Sturdivant Hall is one of the most popular attractions in the civic and tourist life of the community, each year opening its doors and gardens to thousands of visitors, who enjoy the beauty of the architecture, the finely crafted interior woodwork and fireplaces, the interesting panels in the entrance hall, the handsome and authentic antique furnishings and the fine collection of artwork of local artist and Tiffany designer Clara Weaver Parrish.

The historic antebellum structure is often the site of weddings and receptions, private parties and dinners and teas as well as other formal social affairs. But all is not formal in the lineup of activities held there.

One of its most popular community events is the annual Barbecue on the Green, scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 24, from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $25 each and must be purchased by Sept. 19. The number is limited so call Sturdivant 872-5626, to reserve tickets.

Barbecue chairs Tamara Hannig and Terry Jones are enthusiastic about plans for the festive evening, commenting that “Barbecue on the Green will be casual and fun, with delicious food, music by guitarist Paul Garner and the enjoyable company of friends.”

The barbecued pork will be prepared and served by Nick Stevens of Golden Ranch Bar-B-Q & Grill. Also on the menu will be a special cole slaw, baked beans and potato salad and sweet tea, Stevens says.

Joyce Rylee of Joyce’s Catering, located on the grounds of Sturdivant, is preparing peach cobbler as dessert for the annual event. She makes a rich pie crust of Crisco shortening and flour, cuts it to fit the baking pan, covering the filling of fresh ripe peaches, butter, sugar and milk flavored with vanilla and nutmeg. Baked to a golden brown, oozing fragrance from the delicious filling, the cobbler is irresistible.

Also offered on the beverage bar, where wine, beer and soft drinks are on hand, will be platters of Rylee’s cheese straw cookies made with extra sharp cheddar and seasoned with paprika and cayenne.

Rodney King of Marks Mark is assisting with wine; Steve South of Bama Bud is donating beverages and Pepsi Cola Bottling Company the soft drinks.

Hannig and Jones say help this year from corporate sponsors has made a major difference in the cost of the evening. They are First Cahawba Bank, American Apparel Inc., Furniss, Vaughan and Company, Swift Drug Company and Bank Trust.

“Their contributions mean so much this year, when the economic downfall has caused a real problem for the city’s non-profit museums and galleries,” Jones says. “Sturdivant means so much to the history of our town. We must support it.”