Deepwater Theater for an hour of music, stories, and puppetry by Timmy & Susana Abell. It was a wonderful show, and the kids had a ball. Timmy played guitar, banjo, hammered dulcimer, and the dancing man. Susana sang and manipulated the puppets. Their shy South American sloth (who spoke Spanish) was a big hit. Of course there were opportunities to sing along, and to join the performers on stage. Lachlan loved it! (And so did I.)
If your youth or school group is looking for a kid-friendly and entertaining performance be sure to check out Timmy & Susana's web site: http://www.timmyabell.com/.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
If your youth or school group is looking for a kid-friendly and entertaining performance be sure to check out Timmy & Susana's web site: http://www.timmyabell.com/.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Morning Walk
Lachlan and I walked down to the Community Store this morning. We stopped in Kitty Hawk Kites (Lachlan's favorite store) just to browse. They are still re-stocking for the coming season, so many of their shelves are bare. On the porch of the Community Store we watched people come and go, and chatted with neighbors. Woody reminded me that I hadn't published a blog this morning yet. He thought I might remind folks that restaurants are starting to open back up. While we were talking Nancy and Chloe stopped to share a few words. Nancy confirmed Woody's comment. She starts back to work this evening. Then a school group sauntered by...and a Coast Guard officer was inspecting commercial boats for the coming season. No doubt about it...the village is waking up, and a new season is upon us.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Cemeteries Map Key
Several days ago a reader asked if there was a key to the map of the 81 Ocracoke Island cemeteries. I have scanned the key (from the book, In Memory of...) and have published it below. The key goes with the map that was posted on our most recent Ocracoke Newsletter: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032809.htm.
Click on the key to view a larger image.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Click on the key to view a larger image.
In our latest Ocracoke Newsletter I share information about our many local cemeteries, with examples of some of our more interesting epitaphs. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
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