The entire staff of Village Craftsmen joins me in wishing our readers the Merriest of Christmases, a time filled with family & friends...and peace, justice, and good will in your homes, communities, nations, and the world.
We will be taking a hiatus from our blog starting today and lasting through the end of the year.
Please accept our heartfelt thanks for your readership, your support and love of Ocracoke, and your patronage of our craft gallery, Village Craftsmen of Ocracoke, on historic Howard Street.
Have a Wonderful Holiday and a Marvelous New Year! We'll see you in 2011.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Winter Begins Today
The official beginning of Winter (the moment of the Winter Solstice) will happen this evening at 6:38 p.m. EST (23:38 UTC).
A helpful explanation of the Solstice is given on the website TimeAndDate.com:
"The December solstice occurs when the sun reaches its most southerly declination of -23.5 degrees. In other words, it is when the North Pole is tilted 23.5 degrees away from the sun. Depending on the Gregorian calendar, the December solstice occurs annually on a day between December 20 and December 23. On this date, all places above a latitude of 66.5 degrees north are now in darkness, while locations below a latitude of 66.5 degrees south receive 24 hours of daylight.
"The sun is directly overhead on the Tropic of Capricorn in the southern hemisphere during the December solstice. It also marks the longest day of the year in terms of daylight hours for those living south of the Tropic of Capricorn. Those living or travelling south from the Antarctic Circle towards the South Pole will see the midnight sun during this time of the year.
"On the contrary, for an observer in the northern hemisphere, the December solstice marks the day of the year with the least hours of daylight for those living north of the Tropic of Cancer. Those living or traveling north of the Arctic Circle towards the North Pole will not be able to see the sun during this time of the year."
Many cultures throughout history have noted and celebrated the Winter Solstice (quite a few current-day traditions can be traced to much earlier Solstice celebrations). Particularly on Ocracoke, where seasons, weather, and the natural environment affect our lives so profoundly, we often note the Solstice (and the imminent return of longer days and eventually warmer seasons) as we journey through this quiet and dark period of the year.
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of ships-in-bottles from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
A helpful explanation of the Solstice is given on the website TimeAndDate.com:
"The December solstice occurs when the sun reaches its most southerly declination of -23.5 degrees. In other words, it is when the North Pole is tilted 23.5 degrees away from the sun. Depending on the Gregorian calendar, the December solstice occurs annually on a day between December 20 and December 23. On this date, all places above a latitude of 66.5 degrees north are now in darkness, while locations below a latitude of 66.5 degrees south receive 24 hours of daylight.
"The sun is directly overhead on the Tropic of Capricorn in the southern hemisphere during the December solstice. It also marks the longest day of the year in terms of daylight hours for those living south of the Tropic of Capricorn. Those living or travelling south from the Antarctic Circle towards the South Pole will see the midnight sun during this time of the year.
"On the contrary, for an observer in the northern hemisphere, the December solstice marks the day of the year with the least hours of daylight for those living north of the Tropic of Cancer. Those living or traveling north of the Arctic Circle towards the North Pole will not be able to see the sun during this time of the year."
Many cultures throughout history have noted and celebrated the Winter Solstice (quite a few current-day traditions can be traced to much earlier Solstice celebrations). Particularly on Ocracoke, where seasons, weather, and the natural environment affect our lives so profoundly, we often note the Solstice (and the imminent return of longer days and eventually warmer seasons) as we journey through this quiet and dark period of the year.
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of ships-in-bottles from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Ocracoke Newsletter, Eclipse, & Photos
Regular readers of this blog have surely noticed that I normally publish a new Ocracoke Newsletter every month, usually around the third or fourth week. This year I will be taking a bit of a break during the holiday season (and I know many of our readers will also be pleasantly busy with Christmas festivities, travel, and family events). So I've decided to forgo a Newsletter this month. But don't fret...another Newsletter will be forthcoming in January. In the meanwhile, if you haven't already done so, please take a moment to read about the Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke. It's an interesting story: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
One more thing...tonight, shortly before midnight, the moon will begin to enter the shadow of the earth. The total eclipse will occur about 1:30 a.m. (and last for more than one hour) Tuesday morning, which is also the first day of winter, the winter solstice. This is the only total lunar eclipse of 2010, and will be visible (weather permitting) throughout North America as well as Central America, parts of South America, Greenland, and Iceland. It has been almost three years since the last total lunar eclipse...and it has been 456 years since a total lunar eclipse coincided with the winter solstice.
Also, I have finally taken a few photos of decorations. I hope you enjoy them.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
One more thing...tonight, shortly before midnight, the moon will begin to enter the shadow of the earth. The total eclipse will occur about 1:30 a.m. (and last for more than one hour) Tuesday morning, which is also the first day of winter, the winter solstice. This is the only total lunar eclipse of 2010, and will be visible (weather permitting) throughout North America as well as Central America, parts of South America, Greenland, and Iceland. It has been almost three years since the last total lunar eclipse...and it has been 456 years since a total lunar eclipse coincided with the winter solstice.
Also, I have finally taken a few photos of decorations. I hope you enjoy them.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Oyster Roast & Shrimp Steam
I know this is a little early to be promoting an event that will take place at the end of next week, but we're going to be taking a short break from the blog during the holiday season (more about that in a couple of days), and I wanted all of our readers to know about the 5th Annual OWWA (Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association) Oyster Roast & Shrimp Steam.
The event will take place Thursday, December 30, from 2-5 p.m. at the Fish House parking lot. Van O'Neal's Fish Stew will be served as well...and dessert and hot cider will be available just down the road at the Watermen's Exhibit out on Jack's Dock.
If you will be on the island next week this is a feast not to be missed! Makeshift tables will be piled high with freshly steamed oysters as residents and visitors open all they can eat (splashed with a little hot sauce and laid on saltines). They're "good some!"
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Click on the photo below to view our handmade wooden beach signs from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
The event will take place Thursday, December 30, from 2-5 p.m. at the Fish House parking lot. Van O'Neal's Fish Stew will be served as well...and dessert and hot cider will be available just down the road at the Watermen's Exhibit out on Jack's Dock.
If you will be on the island next week this is a feast not to be missed! Makeshift tables will be piled high with freshly steamed oysters as residents and visitors open all they can eat (splashed with a little hot sauce and laid on saltines). They're "good some!"
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Click on the photo below to view our handmade wooden beach signs from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Safe Travel
The countdown has finally started for the friends and family who will be arriving to the island for Christmas. Fiddler Dave's family from Oklahoma and Scotland will arrive just after Christmas, Lou Ann gets in Christmas Eve and other friends will be trickling in over the next few days. We are wishing everyone who is traveling safe journeys.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of ships in bottles from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of ships in bottles from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Friday, December 17, 2010
School End of Year Christmas Show
Last night hundreds of locals crammed in Ocracoke School's gym to watch the children perform their annual Christmas Show. The children were enthusiastic and did a great job. This year there are 153 children in Ocracoke School (pre-K through 12)...The largest enrollment ever.
One of the school's "Christmas presents" is a new gym. It's been discussed and planned for a couple of years now, but preliminary work has finally begun to make this a reality. It was obvious last night that the school really has outgrown the current gym.
Below are a few photos of the old trailers behind the gym being moved out. There is also a picture of the Ocracoke School sign. This year they changed the school colors from the original black and gold to blue and silver. They said it made more sense since the school mascot is the Dolphin and those are dolphin colors.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
One of the school's "Christmas presents" is a new gym. It's been discussed and planned for a couple of years now, but preliminary work has finally begun to make this a reality. It was obvious last night that the school really has outgrown the current gym.
Below are a few photos of the old trailers behind the gym being moved out. There is also a picture of the Ocracoke School sign. This year they changed the school colors from the original black and gold to blue and silver. They said it made more sense since the school mascot is the Dolphin and those are dolphin colors.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of island books from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of island books from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Fire on British Cemetery Road
Last night at around midnight the fire sirens went off and had the island wondering and worrying about what the outcome was going to be. From Howard Street we could hear the shouts of the firefighters and see the glow of the blaze. We couldn't smell the fire from Howard Street, because the wind was blowing towards Oyster Creek. Our condolences go out to the owners of the house on British Cemetery Road that burned. It's still standing (as you can tell from the photos), but the inside is completely gutted from the fire. There were also no reported injuries related to the event. We are exceptionally grateful to our all volunteer firefighters and staff for quickly and effectively extinguishing the fire. It was surrounded by trees and there were many houses in close proximity. My understanding is that no other buildings were damaged in the blaze, although neighbors were out in their yards dousing burning embers as they landed.
As of yet, I have no information about the cause of the fire. I'm sure there will be an investigation into that. And, as always, an event like this reminds us how lucky we are to have such a capable fire department. If anyone would like to show their appreciation financially, you can do so either on their website, http://www.ocracokevfd.org/, or by mailing a check (made out to OFPA -- Ocracoke Fire Protection Agency) to OVFD, PO Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960. It is a non-profit organization.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
As of yet, I have no information about the cause of the fire. I'm sure there will be an investigation into that. And, as always, an event like this reminds us how lucky we are to have such a capable fire department. If anyone would like to show their appreciation financially, you can do so either on their website, http://www.ocracokevfd.org/, or by mailing a check (made out to OFPA -- Ocracoke Fire Protection Agency) to OVFD, PO Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960. It is a non-profit organization.
Click on any photo below to view a larger image.
Winter Garden
This cold snap has left Fiddler Dave's garden looking pretty sad. About half of his seedlings were lost in the first freeze. Before this last freeze, he was able to build a couple of areas that could be covered. He also rigged up lights to shine in those areas during the night to warm up the plants inside. Hopefully his efforts will pay off and we can enjoy homegrown greens throughout the winter.
On another note, the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department is being praised by everyone this morning for efficiently and successfully putting a house fire out last night. I'll write more when I have more information.
On another note, the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department is being praised by everyone this morning for efficiently and successfully putting a house fire out last night. I'll write more when I have more information.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Donald Davis' stories from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of Donald Davis' stories from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Windy
What a day it has was yesterday. The wind was whipping sand across the road all day and the ocean was white with choppy breakers. Despite all that, the seagulls were out in huge numbers diving in for a tasty winter meal. Dolphins were also out. A friend reported seeing some swimming next to the ferry yesterday morning.
The wind is supposed to lessen some today, but the high temperatures are forecast to remain in the 20s to low 30s for the next few days. Some years it's been so warm at Christmas time we've been able to walk around in shorts. I'm guessing that won't happen this year!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
The wind is supposed to lessen some today, but the high temperatures are forecast to remain in the 20s to low 30s for the next few days. Some years it's been so warm at Christmas time we've been able to walk around in shorts. I'm guessing that won't happen this year!
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of parent/child necklaces from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of parent/child necklaces from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Decorations
Lachlan is counting the days down until Christmas. Ocracoke has one more week of school until the break and then the kids will really be focused on Christmas day coming. There are lights and decorations all over the island, but here are a few photos from Christmas decorations on the way to school. I'll try to get more photos of decorations, but I'm not promising anything. My camera has not been the most reliable lately.
Village Craftsmen with a locally made cedar wreath:
Festive Ocracoke United Methodist Church entrance:
Rudolph minivan:
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Village Craftsmen with a locally made cedar wreath:
Festive Ocracoke United Methodist Church entrance:
Rudolph minivan:
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of blown glass from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of blown glass from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Spring Plans
After closing the shop Dec. 31st, hard work really begins. Jaren and I will inventory everything in the shop. Then I will do tons of paperwork and decide on wonderful new items I'll want to carry in 2011 plus placing spring orders with all of our current craftsmen. Understandably (we hope) we then look forward to some time off. Aruba is usually where we go but this year we'll head to Florida. Frank wants to see the space shuttle Discovery, scheduled to launch on February 3rd. Then perhaps we'll spend some time in the Keys. But.... Next year- Aruba!
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of face mugs from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of face mugs from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Time Passages
Another year almost gone! Incredible isn't it? We are really looking forward to the holidays escpecially this year with their spirit of love, good will and optimism. I personally can't remember another time when we needed it more. So my wish to all of you is a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Christmas and the promise of a Happy, Prosperous & Joyous New Year.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of plant rooters from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of plant rooters from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Troubled Trim
After living on Ocracoke for almost two decades (can I be that old?) I still marvel at the ease with which we handle our affairs here. Example- We've hired a friend to do some interior trim work in our home. He worked in our house all day while Frank & I worked in our shops. Upon arriving home around 5pm we consulted about some difficult trim angles then sat down for wine and stories. Jaren & Dale joined us and they brought over an "almost" empty peanut butter jar for our Corgi Willie (his favorite treat). After much laughter we settled in with some good homemade split pea soup and Italian Bread from Niagra Falls.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Kate McPhee's art from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Kate McPhee's art from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Community Christmas Concert
Once again we were captivated by the musical performances of our local singers and instrumentalists. The Christmas concert last night included some of the most well known holiday songs and some that a few of us had never heard before. It also spanned the generations by including the local Ocracoke Day Care children. All in all it was a wonderful community event. Thanks to Sundae Horn and all the folks who helped organize, set up, perform and make it such a cozy event.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of prints from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of prints from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
1,2,3,4,5 & Mama
A little over a year ago a local lady called and told me she had found a mother cat with 5 newborn kittens in her grandmothers shed and needed to remove them for safety sake. Putting it that way of course I took them in. Not wanting to become attached and trying to adopt them out, Frank and I decided not to name them. But we had to call them something so we numbered them. 1,2,3,4,5 & Mama. 2,3,4 & 5 are long hair pewter gray and 1 & Mama are long hair pitch black, all beautiful. I found homes for 4 & 5. Now we have four cats numbered 1,2,3 & Mama which our friends and family find amusing, somehow. They answer to their number and Willie knows them by name or number - so.... what's in a name? or number?
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter serving utensils from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter serving utensils from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
Potted Plants
We put plastic up on our screened porch to winter over those "potted" plants I so insisted on having,... All Kinds of tender flowering cactus, Norfolk Island pine, Jades, Mandivilla and a fifteen foot Bird of Paradise (don't ask). Looking out our glass doors there appears to be a tropical jungle. Since the porch is south facing, it collects a great deal of solar heat- so much so that it gets to be in the upper 80's on sunny days and we can open our glass doors and heat the house for a good part of the day. Maybe those potted plants aren't such a bad idea afterall. Now...maybe a pool?
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of doorbells from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Jude
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of doorbells from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Early Cold Spell
Ocracoke doesn't usually get cold weather so early in the season and boy is it cold.
I love growing things and that's not easy on this island. Between salt wind and salt flooding one soon learns to plant only what grows here naturally or what has been able to adapt like roses, oleander, and wisteria. Anything else you grow in pots and keep your fingers crossed. Then when a cold snap comes.... well we'll get to that tomorrow!
Jude
PS from Philip: I have an apology to the reader who made a comment on our December 4 post. I didn't understand the context of your comment. For a full explanation please go to the comments for that date. Thank you.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Avery pottery from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
I love growing things and that's not easy on this island. Between salt wind and salt flooding one soon learns to plant only what grows here naturally or what has been able to adapt like roses, oleander, and wisteria. Anything else you grow in pots and keep your fingers crossed. Then when a cold snap comes.... well we'll get to that tomorrow!
Jude
PS from Philip: I have an apology to the reader who made a comment on our December 4 post. I didn't understand the context of your comment. For a full explanation please go to the comments for that date. Thank you.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Avery pottery from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Monday, December 06, 2010
Thanks!
We at Village Craftsmen would like to thank all of our loyal customers for your patronage this year. We encourage you to visit our website for all of your holiday shopping needs.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of cribbage boards from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of cribbage boards from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Sunday, December 05, 2010
What is there to do on Ocracoke in December?
January and February may be slow months on Ocracoke, but December is packed with events. Below is a condensed list of island events scheduled for December.
Dec. 7, 5-7 pm: Wassail Party and Community Christmas Tree Lighting at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum.
Dec. 9, 7 pm: Annual Community Christmas Concert at the Community Center.
Dec. 11, 1 pm: Ocracoke Friends of the Library Cookie Swap at the Ocracoke Library
Dec. 12: Children's Christmas Party at the Community Center. Sponsored by Books to be Red.
Dec. 16: Ocracoke School Christmas Program at the Ocracoke School Gym. Judging of the Christmas Decoration Contest. Sponsored by the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association.
Dec. 17, 5 pm: Community Caroling. Meet at the Methodist Church.
Dec. 18, 6-7 pm: Live Nativity in front of the Methodist Church.
Dec. 19, 7 pm: Children's Christmas Pageant at the Assembly of God Church.
Dec. 24, 7 pm: Christmas Eve Service and Children's Christmas Program at the Methodist Church.
Dec. 30, 2-5 pm: Annual Oyster Roast and Shrimp Steam Fundraiser for the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association held at the Fish House.
Dec. 30-31: Portsmouth Island and Ocracoke Island Christmas Bird Counts.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Dec. 7, 5-7 pm: Wassail Party and Community Christmas Tree Lighting at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum.
Dec. 9, 7 pm: Annual Community Christmas Concert at the Community Center.
Dec. 11, 1 pm: Ocracoke Friends of the Library Cookie Swap at the Ocracoke Library
Dec. 12: Children's Christmas Party at the Community Center. Sponsored by Books to be Red.
Dec. 16: Ocracoke School Christmas Program at the Ocracoke School Gym. Judging of the Christmas Decoration Contest. Sponsored by the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association.
Dec. 17, 5 pm: Community Caroling. Meet at the Methodist Church.
Dec. 18, 6-7 pm: Live Nativity in front of the Methodist Church.
Dec. 19, 7 pm: Children's Christmas Pageant at the Assembly of God Church.
Dec. 24, 7 pm: Christmas Eve Service and Children's Christmas Program at the Methodist Church.
Dec. 30, 2-5 pm: Annual Oyster Roast and Shrimp Steam Fundraiser for the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association held at the Fish House.
Dec. 30-31: Portsmouth Island and Ocracoke Island Christmas Bird Counts.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of lighthouses in a bottle from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of lighthouses in a bottle from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Mexican takeout
We are excited to have local resident and cook, Eduardo, running the Mexican take-out stand that sits in the Variety Store parking lot. He is scheduled to run the stand from December 1 to March 1. The lines have been long and reviews of the food excellent. If you are on the island this winter, stop by and grab a meal to go.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Carol Gilbert's baby birds from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of Carol Gilbert's baby birds from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Friday, December 03, 2010
Cozy winter evening
Last night there was a small gathering of musicians circled around the gas log stove just jamming together. Mostly it was members of the Ronstadt Generations band and Molasses Creek, but others wandered in and out joining in on the songs they knew. It was wonderful.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of slate serving pieces from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of slate serving pieces from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Looking out for one another
We had a scare yesterday evening when one of our elderly residents went missing from his home. Immediately alerts went out, a large search party was organized and a search helicopter was called in. After about 5 hours of searching, he was found alive. Everyone is very grateful and relieved. We wish him and his family well as they recover from this experience.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter snowflakes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter snowflakes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Happy December
It's hard to believe it's December. Just a few days ago it did feel like winter, but today it's almost 70 degrees. However, even with the warm temperatures, there will be no frolicking on the beach today. The wind is blowing 20 mph or more at times and the forecast is for rain most of the day. Once this blows through perhaps there will be good shelling on the beach.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of wooden kitchen items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of wooden kitchen items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
More good music on Ocracoke
As we all know, Ocracoke has a rich musical heritage and a plethora of talented performers. While we deeply appreciate all they have to offer us, we enjoy bringing other performers to the island to inspire us and our children. The Ocrafolk Festival outreach program is helping us do this by sponsoring three concerts at Deepwater Theater over the winter. In addition to evening performances, visiting performers will be making daytime appearances at the Ocracoke School. Businesses and individuals interested in helping to sponsor the school concerts/residence series with a $50 donation to Ocrafolk Festival may contact David Tweedie (info@ocrafolkfestival.org or 252-928-3411). Supporting partners will be listed on the posters, on the programs, and thanked from the stage at the performances. This program is brought to the Ocracoke community with the help of the National Endowment of the Arts, the North Carolina Arts Council, the Beaufort County Arts Council, the Ocracoke Preservation Society, and the Ocrafolk Festival. The Ocrafolk Festival is housed under the Ocracoke Preservation Society, a non-profit 501(c)3. Concert information is listed below. Thank you to everyone who helps keep these programs running!
Wednesday, December 1, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Michael Ronstadt Generations
Ronstadt Generations consists of Michael J. Ronstadt (brother of Linda Ronstadt), Michael G. Ronstadt, Petie Ronstadt and Josh Hisle, spanning two generations with a repertoire that reaches back to the end of the 19th century while continually looking forward into the 21st. Michael J. Ronstadt is a vocalist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who continues in the tradition of southwest troubadours.
http://mjronstadt.com/mjronstadt/Ronstadt_Generations.html
Friday, January 28, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Basso Baroque Ensemble
Ocrafolk Festival's stellar standup bass player, Robbie Link, will be coming to the island and bringing some friends for an evening of baroque music. Basso features Barbara Blaker Krumdieck on the baroque cello, Robbie Link on the viola da gamba and John O'Brien on the harpsichord.
Friday, March 4, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Mandolin Orange
Recent audience favorites from the Ocrafolk Festival, Emily Frantz and Andrew Marlin are bringing their sweet harmonies and songwriting back to Ocracoke Island.
http://www.myspace.com/mandolinorange
Ticket prices are $10 Adults and $5 Children for all concerts.
Here's a little more information about the Ronstadt Generations band from their website www.ronstadtgenerations.com:
Ronstadt Generations represents the multi-cultural roots America was founded upon. Dating back five generations in North America, Michael J. Ronstadt, younger brother of Linda Ronstadt, continues the family tradition with his two sons, Michael G. and Petie, along with Josh Hisle, referred to fondly as his adopted son.
These four voices -- all multi-instrumentalists and solo artists in their own right -- bring to life a repertoire that reaches back to the end of the 19th century while continually looking ahead into the 21st, with a rich innovation of original material alongside traditional Southwestern and Mexican songs.
Each comes with the highest credentials, having appeared around the world in performance and on recordings with such diverse artists as Linda Ronstadt, Los Lobos, the Dixie Hummingbirds, Muriel Anderson, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and countless others. Of additional note is Josh’s music being featured in Neil Young’s acclaimed film CSNY/Déjà vu.
Enjoy a fascinating musical journey with Ronstadt Generations.
Wednesday, December 1, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Michael Ronstadt Generations
Ronstadt Generations consists of Michael J. Ronstadt (brother of Linda Ronstadt), Michael G. Ronstadt, Petie Ronstadt and Josh Hisle, spanning two generations with a repertoire that reaches back to the end of the 19th century while continually looking forward into the 21st. Michael J. Ronstadt is a vocalist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who continues in the tradition of southwest troubadours.
http://mjronstadt.com/mjronstadt/Ronstadt_Generations.html
Friday, January 28, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Basso Baroque Ensemble
Ocrafolk Festival's stellar standup bass player, Robbie Link, will be coming to the island and bringing some friends for an evening of baroque music. Basso features Barbara Blaker Krumdieck on the baroque cello, Robbie Link on the viola da gamba and John O'Brien on the harpsichord.
Friday, March 4, 7:30 PM at Deepwater Theater
~ Mandolin Orange
Recent audience favorites from the Ocrafolk Festival, Emily Frantz and Andrew Marlin are bringing their sweet harmonies and songwriting back to Ocracoke Island.
http://www.myspace.com/mandolinorange
Ticket prices are $10 Adults and $5 Children for all concerts.
Here's a little more information about the Ronstadt Generations band from their website www.ronstadtgenerations.com:
Ronstadt Generations represents the multi-cultural roots America was founded upon. Dating back five generations in North America, Michael J. Ronstadt, younger brother of Linda Ronstadt, continues the family tradition with his two sons, Michael G. and Petie, along with Josh Hisle, referred to fondly as his adopted son.
These four voices -- all multi-instrumentalists and solo artists in their own right -- bring to life a repertoire that reaches back to the end of the 19th century while continually looking ahead into the 21st, with a rich innovation of original material alongside traditional Southwestern and Mexican songs.
Each comes with the highest credentials, having appeared around the world in performance and on recordings with such diverse artists as Linda Ronstadt, Los Lobos, the Dixie Hummingbirds, Muriel Anderson, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and countless others. Of additional note is Josh’s music being featured in Neil Young’s acclaimed film CSNY/Déjà vu.
Enjoy a fascinating musical journey with Ronstadt Generations.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter seashells from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of pewter seashells from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Giving
Now that it is slower on Ocracoke, the members of the Ocracoke Needle and Thread Club, aka the Quilters, are beginning to return to their weekly meetings. Projects they are working on include a quilt each for the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum and the Ocrafolk Festival to raffle off. The quilters are all volunteers and provide not just the labor but also much of the material themselves.
Volunteers are the backbone of Ocracoke life. Our community would suffer without all the generous folks that live here. Every fundraiser, scout meeting, fire call, festival, school program, etc. would not exist if it were not for our talented and caring community members. Thanks to everyone everywhere who gives a little something of themselves to make a more beautiful community.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Volunteers are the backbone of Ocracoke life. Our community would suffer without all the generous folks that live here. Every fundraiser, scout meeting, fire call, festival, school program, etc. would not exist if it were not for our talented and caring community members. Thanks to everyone everywhere who gives a little something of themselves to make a more beautiful community.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of kaleidoscopes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of kaleidoscopes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
It's beginning to feel a lot like winter!
Friday started out sunny and warm, but a cold front moved in during the afternoon led by quite blustery winds. The folks who started the day out in t-shirts were caught shivering by mid-afternoon and had to hurry home to put on long sleeves.
It's also starting to get quiet on the island. The visitors here for the Thanksgiving holiday are slowly packing up their cars and heading toward the ferry. The restaurants are taking the cue and one by one they are closing up for the season. However, if you are planning a winter trip to Ocracoke, there are always a couple of restaurants that stay open throughout the year. You can't escape good food on this island!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
It's also starting to get quiet on the island. The visitors here for the Thanksgiving holiday are slowly packing up their cars and heading toward the ferry. The restaurants are taking the cue and one by one they are closing up for the season. However, if you are planning a winter trip to Ocracoke, there are always a couple of restaurants that stay open throughout the year. You can't escape good food on this island!
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of soaps from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of soaps from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Ocrafolk Festival Thanksgiving Fundraiser
Once again the Ocracoke performers wowed a crowd of fans in a sold out show at the Ocrafolk Festival Fundraising Concert last night. The audience enjoyed a wide selection of entertainment including songs from Julie Howard's "A Tale of Blackbeard," ballads, folk versions of punk songs, traditional tunes, a couple of true(?) tales from Capt. Rob and a story about growing up by Donald Davis. Many of the Ocrafolk Opry regulars appeared on stage joined at times by friends from the "real world." Thanks to all the performers and support staff of this event who volunteer their time to make it a success.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of wrought iron kitchen items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of wrought iron kitchen items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Old Diver
Almost one hundred years ago Augustus Abner McGuire, a diver, died while attempting to make a repair in the hull of a vessel offshore of Ocracoke. His body was brought to the island and buried near the Howard family and Williams family cemeteries along what is now known as British Cemetery Road.
For many years a cedar post marked the head of the grave, and McGuire's diving boots were placed at the foot of the grave. Almost immediately islanders began feeling that the ghost of "Old Diver," as he came to be known, haunted the narrow lane and wooded area near where he was buried. For many years folks have been wary of walking there after dark.
Eventually the cedar post rotten away, and the boots were removed.
Just last week a wooden marker was placed in the vicinity of Old Diver's grave. Made by island craftsman, Len Skinner, and paid for by the Ocracoke Preservation Society, the marker is a fitting tribute to an island legend.
(Click on photos to view larger images.)
Look for a more comprehensive article about Augustus Abner McGuire in an upcoming Ocracoke Newsletter to be published in spring or summer of 2011.
For many years a cedar post marked the head of the grave, and McGuire's diving boots were placed at the foot of the grave. Almost immediately islanders began feeling that the ghost of "Old Diver," as he came to be known, haunted the narrow lane and wooded area near where he was buried. For many years folks have been wary of walking there after dark.
Eventually the cedar post rotten away, and the boots were removed.
Just last week a wooden marker was placed in the vicinity of Old Diver's grave. Made by island craftsman, Len Skinner, and paid for by the Ocracoke Preservation Society, the marker is a fitting tribute to an island legend.
(Click on photos to view larger images.)
Look for a more comprehensive article about Augustus Abner McGuire in an upcoming Ocracoke Newsletter to be published in spring or summer of 2011.
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of puzzle boxes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Click on the photo below to view a selection of puzzle boxes from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!
We at Village Craftsmen wish all of our readers a very Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you enjoy your friends, your family, and an abundance of life's gifts during this time of national thanksgiving.
Philip, Jude, & Jaren
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Smoky Mountain Pottery from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Philip, Jude, & Jaren
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Click on the photo below to view a selection of Smoky Mountain Pottery from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
It's Not Too Early...
...to register for a Heritage Arts Class in quilt making, taught by nationally recognized teacher and quilter, Pepper Cory. Classes will be given January 26-28 (Wed.-Fri.), 2011 from 9-12 & 1-5 at the Ocracoke Community Center. The $50 fee includes all supplies. For more information or to register please contact Marcy Brenner at 252-928-2555 or marcy@coyotemusic.net. Class size is limited, so don't be late!
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of wrought iron kitchen utensils from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of wrought iron kitchen utensils from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a history of the early twentieth century Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Doxsee Clam Factory
In the early twentieth century the Doxsee family from New York state established a large commercial clam operation in Ocracoke village. Their enterprise, and the buildings associated with it, provided work and income for many men and women on Ocracoke, as well as a focal point for much of the island's social life.
The clam factory is long gone, but stories remain. Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter recounts the history of the Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
The clam factory is long gone, but stories remain. Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter recounts the history of the Doxsee Clam Factory on Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news112110.htm.
Monday, November 22, 2010
An Historic Date
It was on this date in 1718 that Lt. Robert Maynard of the British Royal Navy encountered the pirate Blackbeard at what has ever after been known as Teach's Hole, a protected anchorage in Pamlico Sound, just offshore from Springer's Point. After a bloody naval battle, Blackbeard (who suffered more than 20 wounds before he was beheaded) and his crew were defeated, ending the "Golden Age of Piracy." Benjamin Franklin, at that time a young "printer's devil," composed the following ditty to commemorate the event:
"Come all you jolly sailors
You all so stout and brave;
Come hearken and I’ll tell you
What happen’d on the wave.
Oh! ’tis of that bloody Blackbeard
I’m going now for to tell;
And as how by gallant Maynard
He soon was sent to hell."
In about 1765 a ballad entitled "The Downfall of Piracy" appeared in a small songbook. Many scholars believe this poem descended from Benjamin Franklin's original.
The full title of the ballad is "The Downfall of Piracy; being a full and true Account of a desperate and bloody Sea-fight between Lieutenant Maynard, and that noted Pirate Captain Teach, commonly call'd by the Name of Blackbeard; Maynard had fifty Men, thirty five of which were kill'd and wounded in the Action: Teach had twenty one, most of which were kill'd, and the rest carried to Virginia, in order to take their Tryal."
Here is the full text of the ballad:
"The Downfall of Pyracy, sung to the tune of What is greater Joy and Pleasure.
Will you hear of a bloody Battle,
Lately fought upon the Seas,
It will make your Ears to rattle,
And your Admiration cease;
Have you heard of Teach the Rover,
And his Knavery on the Main;
How of Gold he was a Lover,
How he lov'd all ill got Gain.
When the Act of Grace appeared,
Captain Teach with all his Men,
Unto Carolina steered,
Where they kindly us'd him then;
There he marry'd to a Lady,
And gave her five hundred Pound,
But to her he prov'd unsteady,
For he soon march'd of[f] the Ground.
And returned, as I tell you,
To his Robbery as before,
Burning, sinking Ships of value,
Filling them with Purple Gore;
When he was at Carolina,
There the Governor did send,
To the Governor of Virginia,
That he might assistance lend.
Then the Man of War's Commander,
` Two small Sloops he fitted out,
Fifty Men he put on board, Sir,
Who resolv'd to stand it out:
The Lieutenant he commanded
both the Sloops, and you shall hear,
How before he landed,
He suppress'd them without Fear.
Valiant Maynard as he sailed,
Soon the Pirate did espy,
With his Trumpet he then hailed,
And to him they did reply:
Captain Teach is our Commander,
Maynard said, he is the Man,
Whom I am resolv'd to hang Sir,
Let him do the best he can.
Teach reply'd unto Maynard,
You no Quarters here shall see,
But be hang'd on the Main-yard,
You and all your Company;
Maynard said, I none desire,
Of such Knaves as thee and thine,
None I'll give, Teach then replyed,
My Boys, give me a Glass of Wine.
He took the Glass, and drank Damnation,
Unto Maynard and his Crew;
To himself and Generation,
Then the Glass away he threw;
Brave Maynard was resolv'd to have him,
Tho' he'd Cannons nine or ten:
Teach a broadside quickly gave him,
Killing sixteen valiant Men.
Maynard boarded him, and to it
They fell with Sword and Pistol too;
They had Courage, and did show it,
Killing the Pirate's Crew.
Teach and Maynard on the Quarter,
Fought it out most manfully,
Maynard's Sword did cut him shorter,
Losing his Head, he there did die.
Every Sailor fought while he Sir,
Power had to weild [sic] the Sword,
Not a Coward could you see Sir,
Fear was driven from aboard:
Wounded Men on both Sides fell Sir,
'Twas a doleful Sight to see,
Nothing could their Courage quell Sir,
O, they fought courageously.
When the bloody Fight was over,
We're inform'd by a Letter writ,
Teach's Head was made a Cover,
To the Jack Staff of the Ship:
Thus they sailed to Virginia,
And when they the Story told,
How they kill'd the Pirates many,
They'd Applause from young and old."
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of decorative plant rooters from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
"Come all you jolly sailors
You all so stout and brave;
Come hearken and I’ll tell you
What happen’d on the wave.
Oh! ’tis of that bloody Blackbeard
I’m going now for to tell;
And as how by gallant Maynard
He soon was sent to hell."
In about 1765 a ballad entitled "The Downfall of Piracy" appeared in a small songbook. Many scholars believe this poem descended from Benjamin Franklin's original.
The full title of the ballad is "The Downfall of Piracy; being a full and true Account of a desperate and bloody Sea-fight between Lieutenant Maynard, and that noted Pirate Captain Teach, commonly call'd by the Name of Blackbeard; Maynard had fifty Men, thirty five of which were kill'd and wounded in the Action: Teach had twenty one, most of which were kill'd, and the rest carried to Virginia, in order to take their Tryal."
Here is the full text of the ballad:
"The Downfall of Pyracy, sung to the tune of What is greater Joy and Pleasure.
Will you hear of a bloody Battle,
Lately fought upon the Seas,
It will make your Ears to rattle,
And your Admiration cease;
Have you heard of Teach the Rover,
And his Knavery on the Main;
How of Gold he was a Lover,
How he lov'd all ill got Gain.
When the Act of Grace appeared,
Captain Teach with all his Men,
Unto Carolina steered,
Where they kindly us'd him then;
There he marry'd to a Lady,
And gave her five hundred Pound,
But to her he prov'd unsteady,
For he soon march'd of[f] the Ground.
And returned, as I tell you,
To his Robbery as before,
Burning, sinking Ships of value,
Filling them with Purple Gore;
When he was at Carolina,
There the Governor did send,
To the Governor of Virginia,
That he might assistance lend.
Then the Man of War's Commander,
` Two small Sloops he fitted out,
Fifty Men he put on board, Sir,
Who resolv'd to stand it out:
The Lieutenant he commanded
both the Sloops, and you shall hear,
How before he landed,
He suppress'd them without Fear.
Valiant Maynard as he sailed,
Soon the Pirate did espy,
With his Trumpet he then hailed,
And to him they did reply:
Captain Teach is our Commander,
Maynard said, he is the Man,
Whom I am resolv'd to hang Sir,
Let him do the best he can.
Teach reply'd unto Maynard,
You no Quarters here shall see,
But be hang'd on the Main-yard,
You and all your Company;
Maynard said, I none desire,
Of such Knaves as thee and thine,
None I'll give, Teach then replyed,
My Boys, give me a Glass of Wine.
He took the Glass, and drank Damnation,
Unto Maynard and his Crew;
To himself and Generation,
Then the Glass away he threw;
Brave Maynard was resolv'd to have him,
Tho' he'd Cannons nine or ten:
Teach a broadside quickly gave him,
Killing sixteen valiant Men.
Maynard boarded him, and to it
They fell with Sword and Pistol too;
They had Courage, and did show it,
Killing the Pirate's Crew.
Teach and Maynard on the Quarter,
Fought it out most manfully,
Maynard's Sword did cut him shorter,
Losing his Head, he there did die.
Every Sailor fought while he Sir,
Power had to weild [sic] the Sword,
Not a Coward could you see Sir,
Fear was driven from aboard:
Wounded Men on both Sides fell Sir,
'Twas a doleful Sight to see,
Nothing could their Courage quell Sir,
O, they fought courageously.
When the bloody Fight was over,
We're inform'd by a Letter writ,
Teach's Head was made a Cover,
To the Jack Staff of the Ship:
Thus they sailed to Virginia,
And when they the Story told,
How they kill'd the Pirates many,
They'd Applause from young and old."
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Click on the photo below to view our selection of decorative plant rooters from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Jette
Jette Carr, a familiar sight down on the dock at the Community Store, died last Tuesday, November 11 after a lengthy illness. As the notice on the Ocracoke Post Office bulletin board noted, she was one of a kind...a woman who could sew a beautiful, lacy wedding dress in the morning, rebuild a diesel engine in the afternoon, and cook a gourmet dinner in the evening with the fish she'd caught. She always had a smile and a kind word when I would walk down the dock and pass her working on her commercial fishing boat.
Ocracoke will miss Jette and the way she added spice and character to our little island off the coast of North Carolina. Farewell!
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Click on the photo below to view our selection of pewter items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
Ocracoke will miss Jette and the way she added spice and character to our little island off the coast of North Carolina. Farewell!
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Click on the photo below to view our selection of pewter items from Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
The George W. Wells Redux
A couple of weeks ago I was walking along the beach north of the Pony Pen, and I noticed that the remains of the 6-masted schooner, George W. Wells, had become more exposed. Several days later I took the picture below. I haven't been down that way since the latest high tides, so I'm not sure if it's still as visible. But I thought our readers would like to see this rather large hunk of a once great sailing ship that has lain upon our beach for nearly 100 years.
(Click on photo to view larger image.)
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Click on the photo below to view a collection of cribbage boards in Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
(Click on photo to view larger image.)
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Click on the photo below to view a collection of cribbage boards in Village Craftsmen's online catalog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article, with a number of photos, documenting the history of water cisterns on Ocracoke Island. Click on the following link to go directly there: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news102110.htm.
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