By Kaitlyn Eichelberger
After years of competing in the Preston County Buckwheat Festival’s livestock shows, James “Jimmy” Peaslee has achieved a longtime goal — earning the title of King Buckwheat.
Preston High School senior and Albright resident Peaslee is a fourth-generation farmer raising goats, sheep, cattle, chickens and a hay crop on his family farm.
“He has a passion for representing the county and agriculture,” said General Chairman Nick Taylor. “He’s shown animals for a lot of years.”
Peaslee is an active member of the Preston County FFA Chapter, the Lenox Loyal Workers 4H Club and the Preston County Livestock Association.
Before the final pageant, Peaslee was interviewed by judges and provided a tour of his farm.
Since his crowning, Peaslee has traveled the county accompanied by Queen Ceres Taylor Holt. The pair have taken part in 10 parades, attended the State Fair of West Virginia, visited Preston County schools to speak to students, volunteered for the Food for Preston event and more.
“I have had a really fun time with the court doing all the parades and events,” said Peaslee.
Peaslee will represent Preston County at the Buckwheat Festival Thursday through October 2, and continue to participate in the fair’s livestock shows.
“With the Buckwheat Festival coming up, I am really looking forward to exhibiting my livestock and spending time with the court and others involved in the festival,” he said.
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