Pit Master James Henry Howell: Audio SlideShow

Pit master James Henry Howell at Skylight Inn, Ayden, North Carolina. (Photo by Denny Culbert/ The Barbecue Bus)

James Henry Howell is a nine-year veteran of Ayden's Skylight Inn. From 6 to noon he drifts back and forth between chimney and pit firing the whole hogs with worn shovel and hickory coals. As the lunch shift begins, he moves into the kitchen. With cleavers in each hand, James rhythmically staccato-chops before seasoning the barbecue. By three in the afternoon, he's hefting a new batch of hogs onto the pits, collecting wood, and starting the fires anew. 
- Rien Fertel


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Audio by Rien Fertel with Photography by Denny Culbert