Thank you to those who attended the first book signing!

The Friends of Fort Caswell Rifle Range was excited to hold the first book signing and purchase on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at the Caswell Beach Town Hall. We were pleased with the number of books sold and happy to meet new friends.

It is rewarding to hear from those who treasure this tribute to Brunswick County WWI veterans. This journey has been one we too will treasure: the opportunity to learn more about your courageous ancestors.

We were happy to have former military Jack Gowling, Jim Conklin, and Rich Romer be the first in line to purchase a book.

Trudy Young and daughter Marie stopped to visit and purchase books. Trudy’s great uncle John (Johan) Daniel Eriksen was born in Norway and immigrated to Southport when he was 14. He came from a family of 11 and left home to be a cabin boy on a ship. His parents told him he had to return home after two years to go to engineering school. He went back 30 years later to visit his mother. He served in the Great War with the newly formed 56th Engineers (Searchlight). From 1935 to 1949 he was the mayor of Southport. Trudy shared a great deal of information about her great uncle and the Friends appreciate her interesting facts. She lives in the home where her great uncle and his wife spent most of their lives. His profile is on page 300 in the book. You can read his WWI Profile on the website here.

We also met Kirk James, who was responsible for finding de-classified information about the building of the rifle range that may also be found in the book. We thank Kirk who bought and donated two hardback books for Harper and Barbee Public Libraries.

Thank you for sharing your stories and photos and thank you to those of you who continue to serve our country.

Weather permitting, there will be another book signing and purchase next Saturday, October 31, 2020,
from noon – 3 pm,
outside at the same location (see map below):
Caswell Beach Town Hall
1100 Caswell Beach Road
Caswell Beach, NC 28465

We are pursuing the possibility of holding these events at various locations across Brunswick County, and will update the website with details.

You may also purchase a book now by using this link, which is also at the top right of the webpage.

Thank you to the DAR members who assisted: Jane Freach, Mary Sands, and Phyllis Wilson who provided the photos here.

Thank you to Caswell Beach Mayor Deborah Ahlers and Town Administrator/Finance Officer Jeff Griffin for allowing us to hold our event at the town hall.