16TH ANNUAL HOG KILLIN' TIME BARBECUE

SMUTEYE --  Once again the invitations from Smuteye go out to friends near and far. It is time to celebrate the beginning of Hog Killin' Time at the Cox Plantation.

For those who don't know the story of how this event came about, it began early last century when Major's great grandfather, also named Major, established the Hog Killin' Time Barbecue to celebrate his grandson, Charles' birthday. He would invite local farm workers and use the feast to recruit some of them to help harvest his cotton crop. Today, we continue the tradition with our fall gathering of friends to share food and friendship.

Again, Wayne Jones will head the team of Pig Roasters and will be assisted by John D. Cox. Roasting will start Friday evening and will take approximately 14 hours. You are invited to bring your camping gear and join the brave souls who will spend the night camped around the hickory and oak bonfire that produces coals for the pit. Let us know if you would like to camp overnight!

Over the years, several thousand people have trekked to the Cox Plantation in Smuteye, to attend this barbecue. Expect to spend an afternoon among old and new friends, eating great food and enjoying fun-filled autumn activities. We'll open the gates and begin the hospitality around noon. As in the past, the property will be open for tours and hikes.

The pork procession, followed immediately by the traditional photo and feast, will take place at 2:30 pm on Saturday. Margaret will continue the tradition of firing-up her 80-gallon iron caldron to create her Fabulous, Four-alarm, Forty-gallon chili. Guests are invited to bring salads, vegetables, desserts, and beverages to add to the banquet.

Sadly, the Hog Killin' Time Oak died this summer and we had to remove all its branches. All that remains of this iconic old oak is a 15 foot tall stump. However, we will continue to feature this wonderful old tree as our barbecue logo.

Fire Master Chick Cleveland will light the bonfire as soon as temperatures allow. Peanuts and apples to feed the horses will be available. Be sure to bring your appetite!