Farmer James of James Pecan Farms is the author of a children’s book entitled Wham and Petey: The Harvest. In the book the characters, Wham and Petey, accidentally fall off Farmer James’ shaker truck and overcome many trials before finally being reunited with Farmer James and the pecans.

James Pecan Farms brought the children’s book to life in their new theatre called Wham and Petey’s Pop-up Theatre. Located three miles east of Brunswick, the new theatre features a story about the familiar hammer and nut which has been James Pecan Farm, Inc’s business logo for many years. These characters were originally conceived as adversaries but in this tale, Wham Hammer and Petey Pecan become friends and cooperate to find their way and their purpose. Each has unique gifts and talents which they employ to bless the other to attain their goal.

The performance features Farmer James reading the book and acting out the scenes as the audience sees the pictures on an eight-foot by eight-foot giant pop-up book with “countrified special effects.” Steve Yarbrough of Marceline rendered the delightful artwork for both of Farmer James’ books. Farmer James’ original songs were produced and performed by Jamie Page, who sings with Damien Shafer, Fayette, and Cathy Cox of Columbia, MO.

The program lasts approximately an hour. The price of the show is five dollars per person and large groups (up to eighty per show) are welcome by reservation. Regular performances are open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays (1:00, 2:30, and 4:30 p.m.).

Wham and Petey’s Pop-up Theatre adjoins The Nut Hut where pecans, hicans, walnuts, and many kinds of candy and other treats are available, as well as a gift shop where Farmer James’ book and CD are offered. The gift shop also has Americana items, t-shirts, and many other foods, household, and gift items.

Adjacent to the Nut Hut and Wham and Petey’s Pop-up Theatre is the George and Elizabeth James Pecan Museum with interesting exhibits about their sixty-four years in the pecan industry. Mr. and Mrs. James operated throughout six decades, beginning in the era of entirely manual harvesting of pecans and finishing in an era of almost entirely mechanical processes of harvesting and preparing pecans for resale. The visitor will learn about the different stages of these processes. The museum appeals to those interested in Brunswick history, grafting, and other facets of the pecan business and includes a video presentation. The price of admission to the museum and a tour of the facility is $3.00 per person.

Visit G.W. Treehopper’s Sweet Tooth Confectionery for ice cream, slushy’s, and other warmer treats seasonally. For more information on James Pecan Farms, Inc. visit their page in the AgriMissouri™ Buyer’s Guide or contact them at (660) 548-3427 or nuthut@mcmsys.com.