Changing directions in her life, Genell went back to school for a certification in dietary management and now has been at Autumn Care Nursing Home in Saluda for the past 15 years as the Dietary Manager. Genell grew up on a farm in the Camp Creek area and there was always something to keep her busy. Her days were filled working in the garden and helping her mother can food for the winter. They grew pretty much everything they ate. Fun for Genell was playing paper dolls with her three sisters or picking blackberries, and the occasional trip to town to get a strawberry Nehi. They were not allowed to walk to town because of the traffic on Highway 176 back then before I-26 was built. She learned to play the piano from Kathleen Stephenson and Pat Robinson and learned shape notes by attending singing schools at area churches. Today, she plays the piano at Macedonia Baptist Church where she is a member. She met her husband, Charles when he came to the mountains from California during the recession to find work, and they raised a son and daughter in Saluda who still live close by in Saluda and Columbus. Genell and Charles have been graced with five grandchildren. To Genell, change is mostly good for Saluda, but she does miss how it used to be at the grill when it fed the railroad guys, the Duke Energy workers, and the working class of Saluda who had short lunch breaks. “They loved the hamburger steak. I knew what they wanted to eat before they sat down, and we could get them in and out so they could get back to work,” said Genell. “What’s going on in Saluda now is nice because I remember when I worked on Main Street and all the shops were shut down. Now things are going on later in the evening and there are more things to do and places to eat. Jack Ward always said that ‘more business created good business,
© Saluda Lifestyles, 2010-2016
made you stay on your toes, do a better job, give a better compassionate service and people knew you wanted their business.’ A newcomer to Saluda rented a house on Pacolet and couldn’t find any work. Having a hard time, he came in the store one day to get a loaf of bread and two pounds of hamburger. He was surprised when Lola Ward asked, “Do you want to charge it?” Lola had a good heart and loved her customers. “They fed a lot of families,” recalled Genell. When she worked on the city council, folks would come up to her and complain if something didn’t happen or work right and she always wanted to say, “Saluda is not perfect, but we would love you to come live with us.” New people have new ideas, all young people have great ideas…some work, some don’t, some are not for Saluda.
Cathy Jackson Realty has merged with Beverly-Hanks & Associates. All Saluda properties are 20 to 30 minutes from the new Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. Live at the top of the grade for cooler temperatures and long-range mountain views!
NEW on the Market!
Genell would tell you that if you love being a part of a community then Saluda would be a good place to live. Lot’s going on if you want to be involved, and if you don’t, then that’s okay, too. By Cathy Jackson
This issue of Saluda Lifestyles is dedicated to the memory of Charlie Ward. July 1, 1920August 1, 2008
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Lake Sheila Property - Make your next vacation or full time home at this hidden gem mountain lake in western NC. Lake cottage ready to move in, vaulted ceilings, open floor plan, stainless steel appliances, & hardwood floors. 2BR, 2BA, MLS#3198992, $288,600
Craftsman quality built home with 2-story great room and floor to ceiling stone fireplace. Emphasis on craftsman-style carpentry with hardwoods, wooden murals, including custom built furniture that hallmarks this home. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on covered front porch or a 1-mile stroll to downtown Main St. Oversized 2-car detached garage for cars and storage. Includes custom furniture
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