Cross over the bridge to Southport Island on Wednesday, July 18, for the Southport United Methodist Church’s annual Country Fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Members and friends of the congregation, joined by numerous summer residents and visitors, will greet you at the church and the Southport Town Hall just across the road.

From 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., a luncheon will be served at the Town Hall featuring fresh Maine lobster rolls or your choice of a chicken salad roll or hot dog. All meals include chips, pickles, dessert and beverage. For early fair-goers we offer homemade doughnuts, muffins and coffee as well as cold drinks at both locations.

At the church property, shoppers will discover Precious Past, our antiques and collectibles corner displaying contributions from several recent estates and individuals. Among these are delicate baby clothes for children of missionaries to China, hand sewn by their Chinese amah, along with lovely appliquéd linens, original paintings by the late Ruth Walsh, an engraved sterling silver five piece dresser set (c. 1930), a lady’s silver flask and French shoe buckles, a large ironstone chamber pot, a hand-pieced quilt, a collection of “Wee Forest Folk” and 20 1939 New York World’s Fair postcards.

The Jewelry Ladies have a glittering display of new and gently worn jewelry, scarves, small purses, chapeaus and other ladies’ accessories. Overflowing tables of Attic Treasures include household linens, kitchen wares, glassware, small electronics and electrical appliances, the latter having passed our quality control inspectors. Be sure to check the Christmas Corner for decorations and gift items.

On the East lawn, Leisure Time has an impressive collection of books for your summer reading – mysteries, biographies, historical novels, light romance and cookbooks, together with a group of videos and audios for viewing or just listening. In addition, larger and bulky items from Attic Treasures and Precious Past will be located under the lawn tents.

On the Town Hall porch, the silent auction will go on as you shop: original paintings by local artist Joan Britton and former resident Fred Overkamp, a framed nautical print by the well-known artist Consuelo Eames Hanks, handmade jewelry, a collection of colorful sea glass and gift certificates for your favorite shops and restaurants.

Also at the Town Hall, returning customers from near and far line up early for the popular Cookie Walk. You’ll find old favorites and new yummy cookies from hundreds of dozens displayed – simply fill a decorated coffee can with your special choices. And then from the food and bake tables a sumptuous offering of homemade pies, assorted breads, decadent bars, cakes and confections await your selection.
Remember that every year we sell out of Mimi’s Hot Pepper Jelly – samples available.

Among the crafts for sale will be handmade Christmas ornaments, a hand-hooked doorstop and some surprises made by our Church School children. At the Greenery, a lovely assortment of local garden perennials, herbs and houseplants will be offered to avid gardeners and fledgling green thumbers.

Once you’re on Southport follow Route 27 and the nostalgic “Burma Shave” signs for two miles. (Do keep in mind the summer scheduled bridge openings on the hour and the half hour.) As you get closer listen for the skirl of the Scottish bagpipes being played by our resident piper Donald Duncan, wearing his clan tartan.

Come and bring your family and friends for a memorable day on our island, we’ll be here to welcome you – whatever the weather.