The only "S" shaped swing bridge in the United States straddles the Perquimans River in Hertford. Nearby, the oldest brick home in North Carolina stands as a reminder that what families wanted back in 1730 isn't that different than what they want today.
"People want freedom of choice, command over their time, to make decisions about where they're going and what they're going to do," says Glenda Maynard, site manager for the Newbold White House.
Maynard found her job promoting the area on Craigslist. Today, she's banking on the historic home site along with a replica workboat and weekly farmer's market site to help spur the local economy. She explains, "You have to figure out how I monetize this. How do I make it salable where people are willing to pay for it and make it something someone assigns a dollar value?"
Anna Smith earns extra income selling handiwork at the Newbold White House gift shop. "It means being able to buy what you need," says Smith. "I hope people will recognize the effort that goes into making this an appreciate them, and give people like me a chance to sell 'em, display them."
A $2000 grant from the local Jaycees paid for sewing lessons for economically disadvantaged women like Anna.
Paige Myers from the North Carolina Museum of History was the instructor. "The small historic sites are trying to introduce programs like this so they can get their small site on the map. It's good for the local population and the overall economy."
Partnerships like this one with the museum of history are critical. Peggy Birkemeier with the North Carolina Community Foundation says communities need to think small--at least initially when they're trying to get started. The impact can be huge for those involved. "It's local, it's community, and it's entrepreneurship in an area that really needs it," says Birkmeier.
Glenda Maynard adds, "It doesn't have to be hundreds or thousands, sometimes you're helping 10 people, and who's to say that's not important."
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