Join us for a look into a not-too-distant Beaufort mirror.  In combination with a book release, BCHS is collaborating with the Pat Conroy Literary Center to host an interview with Beaufort native and current Fripp Island resident Nancy Thode, discussing the life and times of her mother, author Ann Head. Ann’s Beaufort lineage traces to Neils Christensen, designer and superintendent of the Beaufort National Cemetery, and Abbie Holmes Christensen, Port Royal Experiment teacher. Ann (Anne Christensen) grew up in small town Beaufort during the 20’s and 30s, then returned to write as Ann Head from the 1940’s until her death in 1968. From Beaufort, she authored 4 novels, fifty novelettes and short stories, and taught creative writing at Beaufort High School. Pat Conroy thanked Ann Head for inspiring him onto the path of literary acclaim. Conroy never forgot her impact, later writing “every time I sell a book, I put a rose on her grave.”

Those of us with an affinity for Beaufort County history will recognize many of the names and places of Ann’s time found in the biography.

“Nancy Thode has written an poignant and important biography of her mother, Ann Head in Ahead of Her Time. It is not only a portrait of a creative and beleaguered woman, but also a description of mid-twentieth century Beaufort. “ Larry S. Rowland, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, USC Beaufort.