Saluda Property & Real Estate

We wish all of our Saluda friends and family a safe and fun-filled holiday as we celebrate our country's independence.   

Cathy Jackson Realty office will be closed on Thursday, July 4 and Saturday, July 6 so that we can celebrate the holiday and the Coon Dog Day reunion with our family and friends.  

Happy Holiday and Coon Dog Day!   

Amy, Greaton, Cathy

Cathy Jackson Realty

We have moved to 153 E Main Street (next to the Wildflour Bakery).  Stop in and see our new, expanded office!

A Quick Saluda Market Update

(compares last year's sales with the same period this year as of June 30, 2013). 

  Sales               Closed   Pending 

Homes 2013       12       4    

Homes 2012       14        0   

        Land 2013          10         4         

Land 2012            5         0

Foreclosures-REO-Short Sales

Saluda - 3 homes

Polk County - 13 Homes 

Data taken from Western NC multiple listing service.

Please visit cathyjacksonrealty.com to see all Cathy Jackson Realty Featured Home and Land Listings and search the entire Western NC MLS.

July 6           50^th Coon Dog Day

Sept 14        Charlie Ward Memorial BBQ 

November     Green River Narrows Race

December     Hometown Christmas 

Orchard Lake Campground in Saluda. Visit website for directions. Fireworks will be held on Friday, July 5 and start at dark.  A Donation Bucket will be passed around and proceeds raised will go to the Saluda Fire & Rescue Department who will be supervising the fireworks.  

Fabulous Fourth on July 4 in Columbus from 10 to 10.  Music, Food, Amusement Rides, Fun for all ages!  Fireworks start at 9:45.  

The 30th annual Fabulous 4th 100K Bike Tour is scheduled for Thursday, July 4.  Sign in starts at 6am at Harmon Field in Tryon.  Pre-register online at fabulous4thbiketour.org.

In Hendersonville

15th Annual Music On Main Street concert series Special 4th of July Celebration Concert featuring Tom Brown / One Man Band, Visitors Information Center - 201. S. Main St., 7:30PM-9:30PM, free.  Bring a Chair, No Pets, Alcoholic Beverages or Coolers Allowed; seating area opens after 5:30PM / early admission is prohibited, enjoy the concert and fireworks (at dusk) from the comfort of your chair, an event of Henderson County Tourism Development Authority, Hendersonville, NC 800-828-4244 or 828-693-9708.  Click here for more information.  

Independence Day Fireworks Display

Independence Day Parade, Main Street, 11:00AM, 4th of July family friendly event, Hendersonville, NC  828-692-4179 Click here for more information.

4th of July Celebration on the Plaza, Henderson County Courthouse on Main St., (hot dogs, drinks & ice cream), after the 4th of July Parade, sponsored by the Henderson County Heritage Museum, Hendersonville, NC 828-694-1619.  Click here for more information.

In Asheville

Fourth of July Celebration, Pack Square, music, family activities, food, vendors, & grand fireworks finale, 4:00pm, fireworks at 9:30pm, Asheville, NC  828-259-5800

Sizzling Dancing in a Cool Town (Saluda) and Place (the Saluda Center and Party and Event Place)!

The first contra lesson held for the summer was a success with fun for the dancers, musician and caller! There was not a dancer on the floor who was not laughing and enjoying themselves and the time went by way too fast!

The next lesson at the Saluda Center is Monday, July 15^th from 7-8:30pm. Our caller is Charlotte Crittenden with music by our favorite fiddler Alan Dillman. Even if you have never "contra-ed," you can attend this and learn the basics and then graduate on to some more movements. It is great exercise and a HUGE amount of fun! You cannot contra without smiling so it is good for the head and the heart. We are offering these lessons to folks who may just be here in the summer and of course everyone is welcome! It is an excellent family activity and we are having the lesson on a Monday night so it will not interfere with weekend activities. We are paying the caller/teacher so donations are requested.

Our next Blue Ridge Contra Dance is Tuesday, July 23^rd at the Party Place and Event Center here in Saluda. We will have lessons from 7-7:30 and dancing from 7:30-10pm. Music will be a full band named "Foot Support" with Alan Dillman and calling by the popular Tamara McGovern. (She has been here before and we have gotten requests that we get her back!). Check out the website partyplaceandeventcenter.com and go under gallery to see a video of one of our dances. You'll even smile at the video!

We are trying to build a local Contra community and we need your help. We have moved the dances from Friday to Tuesday evening to try and avoid conflicts that may come up on the weekends. There is a lot to do here in Saluda, and we want you to fit us in your regular schedule for our lessons and monthly dances!

Both the Saluda Center and the Party Place and Event Center are air-conditioned so come sizzle and cool off at the same time! See us on Facebook at Blue Ridge Contra Dancers! See you at the dance!

Please join the Saluda Community Land Trust

 As we continue to celebrate the Grand RE-OPENING of

The Wilkes Twin Lakes

Sunday July 14, 2013

12:00 until 5:00

Your community land trust wants to invite you, your friends and family to the re-opening of this great community resource.

Please join us for free fun, food and fellowship on

 Saturday, July 14^th from 11:00 to 4:00.

Bring the family and friends, wear your bathing suits, bring towels and picnic blankets.

 Free lunch and drinks will be provided.

Two shuttle vans will leave and return as needed to and from the Saluda Volunteer Fire Department starting at 12:00. Come for an hour or come for the day.

Sponsored by the Saluda Fund at Polk County Community Foundation.

Since 1975, the Polk County Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for all in our community. Assets managed by the Community Foundation now exceed $45 million. The Foundation receives charitable donations of all sizes from community members and then distributes grants to local nonprofits, educators, as well as scholarships to students.

Many donors to the Foundation have chosen to establish scholarship funds for deserving students in order to help make their college dreams come true. The Community Foundation awards the following scholarships to graduating high school seniors and adults going back to school according to donors' wishes:

A Leg Up Scholarship, Jack H. Albertson Educational Award, John A. Albertson Educational Award, Francis Pickens Bacon and Agnes Doyle Bacon Memorial Scholarship, Margery W. Bain-Franklin Scholarship, Susan P. Barbour Scholarship, Polly C. and Carroll G. Bennett Scholarship, Allan C. & Anne B. Boas Scholarship, Bradley Achievement Award, G. Freeman and Elizabeth M. Brooks Scholarship, P. Henry & Sara Molder Burrus Scholarship, J. Harwood Cochrane Educational Award, John Lewis Craddock Educational Award, Gordon L. Foote Educational Award,  Stuart and Margaret L. Forbes Scholarship,  Annette W. Hysham Scholarship,  Phil J. Hysham Scholarship, Kirby Endowment Fund Back-to-School Scholarship for Adults, Kirby Endowment Scholarship for First Year Students, John G. Landrum, Jr. Educational Award, Mary Evelyn & Harry Laurent Scholarship, James A. & Renée R. McDermott Scholarship,  Hoyt D. & Tyler B. McEntire Scholarship, Nathaniel M. & Constance J. McIntyre Memorial Scholarship,  Jessica Lauren Mills Memorial Scholarship, N. Elizabeth Nash Scholarship, Arthur M. Nelson Scholarship, William F. & Claire B. Nelson Scholarship, R. Shaw Pettigrew Scholarship, Edward E. & Suzanne K. Plumly Scholarship, Polk County Community Foundation Annual Scholarship, Polk County Community Foundation Endowed Scholarship, Polk County Community Foundation Merit Award, Puddin' Hill Award, Lelia G. Rainey Nursing Scholarship, The Restart Scholarship, Priscilla and Ellis D. Slater Merit Scholarship Award, Dudley Smith Educational Award, David P. & Barbara Stayman Educational Award, G. Mildred Steinbach and John F. Steinbach Scholarship, Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Scholarship, Guilford S. Turner, Jr. Educational Award, Village Support Award, Joseph Anthony & Adair McIntyre Wagner Scholarship, Tony Wallace Scholarship, Jane Hysham Willis Scholarship, N.W. Willis Scholarship, Frances O. & John W. Wilson Restart Scholarship, Robert & Nancy Worsnop Scholarship.

In 2013, donors establishing these scholarships made awards possible to more than 50 Polk County and Landrum graduating seniors and adults going back to school totaling over $195,000. All Foundation awards are a minimum of $1,000 and the maximum scholarships in 2013 are renewable awards worth $16,000. The Community Foundation is honored to help fulfill these donors' wishes and would like to congratulate the entire class of 2013 and the following recipients of this year's awards:

Alessandra Akers, William Arrowood, Karen Bame, Naomi Bentley, Kaylie Blankenship, Maria Boothe, Shalyn Brown, Daniel Burke, William "Bruce" Butler, Carlos Chavez-Serrano, Johnathon Conner, Anna Costine, Cassandra Couch, Jonai Dawkins, Madison Dempsey, Kaitlyn Dill, Timothy "Tij" Doyen, Carey Emory, Jessie Fisher, Floyd Graber, Isys Hennigar, Alexa Hughes, Ralph Jennings, Chelsea Kelly, Alina Kolberg, William "Andrew" Lee, Amber Lynch, Savannah Marino, Chelsea McCoyle, Kristin McCraw, Emily Miller, Alexander Müller, Aliyha Mullins, McKayla Mullis, Julia Murray, Isla Neel, Molly Nelson, Nikki Ormand, Maranda Pack, Caleb Parsons, Bronwyn Pellatt, Frances "Genie" Phipps, Maggie Phipps, Karl Riley, Katelyn Ruff, Brooke Scoggins, Sara Seagle, Lauren Searcy, Lakeyah Simpson, Taylor Stapleton, Benjamin Stockdale, Spencer Taunton, Taylor Thompson, Mason Umlauf, Samantha Walker, Makenzie White, Brenna Wilson, Dakota Wolfe, and Maverick Yoder.

For more information about scholarships, grants or charitable giving options, please contact the Polk County Community Foundation by visiting 255 South Trade Street in Tryon, calling (828) 859-5314, or checking its website, www.polkccf.org.

-Article submitted by Noah Wood, Polk County Community Foundation

To learn more about how to sign up to vend or sign up for the weekly e-news letter, please visit saludatailgate.com or contact Shelley DeKay 828-606-5713.

Once in a lifetime chance to purchase the Coon Dog Day 50th Anniversary Poster brought to you by the 130^th Anniversary Committee!  Snapshots highlighting 50 years of Coon Dog Day are featured in the poster. The price for the poster is $10, and all proceeds will be donated to the renovations of Saluda's City Hall.

Posters will be available for purchase at all special Coon Dog Day events and at the City's Information Table during Coon Dog Day. 

A Thrifty Barn Basement is open every Saturday from 10:00 am-4:00 pm and every Wednesday from 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Donations are accepted on Wednesdays.

A Thrifty Barn is open Wed. through Sat. from 10:00 am-4:00 pm.  Donations are accepted when we are open.

Summer Clothes - Women's blouses and pants and Men's pants on sale -- all for $2.00.

If you are in need of some medical equipment, please call 828-749-9245. We may be able to loan you what you need.

Please refer to the Saluda Center calendar for all regularly scheduled activities. There is no membership fee.

If you would like to receive the Saluda Center calendar via email, please contact Donna at saludacenter@hotmail.com to be added to our email list.   

The Saluda Center is located at 64 Greenville St. Phone is 828-749-9245. 

Another great day for road clean up! Thank you for the great turn out of volunteers. It was wonderful to be out in the sunshine and do a good deed. We had three teams of volunteers that have expanded the perimeters of the designated project. What a wonderful way to start the day knowing that it really does make a difference.

Twin Lakes grand opening was a huge success. The day was a time to celebrate all the hard work that volunteers have put in to make a historical gathering place once again safe and fun. The food was wonderful, family and friends had a grand time sharing fond memories of times spent there.  It was such a great success that SCLT will hold another open gathering on Sunday July 14^th. The festivities will begin at noon and go till 5pm.  Be sure to bring your bathing suit, friends and family!

If you are interested in reserving Twin Lakes for a special gathering, please call SCLT office at 828-749-1560 in advance.

SCLT would like to especially thank Polk County Community Foundation for providing the funds through a grant that helps to support the open gatherings.  Without their support and the many volunteers that have put in time to provide the opportunity for these events, it could not be done. THANK YOU!

Walks in the Woods are on the first and third Sunday of the month. Meet at the library parking lot at 2pm to car pool. July 7 - Top off Coon Dog weekend with a visit to Saluda Nature Park.  Walk our new trails and see a spectacular view. Moderate with an uphill climb. July 21 - Missing 40 1 mile loop of moderate walking 1-2 hours.  Walkers will journey to the trailhead off of Pearson Falls Road and meet the trail as it crosses the North Pacolet River just above the new concrete bridge.  The trail is well blazed, kid and pet friendly and includes several easy water crossings. Remember to wear appropriate shoes and clothing and let your trail leader know if there are any medical concerns.

Robinson Community Garden is looking festive! Once again thank you to all who support this project through hard work and diligence. A very special thank you to Pat Robinson for the use of this wonderful spot. It is a joy and inspiration to all! The second Wednesday of each month is scheduled work time from 6-7 pm, followed by a covered dish supper at the Pavilion in McCreery Park.

Please feel free to contact us about any of our projects by calling our office at 828-749-1560 and leaving a message. We will return your call promptly. Also be sure to check out our updated website saludaclt.org. We look forward to your comments and suggestions.

Please take time to walk through Spring Park and experience this wonderland right in the middle of our town. It will trigger your thoughts of a time when people stopped by the spring to get a drink and perhaps share adventures that brought them together. The spring would have been a place to water their horses and perhaps wash the road dust from their faces.

Be gentle in this area for it is old and everything that is there needs to stay as is. It is not only a historic site but also a registered wildlife habitat.

We will not be meeting in the month of July but will once again meet in August. The date for meeting is August 19^th and for more information about our projects and activities, please contact Patty Martin at 828-817-9518.

Many residents and our city officials are enthusiastic about the possibility of Saluda becoming a "Tree City USA."  Work toward gaining the designation is beginning.

Remember the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval that homemakers looked for when shopping?  The seal assured the homemaker of top quality.

The designation of "Tree City USA" is an honor bestowed by the Arbor Day Foundation founded in the 1800's by J. Sterling Morton of Nebraska, a newspaper publisher. It is awarded when a town or city applies and shows that it meets certain criteria concerning trees in the community and their preservation, planting and care.  It means that citizens are proud of the green legacy left by previous generations and a promise from us to preserve this heritage for future generations.

The sign also informs visitors of our community's recognition and appreciation for the many benefits provided by our trees and our commitment to preservation.

Some of the many benefits of our trees:

• Provide shade and comfort from summer heat and decrease cooling costs.
• Provide homes for wildlife.
• Leaves and needles enrich so it decreases/filters air pollution.
• Prevent soil erosion by root systems holding soil in place.  This helps keep creeks and rivers clear and clean.
• Provide aesthetic beauty and can hide unattractive sights.
• Increase property values through reasons listed above.

Submitted by Ruth Anderson 

On Sunday, July 7, at 10:30am, The Church of the Transfiguration will celebrate the anniversary of our Nation's independence with a festival service of Holy Eucharist. The prelude, beginning at 10:20 am, will be Musick of the Fife and Drum-Revolutionary War tunes compiled by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

The fife and drums will join the organ to enhance our many patriotic hymns as well as Irving Berlin's well-known God Bless America, which will be sung by the choir.

Please join us for our Sunday after Independence Day festivities. The Church is located at 72 Charles St in Saluda. More information may be obtained by calling 828-749-9740.

For those who still want to assist in rescues and care of homeless dogs and cats, there are ways to stay involved!  We have a "Local Critters Connection" outreach.  

Please connect to Gentle Hands Grooming Facebook page to see posts shared about lost and found dogs (and/or cats) in our local area.  Please consider joining my rescue E-mail list used SOLELY as an extension of outreach if there is a lost or found dog in the area, or if you are willing to help with hanging posters and making calls. You many also want to consider joining my foster outreach E-mail list as a potential foster at times, for dogs or cats (assisting Foothills Humane Society as well).  Contact Katrina Thissen at mountainkatt@hotmail.com to be placed on either e-mail list.  Feel free to contact me with any questions or support for lost and found dogs in the area.  Take care of all our Furry Friends!  

This sweet pup is an 8 month old male American Bulldog Mix. He was found at Womack & Big Level in Mill Springs. His name at the shelter is "Justin." If you recognize him, please call the shelter at 828-863-4444.  

Thank you for all your support.
Katrina

Come, Sit and Stay are the three principle commands every dog owner should teach their dog to follow.  These commands may sound simple to train, and generally they are.  However, it requires repetition, lots of patience and consistency with every one.

The "re-called" command is the most important command every dog should learn to obey. It's a matter of safety.  Your dog(s) should respond to your call each time and within several seconds of being called. This is when most owners give up or do not follow through with the command because the dog either ignores the command or walks or runs away.

It is critical that you follow through with this re-called command. If you call your dog and it ignores you, then in a quiet manner, walk towards the dog, put a leash on him/her and proceed to bring the dog back to the area where you called them. Here, ask the dog to Sit and Stay, or Wait. Hold the dog for a few seconds and release him/ her. When the dog moves away some distance (10 feet or so), call the dog again. Make it a pleasant experience with a happy tone of your voice, clap your hands, whistle or whatever may work to get your dog's attention. Training your dog to respond to this command should be done with a long leash. A 10 foot to 20 foot lead will work best.

As a dog trainer, this is the only time I use a small treat as part of the training.  It is very important that you don't reward the dog with a treat if the dog does not come to you on its own and you have to either go get him or reel him in.

It is also very important that you don't loose your patience and start getting frustrated during this exercise. By repeating this training exercise daily, you and your dog will benefit greatly. The tasks of sitting and waiting, or of staying, should also be completed by your dog within a few seconds of the given command.

Please remember that your canine companion is not a human, and they should not be expected to understand and respond to numerous human spoken words. It will take time for your dog to understand what you are asking him to do. If you have a puppy or a young dog, it simply does not understand any spoken words.  It understands "Dog Language" only.

If you would like more information on training your dog, please give us a call to arrange an In-Your-Home Dog Obedience training session, or visit our web site at carolinadogcare.com.

John Murias

Home Sweet Home Dog Training & Care, LLC

Nectar Yoga And Wellness Center

Saluda's Premier Yoga Studio

Upcoming events at Nectar:

Mikayla Harrell - July 5, 10am to 12pm

Traveling from New Mexico, Mikayla brings a special practice focusing on creating a strong foundation to play in while taking time to nurture our strengths and spaciousness on the mat. Integrated alignment-based Vinyasa style yoga for everyone!

Kelly Hass

Cultivating Balance:

A Weekend of Alignment, Therapeutics, and Restorative Yoga

Friday July 26 6-8pm "Grounding and Balancing the Breath"

Sat July 27 9-10:30 am "Dynamic Balance"

Sun July 28 9-10:30am "Restful Balance"

Space is limited. To register call 749-2229 soon.  $18 per class, $45 full weekend

Summer Evening Series (Monday 6-7:30pm)

Relax, Restore, and Revitalize 

Starts June 17th and runs for six weeks; drop-ins welcome. 

(6/17, 6/24, 7/1, 7/8, 7/15, 7/22)

Ongoing classes

Mondays 6-7:30pm (Series Class)

Wednesday 9-10:30am 

Saturday 9-10:30am

Classes are All Levels

New to yoga?  Great! Beginners are welcome and classes adjusted to each individual's skill level.

Therapeutic Massage

Treat yourself, or someone you love, with the healing gift of massage. Regular massage and self care are proven to reduce illness, stress, and aging while greatly improving your daily feelings of well-being and joy.

By appointment. House calls available. 

*Three Yoga Classes Weekly

*Private Yoga Instruction

*Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork

*Intuitive Counseling

*QRA: A healing and diagnostic technique that leads to optimal health

Chandler and Raphaela are extensively trained in yoga, massage, counseling, and QRA, sharing a combined history of study and practice that spans over 20 years.

Saluda Home and Garden Tour a Success!

A large and hearty THANK YOU goes out to Gloria Testerman and the Home & Garden Tour committee and volunteers for a fantastic event. A lot of hard work went into the preparation, organization and delivery of such an event of this magnitude. Those in attendance were more than gracious with their praise and thanks. Thank you from the Historic Saluda Committee! All proceeds will go toward the restoration of City Hall.

In case you missed it or just want to revisit, here is a link to a YouTube video showcasing the beautiful homes and gardens included on the tour. The weather was perfect and so was the mood. Sit back, take a breath and enjoy!  Click Here to watch the video. Photographs and video by Cindy Stephenson Tuttle.

Help Set the Trend, New HSC Auto Stickers Available!

For only $3 you can help fund future HSC projects and at the same time help set a trend. These stylish non-fading automobile stickers, featuring the HSC logo, can be purchased through local merchants and at City Hall. Buy one to be cool or be square!

New Board Members and Officers Appointed to HSC

The Saluda City Commissioners appointed Mary Ann Hester to fill the vacant seat left by Gloria Testerman, whose term has expired. Charlene Pace was appointed to serve an additional term. The committee elected Greaton Sellers to serve as Chair, Cindy Tuttle as Co-Chair and Ammie Weymer to serve as Secretary. Carolyn Ashburn and Caroline Farris, whose terms were not expiring, will also continue serving. A special thank you goes out to Gloria Testerman for her service to the HSC!

Get your copy of the oral history audio documentary, "Saluda, NC: Voices from the First 100 Years." Over 30 years ago when Anne Osborne and Charlene Pace were working on their book Saluda, NC: 100 Years 1881-1981, they conducted interviews with some of Saluda's oldest residents. Luckily, these interviews were captured on what we now consider to be "old fashioned" cassette tapes and were donated to the Oral History Committee. Snippets from these interviews were woven into a story line and compiled into this CD. Funding provided by the Polk County Community Foundation's Saluda Community Fund. The CD can be purchased ($10) through local merchants and at City Hall. You can also purchase it on-line at saludalifestyles.com. All proceeds go toward future projects. Click here to watch the YouTube promotional video.

DVD Available for Sale by Local Merchants

Home, Hearth and History: Stories of Old Saluda can be purchased ($20) through local merchants and at City Hall. You can also purchase it on-line at saludalifestyles.com. All proceeds go toward future projects.

Meetings

The Historic Saluda Committee (HSC) will meet on Friday, July 12, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. at the Saluda Public Library in the upstairs meeting room. The Oral History Committee will also meet jointly with the HSC. The public is invited to attend.

For more information about the Historic Saluda Committee, go to historicsaluda.org or contact us at historicsaluda@gmail.com.

Submitted by Cindy S. Tuttle, Co-Chair, Historic Saluda Committee

 

Saluda Elementary is one of four schools chosen to serve as an A+ Case Study School for the NC A+ Schools Program!   

Wow!  What an incredible school year! This edition of Saluda Lifestyles finds me reflecting on the 2012-13 school year, gearing up for the Super Sizzlin' Summer Adventures enrichment program and anticipating the return of students on August 26.  

Our year began with the official announcement that Saluda Elementary School was selected as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence!  The school year ended with special appreciation gifts given from community businesses to faculty and staff members!  We would like to thank the following businesses for making this year's Teacher Appreciation Week so special:  The Gorge, Charles Street Garden Iris Nursery, Spas on the Go, Macon Bank, Heartwood, Wildflour Bakery, Kathleen's, Embroidme, Orchard Inn and Villa Olivari.  

Fourteen talented 2nd-5th grade students, led by volunteer clogging director, Jennifer Hayes, performed several couple and team routines wearing animal costumes created by Pat Bradley for their "Barn Bash" end-of-year recital.  If you missed this year's clogging recital, you missed an incredible show!  The Saluda Elementary School Cloggers are creating a float for the 50th Coon Dog Day Parade, so you will have an opportunity to catch a glimpse of their fancy footwork on Saturday, July 6.

This summer marks the 4th year that four Saluda churches have sponsored the Super Sizzlin' Summer Adventures enrichment program for Saluda Elementary School students (ages 5 to 5th grade).  Volunteers from the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, Saluda Presbyterian, Saluda First Baptist Church and Saluda Methodist Church plan to provide breakfasts, lunches and enrichment activities for three weeks beginning on Monday, July 8. Students really enjoy these weeks when they get to interact with community volunteers! Thank you to all those who continue to make this enrichment program such a highlight of summer vacation for our students!  

The school office will be closed July 1st - July 9th, July 24th & July 29th.  The school office will be open from 7:30am-3:30pm Monday-Friday all other days in July.  Parents who would like to register new students are asked to call (828)749-5571 to set up a registration appointment.  

Visit Saluda School for additional school news.    

Principal, Ronette Dill  

Don't forget to collect Box tops during the summer!  Box top collection containers are located in the Saluda Public Library, Saluda Post Office, and Saluda Elementary School Office.

US Post Office Store Hours

Mon-Fri 9:00am-1:00pm and 3:00pm-4:30pm

Sat 9:30am-11:00am Sun closed

Passport Service is available at the Saluda post office.

Get directions by clicking here  

102 E MAIN ST SALUDA, NC 28773-7812 

Kenneth Allen Livingston of Saluda, N.C. died May 31 at the age of 68.

Shop online at the Saluda Lifestyles Mercantile for the following merchandise:  

"Saluda, NC: Voices from the First 100 Years" in CD format. Original recordings of interviews with Saluda's oldest residents documented in the book, Saluda, NC: 100 Years 1881-1981. These interviews were transferred to a CD by Historic Saluda. Price: $17 includes shipping and handling. 

Home, Hearth and History: Stories of Old Saluda DVD. Proceeds will go to the Oral History Project for the next sequel.   Price:  $20.00+shipping. 

The Carolina Special ran for over half a century and was one of the nation's longest-lived passenger trains.  It started in 1911 and endured until its last trip up Saluda Grade on December 5, 1968.

Limited quantities available. Size approximately 17" X 19".  Proceeds will go to Saluda's Historic City Hall Restoration and Oral History Project.  Price:  $45.00+shipping.   

The first Coon Dog Queen, Mary Margaret Blackwell (also known as "Dooder") in 1963.

Flashback to 50 years ago, if you were around then. Do you remember where you were...what you were doing?  A Saluda tradition turns 50 this year, and what began as a dog show and chicken dinner has become a "reunion" of native Saludians, summer folks, dog lovers, and railroad historians.   Fifty years ago the Beetles rose to fame, John F Kennedy was shot, the Civil Rights Act was passed, the US entered Viet Nam, and "Sugar Shack" by Jimmy Gilmer and the Fireballs was the top song.

In Saluda 50 years ago, the town was rebounding after a period during the fifties when many native Saludians left to find work.  A new bank, nursing home, and medical center were built, and a drug store opened on Main Street.

Experience the 50th Coon Dog Day with local food and craft vendors and live entertainment on the main stage beginning at 9:00AM and continuing until the end of the street dance at 11:00PM. The parade is a favorite every year and consists of mostly homemade floats, tractors, fire trucks, horses, motorcycles, dogs, and the reigning Coon Dog Royalty Court. The parade begins at 11:00AM and marches down Main Street for over an hour. Trophies are awarded for the best floats, and the Master of Ceremonies announces the floats as they go by. Food, craft, and local non-profit vendors are set up throughout town with a wide variety of handmade items and foods.

If you want to be in the Coon Dog Day Parade, just show up at the intersection of Ozone Dr. and Highway 176 by 10:00 AM and an officer will get you lined up. There are no entry applications or fees. Businesses in Saluda are encouraged to enter and compete for some unique awards. The parade is a great way to promote your business at little cost and to be involved in this community tradition.

All parents wishing to enter their children in the Coon Dog Day Royalty Contest may contact Monica to pre-register and to receive information about contest rules. All entries must be residents of the Saluda community. Winners will receive trophies, sashes, and crowns, in addition to having a special place in the front of the parade to wave to their royal subjects. It's a fun experience, and you can create your own float or ride in style in a convertible car. Age categories start at birth and run up to 18 years old for royalty categories. Royalty is a fun project for kids because they design their money jars and get out to meet people in the community. Looking forward to the new Royal Court!

8:00 AM....Coon Dog Day 5K Race- go-greenevents.com to pre-register.

Jump start your day of festivities! Registration begins at 6:30AM and ends at 7:30AM at the Party Place & Event Center.  Spectators can see the ambitious participants run through downtown shortly after the race begins at 8:00. Come on down to cheer them on!     

6:30 AM- 10:30 AM .... Benefit Breakfast at the Saluda Masonic Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of eggs, grits, sausage or bacon, biscuits, and gravy for only $6 per plate- and for a good cause!

Ball Field

1:00 PM ....Bench Show ($15 entry fee)

3:00 PM ....Treeing Contest ($5.00 entry fee)

8:00 PM ....Annual Night Hunt ($20 entry fee)

On-Stage Entertainment

8:30-9:00 AM....James Metcalf and Colt Creek-Saluda's own gospel and bluegrass

9:00-9:45 AM....Flaco & Ze Clownettes...an interactive performance for the whole family

9:45-10:15 AM....Coon Dog Day 5K Race Awards Ceremony-recognizing the ambitious!

10: 15-11:00 AM....the Green River Boys--another set from your favorite locals

11:00-12:30 AM....the annual Coon Dog Day Parade- with Master of Ceremonies, Hop Foster. This is his 50th year emceeing our parade; so we made him the Grand Marshall, too! Enjoy our own homegrown, anything goes version of parades-- you've seen nothing like it...

12:30-1:00 PM ....McGuire's Pipe Band-The bagpipe show band of the south!

1:00-2:00 PM ....Allijah Motika...A local acoustic styling with a hip-hop flow

2:20-3:50 PM ....Dashboard Blue-Cruising through with timeless dance grooves

4:10-5:40 PM ....Folsom Prison Gang- Music from the Johnny Cash era

6:00-7:30 PM ....Unspoken Tradition- Taking bluegrass to a whole new level

7:30-8:00 PM ....Southern Connections Clogging gives us a dazzling demonstration performance.

8:00-11:00 PM ...The Lonesome Road Band leads us into the night with the sounds for our annual Night Street Dance with square dances called by local, Archie Hardy- grab a partnerl

The NC Small Town Main Street promotions team will kick off the "Top of the Grade" Concerts this summer to carry out the vision of Saluda becoming a four season destination for both local residents and visitors.

The "Top of the Grade" Concerts will perform the 2^nd and 4^th Fridays, June through October:

• June 28
• July 12 and 26
• August 9 and 23
• September 13 and 27
• October 11 and 25

All performances will be held on center stage from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at McCreery Park in the area that was previously the skateboard park.  The city's Coon Dog Day stage will be placed there after Coon Dog Day.   

Attendees should bring their own chairs or blankets.  Food, soft drinks, and coolers are allowed.  A food provider will be scheduled for each concert.  Events are rain or shine so you may need to bring an umbrella if rain is in the forecast.  In some cases, rain events may move to the Pavilion.  The events are free to the public, and donations are always welcomed and are tax deductible.

Performing on center stage on July 12 will be Sound Investment.     

About Sound Investment

Sound Investment is an energetic  band focused on reproducing classic rock 'n roll music especially from the 1960's and 70's. Their music appeals to the young and old, providing just the right beat for dancing. From Sound Investment, you will hear the sounds of the Beach Boys, Beatles, Aretha Franklin, Sam & Dave, The Four Tops, Young Rascals, Temptations, Righteous Brothers, Kinks, Supremes, Johnny Rivers, Doobie Brothers, Atlanta Rhythm Section, and many more.

Kevin Filson, from Kentucky, plays bass and also sings lead vocals and backup harmonies. Kevin has roots in rock 'n roll as well as having been a bluegrass music recording artist. He has lived in Hendersonville, NC for over 15 years.

Rick Gundersen, originally from Chicago, plays lead guitar and sings lead and harmony vocals. He has worked with Frankie (Sea Cruise) Ford, The Diamonds, Ronnie Dove, Dee Dee Clark, Paul Revere & the Raiders and many more artists. He has lived in Hendersonville, NC for over 15 years.

Michael Leyshon started drumming in junior high school.  His decades long musical journey has included rock, jazz and blues bands doing mostly cover songs but has also played in bands playing original songs. His drumming interest started at age five. His parents would watch Don Kishner's Rock Concert program on the weekend, and he would observe from a distance.  He noticed the man behind the drums. The drummer was key to the music but was not in the spot light as was the lead singer. This position appealed to him and the rest is history.

Rodney Gibson plays guitar and keyboards and sings backup and lead vocals. His music roots are rock 'n roll, but he has played a variety of music (gospel, folk, bluegrass, blues, and jazz) for most of his adult life. He is from West Virginia but has made North Carolina his home for over 30 years, living in Saluda.

Hendersonville Antique Club members will also be cruising into town that evening showcasing a variety of classic rods to Model T's.  

We invite performing artists to contact us if they are interested in performing on one of the above dates.  Musicians desiring stage time and a captive audience may perform for tips, donations, and sales of CDs.  To help underwrite the concerts, we invite anyone who would like to sponsor an event to contact us. 

For music scheduling, please contact Judy Ward at judyward@charter.net or 828-674-5958.  For sponsorships, please contact Cathy Jackson at 828-817-2876 or cathy@cathyjacksonrealty.com.

Summer Tracks is back for 2013 and its 14^th season.

Sponsored by Tryon Fine Arts Center  

From July 14 through July 20, you can make a donation to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills simply by eating.

Restaurants and cafés in Saluda, Greer, Greenville, Tryon, Columbus, Landrum, Inman, Campobello and Spartanburg have signed on to the 2nd Annual "Dining Out for Hospice."  Here's how it works: Restaurant owners choose a day, or several days, when a percentage of all sales go to support hospice services. All you have to do is go out to eat at participating establishments on their designated days.

So eat with a purpose during Dining Out for Hospice week. Find your favorite participating restaurant nearby (Green River BBQ, The Orchard Inn, The Purple Onion, Saluda Grade, Wildflour Bakery); or make a day of it and explore an eatery in another town. 

To plan your dining out fun with family and friends, check out the HCF partner restaurants and their participation dates in the "Let's Eat" section at diningoutforhospice.org. To get more information about this event, contact Marsha Van Hecke at 864.457.9122.

Saluda Faces recognizes Saluda citizens that you may see often and wonder who they are, what they do, and why they live in Saluda.

Saluda Faces will return in August featuring another Saluda personality. 

The latest news and the unusual offerings provided by Saluda shops, restaurants, accommodations, outdoor recreation, artists, craftspeople, and service providers.   

Green River Brew Depot will open the first week of July at 26 Church Street behind the City Hall building.  The Green River Brew Depot is a comfortable tap room featuring twelve craft beers from the western North Carolina area on tap and a number of bottled selections. Also offered is a respectable selection of wines. Events include live music and sports on the big screen.

Saluda Bike & Hike provides you with access to the best rides and hikes. We have added a new Useful Links page on our website with great road bike rides and hikes (even those that are dog friendly). Click here to access our new page.

July 4th weekend hours: we will be closed Thursday, July 4th, open Friday, July 5th 2-5pm, open July 6th, Coon Dog Day 10am-4pm and then closed Sunday, July 7th

Have a happy and safe July 4th from Saluda Bike & Hike.

We are located at 459 Hwy 176, Suite C (right across for the Tickle Family Medical Center).   

Phone: 803-609-2190

Email: jdeancole@hotmail.com

The Orchard Inn

Visit the Orchard Inn at orchardinn.com. They are located on Highway 176, Saluda, NC. 

Histor

Celebrating "50 Years of Coon Dog Days at Historic Thompson Store & Ward's Grill."

Your official store for Coon Dog Day T-shirts in all sizes, along with Coon Dog Caps, Noses, and Rowdy the Raccoon. 

Thursday, July 4th- open regular hours in the Grill and 8-4 in the store.  Celebrate the 4th by having breakfast at the grill and shop in the store for the best Black Angus Steaks or Fresh Ground Beef for grilling. 

Saturday, July 6-Coon Dog Day, we will be open for breakfast and lunch in the grill and also will be serving LUNCH OUTBACK AT THE " BACK ALLEY BARN DECK."  Come sit, eat and drink on the deck. 

Friday, July 5 from 6-9pm - Music at "Back Alley Barn" with DJ "JAMMIN JP"  Johnny Perez-The Carolinas #1 DJ with over 20 Years Experience.  We invite guests in town to come out to the deck Friday afternoon to sit a spell, have a cool drink and listen to great tunes.

Win $25 Gift Certificate 

Three years ago in July 2010, a newly renovated Ward's Grill reopened after a brief closure during which time the business was once again transferred back into the original Thompson family's hands. Six months later and following total restoration, the Historic Thompson's Store was once again back in the business of serving our customers and friends. Since then, a number of folks have verbally expressed their heartfelt relief and appreciation that the Grill and Store are once again a favorite gathering spots for locals and visitors alike.

In honor of the rebirth of these historic Saluda icons, we would welcome a brief description from our customers, in 50 words or less, describing what having the Grill and Store back in business personally means to them and/or their family members and friends.

Facebook friends can post on our website if you choose. Others can leave their written comments at the store or mail to Thompson's Store at 24 Main Street, Saluda, N. C. 28773 or email clark@thompson-briggs.com. Deadline for the competition is July 15 @ 5:00 PM. However there is never a deadline to say something nice about Thompson's Store/Ward's Grill.

An independent selection committee will chose the three best testimonials with each winner receiving a $25 gift certificate for use either in Ward's Grill or Thompson's Store. 

BBQ, July 4th, and Coon Dog Day--it all comes together at Green River BBQ.  Thursday -Saturday nights, we will remain open until 11pm.  A Bar Menu will be available for those late nights, 9-11pm. 

All of our hamburgers, from kid's burgers to the thick Mountain Burger, are now handmade daily and we only use fresh Black Angus Beef, grilled to your personal taste! Prices still the same!

We now have a Ribeye Sandwich served with Homestyle fries for $8.99. Ribeye cooked to your liking served with lettuce, tomato, Duke's mayo, and our own signature beer-infused steak sauce served on the side, all atop grilled French bread!  

We now have TEN different beers on tap, and almost all of those are local to North or South Carolina! Most are from Asheville and the surrounding area! We also proudly serve Angry Orchard Hard Cider on tap, gluten free and very refreshing!

If you haven't tried a Lime A Rita, you must! Served over ice and salt rimmed glass! It is our answer to a great Margarita!

Come see our new bar area and enclosed porch! More outdoor dining soon to come to our "Barking Lot!"

We still have our daily specials!

Daily specials are $4.99 and include:

Appetizer and Small Menu Items for $4.99:  BBQ Nachos, Chicken Quesadilla, Fried Green Tomato and Shrimp Stacker, BBQ Stuffed Potato Skins, Chicken Wings, Portobello Mushroom Fries, Piglets, or Buffalo Shrimp! All day, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays!

Try our five local draft beers or a flight for $4.75 so you can try all five!

Become a Facebook fan and you will receive specials and $$ dollar-off offers!

Contact Green River BBQ at 828-749-9892 for takeout orders or visit them at Green River BBQ.  Visit their Facebook page to get extra daily coupons!  

Green River BBQ is located at 131 Highway 176 West. Click here for directions.   

Wildflour Bake Shop  828-749-3356
Wildflour Bakery  828-749-9224
Check us out online at wildflourbakerync.com for daily specials or use the good ol' fashion way...828-749-3356.   Keep up with specials on 

Coon Dog Day   

is celebrating its 50^th year this year!  What a great tradition to become the cornerstone of the Saluda community.  Come out for the Coon Dog Day 5k, the parade, the food, the crafts and everything else that makes Coon Dog Day in Saluda so wonderful!  You don't want to miss it!

Macon Bank has been a part of the Coon Dog Day festivities for many years because we love this community and the great people!  Stop by and see us for all your banking needs.  And we'll see you at the parade on Coon Dog Day!   

Stop by Macon Bank at 108 East Main Street and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff.

We can help you with all your financing needs.

      

 

The Oaks Bed & Breakfast

 

Proud to be a Playful City...

What does it mean to be one of America's most "Playful Cities"?

The non-profit organization, KaBoom!, has honored Saluda (for the second year) for its efforts in creating an environment that - quite simply - promotes outdoor activity!

 

With schools releasing their students for summer vacation, there no doubt will be temptation for many to remain sedentary in front of the TV or computer.

 

The American Academy of Pediatrics has written that outdoor play is critical to healthy brain development, stimulating creativity and imagination, while building physical and cognitive strength.     

 

It is inspiring to pass any of the parks within walking distance of The Oaks Bed and Breakfast and witness the interaction between kids and their parents as they play catch in the schoolyard or practice their serve on the tennis courts.  Such a simple act as a walk with Granddad on a quiet lane or trail opens conversational possibilities that creates a bond that lasts forever.

 

There is an emotional connection between a husband and his wife as he pushes her gently on a swing under a brilliant summer sky.  Their children have grown, but for one shining moment, they are young again.

 

How wonderful it is to have all this and to share it with others. 

 

Now is the time to visit one of America's Most Playful Cities and to reconnect with your children, your inner child . . .  your husband, your wife . . .  your life.   

 

Contact innkeepers, Dale and Donna, to reserve the accommodations of your choice: 828-749-2000. Click here to visit website.

  

Tipsy Gypsies

Joni Artisanal Wine and Beer will be moving to Biltmore Park in July.  We have appreciated all of the loyal, local customers and will miss them.  However, Tipsy Gypsies is still going strong and continues to amaze shoppers with such a diverse variety of merchandise. Joan has brought in some new silver and cut glass, along with an eclectic selection of jewelry.  Julie has native flora, beautiful dried flower arrangements, nature made bird houses and the collection goes on.  Sheila has a great selection of vintage local art and a great selection of things that makes you say..."Ahhh!  I remember those."  Sherrye sneaks in nightly to refresh her vintage clothing racks and add more yard art pieces.  You can also get Raku jewelry in her section.  Alex and Kelly have some great Mason Jar Strung Porch Lights and bottle cap earrings.  Artist and clothing designer Karen Johnson has a beautiful collection of one-of-a-kind hand-made skirts and tops. 

 

Thank you all for your "Buy Local" attitudes--we appreciate you!

 

Hours are:

Tues-Thurs, and Sat. 11-5:30

Friday 11-8

Sunday 11-3

Monday - by chance.

 

Visit us on Facebook and keep up with monthly events and sales!  We look forward to seeing you!

Stop in to see what's new at Evening Shade Pottery. We now have candles, baskets, dip mixes, metal art, and more. Pottery is changing with each kiln load, so stop by often. The faces await!  Of course we can always brew a cup and chat! Happy Summer to all!

 

Visit Eva McCray's Evening Shade Pottery at its new location at 30 Church Street, behind the Purple Onion and Spring Park. Visit website. Contact Eva at 828-749-3249 or email at eva@eveningshadepottery.com. 

 

Citadel Fence Repair 

Michael Nelson is happy to be in Saluda after moving from Charlotte this past spring.  His fence repair company is getting off to a great start, and he has a new business logo.   

 

Michael gained his experience in the fencing industry by running a well established fencing company in the Charlotte area over the last 10 years.  He specializes in all types of gate and fencing repairs, commercial and residential, and also is able to provide mobile welding repairs, as well as larger repairs and fabrication from his home.  Estimates are always free, and no job is too small.  Why replace it?  Repair it!

 

You can contact Michael at 828-817-5483 or email citadelfencerepair@gmail.com.

 

 

Cabin Fever 

We hope you are enjoying your summer. Sorry for the many of you we had to turn away for the 4th. For me, I always feel that, after the 4th, summer is coming to a quick end. Back to school shopping and getting back to a semi routine. So this year make sure you don't forget to plan one last getaway with the kids and family.  We still have many cabins open for August. You can make that the perfect end to summer and give your family some wonderful memories.

 

Cabin Fever is located at 7337 Spartanburg Hwy Saluda, NC  28773 800-767-7368 cabinfeverncinfo@gmail.com. Visit website and click here for directions.

Saluda Business Association members were introduced to an opportunity with Shopmainstreets.com to create a virtual tour of Saluda and businesses in town, and then showcase it on the website Shopmainstreets.com.   

In addition to the virtual tour on that website, it will also be linked on saluda.com, participating business websites, and ranks the town and Saluda businesses high on internet search engines, so that the 78% of travelers who search vacation destinations will see Saluda.  The company is opening the NC market and with their association with Small Town Main Street, offered to create the virtual tour of Saluda at no charge ($1,200 value), if enough businesses committed to participate. 

Bob Hilburn with Shopmainstreets.com presented the program to SBA members in June and there was an overwhelming response to participate.  Bob was in town the first week of June and videoed approximately 15 businesses.  The tours are still under construction, but the tour is "Open" at shopmainstreets.com.

Take a tour by clicking here.

Are you traveling abroad this summer? Seeing the world can help broaden our horizons in many aspects of life - including how we invest.

You can receive at least two key benefits from international investing. First, you can find growth potential in international markets across the globe.

Second, by investing internationally, you can help diversify your portfolio. In any given year, the U.S. markets may be down, but international markets might be doing significantly better. Keep in mind, though, that while diversification can help reduce the impact of volatility, it can't guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

International investing does carry some special risks, such as political instability, currency risk and liquidity risk, so it's a good idea to limit foreign holdings to no more than five or ten percent of your portfolio.

Still, global investment opportunities can be intriguing, so consider them carefully. Bon voyage!

Click here to view

This is Doug Rostick, your Edward Jones financial advisor, located at 1038-A Greenville Hwy, Hendersonville, NC 28792. (828) 692-5082.

Member SIPC

Douglass M. Rostick | Financial Advisor | Edward Jones 

1038-A Greenville Hwy  Flat Rock, NC 28731

828-692-5082 Fax:888-227-3980

douglass.rostick@edwardjones.com

Isothermal Community College: A Best Kept Secret in Polk County

Jeanne Parsons is the watercolor instructor at Isothermal Community College. At this time, she is teaching both a Beginning Watercolor and an Intermediate Watercolor class. Jean lived in Connecticut most her life where she taught horseback riding, worked in graphic arts, and was a watercolorist, showing her paintings in art shows around  New England.

When Jeanne decided that it was time to downsize and to find a gentler climate, she began to look for a place to resettle.  On visiting Tryon, she found an active artist and equestrian community, two very important characteristics for her, and as an added attraction, she found the area to be beautiful. She had found the place that had "everything she wanted." After moving to the area, she took a watercolor class at Tryon Painters and Sculptors and then decided to take a course in Pen and Ink at Isothermal College. Jeanne enjoys the chance to be a lifelong learner, and in her picture, she is working in one of her new passions, wood carving. She became a student in Don Blackwell's first class in woodcarving at ICC.

When ICC had a request to add courses in watercolor, she was approached by her instructor, Don Blackwell, to take on the task of instructor.  Though she had never taught art, she has found it to be a wonderful experience. She stated that the school has a good atmosphere and is a good place to be. She enjoys developing a group of artists, finding it "gratifying and wonderful  watching her students find their own creative voices." Her students describe her as an organized teacher who makes every effort to help them understand the medium, adding that this organization and her creativity in teaching make it easier to learn and is a very considerate way to start the study of a new medium. After the current classes end in late July, she will take a short break and then will again offer the Beginning Watercolor and Intermediate Watercolor courses beginning in late August.

Regular readers of my past columns have learned much about my mama but very little to date about my father. This article will attempt to address the role of both parents and to correct a misunderstanding some folks had about Mama being the widow who lived near the Saluda cemetery.

My father, Roy Alonzo Thompson, arrived into this world in 1901 and was one of three boys and two girls born into the family of William Luther and Alice Cantrell Thompson. His formal education ended at the eighth grade and, following in the footsteps of the other male relatives from his father's side, he began to work odd jobs in the construction and mechanic trades. Like most blue-collar men of his era, he eagerly accepted any job offered in order to survive. In 1922 at the age of 21, he was accepted into mechanic school at Rahe Auto and Tractor School in Cincinnati, Ohio, although no records exist as to the duration of this training. 

My mother, Mary Lillian Pack of Mill Springs, was born in 1908. She lost her father John Ervin Pack in a work related accident while she was an infant and then lost her mother Luster Lavina Henderson Pack to the deadly 1918 flu pandemic. As an orphan at 10, she was taken in and raised by one of her older sisters. Part of her subsequent education occurred at Saluda Seminary and at Berea School in Kentucky, also a school for disadvantaged Appalachian children. Recently I discovered a shoebox full of records from 1922-23 relating to her one year at Berea and sent the records to the school's archival department.

On January 1, 1925, my 24 year old father married my almost 17 year old mother who had recently been valedictorian of her 11^th grade senior class at Stern's High School in Columbus. She had been encouraged and offered financial assistance to further her education but chose marriage instead. 

From the outset, there was not enough work around Saluda to maintain a family so my father joined several other local men, including his brother Richard and friend Floyd Holbert, in seeking work across several states. His paycheck stubs indicate that most of these jobs were brief in duration, with the majority lasting only a few days or weeks. States such as Alabama, Virginia, West Virginia, Georgia, and South Carolina were the most frequent sources of temporary construction jobs. Consequently, the responsibility for rearing six children fell on Mama's shoulders.

During the early years of the marriage and frequently lacking work, my father would return to Saluda for short periods of time. One year he decided that raising hogs would be a way to make money so he constructed a pen and bought sacks of feed along with loads of corn to fatten several shoats (weaned pigs) through that summer and fall.  When time came for them to go to the auction market in Asheville, each hog weighed well over three hundred pounds so my father hired a local man with a truck to haul them to market.  Mama always suspected the auctioneer of being in cahoots with a couple of bidders and before my father could understand the auctioneer's language, the hogs had been sold for only a few dollars. To add insult to injury, once he paid the hauler, there was only a couple of dollars left. From then on the only hogs we raised were for our own consumption.

Unable to eke out a living around Saluda, my father would hit the road once again in quest of work in other states. During the Depression years, his time at home with the family became less frequent, but he still visited often enough to produce six children in 13 years. As mentioned in an earlier article, the marriage bed had been hand-built by Grandpa Luther and was not much larger than today's single-sized beds. Two full grown adults had very little room to spare which may have had something to do with the proliferation of kids. Over the years our family lived with these extended periods of parental separation for so long that, as the last child, home life with only one parent seemed totally normal to me. During those many years, my parents faithfully wrote weekly letters to each other and my father, who never made any real money, included a small amount of cash in each letter to help with the bills.

After moving to Leesburg, Florida in the '40s, he was finally able to secure steady work in the rapidly expanding Florida economy and no longer had to follow a vagabond's life of constant relocation. By 1947, my oldest brother, Charles, had graduated from Saluda High School and joined my father primarily in residential construction. Then in 1962, my second brother, Perry, graduated from North Carolina State and, along with Charles, formed the very successful Thompson Brothers Construction Company, concentrating on commercial construction throughout central Florida. They also shared offices, equipment and employees with my father until he became terminally ill from cigarette-related cancer and moved back home to live out his remaining days.

Although it was never discussed by our mama, I'm sure that at some point a conscious decision was made not to expose us kids to the life of nomads. Like lots of families living through the Depression years and those that followed, that meant she had to singlehandedly raise six kids while also seeking employment of whatever type she could find to help keep a roof over our heads. A major portion of our food supply came from growing vegetables and picking fruits and berries which Mama canned for winter. We also raised our own chickens and hogs and usually had a milk cow.

Today, I don't think it is possible for our society to really comprehend just how tough it was trying to feed a large family during the Depression years while looking for a paycheck that was uncertain at best and non-existent at worst.  Personally I have no longing for those "good old days!!"

Thompson's Store is located at 24 Main Street, in the heart of downtown Saluda.   Contact the store at 828-749-2321 or visit