By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – In a lively discussion after ordering our lunch at Kingston 99 Kitchen, the three guys from Pittsboro—Greg Stafford, Gene Galin, and Eric Andrews—welcomed Caitlin Murphy, the newly appointed interim communications director for the Town of Pittsboro. As we enjoyed an array of Caribbean dishes, our conversation meandered through culinary preferences, personal anecdotes, and the interesting history unearthed during a recent renovation project in the town.
A Change of Plans: The Allure of Jamaican Cuisine
What began as a plan for Mexican food quickly transformed into a culinary adventure at Kingston 99 Kitchen, a local restaurant known for its authentic Jamaican flavors. As we settled in, we discussed the merits of various dishes, with oxtail topping the list of intriguing options. Despite some hesitance about trying bone marrow, we were leaning towards the jerk chicken and curry dishes.
Meet the Guest: Caitlin Murphy
Caitlin Murphy, described humorously by Greg Stafford as “Grand Puba of Communications” for the Town of Pittsboro, had stepped into the role of Interim Communications Director following the departure of her predecessor, Colby Sawyer, to a county manager position in Pender County.
“I interviewed in October of ’24. I’ve been with the town a little over a year now,” Murphy said.
Murphy, who attended Northwood High School, spoke candidly about her path to local government, framing it as rooted in community engagement and a desire to help citizens better understand the workings of their town. With a background in social studies and a passion for community engagement, Caitlin expressed her enthusiasm for connecting with residents through initiatives like the Citizens Academy, PBO 101. This program, designed to educate citizens about the inner workings of local government, has proven to be a rewarding experience for both participants and organizers.
Her tenure in communications was newly official but still provisional at the time of our lunch, with the town’s board of commissioners set to formalize her title in early 2026. We did tease Murphy about job prospects a little bit.
Nostalgic Reflections: A Shared History
As the conversation flowed, the group reminisced about their high school days at Northwood High School, where Caitlin was an active participant in dance and cheerleading. The shared experiences of growing up in Pittsboro fostered a sense of camaraderie among the friends, with laughter erupting as they recalled old teachers and memorable performances. Caitlin’s connection to the community was further emphasized by her father, a local musician, whose band has become a beloved part of the Pittsboro cultural scene.
Unearthing the Past: A Historical Discovery in Pittsboro
Conversations shifted from government to history when we circled back to a recent renovation project and historical find near the roadhouse building — now home to Havoc.
During excavation for construction, workers uncovered several intact spider wheels from automobiles of the 1930s — preserved due to unexpected soil conditions. Sculptor Edwin White restored these pieces, which now decorate the walls of the “wheelhouse” room.
The renovation project also uncovered another surprise: a previously unknown burial site beneath what was believed to be empty land. Archaeological consultation revealed the remains of several individuals, including one belonging to Nathan Steedman, a figure of historical significance — reportedly a Revolutionary War prisoner who later became a wealthy and prominent resident.
Steedman’s skeleton was found with a pane of glass over the face in his coffin and brass hardware — rare signs of status for the time. Period coins recovered from the site added an intriguing layer to the narrative, including a British three-cent piece from 1774.
While Greg admitted that some of the lore — like the story of Steedman being released by the British with only loose coin — might be speculative, it does add color to Pittsboro’s rich tapestry of history.
Following excavation, the remains were respectfully reinterred with the cooperation of the local Methodist Church, which allowed the creation of a commemorative stone for the previously unmarked graves now resting beside the church grounds.
The Importance of Community Engagement
Caitlin highlighted the significance of community programs like the Chatham Leadership Academy, which she attended. Such initiatives foster a deeper understanding of local governance and encourage active participation among residents. We all agreed that these programs are essential for empowering citizens and enhancing the overall quality of life in Pittsboro.
As they discussed the upcoming offerings of PBO 101, Caitlin expressed her hope for increased engagement and participation in future sessions. She went on to compare her experience with PBO 101 to other regional programs, like the Chatham Leadership Academy — a year-long effort to cultivate leadership skills and civic knowledge among residents.
While each program has its own structure and goals, Murphy pointed out that both serve a common purpose: strengthening the fabric of community participation.
Takeaways from our 3 Guys from Pittsboro lunch with Caitlin?
- Local governance thrives when communication is clear and inclusive. Caitlin’s work in municipal communications highlights how accessible information fosters trust and engagement.
- Civic education programs matter. Initiatives like PBO 101 and leadership academies offer pathways for citizens to better understand their government.
- History enriches community identity. Recovered artifacts and burial sites remind residents that their town’s story stretches back centuries.
- Food and conversation are essential. Gatherings like today’s lunch provide not just nourishment, but fertile ground for meaningful dialogue.
Watch on YouTube – 3 Guys from Pittsboro having lunch at the Plant with Caitlin Murphy (part 1) – 12.4.25
Three Guys from Pittsboro Enjoy Lunch at Kingston Kitchen, Discuss Oxtail, Jerk Chicken, and Special Guest Caitlin Murphy.
00:06 Three friends enjoy a lunch discussion and decide on restaurant options.
- Initially planned to eat Mexican but opted for Kingston Kitchen, highlighting their changing preferences.
- Conversation includes humorous insights about oxtail and a variety of other Jamaican food options like jerk chicken.
02:21 Caitlin Murphy discusses her quick promotion as Interim Communication Director.
- Caitlin has been with the town for over a year and is aiming to solidify her position soon.
- She recalls her interview experience, highlighting common tough questions about strengths and weaknesses.
04:28 Caitlin shares her dance experience and discusses local dining.
- Caitlin reflects on a rewarding dance performance choreographed to her father’s music during her senior year.
- The group enjoys lunch from the Jamaican kitchen at The Plant, a recommended local spot.
06:29 Discussion on local community engagement and demographics in Pender County.
- The members of the community engaged in a rewarding citizens academy program, PBO 101, focusing on local governance.
- Pender County’s population can surge from 60,000 to nearly a million during the summer, complicating local elections.
08:40 Discussion on local leadership programs and unexpected findings during renovations.
- The Chatham County Leadership Academy and Pittsboro 101 provide valuable insights into community dynamics.
- During renovations, nine unexpected tanks and historical artifacts were discovered, raising questions about local history.
10:44 Contaminated dirt removal reveals historical artifacts and a surprise grave discovery.
- Dump trucks are transporting contaminated soil to Georgia, uncovering vintage wheels from the 1930s.
- While excavating, a skeleton was found, prompting the involvement of archaeologists to handle the situation.
13:05 Archaeological findings reveal historical burial sites linked to a wealthy Revolutionary War figure.
- Nine grave sites and seven bodies were discovered under a church annex, including a wealthy individual named Nathan Steedman.
- Steedman, captured during the Revolutionary War, was buried with unique features, suggesting his high social status and significant history.
15:53 Discussion on the ceremonial burial tradition and its historical context.
- Greg describes the involvement of the Sons of the Revolution in a ceremonial burial, emphasizing their traditional attire.
- The group discusses the history of the burial site near the Methodist church and its connection to the Stedman family.