Even back in its infancy, Red River attracted interesting characters, individualists to say the least. The early days saw slippery wheeler dealer E.I. Jones who was almost lynched. The demure but theatrical Winnie Oldham Hamilton, English husband Walter, and Winnie’s scarlet-clad alter ego Rosie opened Tall Pine Lodge in the 30s, to the ongoing delight of all. The late 80s saw the coming of wannabe Black Watch Colonel Brian O’Brien (né Hudson) who was constantly trying to sell all a piece of his mine to the unwary, complete with pocket microscope, and asking for a “wee shot of Jameson’s” in the bargain.

The last two decades have not disappointed - bringing their own rash of colorful individuals, not the least of whom is John Pilgreen of Louisiana and sometimes Red River. In summer you can usually spot John at Mountain Treasures, a handsome gray-haired man with well-groomed beard and an unlit cigar stub stuck in his lip. He can frequently be seen regaling naive visitors with entertaining tales of dubious veracity. In addition to being quite imaginative, John is an exceptional poker player and has raised a great deal of money for fish stocking in charity tournaments. John is perhaps most visible during Mardi Gras season when his real self emerges. A lovable and generous man in spite of his occasional bizarre appearance during Mardi Gras. One of the good guys.

On the female side of the equation, we have Beth Hodges - aka FiFi, Marie Laveau, Miss Molly and so many more - an identity crisis perhaps? In her Beth incarnation she is behind the desk at Town Hall, a feisty red-headed woman who keeps everyone jumping. In the blink of an eye she can morph into Madame Fifi, often seen on the Trolley doing historical tours or hanging out on a balcony with her “doves” during the Days of 1895 celebration. Come Mardi Gras, the Voodoo Queen emerges complete with bones and gris-gris. Very Scary. Whatever her current incarnation, you can count on Beth to be entertaining and dress for the occasion.