A Humble Southern Gentleman.....

[Carl Beers]

I had the privilege and pleasure to spend a great deal of time today with John L. Frierson, author of "Memories of a Carolina Bird Hunter". What a treat getting to see all his Parkers and handle and put to shoulder his favorite 16 ga. V grade that he talks about in the book. Several other nice pieces, not the least of which was a beautiful C grade 20 ga. John and his wife are wonderful people and getting to spend time with them in their home was almost like visiting a museum; so many many wonderful pieces of history on display to see, touch and hear about.

John's library is beyond description. Being the book lover that I am, I could have spent hours just reviewing them. I did get to see some of his Havilah Babcock books with the personal letters inside from Dr. Babcock. And John can tell a story as well as write one; I just absorbed like a sponge. His wife served a wonderful lunch and then we were back in John's office again, then to the shop, then to fire a couple of shots, more stories, and so much more than I can take space for here. All this because I wanted to pick up a second copy of his book for a friend back in Wisconsin. I had already read the copy he mailed me so I was primed for questions.

There were many highlights of the time spent with John but the biggie was when he asked if I'd like to go Turkey hunting with him at his hunt camp down state. Needless to say, I accepted. John is an avid turkey hunter and only shoots them with a .410 bore. He said if he can't get them in to 15 or 18 yards he won't shoot'em. Said he's not in the business of just injurying birds.
I told him I'd be shooting a 20 ga. and felt the same way. The biggest part of the hunt of course is working the bird.

Well, will sign off for now, but if you haven't ordered a copy of John's book, better get with it as he has only a few remaining. And, if you ever have the opportunity to meet John and his lovely wife, do it, even if you have to drive over 1350 miles like I did. I can assure you, it will be one of life's memorable experiences. And let me tell ya, Mrs. Frierson makes an award winning "Egg Salad" lunch with some wonderful trimmings. And by the way, Mrs. Frierson is one of the country's top sculptures specializing in life size bronze historical figures. Her talent is beyond words. What a great day I've had.... ...thanks John

[Dean Romig]

Carl, thank you for your introduction of Mr Frierson. It seems you had a wonderful visit.

[George Lander]

John is a dear old friend of mine and has been for quite a long time. Years ago when I was building homes he did a lot of my landscaping and shrubbery. He is and always has been a "CLASS ACT". We often remenisce about Dr. Havilah Babcock. Dr. Babcock was my English Literature professor at the University of South Carolina back in the late '50s.

We could always tell if class was going to be short or cancelled if Dr. Babcock came to class dressed in his hunting clothes and had his dog in the car. John lives here in Lexington and I'll probably see him Saturday at the gun show.

Best Regards, George

[Berkley Stephens]

Can anyone tell me how much to send to purchase John's book. His web site says $24.95, but does that include shipping. I called and left a message, but I have not had a reply. After reading the comments on the book and the man I really look forward to reading his book. Berk

[Carl Beers]

The price of the book is $24.95 plus $5.00 shipping and handling. Should be sent to:
John Frierson
125 Center Drive
Lexington, SC 29072

You'll enjoy every page of the book.

[Berkley Stephens]

Thank you very much. Berk