BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Martin County’s biggest weekend will feature not only music, food and fun, but also a story rooted in the county’s past. Author Harry H. Reed will hold a signing for his new book “Tongues of Deception” during the Martin County Harvest Festival Sept. 12–13.

The book revisits the infamous 1933 Lucinda Mills human sacrifice case near Tomahawk, a chilling episode that placed Martin County in headlines across the nation. The trial took place inside the old courthouse in Inez and members of the so-called “Cult of the Unknown Tongues” were jailed in town.

Reed’s connection is by both blood and marriage to many of the individuals involved. He says the project is as much a personal exploration as it is a historical account.

Adding to the excitement, director Libby Ewing, winner of the Tribeca Film Festival Founder’s Award, is adapting “Tongues of Deception” into a feature film. Reed expects the production to bring national attention and potential economic opportunities to Martin County.

“This is not only a chance to preserve and share our history,” Reed said, “but also to showcase Martin County on a larger stage.”

Festivalgoers can meet the author and pick up a signed copy at his booth throughout the two-day event.

For more information, contact Harry H. Reed at 614-448-7470 or hreed2@columbus.rr.com.