Video by: Kat Macomson
Photos by: Callie Williams
At a storytelling night at Bynum Front Porch, the MC raises his hat at the laughing crowd. Locals and people from the surrounding community fill the small building, which used to be a general store (one of five stores that made up the entirety of the town). 
They say “once you get that Bynum mud between your toes, you’ll always come back.” Many of the attendees of the storytelling shows have been there before, and bring their families and children to enjoy a night of laughter and learning. 
The store was a historical landmark – one of the last businesses in Bynum – and the social center of the community. A large feature is the retired mailboxes, which are now filled with lights and serve as a backdrop to the performers. 
As many as six or seven storytellers fill the night: each bringing their own personal tales as well as spins on classics. 
Even the kids participate, as this young girl takes the stage to tell a story about Persephone and the reason for the seasons. 
Storytelling is a full body experience: oftentimes, the hands and facial expressions can make all the difference. “I always get into it, waving my hands ‘round and stomping on the stage,” says Cynthia Raxter with a laugh. “It gets the audience goin’ and gives me a rhythm to my story.” 
Cynthia is the driving force behind most of Bynum Front Porch storytelling and events. As an experienced storyteller who has won many awards and been featured in a short documentary at the Morehead Planetarium, she’s bringing renown to the small town. 
Indeed, the community at Bynum is incredibly small, technically classified as a village. However, it is made up of individuals deeply dedicated to preserving traditions and making a way of life that is unique to the area. 
“I’ve told many a story,” says Cynthia. “I ain’t gonna stop telling stories until I’m dead! There’s something so special about this place and these people that keep the traditions alive.” 
The event list at Bynum is long: they have regular storytelling nights, and during the summer they have a music series every Friday night from May to August. 
Warm lights fill the inside of the store, adding to the jovial atmosphere. There’s always a table of food and snacks available, ‘good ‘ol southern hospitality.’ 
“Summer nights – listening to the fiddles and the mandolins melding with the cacophony from crickets, owls, tree frogs and toads. Not being able to tell if the white lights are fireflies or Christmas lights. 3/4 time. Not worrying. Not rushing. Just being. As twilight descends. Come rock with us.”
