The Southeastern North Carolina Genealogical Society will learn about the history of sweet potatoes in Columbus County when they meet Sept. 14.
Our speaker will be Dr. Howard Wallace, speaking on the history sweet potato production in Columbus County.
Dr. Howard Marshall Wallace II is the County Extension Director for Columbus County, having previously served as the Extension Director for Hoke County from 2015 to 2022. He also worked as the Horticulture Extension Agent in Columbus County from 2006 to 2015.
Wallace is a lifelong resident of Columbus County. He lives in the Cedar Grove community just outside of Cerro Gordo with his wife, Phoebe, and his two sons, Stephen, 17, and Benjamin, 12. He has more than decades of experience in agricultural education and extension services.
Wallace holds a Doctor of Education in Agricultural and Extension Education from N.C. State University. His leadership has been pivotal in numerous community projects, including the construction of a new 16,860-square-foot agricultural facility in Hoke County. His contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the Extension Leadership Award, the Dr. George and Mrs. Virginia Hyatt Scholarship Award, and the Dr. Joe and Mrs. Lise’ Zublena Program Impact Award. These accolades reflect his ongoing commitment to enhancing and preserving the agricultural heritage of his community.
The society will meet at the Whiteville Missionary Alliance Church, 623 Warrior Trail, Whiteville, Sept. 14 at 2 p.m. Some members and visitors arrive early to share family histories.
The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
