Jude here to say hi. It's so nice to see folks back on the Island. There are a lot of familiar faces and faces we hope will soon become familiar. As I work in my office, I can hear the chatter and laughter of children on the Village Craftsmen play structure in the yard outside my window. Being the proud granmother of three delightful little girls who live in the midwest, I miss the sound of their laughter. Restaurants and businesses are opening one by one. The sound of hammers, saws and lawnmowers is in the air. Ocracoke Awakes!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Openings
It's good to see Braxton back on the island with vegetables for sale; and we are looking forward to the Ocracoke Seafood Company opening next weekend. It's been a long, cold winter; every sign of Spring is welcome.
The Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum is opening today at 10:00 AM. Two new exhibits are planned. There is a fascinating World War II exhibit which was put together by Janey and Dick Jacoby. German U-Boats prowled the Atlantic just off the Outer Banks and the British Cemetery is a solemn reminder of that. The Museum's exhibit explores and honors the service Ocrocokers played in WWII.
And Francis Eubanks will have a photographic display honoring Portsmouth Island in time for the Homecoming events this Spring when many descendants of Portsmouth residents will gather.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
The Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum is opening today at 10:00 AM. Two new exhibits are planned. There is a fascinating World War II exhibit which was put together by Janey and Dick Jacoby. German U-Boats prowled the Atlantic just off the Outer Banks and the British Cemetery is a solemn reminder of that. The Museum's exhibit explores and honors the service Ocrocokers played in WWII.
And Francis Eubanks will have a photographic display honoring Portsmouth Island in time for the Homecoming events this Spring when many descendants of Portsmouth residents will gather.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sand
Visitors to the beach these last few months know that the access to the Life Guard Beach has involved navigating through a lot of sand. Basically the boardwalk filled to the railings (!) with sand for about the last ten feet before reaching the observation deck. And only the top 4 or 5 stairs down to the beach itself have been visible, much less usable.
That is until this week. The Park Service brought in some heavy machinery and has removed all the sand from the boardwalk and dug out the top half of the buried stairs.
Next came the matter of redistributing all that sand along the dunes far enough away from the boardwalk and observation deck so that it won't simply drift back.
All of this is a stark reminder that the outer banks are a fragile and moving ribbon of sand. Life out here is an adventure. A storm like last Fall's Ida, which hit us as a strong nor'easter, moved a lot of sand, and sand is basically what Ocracoke is made of.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
That is until this week. The Park Service brought in some heavy machinery and has removed all the sand from the boardwalk and dug out the top half of the buried stairs.
Next came the matter of redistributing all that sand along the dunes far enough away from the boardwalk and observation deck so that it won't simply drift back.
All of this is a stark reminder that the outer banks are a fragile and moving ribbon of sand. Life out here is an adventure. A storm like last Fall's Ida, which hit us as a strong nor'easter, moved a lot of sand, and sand is basically what Ocracoke is made of.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Setting the Record Straight
Subway, McDonald's, Hooters, Wings, Tattoo Parlor??? What a field day we all have had...over my lot on Highway 12! And yes, it is my lot where the house has been razed. And it's been fun to read the creative comments about it. There is no telling what speculations and rumors are circulating around the village (and among readers of this blog) about what is going on there.
First, a little history. The lot in question is a portion of what was once my great grandparents' property (which included frontage on Howard Street, the present-day Island Inn property, and extended from where the Slushie Stand is...all the way to School Road). Over the years it was divided among descendants, and portions were eventually sold out of the family. My grandparents' property (the house I now live in, and the lot in question) were sold out of the family in the mid 1960s. The homeplace (then about 100 years old) was in disrepair, and the new owners erected a double wide home on the empty lot in the early 1970s.
I had an opportunity to purchase the property about 25 years ago. It took two decades to save enough money to restore the homeplace to historic standards (see http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/howardhome.htm, and click on the links at the top of the page to follow the restoration of this house; I apologize for several missing photos). The double wide was of inferior construction, and in sad condition when I purchased the property, but I rented it to generate a bit of income. Over the years it continued to deteriorate. In recent years I decided that the value of the building did not warrant the costs for major repairs and have decided to raze the building.
As one reader commented, it had become an eyesore. Of course, the building has no historic significance, and was not worth repairing. I did not want to keep an unsightly, abandoned building in the middle of Ocracoke village, so I contracted to have it torn down and removed.
For anyone curious about details, the building was demolished with a permit from Hyde County, and was disposed of properly. Certain parts were salvaged, but much was not (the aluminum siding, for example, was glued to a fiberboard backing which made it cost prohibitive to recycle).
Many people have asked me what I plan to do with the property. At this time I have no plans. I may simply use it as an extension of my yard, or I might some day build a small cottage there, or rent the property for a small business or public usage. Maybe it would be the perfect place for a wind turbine...or a nuclear reactor??
I hope Bill has something to share tomorrow that will take our minds off my lot. In the meanwhile, enjoy the spring, and wave when you pass me in the village.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
First, a little history. The lot in question is a portion of what was once my great grandparents' property (which included frontage on Howard Street, the present-day Island Inn property, and extended from where the Slushie Stand is...all the way to School Road). Over the years it was divided among descendants, and portions were eventually sold out of the family. My grandparents' property (the house I now live in, and the lot in question) were sold out of the family in the mid 1960s. The homeplace (then about 100 years old) was in disrepair, and the new owners erected a double wide home on the empty lot in the early 1970s.
I had an opportunity to purchase the property about 25 years ago. It took two decades to save enough money to restore the homeplace to historic standards (see http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/howardhome.htm, and click on the links at the top of the page to follow the restoration of this house; I apologize for several missing photos). The double wide was of inferior construction, and in sad condition when I purchased the property, but I rented it to generate a bit of income. Over the years it continued to deteriorate. In recent years I decided that the value of the building did not warrant the costs for major repairs and have decided to raze the building.
As one reader commented, it had become an eyesore. Of course, the building has no historic significance, and was not worth repairing. I did not want to keep an unsightly, abandoned building in the middle of Ocracoke village, so I contracted to have it torn down and removed.
For anyone curious about details, the building was demolished with a permit from Hyde County, and was disposed of properly. Certain parts were salvaged, but much was not (the aluminum siding, for example, was glued to a fiberboard backing which made it cost prohibitive to recycle).
Many people have asked me what I plan to do with the property. At this time I have no plans. I may simply use it as an extension of my yard, or I might some day build a small cottage there, or rent the property for a small business or public usage. Maybe it would be the perfect place for a wind turbine...or a nuclear reactor??
I hope Bill has something to share tomorrow that will take our minds off my lot. In the meanwhile, enjoy the spring, and wave when you pass me in the village.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Friday, March 26, 2010
What's Going On That Lot?
Several readers are wondering what's going to go on that lot on Highway 12 near Lighthouse Road now that the house has been razed. "Subway?" "McDonald's" "Hooters?" No. No and alas No.
First, the lot belongs to our noted blogger, Philip!
I (this is Bill) spoke with him and HE says "its going to be a Tattoo, Piercing and Scarification Parlor!"
Then he said, "Just kidding!"
I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
First, the lot belongs to our noted blogger, Philip!
I (this is Bill) spoke with him and HE says "its going to be a Tattoo, Piercing and Scarification Parlor!"
Then he said, "Just kidding!"
I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The "Fickleness" of Spring
Well "It" finally arrived on Saturday - spring that is. It has been a very long cold winter for Ocracoke and much of the East Coast and Mid West. We are so in need of the warmth and promise that spring brings. Spring is very fickle on Ocracoke. One day it's sunny and warm and the next day we're having a Nor' Easter. Being surrounded by water on all sides as we are ( we are an island afer all) we're cooler than the mainland in the spring and summer and warmer in the fall and winter. With the exception of spring that's not a bad thing. We had beautiful window open weather the end of last week. Monday it poured rain and yesterday was sunny, cold and it blew a gale! Today it's sunny, warmer, no wind and the weathermen are promising that spring will be here in earnest next week. We'll see.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Monday, March 22, 2010
More On the Lighthouse
Several of us attended a presentation Friday night on the Ocracoke Lighthouse repairs and restoration. Alex and JR, the two artisans who have done the work, showed slides and told stories about their discoveries, research and repairs. And several Ocracokers passed along family stories.
For instance, they discovered, much to their surprise, that the metal roof (or cap) atop the lens house was "not mechanically attached"! Basically, it had just been sitting up there with its lightning rod since the Lighthouse was built in 1823. They said their first thought was, "What a bad idea!" Then their second thought was..."but it worked!"
They also noted that the cap was cracked below the lightning rod and speculated that this was the result of a lightning strike. Clayton Gaskill informed him that his uncle, Chris, was in Park Service maintenance in the 50's and early 60's and told him that he needed to remove the cap for some reason, lost control of it, and dropped it over the side!
What a treat to hear these stories and craftsmen tell about what they do with such love and skill. And they kindly donated a disc of their slides to the Ocracoke Preservation Society for its archives.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
For instance, they discovered, much to their surprise, that the metal roof (or cap) atop the lens house was "not mechanically attached"! Basically, it had just been sitting up there with its lightning rod since the Lighthouse was built in 1823. They said their first thought was, "What a bad idea!" Then their second thought was..."but it worked!"
They also noted that the cap was cracked below the lightning rod and speculated that this was the result of a lightning strike. Clayton Gaskill informed him that his uncle, Chris, was in Park Service maintenance in the 50's and early 60's and told him that he needed to remove the cap for some reason, lost control of it, and dropped it over the side!
What a treat to hear these stories and craftsmen tell about what they do with such love and skill. And they kindly donated a disc of their slides to the Ocracoke Preservation Society for its archives.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Lou Ann & Beijing
Many of our readers know Lou Ann. When she is on the island she volunteers at the Preservation museum, at the Fire Department's Bingo games, and at the lighthouse where she invites visitors inside, and entertains them with Ocracoke history and stories. She also leads Ghost & History Walks in the summer months.
Last week Lou Ann was on a tour of China with a group of teachers when she injured her back and ended up in the hospital in Beijing. She is flying home today, and I will be meeting her, and carrying her home for recovery and recuperation. This may take several weeks. In the meanwhile Jude and Bill will be sharing Ocracoke news and stories with you when I am unable to.
Although Lou Ann was half way around the world (which created various anxieties and frustrations), she obtained excellent care at the Beijing United Family Hospital. She tells me her large private room even included a jacuzzi!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Last week Lou Ann was on a tour of China with a group of teachers when she injured her back and ended up in the hospital in Beijing. She is flying home today, and I will be meeting her, and carrying her home for recovery and recuperation. This may take several weeks. In the meanwhile Jude and Bill will be sharing Ocracoke news and stories with you when I am unable to.
Although Lou Ann was half way around the world (which created various anxieties and frustrations), she obtained excellent care at the Beijing United Family Hospital. She tells me her large private room even included a jacuzzi!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is about "Ocracats" and was written by Pat Garber. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Cell Phones on Ocracoke
Occasionally readers ask which cell phones work on Ocracoke. From personal experience I know that Verizon & Alltel phones work very well. A frequent visitor to Ocracoke shares the following information:
"Assuming you have a roaming plan with your carrier, all CDMA cell phones work on the island and GSM do not. In terms of carriers, this means that Verizon, Alltel, US Cellular, and Sprint work. ATT and T-Mobile, the GSM carriers do not.
"ATT does have GSM coverage out of Hatteras and if you REALLY need to make a call, you can usually get a signal at the ferry dock to Hatteras."
I hope this helps.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article by Pat Garber about "Ocracats" our village organization that helps care for, feed, and neuter the island's feral cats. You can read more here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
"Assuming you have a roaming plan with your carrier, all CDMA cell phones work on the island and GSM do not. In terms of carriers, this means that Verizon, Alltel, US Cellular, and Sprint work. ATT and T-Mobile, the GSM carriers do not.
"ATT does have GSM coverage out of Hatteras and if you REALLY need to make a call, you can usually get a signal at the ferry dock to Hatteras."
I hope this helps.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article by Pat Garber about "Ocracats" our village organization that helps care for, feed, and neuter the island's feral cats. You can read more here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Ocracoke Newsletter
I recently published another monthly Ocracoke Newsletter, this time about "Ocracats" our village organization that helps care for, feed, and neuter feral cats on the island. There is a need at this time for help in addressing the cat population explosion. You can read more here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031710.htm.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Lighthouse Restoration Project
(Click on photo to view larger image.)
This Friday, March 19, at 7:00 pm at the Ocracoke Community Center, Alex Klahm & his crew will present photos, stories, & details about their recent project, the restoration of our beloved 1823 lighthouse. Be sure to spread the word...and to come out to hear (and see a power point presentation) about the work they have done.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Ocracats
Cats have been a part of Ocracoke life for generations. In fact "Digby the Only Dog," a wonderful children's book about Digby and the many Ocracoke Island cats, was written in 1959. Unfortunately, "Digby" is out of print.
Many of our readers know that island cat lovers have been organized to care for, neuter, and feed feral cats at various locations around the village. At the present time Ocracoke does not have a resident veterinarian, and the feral cat population is exploding. Members of "Ocracats" are working to address this problem. Pat Garber has written a more detailed plea for help that I will publish in a day or two as our March Ocracoke Newsletter.
In the meanwhile, if any veterinarians who love Ocracoke and cats are reading this, and can spare a few days to help with a clinic this spring, you will be much appreciated. Please contact Pat at 252-928-6765.
There are also cats that need good homes. If you can help out this way, you can also call Pat.
Donations to Ocracats can be sent to Ocracats, P. O. Box 993 Ocracoke NC 27960.
By all means, be sure to read Pat's upcoming article. I will provide a link soon.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Many of our readers know that island cat lovers have been organized to care for, neuter, and feed feral cats at various locations around the village. At the present time Ocracoke does not have a resident veterinarian, and the feral cat population is exploding. Members of "Ocracats" are working to address this problem. Pat Garber has written a more detailed plea for help that I will publish in a day or two as our March Ocracoke Newsletter.
In the meanwhile, if any veterinarians who love Ocracoke and cats are reading this, and can spare a few days to help with a clinic this spring, you will be much appreciated. Please contact Pat at 252-928-6765.
There are also cats that need good homes. If you can help out this way, you can also call Pat.
Donations to Ocracats can be sent to Ocracats, P. O. Box 993 Ocracoke NC 27960.
By all means, be sure to read Pat's upcoming article. I will provide a link soon.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Music
With the coming of warmer weather and businesses beginning to open up on the island the regular Friday night music jam at the Community Store has been discontinued until next winter.
Barbara Adams, a frequent attender at the music nights, sent me this photo yesterday. It gives a good sense of the fun and enjoyment we have on Ocracoke, even (especially??) in the off-season.
(Click on photo to view a larger image.)
If you missed our winter gatherings, look around the village for music at restaurants, and later in the season at Deepwater Theater, on your next visit to the island.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Barbara Adams, a frequent attender at the music nights, sent me this photo yesterday. It gives a good sense of the fun and enjoyment we have on Ocracoke, even (especially??) in the off-season.
(Click on photo to view a larger image.)
If you missed our winter gatherings, look around the village for music at restaurants, and later in the season at Deepwater Theater, on your next visit to the island.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Monday, March 15, 2010
The Post Office
The Ocracoke Post Office is, in many ways, our "town square." It is on a rare visit to the PO that I don't see a neighbor with whom I have some "business" to talk about. Today Barbara reminded me that we needed to share email addresses so she could send me a photo of this winter's Friday night music.
Sometimes stopping at the PO is an opportunity to catch up with friends and family (to find out who will be visiting next week, how long so-and-so will be gone on her latest trip, where to address a get-well card, etc.); at other times, meeting neighbors is a chance to share a story, or laugh about some antic someone did recently.
Of course, when you're in the Post Office it's a good idea to check out the bulletin board. Today I read about a fried chicken dinner at the Assembly of God church (March 20), a 4-H presentation at the Community Center (March 25), and the annual meeting of the Friends of the Library (March 30).
There were also notices of items for sale, rooms for rent, requests for rides to Norfolk, addresses of folks in health care facilities, information about the annual school plant sale, and much more.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Sometimes stopping at the PO is an opportunity to catch up with friends and family (to find out who will be visiting next week, how long so-and-so will be gone on her latest trip, where to address a get-well card, etc.); at other times, meeting neighbors is a chance to share a story, or laugh about some antic someone did recently.
Of course, when you're in the Post Office it's a good idea to check out the bulletin board. Today I read about a fried chicken dinner at the Assembly of God church (March 20), a 4-H presentation at the Community Center (March 25), and the annual meeting of the Friends of the Library (March 30).
There were also notices of items for sale, rooms for rent, requests for rides to Norfolk, addresses of folks in health care facilities, information about the annual school plant sale, and much more.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Open
Village Craftsmen re-opened for the season yesterday at 10 am. Several other businesses also opened recently. There aren't a lot a visitors on the island yet, but many schools will have spring breaks in the next few weeks, and that will bring families back to the island.
I am preparing for warmer weather by cleaning and neatening up my screened porch. I'll rehang my hammock soon. It's the best place to read a good book. The forecast calls for temperatures only in the low fifties for the rest of the week (the surrounding water is still cold and that keeps our spring temperatures lower), but it will warm up soon.
If you are on the island be sure to stop by Village Craftsmen. As most of our readers know, we carry a great selection of American made hand crafts -- pottery, glass, metal, wooden items...and much more.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
I am preparing for warmer weather by cleaning and neatening up my screened porch. I'll rehang my hammock soon. It's the best place to read a good book. The forecast calls for temperatures only in the low fifties for the rest of the week (the surrounding water is still cold and that keeps our spring temperatures lower), but it will warm up soon.
If you are on the island be sure to stop by Village Craftsmen. As most of our readers know, we carry a great selection of American made hand crafts -- pottery, glass, metal, wooden items...and much more.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Molasses Creek
If you live in North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Vermont you might want to check out the Molasses Creek spring tour schedule (March 11-March 28). They will be performing in a number of different cities. You can read more here: http://www.molassescreek.com/shows.html.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
New Life
The long, cold winter is behind us. Signs of spring are everywhere -- neighbors in t-shirts, visitors strolling down the beach, children on bicycles, shops & restaurants opening for the season, out-of-state cars on the ferries, and, of course, daffodils blooming at Village Craftsmen.
Village Craftsmen will reopen for 2010 sometime this weekend. Be sure to stop by soon!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Village Craftsmen will reopen for 2010 sometime this weekend. Be sure to stop by soon!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Visit NC
I awoke yesterday morning at 5:30, and was standing outside the gate to the Swan Quarter Ferry fifteen minutes before 7 am. Robin Payne, Rudy Austin and I were traveling to Raleigh to visit the women who answer the telephones at the Call Center for the North Carolina Division of Travel and Tourism. We carried books, brochures, a power point presentation, and years of accumulated island history, stories, and experience.
We arrived in Raleigh fifteen minutes before our 1:30 appointment, but were delayed because of typical bureaucratic miscommunication. That was eventually resolved and we had a wonderful time sharing our love of Ocracoke with about a dozen and a half interested and attentive women. One message we had for these folks who answer the phones was that if a caller is hoping to visit a coastal community with easy access to fast food, miniature golf, water parks, and chain stores, Ocracoke is not the place for them.
On the other hand, if a caller is interested in the unique experience we have to offer (wide, unspoiled beaches; superb fishing; excellent restaurants; a small, picturesque village...most of our readers can fill in the rest of this parenthetical comment) then Ocracoke IS what they are looking for.
The women at the Call Center understood, and were enthusiastic about Ocracoke (well, the homemade fig cake we brought them didn't hurt our presentation, either!).
We're hoping to get more information specific to Ocracoke on the official web site of the NC Division of Travel and Tourism, but you might want to take a look at it now anyway: http://www.visitnc.com/
It was a long day. We caught the 11 pm Hatteras ferry, and arrived back home at midnight. We were gone eighteen and a half hours, most of that time filled with stories, laughter, and a shared loved for our island home.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
We arrived in Raleigh fifteen minutes before our 1:30 appointment, but were delayed because of typical bureaucratic miscommunication. That was eventually resolved and we had a wonderful time sharing our love of Ocracoke with about a dozen and a half interested and attentive women. One message we had for these folks who answer the phones was that if a caller is hoping to visit a coastal community with easy access to fast food, miniature golf, water parks, and chain stores, Ocracoke is not the place for them.
On the other hand, if a caller is interested in the unique experience we have to offer (wide, unspoiled beaches; superb fishing; excellent restaurants; a small, picturesque village...most of our readers can fill in the rest of this parenthetical comment) then Ocracoke IS what they are looking for.
The women at the Call Center understood, and were enthusiastic about Ocracoke (well, the homemade fig cake we brought them didn't hurt our presentation, either!).
We're hoping to get more information specific to Ocracoke on the official web site of the NC Division of Travel and Tourism, but you might want to take a look at it now anyway: http://www.visitnc.com/
It was a long day. We caught the 11 pm Hatteras ferry, and arrived back home at midnight. We were gone eighteen and a half hours, most of that time filled with stories, laughter, and a shared loved for our island home.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Views From the Lighthouse
As promised, I am posting several photos I took Sunday afternoon from the top of the Ocracoke Lighthouse. Click on any photo to view a larger image.
A ferry approaches the village:
The Charlie McWilliams house & Silver Lake (old Coast Guard Station on the left):
The red roof is the light keeper's quarters (Atlantic Ocean in the distance):
A view toward the South Point (Portsmouth Island is on the horizon on the right):
]
Pamlico Sound is in the distance:
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
A ferry approaches the village:
The Charlie McWilliams house & Silver Lake (old Coast Guard Station on the left):
The red roof is the light keeper's quarters (Atlantic Ocean in the distance):
A view toward the South Point (Portsmouth Island is on the horizon on the right):
]Pamlico Sound is in the distance:
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Lighthouse Visit
The restoration work on the Ocracoke Lighthouse is coming to completion. Sunday afternoon I had an opportunity to accompany Dale to the lighthouse grounds, and to speak with Alex and J.R., two of the men who have been doing much of the work. In the course of the conversation Alex invited us to climb the tower. Here are a few photos (this is a work still in progress, so cables, ropes, tools, and protective pads are visible in some of the pictures). Click on any photo to see a larger image.
This is me, almost to the top of the spiral staircase:
A metal ladder leads from the spiral stairs into the lantern room:
The 150 year old Fourth Order Fresnel Lens:
The three foot high door to the balcony:
A view of the lantern from the floor of the balcony:
Look for photos of the village taken from the balcony on tomorrow's blog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
This is me, almost to the top of the spiral staircase:
A metal ladder leads from the spiral stairs into the lantern room:
The 150 year old Fourth Order Fresnel Lens:
The three foot high door to the balcony:
A view of the lantern from the floor of the balcony:
Look for photos of the village taken from the balcony on tomorrow's blog.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Bright Sunshiny Day
I think Spring might be right around the corner. Blue skies, sunshine, and daffodils about to burst forth are good signs. And the forecast is calling for temperatures in the mid-fifties to the low sixties for the rest of the week. Walks on the beach have been spectacular, with dozens of dolphins frolicking just offshore. We can see them surfing the big waves, jumping clear out of the water, and even pushing forward with their snouts pointed up to the sky just like their trained cousins do at Sea World.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Knock on Wood
I was talking with neighbor Tom Pahl last night and he mentioned that he was interviewed on Public Radio's "A Way With Words" about a month ago. He had called to inquire about the phrase "knock on wood." Although the show's hosts said the origin of that expression is a mystery, they both knew of Ocracoke and the island's unique brogue. You can listen to the interview here (Tom's portion begins at about 41:00):
http://castroller.com/podcasts/AWayWith/1472588-The%20Language%20of%20Less%20Than%20Three%20-%2015%20Feb%202010
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
http://castroller.com/podcasts/AWayWith/1472588-The%20Language%20of%20Less%20Than%20Three%20-%2015%20Feb%202010
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Lighthouse
The light in our beloved lighthouse has been turned back on after several months of restoration work on the tower. I understand that interior brickwork has been re-pointed, a new steel ladder has been installed at the top of the spiral staircase, interior & exterior metal work has been repaired and re-painted, glass enclosing the lantern area has been replaced, new lightning protection has been added, and a replacement ground-level door (with period hardware) has been installed. Unofficial observers report that everything has been done with great care to historic standards. Hats off to the Florida contractor, Alex Klahm Architectural Metal and Design, for their fine work.
The relighting of the light in the lighthouse is a welcome symbol of hope for family and friends still in mourning over two recent deaths, 2 1/2 year old Charlotte Castro (see yesterday's post), and Rita Horn of Ohio (who died suddenly Tuesday evening; she was the mother of islander Sundae Horn, and grandmother of Emmet, Caroline, & Mariah Daisy Temple).
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
The relighting of the light in the lighthouse is a welcome symbol of hope for family and friends still in mourning over two recent deaths, 2 1/2 year old Charlotte Castro (see yesterday's post), and Rita Horn of Ohio (who died suddenly Tuesday evening; she was the mother of islander Sundae Horn, and grandmother of Emmet, Caroline, & Mariah Daisy Temple).
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of early twentieth century itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers who found their way to the island. You can read it here.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Charlotte
Ocracokers were shocked and saddened Tuesday morning to learn that two-and-a-half-year-old Charlotte, daughter of Marcy Brenner & Lou Castro had died in her sleep. Many of our readers know Charlotte and her parents who play music together as "Coyote." In addition, Marcy and Lou are both part of the band "Molasses Creek."
Any death in our community, especially the death of a child, affects everyone. Charlotte was frequently in attendance at performances and informal gatherings where she'd dance and clap along with the music. Charlotte loved other people, pre-school, animals, music, books, dancing, and drawing.
Joyce Reynolds looked after her as her own grandchild, but Charlotte was also often seen sitting on various peoples' laps listening to her mama and papa as they picked their instruments and sang to entertain us all.
The entire Ocracoke community is in mourning for a sweet little girl that captured everyone's hearts.
Condolences may be mailed to Marcy Brenner & Lou Castro, PO Box 734, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
A service is scheduled for Friday morning at 11 o'clock in the Ocracoke United Methodist Church. Marcy and Lou have asked, that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Ocracoke Child Care, PO Box 284, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Any death in our community, especially the death of a child, affects everyone. Charlotte was frequently in attendance at performances and informal gatherings where she'd dance and clap along with the music. Charlotte loved other people, pre-school, animals, music, books, dancing, and drawing.
Joyce Reynolds looked after her as her own grandchild, but Charlotte was also often seen sitting on various peoples' laps listening to her mama and papa as they picked their instruments and sang to entertain us all.
The entire Ocracoke community is in mourning for a sweet little girl that captured everyone's hearts.
Condolences may be mailed to Marcy Brenner & Lou Castro, PO Box 734, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
A service is scheduled for Friday morning at 11 o'clock in the Ocracoke United Methodist Church. Marcy and Lou have asked, that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Ocracoke Child Care, PO Box 284, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Oh No!
For years I have been telling people that there are no raccoons on Ocracoke. I know they are numerous on Portsmouth Island (they can be a nuisance when they climb down chimneys in the historic structures and tear things up). But I have never seen a raccoon on Ocracoke.
A few days ago Gene Ballance sent me this photo of his porch:
(Click on the photo to view a larger image, and look in the center of the picture!)
I wrote to Gene. Is this a doctored photo? I wondered.
This is what Gene wrote back:
"Definitely a raccoon. We see them walking down the ditch at low tide here. Others have see them too. NPS has also caught some in their cat traps on Ocracoke, I hear."
So there you have it. We do have raccoons on Ocracoke.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about several early 20th century itinerants who traveled to Ocracoke, including the story of "Blackie of the North Woods ". You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022810.htm.
A few days ago Gene Ballance sent me this photo of his porch:
(Click on the photo to view a larger image, and look in the center of the picture!)
I wrote to Gene. Is this a doctored photo? I wondered.
This is what Gene wrote back:
"Definitely a raccoon. We see them walking down the ditch at low tide here. Others have see them too. NPS has also caught some in their cat traps on Ocracoke, I hear."
So there you have it. We do have raccoons on Ocracoke.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about several early 20th century itinerants who traveled to Ocracoke, including the story of "Blackie of the North Woods ". You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022810.htm.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Mail Me...
...to someplace warm!
That's what Gene Ballance, our County Commissioner, imagined this post office cat thinking. Gene took the picture last week, when the temperature was in the upper 30s. I had just returned from a brisk walk on the beach when Gene pointed the cat out to me.
(Click on the photo to view a larger image.)
A number of stray cats spend most of their time at the post office, fed and cared for by various island cat lovers.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about several early 20th century itinerants who traveled to Ocracoke, including the story of "Blackie of the North Woods ". You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022810.htm.
That's what Gene Ballance, our County Commissioner, imagined this post office cat thinking. Gene took the picture last week, when the temperature was in the upper 30s. I had just returned from a brisk walk on the beach when Gene pointed the cat out to me.
(Click on the photo to view a larger image.)
A number of stray cats spend most of their time at the post office, fed and cared for by various island cat lovers.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about several early 20th century itinerants who traveled to Ocracoke, including the story of "Blackie of the North Woods ". You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022810.htm.
Monday, March 01, 2010
Ocracoke Newsletter
I have just published another monthly Ocracoke Newsletter. This latest edition tells about several itinerant salesmen, entertainers, and preachers that visited Ocracoke in the early 20th century. It includes the colorful story of Moses LeFaver Cummings (also known as "Blackie of the North Woods") who held an outdoor preaching service here in 1926 or 1927. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022810.htm.
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