The rhythmic chant of the auctioneer and the hum of a bustling warehouse once echoed through many parts of North Carolina—reminders of an era when tobacco reigned supreme as the state’s most iconic cash crop. This September, that era comes back to life.
On Sunday, Sept. 28, from 2 to 5 p.m., Carlee Farms in Oxford will host the Granville Gold Mock Tobacco Auction – presented by the Granville County Historical Society.
Location:1003 Carlee Farm Road, Oxford, NC 27565 (Just off I-85 near Belltown Road)
Admission: Free and open to the public
Though fewer acres are dedicated to tobacco today than in decades past, it remains one of North Carolina’s most significant cash crops. In fact, the state still produces more than 60% of the U.S. tobacco supply, with counties like Wilson, Johnston, Nash and Sampson leading the state. Granville County has a deep and storied connection to the tobacco industry—from cultivating and curing to the legendary warehouse auctions that determined the value of an entire year’s labor. The **Granville Gold Mock Tobacco Auction** is a chance to relive those moments and learn about the people and processes behind them.
Event Highlights
- 2 p.m. – Opening Ceremony -Mark Pace, President of the Granville County Historical Society
- 2:25 – Keynote Speaker – Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt, who grew up on a tobacco farm in Wilson County and whose ancestry traces back to Granville County, reflects on the importance of agriculture in shaping our communities.
- 2:50 – History Presentation – Tobacco historian Billy Yeargin shares the rich story of tobacco in the U.S., Virginia, North Carolina, and specifically, Granville County.
- 3:10 Live Music – Enjoy a performance by Red Clay Band, bringing local flavor and energy to the festivities.
- 3:45 – Mock Auction – Sandy Houston, world champion auctioneer, will recreate a live tobacco auction with real cured tobacco, mock buyers, and plenty of excitement.
In addition to the program and auction, visitors can enjoy cured tobacco tying contest, local art exhibits, hands-on crafts, games and food from local vendors.
Whether you’re a farming family, a history enthusiast, or just curious about North Carolina’s ag roots, there’s something here for you. Tobacco farming was more than just a way to make a living—it was a way of life for many in North Carolina. Come hear the chant of the auctioneer and experience a living tribute to North Carolina’s rich agricultural history.
—