MT. JUDEA – The Mount Judea community gathered on Saturday for the annual Heritage Fall Festival, a celebration of local culture and history. The event included the unveiling of a headstone for Sam Davis, the namesake of Sam’s Throne, a well-known local hiking spot.
Local historian Travis Holt led the dedication of a new headstone at Davis Cemetery to honor Sam Davis, a historic figure and the namesake of Sam’s Throne. Holt explained that the stone had been made about a year ago, but the decision was made to place it during Heritage Days to make it a special occasion.
“It’s one of those things that helps raise awareness about the Davis Cemetery,” Holt said. He noted that donations are being accepted for the cemetery, which has recently undergone a cleanup and fencing project.
“When I was a kid, my uncle lived on this hill,” Holt said. “His sons would talk about headstones out here, but we couldn’t even find them,” Holt recalled. “It was just a briar patch. Looking at it now, it’s unbelievable.”
Barbara Hefley, a descendant of Davis, was excited to see her ancestor receive recognition.
“We always knew he disappeared. No one knew exactly what happened to him,” Hefley said. “It’s wonderful to finally have a headstone placed for him.”
The festival, organized by the Mount Judea Area Alliance, featured live music from Daniels Family Band, craft vendors, and activities such as bingo and a cake walk, with proceeds going to support the local school and community projects. There were also a variety of traditional demonstrations such as cheesemaking, fermenting, wood carving, spinning, and making rag rugs. The event drew a crowd of residents and visitors alike.
