Berkley Castle
Readers Jack and Toni commented on Friday's post. They had followed the link to view a number of Greg Pawelski's vintage Ocracoke Island photos. They were particularly interested in the Berkley Manor. The Manor was one of several structures built by Sam Jones in the 1950s (see my biography of Sam at http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012111.htm for more information). Sam also built Berkley Castle which is now operated as a Bed & Breakfast.
All of Sam's buildings were of a similar architectural style, an idiosyncratic "Colonial Revival combined with distinctive shingled towers and numerous dormers." One Hatterasman visited Ocracoke soon after Sam had finished most of his buildings and remarked that "Sam Jones has shingled Ocracoke!"
Mary Ruth Dickson is Sam's granddaughter. Her father, Charlie Jones, died recently, and Mary Ruth has been sharing her father's photo collection. The photo below was taken while Berkley Castle was still under construction.
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.
All of Sam's buildings were of a similar architectural style, an idiosyncratic "Colonial Revival combined with distinctive shingled towers and numerous dormers." One Hatterasman visited Ocracoke soon after Sam had finished most of his buildings and remarked that "Sam Jones has shingled Ocracoke!"
Mary Ruth Dickson is Sam's granddaughter. Her father, Charlie Jones, died recently, and Mary Ruth has been sharing her father's photo collection. The photo below was taken while Berkley Castle was still under construction.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Morning Dew
We've never been able to verify the following story told by Charles T. Williams II in his 1975 book "The Kinnakeeter," but it is intriguing.
"[In 1590] his Majesty's Ship, John Evangelist, with her sails torn to shreds, was unable to maneuver and could no longer ride out the storm and had no recourse but to scud before the wind in a southerly direction. Upon her arrival at the Indian village of Kinnakeet [the modern village of Avon on Hatteras Island], the captain had to beach his ship. Her captain was a man named Caleb Williams, an Englishman; her mate was Elijah Meekins, and her cook was David O'Neal. These men and a few more of her crew survived, but most were drowned at sea. They were the first white men ever to set foot on Kinnakeet, N.C...
"...They intermarried and took unto themselves the young Indian lasses for their brides and raised children. Caleb Williams gave his wife an English name -- he named her Sarah; David O'Neal called his wife 'Morning Dew,' and Elijah Scarborough name his wife 'Olive.'"
Perhaps one day we will know the truth. In the meanwhile, it is fascinating to think that Native American blood still runs through the veins of most, if not all, historic Outer Banks families.
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.
"[In 1590] his Majesty's Ship, John Evangelist, with her sails torn to shreds, was unable to maneuver and could no longer ride out the storm and had no recourse but to scud before the wind in a southerly direction. Upon her arrival at the Indian village of Kinnakeet [the modern village of Avon on Hatteras Island], the captain had to beach his ship. Her captain was a man named Caleb Williams, an Englishman; her mate was Elijah Meekins, and her cook was David O'Neal. These men and a few more of her crew survived, but most were drowned at sea. They were the first white men ever to set foot on Kinnakeet, N.C...
"...They intermarried and took unto themselves the young Indian lasses for their brides and raised children. Caleb Williams gave his wife an English name -- he named her Sarah; David O'Neal called his wife 'Morning Dew,' and Elijah Scarborough name his wife 'Olive.'"
Perhaps one day we will know the truth. In the meanwhile, it is fascinating to think that Native American blood still runs through the veins of most, if not all, historic Outer Banks families.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Some Years Ago
Here's a fun photo taken at South Point more than 40 years ago by Greg Pawelski. He was kind enough to send it to me. You can see more of his pictures on our FaceBook page. Just click on the link to the right.
Morris Minor at South Point, 1968
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.
Morris Minor at South Point, 1968
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
"Illness is...
...a Western form of meditation."
So says my neighbor, Ann Ehringhaus. And I think she is correct.
I have been laid up with a major head cold for several days now. Don't want to do much more than sleep and read. I will be back at my blog soon.
I have read five books (actually I'm still reading two of them) in the last few days, though -- The Master Butcher's Singing Club, She, The Good News Club, Ocracoke Between the Storms, & An Anthropologist on Mars.
And I've learned three new words (all from An Anthropologist on Mars): hebetude, apocope, and chthonic (I had encountered this one before, but couldn't remember the definition). So, I am resting and learning. It could be worse.
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.
So says my neighbor, Ann Ehringhaus. And I think she is correct.
I have been laid up with a major head cold for several days now. Don't want to do much more than sleep and read. I will be back at my blog soon.
I have read five books (actually I'm still reading two of them) in the last few days, though -- The Master Butcher's Singing Club, She, The Good News Club, Ocracoke Between the Storms, & An Anthropologist on Mars.
And I've learned three new words (all from An Anthropologist on Mars): hebetude, apocope, and chthonic (I had encountered this one before, but couldn't remember the definition). So, I am resting and learning. It could be worse.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Aleta
Every now and then I mention the old mailboat Aleta on this blog. (You can use the search box at the top left to read past posts.) The photo below is one I have published before. It will give new readers an image of the boat.
Mailboat Aleta
Several days ago Mary Ruth & Paul Dickson sent me copies of many of Mary Ruth's father's snapshots from the 1950s. This next photo is from Mary Ruth, and has only recently been published. The woman is sitting on one of the benches under the canvas cover. This was the most comfortable place on the vessel. You will notice that the captain decided to also bring aboard a load of barrels.The poor woman only has just enough room for her legs. Passenger amenities were in short supply on this voyage!
Under the Canvas Awning
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.
Mailboat Aleta
Several days ago Mary Ruth & Paul Dickson sent me copies of many of Mary Ruth's father's snapshots from the 1950s. This next photo is from Mary Ruth, and has only recently been published. The woman is sitting on one of the benches under the canvas cover. This was the most comfortable place on the vessel. You will notice that the captain decided to also bring aboard a load of barrels.The poor woman only has just enough room for her legs. Passenger amenities were in short supply on this voyage!
Under the Canvas Awning
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Barefeet
Ocracoke has a long history of cordial relationships with the National Park Service. Of course, there are occasional frustrations with any bureaucracy, but the latest news is worrisome...and, we think, just plain silly.
According to official sources, an unusual strain of fungus has been reported on Outer Banks beaches. In the last few months several children walking barefoot on the beach have contracted this fungal infection.
In a case of monumental over-reaction, those in charge have mandated that until further notice, no one is permitted to walk on the beach without shoes.
Please take a moment to read the press release from the opposition (at least they have a sense of humor!) and sign the petition to stop this ridiculous rule: Fighting for the Soles of our Children.
Many thanks for your help!
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.
According to official sources, an unusual strain of fungus has been reported on Outer Banks beaches. In the last few months several children walking barefoot on the beach have contracted this fungal infection.
In a case of monumental over-reaction, those in charge have mandated that until further notice, no one is permitted to walk on the beach without shoes.
Please take a moment to read the press release from the opposition (at least they have a sense of humor!) and sign the petition to stop this ridiculous rule: Fighting for the Soles of our Children.
Many thanks for your help!
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Happy Easter!
Another cycle has commenced. The Vernal Equinox, Passover, Spring Full Moon, Easter. Each one is a celebration of rebirth. Daffodils and tulips are poking their heads through the earth. Trees are budding. Days are lengthening. The air and water are gradually getting warmer. And Ocracoke village is awakening to another season of fishing, gardening, boating, and welcoming visitors.
Yesterday morning the Ocracoke Methodist Church hosted their annual Easter Egg Hunt. Here are a couple of photos:
Ocracoke's annual Easter sunrise service was held on the beach this morning.
No doubt about it -- another season is upon us. Hope to see you soon on the beach, or strolling down Howard Street.
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.
Yesterday morning the Ocracoke Methodist Church hosted their annual Easter Egg Hunt. Here are a couple of photos:
Ocracoke's annual Easter sunrise service was held on the beach this morning.
No doubt about it -- another season is upon us. Hope to see you soon on the beach, or strolling down Howard Street.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Deck of Cards (Ocracoke Version)
In 1948 country music star, Tex Ritter, recorded a popular song titled "Deck of Cards." Many of our older readers will remember the song (younger readers will know a more recent version) about a soldier who pulls out a deck of playing cards during a religious service. The recitation begins like this:
"Friends, this is Tex Ritter with a strange story about a soldier boy and a deck of cards"
Ritter goes on to tell how the young soldier's sergeant took him prisoner for his offense, and delivered him to the provost marshal. The marshal, highly offended by the boy's behavior in church, asks for an explanation. The soldier tells how he uses his deck of cards as his bible, prayer book and almanac (see http://www.songlyrics.com/tex-ritter/deck-of-cards-1948-lyrics/ for the complete lyrics.):
"Sir, I have been on a march for six days and I had neither bible or prayer book, but I hope to satisfy you, Sir, with the purity of my intentions....
"You see sir when I see the Ace, it reminds me that there is but one God. And the deuce reminds me the bible is divided into two parts, the Old and the New Testament. And when I see the three, I think of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost….
"And when I see the queen, I think of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is queen of heaven. And Jack or knave is the Devil.
"When I count the number of spots of a deck of cards I find three hundred and sixty-five, the number of days in a year…
"So you see, Sir, my deck of cards serves me as a Bible, almanac and prayer book…."
Six years ago an old-time native islander told me about an Ocracoke musician who sang that song often and "got it wrong every time...always in a different way." According to my neighbor, the singer's most memorable faux pas was "You see sir when I see the Ace it reminds me of the four wise men, Tom, Dick and Harry."
Only on Ocracoke....!
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.
"Friends, this is Tex Ritter with a strange story about a soldier boy and a deck of cards"
Ritter goes on to tell how the young soldier's sergeant took him prisoner for his offense, and delivered him to the provost marshal. The marshal, highly offended by the boy's behavior in church, asks for an explanation. The soldier tells how he uses his deck of cards as his bible, prayer book and almanac (see http://www.songlyrics.com/tex-ritter/deck-of-cards-1948-lyrics/ for the complete lyrics.):
"Sir, I have been on a march for six days and I had neither bible or prayer book, but I hope to satisfy you, Sir, with the purity of my intentions....
"You see sir when I see the Ace, it reminds me that there is but one God. And the deuce reminds me the bible is divided into two parts, the Old and the New Testament. And when I see the three, I think of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost….
"And when I see the queen, I think of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is queen of heaven. And Jack or knave is the Devil.
"When I count the number of spots of a deck of cards I find three hundred and sixty-five, the number of days in a year…
"So you see, Sir, my deck of cards serves me as a Bible, almanac and prayer book…."
Six years ago an old-time native islander told me about an Ocracoke musician who sang that song often and "got it wrong every time...always in a different way." According to my neighbor, the singer's most memorable faux pas was "You see sir when I see the Ace it reminds me of the four wise men, Tom, Dick and Harry."
Only on Ocracoke....!
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Hammock Hills
A walk down Hammock Hills Nature Trail is always a delightful way to spend part of an afternoon. Not long ago I was standing on the platform overlooking the Sound when I noticed three egrets wading along the edge of a tidal creek. The glare on the camera display made it difficult to frame a photo, but I did get a shot of two of the birds.
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.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Clothesline
It is spring...maybe a bit breezy now and then...and chilly some days still...but hanging laundry on the line is a sure sign that the days are getting longer, and warmer weather is on the way.
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.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
$11,359.35
That is how much it cost the US government to build the Ocracoke lighthouse (and the keeper's quarters, and the whale oil storage shed) in 1823.
Today the Ocracoke Light, which can be seen 14 miles offshore, still guides mariners.
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.
Today the Ocracoke Light, which can be seen 14 miles offshore, still guides mariners.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Village Craftsmen
For more than 40 years Village Craftsmen has featured only American made handcrafts...the work of local, regional, and national woodworkers, potters, jewelers, glass blowers, and much more.
Pottery by Hank Goodman
Our springtime hours are 10-5, Tuesday - Saturday, 10-2, Sunday (closed on Monday). Take a leisurely stroll down Howard Street when you are on the island, and stop by to see what new items we've added for 2013.
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.
Pottery by Hank Goodman
Our springtime hours are 10-5, Tuesday - Saturday, 10-2, Sunday (closed on Monday). Take a leisurely stroll down Howard Street when you are on the island, and stop by to see what new items we've added for 2013.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Cute as a....
...bug's ear.
This is a common expression in the South. But why would anyone think a bug's ear is cute? Most "bugs" don't even have ears. However their ability to detect high-pitched sounds is "acute." In eighteenth century England "cute" was often used as a synonym for "acute"...and frequently acquired the expanded meaning of "quick witted" or "mentally sharp." By the mid to late nineteenth century in the United States cute came to mean pretty or charming, rather than acute.
So..."bug's ears" might be "acute" but they're hardly cute.
Maybe "cute as a baby's ear" would be a better phrase. Here is a photo of an Ocracoke Baby's Ear (Sinum perspectivum) that I found on the beach a few days ago.
Baby's Ear Seashell
Whether you're talking about a baby's ear or a Baby's Ear, they're both cute!
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.
This is a common expression in the South. But why would anyone think a bug's ear is cute? Most "bugs" don't even have ears. However their ability to detect high-pitched sounds is "acute." In eighteenth century England "cute" was often used as a synonym for "acute"...and frequently acquired the expanded meaning of "quick witted" or "mentally sharp." By the mid to late nineteenth century in the United States cute came to mean pretty or charming, rather than acute.
So..."bug's ears" might be "acute" but they're hardly cute.
Maybe "cute as a baby's ear" would be a better phrase. Here is a photo of an Ocracoke Baby's Ear (Sinum perspectivum) that I found on the beach a few days ago.
Baby's Ear Seashell
Whether you're talking about a baby's ear or a Baby's Ear, they're both cute!
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
George W. Wells
A number of week ago I promised that I would publish some information about the wreck of the 6-masted schooner, George W. Wells, on Ocracoke's beach in 1913. Some of our readers have seen parts of a wreck just north of the Pony Pen. Many believe these timbers are the remains of the Wells.
The George W. Wells
To read the story of this majestic ship click on this link: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072110.htm.
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.
The George W. Wells
To read the story of this majestic ship click on this link: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072110.htm.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Sandy Lane
Every morning I sit at my desk for a few minutes, and look across my front yard. This is my view...a sandy lane bordered by cedars and pines, and a picket fence.
It is a tranquil way to start my day.
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.
It is a tranquil way to start my day.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
The Oblong Box
"After incredible labor we succeeded, at length, in getting the long-boat over the side without material accident, and into this we crowded the whole of the crew and most of the passengers. This party made off immediately, and, after undergoing much suffering, finally arrived, in safety, at Ocracoke Inlet, on the third day after the wreck."
"The Oblong Box" by E.A. Poe
The above passage is from "The Oblong Box," a short story by Edgar Allan Poe which was published in 1844. I am sure your local library can get you a copy of this story.
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.
"The Oblong Box" by E.A. Poe
The above passage is from "The Oblong Box," a short story by Edgar Allan Poe which was published in 1844. I am sure your local library can get you a copy of this story.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Correction
Several days ago I published an incorrect web address for our latest Ocracoke Newsletter. The correct address is http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Sailing in Pamlico Sound
One of the many benefits of living on Ocracoke Island is the opportunity for water-related adventures. Last Saturday Capt. Rob invited me to join him and Bill on a four day cruise aboard his schooner, Windfall II.
We left the dock in Silver Lake Harbor Sunday morning and sailed across the Sound. We arrived at North Creek before nightfall, and anchored in a protected cove. The next morning we sailed to Washington, NC where we visited good friends Frank & Patty. They treated us like dignitaries, with cocktails, a scrumptious dinner of ribs and Cole slaw...and hot showers.
Early the next day we made our way to Juniper Bay, a quiet, secluded body of water near Swan Quarter. The sunset was spectacular.
We were back home on Ocracoke in the early afternoon yesterday, after a pleasant sail across Pamlico Sound. For four days we had fair winds, moderate seas, and good weather. We even spotted a pod of dolphins when we got close to home, but I couldn't capture them with my camera.
Island living suits me just fine.
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 left the dock in Silver Lake Harbor Sunday morning and sailed across the Sound. We arrived at North Creek before nightfall, and anchored in a protected cove. The next morning we sailed to Washington, NC where we visited good friends Frank & Patty. They treated us like dignitaries, with cocktails, a scrumptious dinner of ribs and Cole slaw...and hot showers.
Early the next day we made our way to Juniper Bay, a quiet, secluded body of water near Swan Quarter. The sunset was spectacular.
We were back home on Ocracoke in the early afternoon yesterday, after a pleasant sail across Pamlico Sound. For four days we had fair winds, moderate seas, and good weather. We even spotted a pod of dolphins when we got close to home, but I couldn't capture them with my camera.
Island living suits me just fine.
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.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Spring
Today is the Vernal Equinox, the first day of Spring. Today, day and night are of equal length (Equinox = equal night). This phenomenon is the result of the tilt of the earth's axis (in the southern hemisphere today is the first day of autumn).
Ocracoke life often revolves around the seasons. For the last few days island businesses have been getting ready for another influx of visitors. Village Craftsmen opened for 2013 on Saturday. We have added a number of new items, and as always, everything is hand made in the United States. Stop in to see what's new whenever you are next walking down Howard Street. We would love to see you and we're sure you will enjoy your stroll down our sandy lane.
Happy Spring to all of our readers!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a video of Philip Howard telling the story of the fascinating wreck of the Black Squall in 1861. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
Ocracoke life often revolves around the seasons. For the last few days island businesses have been getting ready for another influx of visitors. Village Craftsmen opened for 2013 on Saturday. We have added a number of new items, and as always, everything is hand made in the United States. Stop in to see what's new whenever you are next walking down Howard Street. We would love to see you and we're sure you will enjoy your stroll down our sandy lane.
Happy Spring to all of our readers!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a video of Philip Howard telling the story of the fascinating wreck of the Black Squall in 1861. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
Cracker Quilt
Quilting has a long tradition on Ocracoke. The Needle and Thread Club continues to meet on the island, often making quilts to raise funds for local non-profit organizations.
My Aunt Tressie Quilting in Her Home, ca. 1955
One of the most popular quilts on the island was (and still is) the Ocracoke Cracker Quilt. The Ocracoke Cracker Quilt is a variation of a traditional design -- three rectangles forming a square, surrounded by four triangles. By proper use of color the traditional (non-Ocracoke) pattern stands out, as you can see in the photo below:
Cracker Quilt Pattern
You can see another image of a traditional Cracker Quilt here:
http://quilting.about.com/od/quiltblocklotto/ss/cracker_block.htm.
Some have speculated that the name, Cracker Quilt, was adopted because the pattern resembled the popular British "Christmas Cracker," a cardboard tube wrapped in festive paper and containing a small prize. When pulled in opposite directions by two people, usually at the Christmas dinner table, the tube split open with a snap, or "crack."
Ocracokers, in their typically unconventional manner, adapted the Cracker Quilt in several ways. Instead of three rectangles, they used four, all of different colors. According to island tradition, one rectangle is always red. Also, the four triangles are often the same color. As a result, the design no longer looks like a Christmas Cracker, though the name persists.
The pattern is unique -- the Ocracoke Island Cracker Quilt:
Ocracoke Cracker Quilt by Amy Howard
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a seven minute video of Philip Howard relating the story of the April, 1861 wreck of the Black Squall on Ocracoke Island. You can listen to it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
My Aunt Tressie Quilting in Her Home, ca. 1955
One of the most popular quilts on the island was (and still is) the Ocracoke Cracker Quilt. The Ocracoke Cracker Quilt is a variation of a traditional design -- three rectangles forming a square, surrounded by four triangles. By proper use of color the traditional (non-Ocracoke) pattern stands out, as you can see in the photo below:
Cracker Quilt Pattern
You can see another image of a traditional Cracker Quilt here:
http://quilting.about.com/od/quiltblocklotto/ss/cracker_block.htm.
Some have speculated that the name, Cracker Quilt, was adopted because the pattern resembled the popular British "Christmas Cracker," a cardboard tube wrapped in festive paper and containing a small prize. When pulled in opposite directions by two people, usually at the Christmas dinner table, the tube split open with a snap, or "crack."
Ocracokers, in their typically unconventional manner, adapted the Cracker Quilt in several ways. Instead of three rectangles, they used four, all of different colors. According to island tradition, one rectangle is always red. Also, the four triangles are often the same color. As a result, the design no longer looks like a Christmas Cracker, though the name persists.
The pattern is unique -- the Ocracoke Island Cracker Quilt:
Ocracoke Cracker Quilt by Amy Howard
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is a seven minute video of Philip Howard relating the story of the April, 1861 wreck of the Black Squall on Ocracoke Island. You can listen to it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032113.htm.
Categories: Outer Banks Blogs
