Publisher’s Note

In the wee hours of most days, before many are even awake, a group of Washington men gather around a flag-topped shovel planted on a grassy lawn near a waterfront park. They meet rain or shine, hot or cold, forgoing a few extra hours of sleep. They give up the comfort of pillows and blankets and heat and air conditioning for the discomfort of pushups and burpees and crunches and squats. They do it all in an effort to push themselves. Iron sharpens iron. It’s a biblical principle [Proverbs] that sums up well Washington’s F3 chapter. Through Fitness, Fellowship and Faith, those who participate in local F3 workouts, bible studies and gatherings enjoy the pursuit of becoming better men, better leaders.

Join them in the gloom, even if you aren’t interested in pre-5 a.m. wake up calls, on page 38.

Women have shaped Washington since its earliest days. Many never received appropriate recognition during their lifetimes and others still remain under-appreciated today. Their stories could fill more magazines than we could print, but in honor of Women’s History Month, we highlight three special women from Washington’s past on page 24.

In a community shaped—both literally and figuratively—by the Pamlico River, it’s no surprise boat building is a key part of Beaufort County’s history. Since its early days as a settlement, Washington has nurtured a boating industry that thrives even in today’s challenging times. Climb aboard for a journey hundreds of years in the making on page 18.

An appreciation for the old, the odd, the rare and the nostalgic drives an industry measured annually in the billions of dollars. Eastern North Carolina has no shortage of antique dealers or collectors. There are plenty of treasures to be found if you’re willing to look for them. Discover the art of antiquing on page 32.

I hope you enjoy this spring issue of Washington the Magazine and offer warm wishes to you, your family and friends.

Ashley Vansant, Publisher

We would love to hear what you think about Washington the Magazine. Email us at news@ thewashingtondailynews.com or write to P.O. Box 1788, Washington, NC 27889. Letters chosen for publication Write to us may be edited for length and clarity. All submissions become the property of Washington the Magazine.

Publisher Ashley Vansant

Editorial Steve Barnes Chelsea Hofmann Brandon Tester

Contributors Brown Library Richard Andrews Iconic Marine N.C. Archives Pocosin Lakes Wildlife Refuge

Advertising Director David Singleton

Marketing & Sales Scott Williamson Kristen Smith

Distribution Kim Riggs

Art Direction Elizabeth Reed

Contact information Washington the Magazine P.O. Box 1788 Washington, NC 27889

Advertising inquiries 252-946-2144 Ext. 221

Subscriptions & change of address 252-946-2144

Washington the Magazine is published six times a year by Washington Newsmedia, LLC. Copyright 2021, Washington Newsmedia, LLC.

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ELIZABETH REED

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Spring has sprung, with chicks and bunnies hopping around Washington. Find fun, seasonal decor at NautiLife in downtown Washington. Bunny and chick figurines bring warmth and new beginnings to your home (a.) $4.95 – 6.95.

The perfect topping to biscuits or pie, especially during the summer — Mrs. Bridges curds and preserves (b.), $7.95, find your topping at Wine and Words... and Gourmet in downtown Washington.

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In a pinch for a nutritional snack? Find organic superfood bars (d.), $3.95, at Wine and Words... and Gourmet.

Set up a scene this Spring with patterned bunnies (c.),$18, that will create a homemade rustic addition to any home. Find your unique bunny from the Wander Co.