BATH – Competitors will again swing their mallets during the popular Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament on the Bonner House green during Bath Fest on May 16. While boasting craft and music displays, theatrical performances, music and food from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., the day will honor the contributions of John Lawson, English explorer and surveyor. One of Bath’s earliest residents, Lawson laid out the town’s streets and boundaries as they are today.
Lawson’s 1709 book, “A New Voyage to Carolina,” detailed the environment and native populations, and prompted many English settlers to move to the colony. At the beginning of the Tuscarora War, Lawson was captured by local natives and suffered an untimely death in 1711.
Free admission to Palmer-Marsh House and the Bonner House at Historic Bath during the Tourism Week Open House also are part of Bath Fest celebration. Costumed interpreters will share information on the historic houses and prior owners. Young and old will enjoy the town’s historic past. Performers will include vocalist Pam Carson, storytellers Jennifer Jarvis and Jennifer Taylor, and the East Carolina University Storybook Theatre. Dance ensembles and concert bands from area elementary and high schools also will perform. Bath community organizations will sell baked goods, snacks and more.
Children’s activities include an “archaeological dig” for fossils, face painting, giant bubble-making, petting zoo and more. A colonial costume competition for children and adults will top off events. All activities will be held along the waterfront, offering spectacular views of Bath Creek.
White attire is preferred but not required for the Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament. The registration fees of $35 for players and $15 for spectators benefit the Dorothy and John Tankard Scholarship at Beaufort County Community College and the preservation of Historic Bath. Call (252) 940-6218 to register. On-site registration is at 9:30 a.m., and play proceeds throughout the day. All other activities are free.
For additional Bath Fest information, call (252) 923-5181 or visit www.Bathfest.com. For information on the Open House or croquet tournament, call (252) 923-3871 or e-mail bath@ncmail.net. Historic Bath is within the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, the state agency dedicated to the promotion of North Carolina’s arts, history and culture, with information at www.ncculture.com.