The Crawford Street United Methodist Church turkey dinner has come a long way in its 92-year history — from 28 cooks to the entire congregation; from 50 cents a ticket for the meal to $8.00; from proceeds of $148 to several thousand dollars for local and foreign missions and the needs of the Vicksburg church.

But one thing that hasn’t changed is the delicious, home-cooked food served at the annual affair.

This year’s 92nd turkey dinner and bake sale will be Nov. 13 in Wesley Hall of the church.

Tickets are now on sale for $8.00 and may be purchased in advance by calling the church office at 601-636-5612 or from any member of the United Methodist Women. Only 1,200 tickets will be sold, and tickets will not be available at the door.

Patricia Pierce is the president of the United Methodist Women and Judy McMillin and Joan Sanders are serving their second year as chairmen of the turkey dinner. Barbara Applebaum and Elaine Moore are serving as chairmen of the bake sale.

A little history

Church records show that in 1912 the Floral Club was formed and the church’s first cookbook was published. The club had 28 members and all the cooking was done at home with every family in the church expected to contribute. It took more than turkey dinners to raise the funds that the members needed. The club helped pay off the debt on the Church Annex, which was then named Floral Hall. The club then set its sights on a new pipe organ, which they helped fund through many different projects.

Old records show many different methods were used to raise funds. One unusual method was a trip to Dr. Sidney Johnston’s plantation for Floral Club members to pick cotton. The members picked 1,187 pounds of cotton and received $2.00 per 100 pounds for the work.

Floral Hall is currently undergoing a major renovation for the first time in 40 years. The United Methodist Women, understandably, are very involved in the beautification and updating of this facility. Although it will not be complete for this fall dinner, finishing touches are scheduled for completion soon. Some of the funds from this fall’s activities will be used for the renovation.

Many members involved

Although it is sponsored by the United Methodist Women and they assume leadership roles, almost all members of Crawford Street Church are involved in some way. The turkey dinner has become one of the highlights of fall activities in Vicksburg, and people of all denominations support the dinner. United Methodist Women have long been known for their excellent culinary skills.

The dinner Nov. 13 will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will feature turkey with dressing and gravy, traditional corn pudding, green beans, cranberry sauce, hot rolls and many varieties of pie for dessert. Take-outs will be available in Floral Hall and those dining in will be seated in Wesley Hall. The menu has been the same many years, and everything served is homemade.