One of the most interesting stories in biology is the relationship between figs and tiny, almost microscopic, fig wasps. I have addressed this topic before, about 3 1/2 years ago, but it is worth repeating. The story is told in Chapter 10 ("A Garden Inclosed") of Richard Dawkins' 1996 book, Climbing Mount Improbable.
Dawkins, an articulate science writer, introduces this final chapter by writing that he is "finally ready to return to the most difficult and complicated of all my stories." I have read that chapter several times (it is absolutely fascinating). I always think I've understood it, but then realize I don't really, because I become thoroughly confused trying to explain it to anyone else!
Although I have no doubt that Professor Dawkins understands figs & fig wasps, and that he has explained the relationship accurately, I began to wonder if Ocracoke Island figs are actually pollinated by fig wasps. Fig trees on Ocracoke seem always to start as cuttings (or branches that bend down and root). I've never known of a fig tree to sprout from a seed.
So I did a little research and discovered this:
"[Figs that have been fertilized] are more likely [to come] from Turkey or other locations in the Middle East. This is because the fig wasp, which is needed for fertilization, is native to these countries, and will have, more than likely, fertilized the figs you purchase." (http://www.ehow.com/way_5452523_growing-fig-trees-seed.html).
Upon further reading I learned that, unlike figs that require pollination by the fig wasp,...Common figs do not need pollination; they have all female flowers, and the "fruit" develops through parthenocarpic means (production of fruit without fertilization of ovules). This includes the varieties of figs commonly grown on Ocracoke, e.g. Brown Turkey and Celeste. (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_fig#Propagation).
So...read and enjoy Dr. Dawkins' chapter on figs and fig wasps, but don't hesitate to enjoy Ocracoke fig products. They won't contain wasp larvae!
This
month's Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of whale and porpoise fishing on the Outer Banks. You can read the
story here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news082115.htm.
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query figs. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query figs. Sort by date Show all posts
Thursday, September 03, 2015
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Figs & Wasps...Again
Now that the Ocracoke Fig Festival is over, we are going to investigate the fig, one of the most interesting "fruits" on the planet. I have addressed this issue before, but I think it is worth repeating. You see, a fig is not a single fruit after all. Evolutionary biologist, Richard Dawkins, describes it as a "garden enclosed."
Each fig is a syconium (or multiple fruit), a hollow, fleshy receptacle with hundreds, or even thousands, of small flowers within. Kris Hirst, at http://archaeology.about.com/od/domestications/a/fig_trees.htm, describes the fig this way: "Each species of fig tree in the wild comes in two types: the hermaphrodite fig, that produces pollen but does not produce seeds to generate a new tree; and the female, that produces no pollen but does produce three crops of figs throughout the year, one of which if pollinated, produces a seed that can make a new tree."
"If pollinated" is one clue to understanding this very unusual plant. Many of our readers are aware of fig wasps, the tiny (almost microscopic) critters that are essential to the pollination of figs (each species of fig has a specific fig wasp that is necessary to pollinate that species of fig). The particulars are extremely complicated, but, as Hirst points out, "all fruit of a regular fig tree have fig wasp embryos in them; whether the fruit is consumed by the wasp embryo or not determines whether the fruit survives to adulthood."
However, and this will be important to readers who are squeamish about ingesting insect parts, Hirst is writing about "regular [pollinated] fig trees." Domestic figs are parthenocarpic. They require no pollination, and therefore no wasps, in order to produce edible "fruit." Hirst continues, "Since these trees are not fertile (even if you can produce fruit you can't produce a working seed without pollination), the only way a parthenocarpic fig tree can reproduce is with the assistance of another symbiote--a human being. It's not difficult to propagate parthenocarpic figs: all you have to do is cut a branch and root it."
And that is exactly how Ocracoke fig trees are propagated, by rooting a cut branch, or by low-hanging branches naturally sending roots into the soil.
Enjoy your wasp-free Ocracoke figs! Jars of preserved figs are still available in many shops in the village, including on-line at Village Craftsmen.
Our latest Ocracoke Newletter is the story of Augustus Cabarrus, early inlet pilot, and the present day d'Oelsnitz family. Click here to read the Newsletter: Ocracoke...The French Connection.
Each fig is a syconium (or multiple fruit), a hollow, fleshy receptacle with hundreds, or even thousands, of small flowers within. Kris Hirst, at http://archaeology.about.com/od/domestications/a/fig_trees.htm, describes the fig this way: "Each species of fig tree in the wild comes in two types: the hermaphrodite fig, that produces pollen but does not produce seeds to generate a new tree; and the female, that produces no pollen but does produce three crops of figs throughout the year, one of which if pollinated, produces a seed that can make a new tree."
"If pollinated" is one clue to understanding this very unusual plant. Many of our readers are aware of fig wasps, the tiny (almost microscopic) critters that are essential to the pollination of figs (each species of fig has a specific fig wasp that is necessary to pollinate that species of fig). The particulars are extremely complicated, but, as Hirst points out, "all fruit of a regular fig tree have fig wasp embryos in them; whether the fruit is consumed by the wasp embryo or not determines whether the fruit survives to adulthood."
However, and this will be important to readers who are squeamish about ingesting insect parts, Hirst is writing about "regular [pollinated] fig trees." Domestic figs are parthenocarpic. They require no pollination, and therefore no wasps, in order to produce edible "fruit." Hirst continues, "Since these trees are not fertile (even if you can produce fruit you can't produce a working seed without pollination), the only way a parthenocarpic fig tree can reproduce is with the assistance of another symbiote--a human being. It's not difficult to propagate parthenocarpic figs: all you have to do is cut a branch and root it."
And that is exactly how Ocracoke fig trees are propagated, by rooting a cut branch, or by low-hanging branches naturally sending roots into the soil.
Enjoy your wasp-free Ocracoke figs! Jars of preserved figs are still available in many shops in the village, including on-line at Village Craftsmen.
Our latest Ocracoke Newletter is the story of Augustus Cabarrus, early inlet pilot, and the present day d'Oelsnitz family. Click here to read the Newsletter: Ocracoke...The French Connection.
Thursday, October 02, 2014
Ocracoke Figs
Figs have been a big part of Ocracoke Island life for generations, especially in August & September when figs ripen. Village Craftsmen employee and native islander, Dale Mutro, follows in his grandmama's steps, and puts up many jars of fig preserves every season.
Last week UNCTV aired a segment on Ocracoke figs...
and fig preserves...
You can listen to Dale and other islanders talk about figs, fig preserves, and fig cakes by following this link: http://video.unctv.org/video/2365329684/. The segment on Ocracoke figs begins at 14:17.
The interview with Gaynelle Tillett is priceless!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about the Unionist North Carolina State Government established at Hatteras in 1861. You can read all about it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news092114.htm.
Last week UNCTV aired a segment on Ocracoke figs...
and fig preserves...
You can listen to Dale and other islanders talk about figs, fig preserves, and fig cakes by following this link: http://video.unctv.org/video/2365329684/. The segment on Ocracoke figs begins at 14:17.
The interview with Gaynelle Tillett is priceless!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is about the Unionist North Carolina State Government established at Hatteras in 1861. You can read all about it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news092114.htm.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Figs
Springtime on Ocracoke Island means fig trees coming back to life and sprouting bright green leaves.
We will have to wait until late summer before the figs ripen and we can feast on the tasty fruit. Actually, however, the fig is not a fruit. Biologist Richard Dawkins describes the fig as a "garden enclosed." For a fascinating account of the mutualistic relationship between figs and fig wasps read chapter 10 of his book, "Climbing Mount Improbable."
I am no expert on figs, but I believe most garden-variety figs in this country, including Ocracoke Island figs, are not dependent on fig wasps. I think they are parthenocarpic, and develop without pollination. New fig trees grow from cuttings, or from branches that bend to the ground and grow roots.
Look for fig trees in yards throughout the village. And later this season look for delicious Ocracoke fig preserves for sale at Village Craftsmen. They are an island delicacy.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a video of Philip Howard telling the story of the 1861 wreck of the Black Squall. You can watch it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
We will have to wait until late summer before the figs ripen and we can feast on the tasty fruit. Actually, however, the fig is not a fruit. Biologist Richard Dawkins describes the fig as a "garden enclosed." For a fascinating account of the mutualistic relationship between figs and fig wasps read chapter 10 of his book, "Climbing Mount Improbable."
I am no expert on figs, but I believe most garden-variety figs in this country, including Ocracoke Island figs, are not dependent on fig wasps. I think they are parthenocarpic, and develop without pollination. New fig trees grow from cuttings, or from branches that bend to the ground and grow roots.
Look for fig trees in yards throughout the village. And later this season look for delicious Ocracoke fig preserves for sale at Village Craftsmen. They are an island delicacy.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a video of Philip Howard telling the story of the 1861 wreck of the Black Squall. You can watch it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Figs
While visitors to Ocracoke are enjoying the surf and the sun during August many local folks are picking the ripening figs from their trees (before the birds devour them), and making fig preserves. Preserves make a tasty spread on biscuits or toast, and they're especially good poured over vanilla ice cream. But one of the island's most famous recipes is for Ocracoke Island Fig Cake. It's a dark, moist cake that has earned a place in almost every local cookbook. Here is the most popular form of the recipe:
Ingredients: 1 cup salad oil; 1 1/2 cup sugar; 3 eggs; 1 tsp. soda, dissolved in a little hot water; 2 cups flour; 1 tsp. nutmeg; 1 tsp. allspice; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1 tsp. salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp. vanilla; 1 cup preserved & chopped figs (or dates, if you can't locate figs); 1 cup chopped nuts.
Beat 3 eggs; add sugar, oil, & soda. After sifting dry ingredients, add to egg mixture alternately with buttermilk. Add vanilla and fold in figs and nuts. Pour into greased oblong pan and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or in a well greased tube pan at 350 degrees just a little longer.
Yummy!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a small photo album with historic pictures, including the aftermath of the 1944 hurricane, the 1921 Ghost Ship of the Outer Banks, the 1935 wreck of the Nomis, the Island Inn, the Methodist Church, and the Wahab Village Hotel. I've added a short paragraph under each photo to help put them in historical perspective. You can see the pictures by clicking here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news082609.htm.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Figs
Fig trees grow all over Ocracoke village. Already many of the figs are beginning to ripen. The photo below is of the tree behind the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum (click on it to view a larger image). The darker figs will be ready to eat when the sides begin to crack and split. The challenge is plucking them just at the right time...before the birds get to them!
Figs on some trees are still tiny, others are larger, but green and hard. They won't ripen for a while.
The very complex, remarkable, and thoroughly fascinating story of the relationship between tiny "fig wasps" and figs is told in chapter 10, "A Garden Inclosed," in the book "Climbing Mount Improbable" by biologist Richard Dawkins. He calls the story of the fig "the most difficult and complicated of all [his] stories." It is a story of "strategy," "symmetry," "cooperation," "kinship," "combat," "deception," "struggle," "mimicry," and "police action" (he uses many of these terms metaphorically, at the risk of making much of his explanation sound too purposeful, which he insists it is not).
Dawkins describes the relationship between fig and fig wasp as "almost ludicrously tortuous and subtle." Although he admits that his explanation of this "difficult and complicated matter" might "defeat [him]," the 28 page chapter is well worth the time required to read it.
Please leave a comment if you've read this fascinating story.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a modern day ghost tale, "Ode to Mrs. Godfrey," by guest columnist Tom McDonald. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news.htm.
Figs on some trees are still tiny, others are larger, but green and hard. They won't ripen for a while.
The very complex, remarkable, and thoroughly fascinating story of the relationship between tiny "fig wasps" and figs is told in chapter 10, "A Garden Inclosed," in the book "Climbing Mount Improbable" by biologist Richard Dawkins. He calls the story of the fig "the most difficult and complicated of all [his] stories." It is a story of "strategy," "symmetry," "cooperation," "kinship," "combat," "deception," "struggle," "mimicry," and "police action" (he uses many of these terms metaphorically, at the risk of making much of his explanation sound too purposeful, which he insists it is not).
Dawkins describes the relationship between fig and fig wasp as "almost ludicrously tortuous and subtle." Although he admits that his explanation of this "difficult and complicated matter" might "defeat [him]," the 28 page chapter is well worth the time required to read it.
Please leave a comment if you've read this fascinating story.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a modern day ghost tale, "Ode to Mrs. Godfrey," by guest columnist Tom McDonald. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news.htm.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
Fig Preserves
Ocracoke Island is known for its fig trees...and delicious fig preserves. Several varieties of figs grow on the island, and they begin to ripen in August. According to island old timers this year's crop of figs is one of the most abundant in living memory.
Village Craftsmen has sold locally preserved figs for several years. They are tasty on bread (homemade is the best, of course), marvelous as a topping on ice cream, and perfect for Ocracoke Island's famous fig cake (click here -- http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news040301.htm -- for the recipe).
Many of our readers ask about purchasing fig preserves, but all too often they are out of season when visitors are here on the island. If you would like some authentic Ocracoke Island preserved figs you are now in luck. Because of this year's bumper crop we now have a substantial supply of preserves, ready for shipment anywhere in the US. Just click on this link for more information:
http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm.
Remember, this is a seasonal item. When they're gone, they're gone...until next year at least. So order now, and enjoy Ocracoke Island figs in your own kitchen!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of the 1913 wreck of the 6-masted schooner, George W. Wells. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072110.htm.
Village Craftsmen has sold locally preserved figs for several years. They are tasty on bread (homemade is the best, of course), marvelous as a topping on ice cream, and perfect for Ocracoke Island's famous fig cake (click here -- http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news040301.htm -- for the recipe).
Many of our readers ask about purchasing fig preserves, but all too often they are out of season when visitors are here on the island. If you would like some authentic Ocracoke Island preserved figs you are now in luck. Because of this year's bumper crop we now have a substantial supply of preserves, ready for shipment anywhere in the US. Just click on this link for more information:
http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm.
Remember, this is a seasonal item. When they're gone, they're gone...until next year at least. So order now, and enjoy Ocracoke Island figs in your own kitchen!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of the 1913 wreck of the 6-masted schooner, George W. Wells. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072110.htm.
Friday, September 21, 2018
Fresh Figs & Goat Cheese
Post-hurricane Florence, with businesses closed awaiting a visitors re-entry notice, was a rare opportunity to catch up on chores we had been putting off since the beginning of the tourist season. It was also a chance to relax and enjoy the late summer weather.
The last of our figs were ripening, and we decided to treat ourselves to a small gourmet delicacy before dinner...fresh figs and goat cheese.
We cut the figs in half, topped them with a dollop of goat cheese and an almond. Then we dripped a bit of pure honey and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar over them. Into the broiler they went for a few minutes.
We took the figs out onto the pizer with a bottle of Gewurztraminer wine and enjoyed our evening appetizer as we watched the sun cast ever longer shadows across the sandy lane. Island life is good even after a storm.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is an essay by Philip Howard explaining why he decided to stay on the island as Hurricane Florence approached. You can read it here: https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/why-i-stayed/.
The last of our figs were ripening, and we decided to treat ourselves to a small gourmet delicacy before dinner...fresh figs and goat cheese.
We cut the figs in half, topped them with a dollop of goat cheese and an almond. Then we dripped a bit of pure honey and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar over them. Into the broiler they went for a few minutes.
We took the figs out onto the pizer with a bottle of Gewurztraminer wine and enjoyed our evening appetizer as we watched the sun cast ever longer shadows across the sandy lane. Island life is good even after a storm.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is an essay by Philip Howard explaining why he decided to stay on the island as Hurricane Florence approached. You can read it here: https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/why-i-stayed/.
Thursday, August 11, 2016
Figs & Peaches
It is fig season on Ocracoke, and pots are boiling in kitchens all over the island.
Trudy and Tammy Austin, native island sisters, are putting up fig preserves as fast as they can pick the figs. But their preserves are a bit different from other folks' preserves. Trudy and Tammy combine peaches with their figs.
If you are on the island, be sure to come out to the Community Square tomorrow (for the 3rd annual Ocracoke Fig Festival) to hear Chester Lynn give his presentation about Ocracoke Island figs. You can also see...and sample...traditional and innovative island fig cakes! And Trudy will have her fig/peach preserves for sale (as long as they last!).
Our latest Ocracoke Newletter is the story of Augustus Cabarrus, early inlet pilot, and the present day d'Oelsnitz family. Click here to read the Newsletter: Ocracoke...The French Connection.
Trudy and Tammy Austin, native island sisters, are putting up fig preserves as fast as they can pick the figs. But their preserves are a bit different from other folks' preserves. Trudy and Tammy combine peaches with their figs.
If you are on the island, be sure to come out to the Community Square tomorrow (for the 3rd annual Ocracoke Fig Festival) to hear Chester Lynn give his presentation about Ocracoke Island figs. You can also see...and sample...traditional and innovative island fig cakes! And Trudy will have her fig/peach preserves for sale (as long as they last!).
Our latest Ocracoke Newletter is the story of Augustus Cabarrus, early inlet pilot, and the present day d'Oelsnitz family. Click here to read the Newsletter: Ocracoke...The French Connection.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Figments of Ocracoke
Just a few months ago the Humanities Extension/Publications Division of the North Carolina State University published a short book by Ocracoke native, Chester Lynn. Many visitors to the island know Chester as the Proprietor of Annabelle's Florest and Antique Shop on the Back Road. Chester is also the island's resident expert on figs and fig trees. His book is titled, Figments of Ocracoke, An O'cocker Says a Word.
Figments has chapters on Ocracoake Island history & stories, types of fig trees, tending fig trees, and cooking with figs. As collaborator on the text, Walt Wolfram, the William C. Friday Distinguished University Professor and Director of the NC State Language and Life Project, writes in the Preface, "to know Chester to recognize that he can 'say a word' -- and can recount history, lore, and wisdom on everything from figs to the Lost Colony."
Wolfram explains that, "in this collection, Chester tells his story -- from his childhood obsession with figs to his assortment of antiques that includes treasures from Blackbeard found at Springerr's Point to plates from South America dug up in his backyard."
On your next stroll down Back Road stop in at Annabelle's Florest and chat with Chester...and purchase one of his books. You'll be glad you did!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Lachlan Howard's essay about the Fresnel Lens and its use in theater, solar ovens, cameras, and industry, as well as lighthouse illumination. You can read it here: https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/the-fresnel-lens/.
Figments has chapters on Ocracoake Island history & stories, types of fig trees, tending fig trees, and cooking with figs. As collaborator on the text, Walt Wolfram, the William C. Friday Distinguished University Professor and Director of the NC State Language and Life Project, writes in the Preface, "to know Chester to recognize that he can 'say a word' -- and can recount history, lore, and wisdom on everything from figs to the Lost Colony."
Wolfram explains that, "in this collection, Chester tells his story -- from his childhood obsession with figs to his assortment of antiques that includes treasures from Blackbeard found at Springerr's Point to plates from South America dug up in his backyard."
On your next stroll down Back Road stop in at Annabelle's Florest and chat with Chester...and purchase one of his books. You'll be glad you did!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Lachlan Howard's essay about the Fresnel Lens and its use in theater, solar ovens, cameras, and industry, as well as lighthouse illumination. You can read it here: https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/the-fresnel-lens/.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Fig Preserves
Figs are ripening all over the island. In a time-honored tradition, kitchen stoves in the village are fired up to boil the figs and put them up as preserves.
Figs Fresh From the Tree:
A Batch of Figs Cooking:
Village Craftsmen has just received several cases of delicious fig preserves from an island family that has been making them for generations.
You can order your 2008 Ocracoke fig preserves by clicking here. They're tasty spread on homemade bread, used as a topping on ice cream, or (Ocracokers' favorite) used as the main ingredient in island fig cake. The recipe is on our web site. Just click here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is Lou Ann's account of installing an old-fashioned pitcher pump. You can read it here.
Figs Fresh From the Tree:
A Batch of Figs Cooking:
Village Craftsmen has just received several cases of delicious fig preserves from an island family that has been making them for generations.
You can order your 2008 Ocracoke fig preserves by clicking here. They're tasty spread on homemade bread, used as a topping on ice cream, or (Ocracokers' favorite) used as the main ingredient in island fig cake. The recipe is on our web site. Just click here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is Lou Ann's account of installing an old-fashioned pitcher pump. You can read it here.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Fig Wasps ?
New leaves are bursting forth from our island fig trees. And Ocracoke gardeners are giving springtime thoughts to tending to these iconic trees. On July 16 of last year I posted a short article about the complex and fascinating relationship between figs and fig wasps (every species of fig has a unique species of tiny wasps that fertilizes that type of fig tree).
After I published that journal entry I pondered the completeness of the description. Island fig trees are rooted from cuttings, or reproduce by sending supple limbs down to the ground where they root. I questioned if they ever reproduce from seed.
A little bit of research revealed that fertilized fig seeds generally come from Turkey or other Middle Eastern locations because fig wasps are native to those areas. I further learned that "persistent" or common figs do not need pollination. I am not 100% certain, but I suspect that all fig trees on Ocracoke are descendants of trees that were cultivated millennia ago, and that their fruit develops parthenocarpicly (without fertilization).
So, if you've ever been squeamish about eating figs (and therefore wasp larvae), I think you can relax. I have never seen evidence of fig wasps in Ocracoke figs.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of the Civil War on the Outer Banks, Josephus Daniels, Jr, Secretary of the Navy during WWI, and his connection to Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022112.htm.
After I published that journal entry I pondered the completeness of the description. Island fig trees are rooted from cuttings, or reproduce by sending supple limbs down to the ground where they root. I questioned if they ever reproduce from seed.
A little bit of research revealed that fertilized fig seeds generally come from Turkey or other Middle Eastern locations because fig wasps are native to those areas. I further learned that "persistent" or common figs do not need pollination. I am not 100% certain, but I suspect that all fig trees on Ocracoke are descendants of trees that were cultivated millennia ago, and that their fruit develops parthenocarpicly (without fertilization).
So, if you've ever been squeamish about eating figs (and therefore wasp larvae), I think you can relax. I have never seen evidence of fig wasps in Ocracoke figs.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of the Civil War on the Outer Banks, Josephus Daniels, Jr, Secretary of the Navy during WWI, and his connection to Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news022112.htm.
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Figs
It must be spring! According to the astronomical method of calculation, spring officially begins March 20 (an earlier version of this post said today, an obvious error!). But according to the meteorological calendar spring began on March 1, and lasts until May 31. Regard less, and in spite of the present cold snap, it must be spring. The fig trees tell the story. I took this photo yesterday.
You can see the new fig leaves bursting forth...and the tiny figs forming nearby. Here is a detail of the photo:
I have written about Ocracoke figs several times in the past. Interested fig-lovers can read more here: https://villagecraftsmen.blogspot.com/search?q=figs.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter, a newspaper article published in 1923 titled "Quaintest Town in America," provides a fascinating glimpse of Ocracoke Island life a century ago. You can read it here:
https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/quaintest-town-america-n-c-island/ .
You can see the new fig leaves bursting forth...and the tiny figs forming nearby. Here is a detail of the photo:
I have written about Ocracoke figs several times in the past. Interested fig-lovers can read more here: https://villagecraftsmen.blogspot.com/search?q=figs.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter, a newspaper article published in 1923 titled "Quaintest Town in America," provides a fascinating glimpse of Ocracoke Island life a century ago. You can read it here:
https://www.villagecraftsmen.com/quaintest-town-america-n-c-island/ .
Friday, August 26, 2005
Island Fig Cake
Ocracoke figs have ripened and many an island kitchen is now stocked with mason jars filled with sweet fig preserves. One of Ocracoke's most popular local delicacies is the dark, moist, and tasty fig cake. If you are lucky enough to have of a jar of preserves you might want to try this traditional island recipe. (You can order Ocracoke fig preserves here.)
Ingredients: 1 cup salad oil; 1 1/2 cup sugar; 3 eggs; 1 tsp. soda, dissolved in a little hot water; 2 cups flour; 1 tsp. nutmeg; 1 tsp. allspice; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1 tsp. salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp. vanilla; 1 cup preserved & chopped figs (or dates, if you can't locate figs); 1 cup chopped nuts.
Beat 3 eggs; add sugar and oil. After sifting dry ingredients, add to egg mixture alternately with buttermilk. Add vanilla and fold in figs and nuts. Pour into greased oblong pan and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or in a well greased tube pan at 350 degrees just a little longer.
.
Wednesday, August 05, 2015
Figs
Figs are abundant on Ocracoke, and many island residents are busy this time of year putting up preserves. In 2014 Hurricane Arthur (July 4) nearly destroyed fig production. So far this year we have seen a bumper crop.
As a result, Village Craftsmen again has preserved figs for sale.
Fig preserves are tasty spread on your morning toast, are the main ingredient in a delicious island cake (http://villagecraftsmen.blogspot.com/2005/08/island-fig-cake.html), make a popular appetizer when served with goat cheese, and are included in many traditional and innovative recipes.
We have a new supply of this year's fig preserves in pint and half pint jars, ready to ship immediately. Order your fig preserves here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm. You will be glad you did!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells the delightful story of the 19th century "Stovepipe Hat" wreck. It has been told for years in books & magazines, but it probably never happened. You can read the story (and my research) here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072115.htm.
As a result, Village Craftsmen again has preserved figs for sale.
Fig preserves are tasty spread on your morning toast, are the main ingredient in a delicious island cake (http://villagecraftsmen.blogspot.com/2005/08/island-fig-cake.html), make a popular appetizer when served with goat cheese, and are included in many traditional and innovative recipes.
We have a new supply of this year's fig preserves in pint and half pint jars, ready to ship immediately. Order your fig preserves here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm. You will be glad you did!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells the delightful story of the 19th century "Stovepipe Hat" wreck. It has been told for years in books & magazines, but it probably never happened. You can read the story (and my research) here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072115.htm.
Friday, July 24, 2015
Della
Last week Lou Ann interviewed Della Gaskill for an Ocracoke Preservation Society "Porch Talk." Della operates a small gift shop
on her property next to the Assembly of God Church. She was born on
Ocracoke in 1937, and she has many stories to tell about "Growing up on
Ocracoke Island" (that's the subtitle of her memoir, A Blessed Life).
Della's book is full of fascinating local lore, island history, first-hand stories, and vintage photos. Chapter titles include "Hotcakes, Turtle Stew and Other Recipes for Love," "World War II Comes to Ocracoke," "The Storm of '44 and Other Storms at Ocracoke," "School Days," "The Ocracoke Ponies," "Figs, Figs and More Figs," and much more.
Look for Della at her shop on Lighthouse Road, and take home a copy of her book for a glimpse into island life more than a half century ago. A Blessed Life is available from Della, at Village Craftsmen, and at other island businesses.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells the delightful story of the 19th century "Stovepipe Hat" wreck. It has been told for years in books & magazines, but it probably never happened. You can read the story (and my research) here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072115.htm.
Della's book is full of fascinating local lore, island history, first-hand stories, and vintage photos. Chapter titles include "Hotcakes, Turtle Stew and Other Recipes for Love," "World War II Comes to Ocracoke," "The Storm of '44 and Other Storms at Ocracoke," "School Days," "The Ocracoke Ponies," "Figs, Figs and More Figs," and much more.
Look for Della at her shop on Lighthouse Road, and take home a copy of her book for a glimpse into island life more than a half century ago. A Blessed Life is available from Della, at Village Craftsmen, and at other island businesses.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells the delightful story of the 19th century "Stovepipe Hat" wreck. It has been told for years in books & magazines, but it probably never happened. You can read the story (and my research) here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072115.htm.
Monday, August 01, 2011
Fig Preserves
Figs are ripening all over the village! And we now have authentic Ocracoke Island fig preserves for sale. At this time we only have pint jars...at $12.50 per jar.
You can order these Ocracoke fig preserves on-line at http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm.
Place your order of $25 or more during the months of August or September and get free shipping. But remember, there is a limited supply. There is no guarantee that we will be getting more.
Below is the traditional Ocracoke Island fig cake recipe. This is my favorite cake!
Ingredients: 1 cup salad oil; 1 1/2 cup sugar; 3 eggs; 1 tsp. soda, dissolved in a little hot water; 2 cups flour; 1 tsp. nutmeg; 1 tsp. allspice; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1 tsp. salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp. vanilla; 1 cup preserved & chopped figs; 1 cup chopped nuts.
Beat 3 eggs; add sugar and oil. After sifting dry ingredients, add to egg mixture alternately with buttermilk. Add vanilla and fold in figs and nuts. Pour into greased oblong pan and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or in a well greased tube pan at 350 degrees just a little longer.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is Lou Ann's story of the Night Blooming Cereus Cactus. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072111.htm.
You can order these Ocracoke fig preserves on-line at http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/figpreserves.htm.
Place your order of $25 or more during the months of August or September and get free shipping. But remember, there is a limited supply. There is no guarantee that we will be getting more.
Below is the traditional Ocracoke Island fig cake recipe. This is my favorite cake!
Ingredients: 1 cup salad oil; 1 1/2 cup sugar; 3 eggs; 1 tsp. soda, dissolved in a little hot water; 2 cups flour; 1 tsp. nutmeg; 1 tsp. allspice; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1 tsp. salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp. vanilla; 1 cup preserved & chopped figs; 1 cup chopped nuts.
Beat 3 eggs; add sugar and oil. After sifting dry ingredients, add to egg mixture alternately with buttermilk. Add vanilla and fold in figs and nuts. Pour into greased oblong pan and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or in a well greased tube pan at 350 degrees just a little longer.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is Lou Ann's story of the Night Blooming Cereus Cactus. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072111.htm.
Wednesday, August 09, 2017
Fig Tales
It is fig season again, and many islanders' kitchens are filled with figs boiling on their stoves to make preserves.
Fred Mallison, in his book To Ocracoke! relates a tall tale he overheard from Captain Ike O'Neal. Mallison was a young boy visiting the island in the 1930s, and he and friends enjoyed hanging around the docks listening to the old sailors. One day he heard Cap'n Ike tell "about the time he was becalmed at sea for a week. Their food gave out, he said, and he and his crew lived on two pound figs and a case of condensed milk. That was why he did not eat figs any more. I began to fit out a sea story from Cap'n Ike's tale. I imagined Captain Ike confronting a half mutinous crew, as he carved equal slices from a pound fig as big as a watermelon. And with a cutlass. Captain Bligh could not have done it better."
A pound fig is so called because of its large size (sometimes as big as an orange, but not a watermelon!). It has a purplish color, and smells of cinnamon. It is one of at least nine cultivars grown on Ocraocke Island.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is a contemporary account of the December 24, 1899 wreck of the Steamship Ariosto. You can read the Newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072117.htm.
Fred Mallison, in his book To Ocracoke! relates a tall tale he overheard from Captain Ike O'Neal. Mallison was a young boy visiting the island in the 1930s, and he and friends enjoyed hanging around the docks listening to the old sailors. One day he heard Cap'n Ike tell "about the time he was becalmed at sea for a week. Their food gave out, he said, and he and his crew lived on two pound figs and a case of condensed milk. That was why he did not eat figs any more. I began to fit out a sea story from Cap'n Ike's tale. I imagined Captain Ike confronting a half mutinous crew, as he carved equal slices from a pound fig as big as a watermelon. And with a cutlass. Captain Bligh could not have done it better."
A pound fig is so called because of its large size (sometimes as big as an orange, but not a watermelon!). It has a purplish color, and smells of cinnamon. It is one of at least nine cultivars grown on Ocraocke Island.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is a contemporary account of the December 24, 1899 wreck of the Steamship Ariosto. You can read the Newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072117.htm.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
A Blessed Life
Many of our readers know Della Gaskill. She operates a small gift shop on her property next to the Assembly of God Church. Della was born on Ocracoke in 1937, and she has many stories to tell about "Growing up on Ocracoke Island" (that's the subtitle of her new book, A Blessed Life).
Della's book is full of fascinating local lore, island history, first-hand stories, and vintage photos. Chapter titles include "Hotcakes, Turtle Stew and Other Recipes for Love," "World War II Comes to Ocracoke," "The Storm of '44 and Other Storms at Ocracoke," "School Days," "The Ocracoke Ponies," "Figs, Figs and More Figs," and much more.
You can order a copy of Della's book directly from our web site (http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/islandbooks.htm#ablessedlife), or purchase a copy at our store on Howard Street...or buy one from other merchants on the island. You'll be glad you did. A Blessed Life is the most recent addition to a wide selection of books about Ocracoke. This one is told by an island native, and that makes it extra special.
Our current Ocracoke Newsletter is an account of Infant & Childhood Mortality on Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072113.htm.
Della's book is full of fascinating local lore, island history, first-hand stories, and vintage photos. Chapter titles include "Hotcakes, Turtle Stew and Other Recipes for Love," "World War II Comes to Ocracoke," "The Storm of '44 and Other Storms at Ocracoke," "School Days," "The Ocracoke Ponies," "Figs, Figs and More Figs," and much more.
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| Della Gaskill |
You can order a copy of Della's book directly from our web site (http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/islandbooks.htm#ablessedlife), or purchase a copy at our store on Howard Street...or buy one from other merchants on the island. You'll be glad you did. A Blessed Life is the most recent addition to a wide selection of books about Ocracoke. This one is told by an island native, and that makes it extra special.
Our current Ocracoke Newsletter is an account of Infant & Childhood Mortality on Ocracoke. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072113.htm.
Tuesday, July 05, 2016
Island Fig Trees
Figs are beginning to ripen in the village. Chester Lynn, native islander and proprietor of Annabelle's Florist on the Back Road, is an expert on Ocracoke figs.
A recent episode on WRAL TV titled"Fig trees have roots in Ocracoke Island family's history " featured Chester talking about his love of these fascinating trees.
You can watch the WRAL episode here: http://www.wral.com/news/local/video/15811605/
And you can read more about Chester here: https://ocracokeobserver.com/2015/06/15/chester-lynn-an-island-original/
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is an article about one of the early July 4th Parades written by Alice Rondthaler in 1953. It is accompanied by vintage photos.You can read the Newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news062116.htm.
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| A Ripening Ocracoke Island Fig |
A recent episode on WRAL TV titled"Fig trees have roots in Ocracoke Island family's history " featured Chester talking about his love of these fascinating trees.
You can watch the WRAL episode here: http://www.wral.com/news/local/video/15811605/
And you can read more about Chester here: https://ocracokeobserver.com/2015/06/15/chester-lynn-an-island-original/
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is an article about one of the early July 4th Parades written by Alice Rondthaler in 1953. It is accompanied by vintage photos.You can read the Newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news062116.htm.
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