Twin County Hall of Fame – After the Lights Go Out!

How long has it been since you thought about Johnny Gruelle’s famous Raggedy Ann & Andy stories?  Visiting the Twin County Hall of Fame Museum with Jane Gravely and Lanny Shuff before the exhibit moved to the , I wasn’t fooled for a minute. The framed smiling faces of the Inductees were quiet as I gazed at them, but come the end of the day, when the lights are turned off and the last person’s footsteps fade away, you will never convince me otherwise,  the Hall of Fame Dance begins. Gathered in one place are the most interesting, highly respected, gifted and civic-minded citizens of Nash & Edgecombe Counties. Wouldn’t you love to listen to the nightly reminiscences of the times in which they lived and greatly influenced? Here are the history makers, the businessmen, and woman, sports figures, and the musicians.  Think of the privileged living members of The Hall of Fame, allowed to draw from the wisdom and advice of those who have gone before. Can you think of any company you keep that are more prestigious than these wonderful people.  

The Hall of Fame’s purpose is to preserve the history of the Twin Counties and recognize and honor the citizens of Edgecombe and Nash Counties. Those who have made broad and lasting contributions to the betterment of the community or who have brought recognition to the community through their accomplishments. When you visit, don’t expect to hear this august group talking. This only happens after the lights go out.

Raggedy Andy did not speak all day, but he smiled pleasantly to all the other dolls. There was Raggedy Ann, the French doll, the little Dutch doll, the tin soldier, Uncle Clem and a few others…Marcella had played in the nursery all day and of course, they did not speak in front of her…But as soon as she left the room all the dolls sat up in their beds. When their little mistress’ footsteps passed out of hearing, all the dollies jumped out of their beds and gathered around Raggedy Andy…The Dutch doll dragged the little square music box out into the center of the room and wound it up. Then all, holding hands, danced in a circle around it, laughing and shouting in their tiny doll voices.