Julia Belle Young Sinclair 1881-1974
The original julia belle
"Who is Julia Belle?" This is a question I get asked a lot since we opened our humble restaurant in the Pee Dee State Farmers Market. The name is a family name given to my great-grandmother. Born Julia Belle Young in 1881, she married my great-grandfather, John Hampton Sinclair, and together they had eight children.
Julia Belle was a strong willed and hard-working mother with a gentle and loving heart. She loved the Lord and lived her life in a reflection of that love. I remember her being the most happy when she was surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grands, usually cooking great meals for us. This was one of her favorite things to do; serve her family and to make sure we were always well fed.
Julia Belle’s servant heart and joy in providing great meals embodies what our restaurant stands for. We strive to humbly serve just as my great-grandmother, Julia Belle, once served me and the rest of the family. When you come to Julia Belle’s, you are family, and we hope you leave with a full stomach and a happy heart!
My Story
“Grateful”, this word totally describes how I feel about serving my family, employees and guest at Julia Belle’s Restaurant.
A few years ago after taking inventory of my life, and was not happy with what I saw. I had let the day to day drudgery of working long hours and raising a family consume me. I asked myself a question, “Is my life a good story?” The simple answer was no. I was caught up chasing things that would never bring me fullness of joy. I thank God for giving me the desire to reflect and the opportunity to re-direct my journey. Given this second chance, I prayed for a new vision and the wisdom to proceed.
It has been a privileged to carry on my great-grandmother's legacy of hospitality. I am grateful to come to work every day and serve my family, my staff and our wonderful visitors who find us at Julia Belle’s Restaurant. To me it is more than a business, it is my destiny. It is what I have been called to do, for such a time as this.
Fran Thompson Snell - Owner/Operator Julia Belle's est 12/13/14