Memories of front porches

After reading Rufus Ward’s column last week about his family porch, I was drawn to memories of other inviting porches in Columbus. The Tennessee Williams Festival’s Porch Plays are especially appreciated as the audience gathers in chairs around a historic home’s front porch for a short production from one of his plays. When the weather cooperates, it’s a rare treat.

Another porch that comes to mind is the porch of the George Hazard home at 1006 College St. The late Fran Hazard was the Grande Dame of hospitality and entertaining in town and her annual Christmas Parade Party was enjoyed by both the young and old. Since the Christmas Parade passed in-front of the Hazard’s home, Fran was inspired to host a party for children to have a front row seat for the event. The party always included a visit from Santa who would be seated in a large chair in the entrance hall. He was mobbed by all of his little fans who were waiting for the parade to begin.

The party would flow from the front lawn, onto the porch, into the house, and out onto the back deck where hotdogs, baked beans, chips, hot chocolate, and homemade cookies would await the guests. As soon as someone spotted the parade weaving its way along College Street, the crowd would rush to the front curb to watch the floats and bands. The party continued after the parade until the last cookie was devoured.

Fran took great pleasure in seeing the joy on the children’s faces. We all miss her.

Bob Raymond

Columbus

The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.