Sunnyside 1864 pt-1

1864 Sunnyside

On the 16th of September, 1864, Sunnyside Plantation was alive with the sound of a rooster crowing as the sun began to cast its golden rays through the cedar trees that were adorned with Spanish moss. The gentle autumn breeze was a harmonious backdrop to the start of a new day.

Sallie Virginia was filled with joy as morning light began to dance in the window of her room. With barely a moment's thought, she hurried to get dressed in her favorite outfit, before scampering down the stairs in search of breakfast. There, in the hall, she encountered her father, George Watkins Faulk, who inquired, “Little one, where are you dashing off to in sucha hurry?” Smiling up at him, she replied, “Today is my birthday father, and I am off to have breakfast, and then a picnic with Margaret.” Kneeling down befitting her tiny size, GW uttered, “You are growing so quickly, my angel. Just how old are you now?” “Eight” she replied. A hint of surprise came to his face, “School isn't in session?” “Nope,” she replied brightly. A hug and a hearty “Happy Birthday! Now, eat your breakfast” was GW's reply, followed by one more embrace for good measure.

As Sallie entered the dining room, her younger siblings erupted with a chorus of ‘Happy Birthday Sallie!’ Her mother Mary Ann warmly seated her at the head of the table in her father's chair, and Sallie was beaming with joy. Ophelia served her favorite breakfast - pecan pancakes with cane syrup - and everyone was enjoying the meal. Mary Ann was feeding George Jr, but she reminded Henry, Daniel, and Nancy to hurry and finish, as the family had a lot to do in preparation for Sallie's birthday picnic at Denson Level. GW walked in, and Henry asked if he was joining them. Sallie pleaded, “Please father, please!” GW, understanding how much it would mean to her, reassured them he'd try his best considering it was picking season and he was very busy. Sallie sadly said that it won't be the same without you father. GW then asked Mary Ann why Richland Academy was closed, and she explained it was due to the teacher being ill, and with all the boys picking cotton, Mr Denson had to cancel school for the week. GW nodded, telling Henry to feed his chickens and Axson to get the wagon ready to be loaded. As he prepared to leave, Mary Ann said, with a kind voice, "George, you know you need to be at your daughter's birthday! She won't be too happy if you don't show up. The cotton can wait - it's Friday, after all!" GW smiled, kissed her and asked what time the festivities began - to which Mary Ann replied 12:00.