Folks riding by the Fairmont's Borderbelt Museum recently have seen a new addition to the grounds. Thanks to the Sidney Lanier Book Club a historical marker now occupies a spot on the grassy lawn of the museum and welcome center.

Over the past several months the club members have bee busy raising donations for the marker which honors native son Joseph Mitchell for his fame as a newspaper reporter and author.

Mitchell, who rose to fame as a New York writer in the 60's, won acclaim for his down to earth portrayals of every day people. His several books always cast people in a simplistic and gritty light and introduced his readers to New York street life in a very unique style.



Mitchell was born in Fairmont, attended the University of North Carolina, and eventually made his way to New York where his writing career began. He always returned to Fairmont annually. He died in 1997.

A large photograph, some of his newspaper and magazine articles, and several of his books which he autographed are located in the museum. Several of his books can also be found in the Hector McLean Public Library across the street from the museum.



The marker unveiling ceremony will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. on the museum grounds followed by a video presentation on the life of Mitchell inside the museum.

The marker was designed by Rogers Screenprinting with landscaping provided by Mitchells nephews Jack and Joey. The public is cordially invited to the ceremony.





— Charles Kemp is the mayor of Fairmont. He can be reached at ckemp1@nc.rr.com.