The Fourth

In my growing up years in Emanuel County, there was no question of “The fourth of What?” It was not necessary to add July to celebrate our countries birthday. Families came together and traditionally made the Fourth an honored holiday held each year. The Proctor family gathered at the country home of my Aunt May and Uncle Jim Raleigh in Canoochee.

My family rode down the red clay road to the farmhouse that had been hosting the celebration of the Fourth for generations. The smoke and smell of barbecue roasting on a heavy wire pit stretched over a hole was filled with burning coals. Also hanging over the coals was a pot of everyone’s favorite Brunswick stew. Tables were filled with cold slaw, potato salad, plentiful fresh summer vegetables including ripe red tomatoes. Cakes and pies were sliced and ready for dessert and slices of watermelon. Family members came come from throughout the state and contributed food to fill the tables. After the banquet of food, some folks spread quilts to sit under shade trees and reminisce about their childhood, deceased loved ones and Fourths they had enjoyed. Others enjoyed rockers on the large front porch. Children ran freely around the farm and climbed the fig trees. I spend many Fourths in Canoochee and will always remember with joy, the love of my family and country. Write to Shirley at [email protected].