Community storytelling series on Sept. 21: Roger Patterson

The Kingston Springs Gazette will conclude its community storytelling series “Straight from the Source” with its final installment on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. at SKYKING Pizza in downtown Kingston Springs.

In honor of Kingston Springs’ 60th anniversary of incorporation, the Gazette is presenting a unique opportunity to hear from longtime residents of Kingston Springs as they share their stories and reminisce on how the town has evolved over the years. The hour-long storytelling evening is intended to gather the present-day community as Kingston Springs celebrates its diamond jubilee.

This month’s featured storyteller is Roger Patterson, a lifelong resident whose memories capture the heart of Kingston Springs’ history. Patterson recalls the days of the town’s first fire engine with a motor — built from an old school bus and a milk tank by local mechanic James Whited and other community members. When a fire broke out, the siren would sound, and neighbors would come running to help.

Patterson will also share his reflections on the local church he first attended more than 70 years ago — where he was baptized, and where decades later he and his son Sanford led a major remodeling project. He will also recall the Beard store, a lifeline for the community in years past. For families who raised their own food but needed just a little extra, the store provided goods on credit and the steady kindness of the Beard family. Patterson credits Miss Pauline Beard, in fact, as one of the best teachers he ever had.

This event is free to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own memories and stories to share as well. Cocktails, beer and wine will be available for purchase. Please RSVP here.

This will be the final installment of the Gazette’s “Straight from the Source” series, which featured local legends and untold stories all year long.

For more information, please contact the Kingston Springs Gazette at cateburgan@ksgazette.com.