Most people in this area know of the story about the lion cub, born in Alderson during a visit by a circus, raised and who roamed free on the streets until he frightened a visitor. The Town Council then passed an ordinance requiring that all lions be on a leash.
Alderson Main Street is holding its second annual Lion Days from Apr. 12 through 19 with many lion themed activities planned during Spring Break week so students and parents will find it easier to attend. Businesses and restaurants have been encouraged to have lion themed sales and food items during this time. A local favorite is the “Lion Club” sandwich which can be found at Jessie’s Market. Residents have been encouraged to decorate with a lion theme.
On Tuesday, Apr. 15, at 2 p.m., at the Alderson Opportunity Center (old cafeteria building) at 277 Elmwood Avenue, there will be Lion Mural Painting for Kids. All supplies will be provided free by Alderson Main Street and the event is under the guidance of Cheryl Mansley. Pre-registration is required in order to have enough materials. Please contact Cheryl Mansley at 304-702-0554 or cherylmansley@gmail.com.
On Wednesday, Apr. 16, at 2 p.m., there will be a free performance of Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, a play from the Greenbrier Valley Theatre at the cafeteria of the Alderson Elementary School. Please enter the front of the school on Chestnut Avenue. This original play was written by Dorothy Jo Oberfoell, Education Director at GVT. Puppet Palooza, a puppet making workshop, will take place after the play. Copies of the new novel, Lion on a Leash, by Charles Ryan will be available for sale at this event. This is a fictionalized account of French, the Alderson lion, and people who surrounded him throughout his life. The 11th volume of the Alderson History Highlights and Tantalizing Tidbits “French, the Friendly Lion” by Belinda Anderson will also be available for sale.
On Saturday, Apr. 19, from 4:30 to 5:30, the kids who painted lion murals will be able to pick them up at the Historic 1896 C&O Depot. From 6 to 7:30 p.m., the monthly Writer’s Station will be held with an Open Mic for original written material. Cheryl Mansley will be reading excerpts from Ryan’s book, Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, which will again be for sale along with Anderson’s French, the Friendly Lion.
Alderson Main Street President Don Sutherland said, “We are excited to see the growth of Lion Days this year with a play and two publications telling the lion story. Please join us to learn more and have some fun!”
