“Grahamfest” took visitors back in time Saturday, July 1, at the Major Graham mansion in Grahams Forge. Civil War soldiers promenaded across the lawn with their ladies dressed in hoop skirts, bonnets and gloves.

A black buggy and carriage awaited passengers, along with two Morgan horses that were high-stepping in sync.

Josiah C. Weaver of Florida is owner of the mansion and surrounding property. He hosted the Fourth of July event for his family, ranch employees, and local friends. The day was chosen to honor Sue Graham, who at 92 is probably the oldest descendant of Squire Graham’s family. Graham is the widow of Frederick Graham, grandson of the squire.

After the welcome ceremony and a delicious Carolina barbecue and covered-dish meal, the double gates to the mansion were thrown wide, and two Civil War re-enactors in full dress, carrying swords, were stationed at either side ready to welcome Sue Graham onto the property.

She entered the grounds with her daughter Nancy, both riding on a black carriage, and the “soldiers” escorted her around the sloped road-way to the front of the house where she alighted and was helped onto the outdoor stage, which is on the foundation of the old carriage house that had collapsed in recent years.

“Dixieland” way played by the Crystal River Band of Galax, and sung by Weaver, as Graham entered the grounds, and upon her arrival, she helped sing “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”.

With the help of a microphone, Graham gave an interview to all present, during which she answered questions about the Graham family, told humorous anecdotes about the family, and down-played the ever circulating rumors that the house is inhibited by spirits.
The huge brick and frame house with Gothic-style front was previously owned by a Mr. Baker who was murdered on the premises by two of his slaves.

The slaves were subsequently hanged for the deed.

Many people claim to have seen, heard or felt unearthly occurrences while there.

After the interview, Weaver, in Western attire, steel toed boots and cowboy hat, took over the mike, performing numerous songs, accompanied by Crystal River Band. The audience, well-fed and entertained, sat back in lawn chairs under big spreading shade trees on the property and enjoyed the music, often singing along.

A special attraction on stage was the appearance of “Elvis,” gorgeously attired in white stretch jumpsuit and blue scarf, who performed “Johnny Be Good” and “You Gave Me A Mountain.”

During the music session, “Butch” Shaffer, owner of the Morgan horses, took guests on carriage rides across the property and down the gravel roads into the countryside.

Grahamfest was an early tribute to our country’s birthday, with guests enjoying their blessings of abundant food, friends and entertainment until late afternoon.

Source: Wytheville Enterprise by Linda Spiker