40 years of tradition: Annual Beersheba Springs event still going strong

The Vick boys, from left, Eric, 21, Isaac, 12 and Austin, 14, make melody during the 40th anniversary of the Beersheba Springs Arts and Crafts Show. The trio played traditional country tunes and hail from Lyles, Tenn.

Attendees enjoyed strolling through the Methodist Assembly grounds taking note of the many changes and renovations going on at the site. Several new buildings have been erected, as well as improvements to existing structures.

Approximately 180 exhibitors from all over the south, exhibited their unique wares. ?It turned out to be a great show, considering the changes to the grounds,? said chairman Fran Holt. ?With the pavilion being removed, we had to find a home for the folks that used to display there. Everyone was very cooperative during the transitions. We feel our vendors are very special people.?

Speaking of vendors, it doesn?t take much prodding to get them to speak of their craft show experiences. Most are very happy with the Beersheba adventure and eager to return.

First-time exhibitor, Elsie Mills, comes from Mobile, Ala. to sell beautiful silk flower arrangements and hangings.

?It is a great show. We love the small town shows because we meet the best people,? said Mills.

Many of the vendors choose to stay on the hotel grounds and that proves to be an experience that feels like stepping back in time.

?We are staying here on the grounds, and it is wonderful, no air conditioning, sleeping with the door open ? it?s getting back to nature. I love it!? says Mills.

To the opposite end of the spectrum, Peggy and Billy Goodman have been attending the fair since 1990 and treasure their experiences.

?I love coming here,? said Peggy. ?We always ask for room 42 because it has a porch on the front and back. Actually last night I cooked a meal for about 15 friends and we ate on the porch. We look forward to seeing our friends each year.?

The hotel dining room served hot meals each day while food booths at the site provided sandwiches and soft drinks for the hungry masses. Hand-dipped ice cream was also available as a refreshing treat.

Proceeds from the festival will be donated to the Beersheba Springs Library, Beersheba Springs Rescue Squad, Beersheba Springs Community Center, Grundy County Center for Exceptional Citizens, North Elementary School and some used for food baskets.

The show is always the fourth weekend in August, and as one Beersheba springs resident said, ?We are right up here, next door to heaven!?