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Where Time Stands Still
Having done no research, this certainly is only the opinion
of an experienced porch sitter. Porch sitting is one of the
most simple, but glorious, events for one who appreciates
the joys of early morning or late afternoon. Combine conver-
sation, mixed with a sip or two of coffee or sweet tea, all the
while realizing that a slight breeze is more effective than any
fancy air conditioning system. That's true porchin'.
Maybe a bias exists for all who grew up without the conve-
nience of air conditioning because they remember the porch
as a respite from grueling heat. However, it seems that even
today's youngsters, when introduced to porch sitting, are
quick to understand the pleasure of gathering on the porch
for ice cream, storytelling, or even a sing-along with a guitar.
Hopefully, there are still families that practice the tradition
of using a sleeping porch to capture summer breeze. Some
say that porch sleeping is as much fun as camping out...and
without bugs.
A Tribute to the True Porch Sitters
Columbus, Texas, is known for historical preservation and
beautiful trees. Some people have admitted that they first
loved the look of Columbus for its porches and side yards.
These shady enclaves often had yard chairs that beckoned
one to relax and truly watch the world go by.
Talk to those of a past generation in Columbus and hear
their remembrances of porch sitting at Lois Burt's on Spring
Street. Once Lois positioned herself in the late afternoon
shade of her east porch, the extra chairs began to fill. Her
porch could easily accommodate eight to ten neighbors and
become a full house. Lois might have her little radio set
for an Astros' game, but with no hurries for anything but
friendly talk. Now, that same porch sitting tradition contin-
ues next door at Mary Richter's house, where her porch is
graced with a swing, rattan chairs, and even filmy curtains
that show the southern breeze. The signs on the porch say,
"Come, sit on the porch with your good friends" and "Sit
long and talk much."
Jacob Wirtz built many of the finest Columbus porches
around the turn of the century. His gingerbread porches
truly are works of art. He must have believed that a home
with a lovely porch says to those who pass by, "Welcome, do
sit, and enjoy yourself for a while." In fact, Magnolia Oaks
Bed & Breakfast, at 634 Spring Street, has porches built by
this master of gingerbread art. Its porches even led to the
house being called the Queen of Eastlake Gingerbread.

Porch sitting is soul satisfying. Feel free to enjoy the histori-
cal aura that's free to all who visit Columbus. While you're
there, find a porch that welcomes you to sit and rock a while.
By Nancy Dickson Stiles
photo by Beckey Zajicek