North Carolina boasts three signers of the Declaration of Independence, one of whom was John Penn, born in Virginia, but married a Granville County gal and lived on a farm near Stovall.
As the nation’s 250th anniversary draws near, the town of Stovall is hosting a Harvest Festival and a celebration of John Penn on Saturday, Oct. 25.
The festivities run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include “modern-day” attractions like a cruise-in at the brand-new North Granville Senior Center, Kid Zone with bouncy houses and games, Halloween-themed activities and the customary food trucks juxtaposed with an appearance by the esteemed Mr. Penn himself, who will arrive in a horse-drawn carriage to bring remarks to those gathered.
Local historian and Penn reenactor Mark Pace will perform as Penn at 12 noon and again at 2 p.m., discussing America’s revolution, the Declaration and impending war with England.
The very first state historical marker was placed in Stovall back in 1936 to recognize John Penn.
Stovall leadership and others in the community have joined forces to pay tribute to a good harvest and to a history not shared by many communities across the nation.
The town of Stovall is located on Highway 15 North, less than 10 miles from Oxford. The public is welcome and invited to come out and celebrate – there’s something for everyone!
Here’s a breakdown of events:
STOVALL HARVEST FESTIVAL EVENT TIMELINE
• 11:00 – 11:15 a.m. – Opening Ceremony – Main Stage
• 11:15 a.m. – Cake Walk – Rural Medical Center Front Lawn
– Trunk or Treat – Stovall Methodist Church
– Classic Car Cruise‑In – North Granville Senior Center
• 11:30 a.m. – SVFD Gear Demonstration – Stovall Community Park
• 12:00 p.m. – John Penn Reenactment by Mark Pace – Stovall Library (30–45 mins)
• 12:45 p.m. – SVFD Hose Demonstration – Stovall Community Park
• 1:00 p.m. – Cornhole Tournament – Behind Town Hall
– Costume Contestants gather at Main Stage
• 1:30 p.m. – Costume Contest (12 and under; prizes for Scariest, Cutest, Most Creative) – Main Stage
• 2:00 p.m. – John Penn Reenactment by Mark Pace – Stovall Library (30–45 mins)
• 2:30 p.m. – SVFD Extinguisher Demonstration – Stovall Community Park
• 2:40 p.m. – Pie in the Face – Main Stage
• 2:45 p.m. – Raffle Drawing – Main Stage
• 3:00 – 3:15 p.m. – Closing Ceremony – Main Stage
Listen to this Story!
