SPC’s first of many 125th Anniversary commemorative events this year will begin with local historian Pat Kirkman speaking about “What Southport Was like in 1898” at the Jan. 22, 11 a.m. worship service.

Pat Kirkman and her husband, Jerry, have been Southport residents since 1996. Originally from Greensboro, NC, they lived in California, Missouri, West Virginia, Tennessee, Oklahoma. Upon moving to Southport, she immediately became interested in the local history and became a life member of the historical society. Throughout the years she has served in several positions with the society including four years as president. Pat continues to research local history and authors a Facebook blog page entitled Stories Beneath the Silent Stones of the old burying ground. She likes to cook, eat and travel with a special interest in photography. “Even though I’ve been to 43 countries, there’s no place I’d rather be than Southport – it’s my heart’s hometown,” she said.

While the main SPC anniversary event weekend is scheduled for May 20-21 with food, games and children’s activities, other activities and events leading up to the “big celebration” are being planned over the next few months. Plans include a Hymn Sing interspersed with the church’s history; a 125th Anniversary quilt created by church members; and invitations to previous pastors to preach at worship services. Neighbors in the community surrounding the church will be invited to the celebrations.