WHITE OAK – Harmony Hall Village held its Annual Holiday Open House, Dec. 13-14.
This cherished community event was free and open to the public, inviting everyone to come and celebrate the holiday season. The weekend was a tale of two cities, so to speak as Saturday was warm and sunny, while most of Sunday was cool and overcast as temperatures in Bladen County started to plumet to the lowest experienced in 2025.
Guests had the unique opportunity to stroll through the beautifully decorated grounds of Harmony Hall, which features the original 1760s colonial home and other historic buildings that showcase the rich history of Bladen County.
After nearly a decade of repairs and restoration, the home of Colonel James Richardson has been refurnished and was open for visitors to explore. Knowledgeable volunteers were on hand to share fascinating stories and insights about this significant property and its exhibits.
Families will find a variety of activities designed for children, along with the chance to enjoy delicious treats and crafts from local vendors. In addition, the America 250 Bladen County Freedom Art Contest entries were on display.
A highlight of this year’s open house was a special ticketed event: ‘Tasting the Teas of the Boston Tea Party’ held in the charming Wanda Campbell Cottage.
Money from ticket sales for this exclusive experience contributed to the maintenance and preservation of the Village and its exhibits, ensuring that this historical gem remains a vibrant part of our community.
Located in the little town of White Oak (population 370), 12 miles from Elizabethtown and a little over a mile to the Cape Fear River, there remains one of the oldest residences in North Carolina.
Harmony Hall was a home built before the American Revolution by a British Colonel, James Richardson, who came upon the property while making lemonade from lemons. Richardson, who was highly decorated and served courageously in the French and Indian War under famous British General, James Wolfe.
Although Richardson had settled in Connecticut, a shipwreck near Cape Hatteras detained his journey while his ship was undergoing repairs in Bladen County. As many who have come to visit Bladen County, he fell in love with the area and decided to use a land grant given to him by King George III (given to him for his military service) to establish his permanent residence.
After his two-story framed gable-style home was built, the rumors of war became reality and Richardson was enlisted for service once again to the British militia. He escaped his draft and ended up joining the Continental Army. He began by joining the Bladen County militia where he became a trusted and valuable leader.
Richardson married Elizabeth Purdie and the couple had two children together. She was originally married to Hugh Purdie who died in an uprising in Barbados. They had one child together. She managed to escape the coup and come to North Carolina where she met Richardson.
Harmony Hall remained in the Richardson family until 1865 when the property was sold to the Layton Family who owned it until 1962 when the property was gifted to the Bladen County Historical Society as a memorial to his family and also to the original founder of the land and property.
The property has come to be owned by a private 501c3 nonprofit which has a goal to restore, refurbish and to perhaps develop a museum.
Amy Sanders who is the current president of the board of the nonprofit has some lofty goals for the refurbishing of Harmony Hall.
Please see page 11 in this issue of the Bladen Journal as photos were taken at this event.