The Cox Plantation 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 this event, 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.

Over the years, several thousand people have trekked to the Cox Plantation in Smuteye, to attend this barbecue. We have been fortunate to have our dearest friends join us and to make new friends from around the world. Expect to spend an afternoon enjoying friends, eating great food and taking your pick of fun-filled autumn activities. As in the past, the property will be open for hiking.

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!

We'll open the gates and begin the hospitality around 11:00 am. when 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.

The Pork Procession, followed immediately by the traditional photo and feast, will take place at 2:00 pm on Saturday. We will light the bonfire as soon as temperatures allow.

We will have peanuts and apples to feed the horses and Wilbur will also be there as a special guest (he prefers carrots and sweet potatoes).

Be sure to bring your appetite, wear comfortable shoes and leave your pets and politics at home, please.