north carolina

Corn Maze

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The newspaper article said, “Prepare to be a-mazed.. and possibly lost,” and both claims were true. For the last few years Shawn and Jeff Parks have operated the Hood Swamp Road Corn Maze on the grounds of the Park Farm. What a hoot.

Driving up to the Hood Farm I was greeted by an enthusiastic Jeff Parks who directed me to a parking spot then gifted me with a pumpkin as I was the first customer of the season. After this I paid my $7 admission to Shawn, his wife, and was guided to the maze entrance and told to go left.

The maze was a fun jaunt however my time was limited since I had double booked my evening with a 7 pm Henry Cho Clean Comedy Show at the Parmount in Goldsboro. Since I was lost and it was after 6 I did the unthinkable and broke through the maze stumbling among the corn stalks which provided soft landing to my falls. At last I was in reality only to find my actions caught by Jeff who over sees the maze in a life guard chair.

Once out of the maze I noted the farm also has a slide area which children can enjoy post maze as well as a photo shoot spot where they can plunk their heads in for that magic picture.

For us old folk there also is antique farm equipment for viewing.

Hours for this operation are Friday 5-9 pm, Saturday 2-9 pm, and Sunday 2-6 pm. Adults are $7 with kids free. It runs through the entire month of October. The farm is located on 600 Hood Swamp Road outside Goldsboro. It happens annually. Bring the little ones for a good time.

Carl Sandburg Home

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The Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, North Carolina is perhaps one of the greatest historical treasures I have visited. This simple white frame farm house with adjoining goat farm on 245 acres was where this remarkable two time Pulitzer Prize winner lived with his wife and daughters from 1945 till his death in 1967. In 1968 his wife and daughters packed their suitcases and sold all to the National Park Association. What a gift they gave America. It is an entirely intact home filled with Carl’s worldly possessions. There are over 17.000 books, his clothing, typewriter, and even an intact kitchen. It is a unique snapshot of a life well lived.

Abe and the Pulitzers

Carl Sandberg was born 13 years after the Civil War in a town not far from Springfield, Illinois. Here he became enamored with Abraham Lincoln who he studied most of his life. He eventually created a six volume tome of Abe’s life which he whittled down to one volume. For this he won his first Pulitzer Prize. His next Pulitzer was for poetry, and he is credited as the only individual to earn two of these prestigious awards in separate venues.

Early Life

Leaving school in 8th grade to help support the family he later prowled the states as a hobo working odd jobs eventually serving in the Spanish American war. From there it was a time in college where a professor encouraged his writing. He never finished that college degree but began to write and worked in newspapers for over 2 decades. His major interest was always in political concerns for the welfare of mankind.

Later Life

Along the way he met a beautiful and intelligent woman who he convinced to marry him and had 2 daughters. Lilian Steichen Sandberg, besides sharing his interest in social reform also held many avocations. She was an avid farmer and award winning goat farmer. In these circles she is credited for changing the goat farming industry with her innovative ideas. Goats still remain on the farm for viewing and are gentle and friendly.

Carl Sandburg never stopped singing or writing throughout his life. He wrote long hours into the night often going to bed as Lilian began her farm work. Known to have a strong sense of humor he stated that writing was, “95% perspiration and 5% inspiration.”

Visiting The Property

Enjoy the visit and start with the movie where you will meet Sandburg’s granddaughter. Here she describes growing up on the farm and life with her famous grandfather. See the house, visit the goats, and take a walk on the property. It is a truly delightful experience.

In closing is a simple quote from Carl which sums up this remarkable American who gave so much to the world.

“…be careful, be careless, be what you want to be.”

Asheville Day 2: Biltmore

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Biltmore is considered by most as America’s only castle. With building construction beginning in 1889 and lasting over 6 years, 1000 workers crafted this majestic residence. Two architects worked in concert to produce this amazing property. Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame created the outside landscaping and gardens, and Richard Morris Hunt, the architect of the home. While assessed on tax rolls at $64 million it is priceless and pricey to visit but well worth the fee as the visit is captivating and one you will never forget.

After obtaining tickets to the venue there is a long drive to the home through forested lands. It is amazing to think in 1896 this was desolate farmland recreated as a forest on Olmsted’s recommendation.

The forest continues as you walk to the mansion from the parking lot. Then the awesome structure appears at the end of a grassy courtyard. Walking closer to the entry large stone lions greet you as doors open into a foyer of plants with a domed ceiling.

From the spectacular entry walk to the dining room where George and Edith Vanderbilt dined with their guests on 6 to 10 course meals.

In the library is George’s immense collection of books. He also entertained great authors and poets in this room discussing their works. If only walls could talk.

Then there is the room housing priceless tapestries..

And take a glimpse at George’s bedroom..

Next visit the exquisite gardens, greenhouses, and forest. Stroll the many many trails. You will understand why George chose this spot to build.

Tours are timed for entry with limited numbers of visitors allowed making for a comfortable visit. Audio tours are an additional cost but well worth the price. Purchase your tickets on line a week prior to visit for savings. There are interesting back stage tours given by docents. Read the bios to see what fits your desires and interest. It takes at least 90 minutes to view the 39 rooms and spaces for tour in the home. There are docents in each room to answer questions. Christmas is the best time of year for visit as Biltmore glows with festive decor.

Bathrooms are not available in the house so to ensure a comfortable visit take care of those needs prior to visit. Walk past the entry doors of the home to a complex which has food, retail, and bathroom facilities. Here there is much to buy, eat, and sample. Wine tasting is included in the price of admission, however the larger tasting is available off-site at the Antler Hill Village and Winery. Here there is also a small animal farm for children, interesting trains, and a museum explaining more of the Vanderbilt’s life.

To make every aspect of your tour a valuable experience pick up a copy of “Your Visit to Biltmore,” which is available through the Asheville on line services. Also, investigate the extensive Biltmore web site for all specifics and needs. I highly recommend reading information on the Vanderbilt family prior to visit. This will make your visit even more valuable.

The Drive to Asheville and Noise

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The Biltmore. They didn’t have a vacancy so we Air Bnb’d it….

My next few blogs will come from the Asheville, North Carolina area as I am meeting my daughter there. While North Carolina is beautiful, the drive was long and annoying with many towns having 45 mph speed limits.

Stopping at a gas station I was particularly perturbed over a noisy, supped up Ford Mustang which graced the neighboring gas stall. Though I probably shouldn’t have made comment, I did. Even though he could have pulled a gun on me and shot me dead I didn’t care. Working nights and sleeping days in my room which I have dubbed the Cross Bronx Expressway has gotten to me.

Ford Mustang

With this sleep schedule I am frequently woke by revved up motorcycles, cars blaring radios, loud mufflers, and trucks. I was in no mood for this Ford Mustang and gratefully he waited to continue his antics till off the gas station property.

So I remained alive and it brings back the question of noisy vehicles. Why? We hear you, and we notice you. Do you really need to make all this noise? Remember, there may be someone trying to sleep after a night shift. Be considerate.

As I continue to contemplate this issue guys with big pick up trucks came to mind. In my experience and from the chatter of gal pals through the years those boys buy big to compensate for parts small. Question answered.

It’s Kathleen and if you don’t like what I say… well, you know the drill.

Everything Greek!

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Recently there was a Greek Festival at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. If you have never been to one of these, go. It will be pricey but as they say it is “Priceless,” and your stomach will thank you. Caveat: Wear roomy clothes so you can take it all in. Ha!Ha!

Here were some of the selections:

I chose the full dinner with leg of lamb in a tomato sauce, veggies, rice, and grape leaves. Thank God for take out containers to bring food home. What a delicious feast to continue tomorrow.

Served cafeteria style everything was warm and tasty. The line was long but with quick turnover. Next stop was the wine station where I tested one ounce samples of 7 different Greek wines from the homeland. Delicious, however only can get these in Greece. ? Next trip?

From there it was dancing. All ages of Greeks participate and give quite a show.

Then at the conclusion of a busy day time for a vanilla ice cream sundae with granola, honey and chocolate syrup topping. YUM…

So set your calendar for next year’s fest. You’ll be glad you did.

Charlotte, North Carolina

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Charlotte was the last leg of my Central North Carolina tour. Arriving on Labor Day was a poor move on my part as much of the City was closed. Aware that the Bible Belt closes on Sunday for church I was a bit surprised holidays were included. My error for not checking before, however making lemons out of lemonade I think I made a fine brew..

The 4th District

This is where several museums, a theater, interesting cemetery, and a Labor Day Parade took place. Historically, the 4th District is where Scots and Irish came to settle in 1768. These pioneers built a Presbyterian Church and later came Settler’s Cemetery.

Here Charlotte’s founding fathers, Revolutionary and Civil War veterans are buried. The graves are arranged in family groups.

Further down from Church Street was the Discovery Science Museum. This place has much fun stuff for kids to do. They also have special exhibits and movies. Great one on Pandas.

Spirit Square is across the street from Discovery Science. This spot in a former synagogue which has some great indie movies, comedians, and open mike nights. Interesting venue to check out if in Charlotte on an overnight.

From here the journey led to Billy Graham, however as I was leaving an interesting fountain caught my eye.

The signs explained the 4th Districts history and mentioned nearby Victorian houses. I hunted them down. Aren’t they beautiful?

If you do go to Charlotte for a visit check out Jen McGivney’s web page, “Free and Cheap Things to do in Charlotte.” She is a local and has some good ideas on what to do and see.

Here are the places I wanted to see but were closed. Locals and those who’ve visited recommended the following:

  • Reed Gold Mine
  • Mint Museum
  • James K. Polk Historical Site
  • Levine Museum of the New South
  • Murals – wish I could have located these
  • And if you love Thai food as I do, Basil Restaurant

Stay tuned for tomorrow…. Nascar Museum. What a fun visit.

The Burwell School

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Burwell School

This school was created to educate young women from 8 to 18 years of age. It drew local students as well as those from distances as far as Texas and New York. In its 20 year history from 1837 to 1857 it taught women spelling, grammar, geography, arithmetic, writing, philosophy, and chemistry. For an additional cost the student could also receive lessons in painting, drawing, and French.

Gardens Outside the School Building. Note the brick privy.

The student’s day began with prayer and scripture, then exercise which was a walk. After this a breakfast of bread and butter was served. Lessons began after breakfast until 2 p.m. when a larger meal was consumed. Food served would have been that which came from the farm. Hogs, chickens, eggs, and vegetables were raised or grown on the farm.

Where classes took place.

After lessons another walk would occur then in the evening students would write letters home, read, or study. There were 10 boarders at a time in the school. In reading some of the letters I noted the students were homesick and often fearful of Mrs. Burwell.

Mrs. Burwell

Mrs. Burwell began the school to supplement the family income. Her husband came to the area as the minister for the local Presbyterian Church. When they arrived there were 2 children, however this number increased to 12 with 7 surviving to adulthood. While Mrs. Burwell came from a prominent Virginia family wealth did not always come with position.

School desk along with “dormitory” rooms.

Typical Slave Dress

The operation of the school and household came at a cost. Slaves were hired or rented to maintain the household. Enter Elizabeth, “Lizzy,” Hobbs, who was born into slavery, and in 1835, at age 17, came to Hillsborough as a wedding gift to the Burwells .

This strong minded young woman came with many talents, those being the ability to read, write, and sew. However, here she suffered at the hands of the Burwells. The abusive beating promulgated by Mrs. Burwell in an effort to break her spirit and conducted by the Rev. Burwell were so horrific that the community came to Lizzy’s defense to ensure the beatings ceased.

Rev. Burwell later resigned his ministry accepting a headmaster position in Charlotte at a school which was later to become Queens College. In 1857 they left the area.

Some of the rooms of the Burwell home.

However, Lizzy’s story had only begun. Her ownership then went to a Burwell daughter who moved to St. Louis. Lizzy’s dressmaker skills supported the family during this time.

The St. Louis customers of Lizzy loaned her $1200 for purchase of her freedom. Lizzy moved to Washington D.C. and set up a dressmaking shop. There she began a friendship with Mary Todd Lincoln and was her confidante often visiting the private quarters of she and the President.

Mary Todd Lincoln once called Lizzie, “my best living friend.”

Reproduction of dress Lizzy made for Mary Todd Lincoln which now stands in the Smithsonian Museum.

Hillsborough, N.C.

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Visitor Center

What a beautiful restored community laced in history. Stop at the Visitor Center located inside the historic Alexander Dickinson House for direction then walk the town. With every step you will see a community similar to the 17th to 18th century with its architecture. Even the firehouse is historic. Below are some pictures of the community and government buildings.

The nearby Ayr Mount Historic Site holds a Federal era plantation home which is open for viewing.

Behind the home is a one mile walk known as the “Poet’s Walk.” This free one mile walk also allows dogs on leashes. There are picnic benches on property as well.

Views from a rock in the middle of the stream.

For those bringing little ones to the area the Orange County Historical Museum has interactive exhibits to entertain and enlighten them. They also had an exhibit of toys of the era.

Behind the museum is a historic, well maintained cemetery. The Old Town Cemetery which began in the mid 17th century also has a pamphlet available explaining who is buried in the grounds along with their connection to the community. For those cemetery buffs this is a real find.

Stay tuned as tomorrow we will complete our visit to Hillsborough with a truly fascinating piece of history.

Morehead Planetarium

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This Planetarium, on the grounds of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, was an interesting visit. Here I took in 3 different shows and learned more about the “beyond.”

The facility has trained 62 astronauts in the theater where planetarium shows are currently held. Here Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldron, Michael Collins, and John Glenn sat investigating the stars to assist with navigation just in case the computers failed. During Gordon Cooper’s flight systems did fail and he relied on his celestial training to realign the space ship.

Fun facts…

  • Stars are different colors with blue being the hottest, and red the coolest.
  • The Earth is closest to the Sun in January, and farthest away in July.
  • An elliptical path is followed around the Sun by Earth.
  • There is only one star in our universe. That star is the Sun.
  • The Sun has shown on the Earth for 4 1/2 billion years.
  • There are 200 billion stars in the Milky Way.
  • The Milky Way was named by the Greeks for a goddess who dropped milk on the sky.
  • Stars twinkle. Planets have constant light.

There are several shows at the Planetarium dedicated for all ages. My favorite was Carolina Skies as this was more interactive and the presenter informative and entertaining.

One final note, stop by the basement for a short exhibit on the 50th anniversary of the landing on the moon.

The Northern Lights…Iceland

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

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My first stop in Chapel Hill was Coker Arboretum, the university gardens. The sign at the garden’s entry states it is designed as a place of contemplation and rest. With the lovely shady trees and beautiful flowers it was.

While the grapevines, Black Eyed Susans, and Cornflowers were to be expected I certainly never thought this would appear in the garden.

A lovely deer graced my visit.

While nothing can compare to the deer in the garden, here are some pictures of the beautiful campus.

While walking past sorority houses I noted young women dressed to kill. Unaware of why these gals were dressed up I inquired of a reliable source who I later found out was the “sorority recruiter.” This was interview day for sorority placement. In the front yard of one of the sorority houses sat 100 ladies sitting at small tables chatting with each other.

Maybe we could transfer this activity to Washington D.C.?

Learn something new everyday.

Next… OFF CAMPUS

Patterson’s Hill Country Store

This antique store with chuck full of memorabilia. If you are into antiques of any type it certainly is worth the trip and not far from the main drag.

And to end the day a nature walk at the North Carolina Botanical Garden trails. The Streamside Trail was restful, peaceful, and cool. Give it a try when you are in the area.