Birthplace of freedom celebrates heritage

HALIFAX — Living in the birthplace of freedom should incite a great sense of pride. The fact that more than 200 years ago , the Colonial residents of Halifax and North Carolina were the first to declare their independence from a rule of tyranny, is something to be celebrated.

Celebrate they will this weekend at Halifax Market Days, April 11 and 12. There will be lots to do in the town of Halifax. If you like stew, this is where to find it as the folks gather for a cook-off. There will be live music at the Halifax House and street vendors with handmade crafts and demonstrations.

April 12 marks the 233rd anniversary of the Halifax Resolves when our ancestors signed the first official action to break away from England’s rule. The Historical Halifax Restoration Association has organized a formal program, tours of historic homes, colonial craft demonstrations and revolutionary reenactors.

Director of the hit show “First for Freedom” Jim Singletary said his troupe will be present for the festivities to give everyone a taste of this year’s show as they act out one of the scenes from the play.

“We hope this scene will inspire the community of Halifax County and the area known as the Roanoke Valley to come together as one to support our efforts. Come by and see our display near the stage at the Halifax House, on the corner of King Street and Prussia Street. Our performances will be at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.,” he said.

“First for Freedom” is one of the area’s favorite presentations and is one of the July Fourth bright spots each year. Singletary thanked the Halifax County Arts Council for its help in this year’s production. “The Halifax County Arts Council has helped us begin the process of building our play. We are still seeking sponsors and donations of materials,” said Singletary. This is Singletary’s first year as director of the play. After 40 years in community theater, he said this is one of his most challenging, exciting projects and he sincerely hopes the community will support the project.

“We think the whole county should swell with pride every time the resolves are mentioned.  We are the birthplace of Independence! The first written documentation of the ideal of a nation dedicated to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness was written here. In this time of doubt in our future, we must turn to the lessons of our past to guide us,” he said.

Singletary said while your enjoying the play, at Halifax Market Days consider the opportunity to be a part of reliving history. His troupe still needs actors and actresses for many of the parts, and a reenactment of the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge is a part of the play.

“We are looking for talent. We need actors, musicians and a technical staff. This is your chance to ‘be’ history!,” said Singletary.

For more information about Halifax Market Days call (252) 583-7191. Historic Halifax is located at 25 S. David Street in Halifax. You can also log onto www.halifax.nchhistoricsites.org.