Sights Along The Way

Last week we took a walking tour of Southport, following the map and guide picked up at the Visitor's Center.  The helpful volunteer directed us to the usual sites and locations on the map beginning with Keziah Memorial Park where the Trail Tree is located. Unusually bent and knobbed, the tree was used by the Cape Fear Indians to mark their trail to the sea. Although the sites on the tour include houses and churches, we enjoyed finding other sights worth noting. Gardens, flowers and trees are tended with care as well as places to find shade from the sun and cool breezes to blow away the heat of summer.

There is a caring homeowner who continues to nurture a Lantana boldly growing from the crack in the sidewalk. The same care is given the tree overspreading the sidewalk and the street. The sidewalk is curved to maintain the open soil for the tree's roots.

Strolling along the tour's route, we saw the old Moore Cemetery and the location used in filming during the 1980's. Fisherman's cottages and more detailed homes are along the route. Several old houses have been converted to business use, yet the public can enjoy the well tended gardens set inside the fence.

After winding through the inner blocks of Southport, the tour concludes after a lengthy walk along Bay St. next to the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway. The breezes off the water were cool as we looked out to see Oak Island, Bald Head Island and Fort Caswell.  We stopped at the swings near the seawall and shared the sea breeze with our friendly seagull neighbors.

Thanks to all the faithful gardeners who tend the public gardens of Southport. Your results are prize worthy and beautiful.