By: Mal Atkinson, Resource Coordinator
Mike Shelby has volunteered with West Point on the Eno and Leigh Farm Park for over seven years. Using historically accurate construction techniques and trees that would have been used in the late 1800s to early 1900s, Mike completely restored and revived the century-old grape vine that members of the Leigh Family planted. His commitment to reviving the grape vines resulted in the vine growing strong and producing scuppernong grapes annually. In addition to volunteering at Leigh Farm Park, Mike is also an integral member of the milling team at West Point on the Eno Park. He helps get the 19th-century mill stones up and running each year for the Eno Fest. Mike comes in each Spring to help the millers prep for the season ahead and is always quick to make himself available if there is an issue in the mill that requires an extra pair of skilled hands.
During the height of the pandemic, DPR’s Mature Adult unit was working on producing a “virtual trips to parks in the area” video. One segment they wanted to film was Leigh Farm and specifically the grape arbor. Mike happily agreed to be on camera to talk about the history of the grape arbor and his years of work and upkeep on it. Although we needed to do several takes throughout the morning to get the right angles and to make sure we had quality sound Mike didn’t mind repeating himself over and over. He agreed to do this project on somewhat short notice and was flexible in working with the Cultural Heritage and Mature Adult staff in doing the filming.
It is clear how much Mike respects and appreciates our Cultural Heritage parks and the history they offer the community. Whether he is taking care of the grape arbor, helping with running the mill, or volunteering for an event, he always comes with a positive attitude and a willingness to help with whatever project is going on in whatever way he can.
Thank you, Mike for Playing More with DPR!
Give back to your community by volunteering at your local neighborhood park! If you are interested in volunteering at an upcoming event or would like additional information regarding the volunteer opportunities available, please visit our website, email Mal Atkinson at DPRvolunteers@durhamnc.gov or call 919-560-4355.
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