Little Brown Jug

In a modest workshop where leather, string and brass meet, a tight‑knit family runs a shoes‑making business that has passed down through generations. John Nutter, the seasoned cobbler, keeps his bench steady while his apprentice Ned learns the trade, and his wife Hannah and daughter Mary tend the home. The shop’s simple rhythm is punctuated by the chatter of neighbors and the occasional city‑slicker who drops by.

Will Nutter, John’s son, feels the pull of a wider world and dreams of swapping hammers for headlines. He argues with his father about the limits of a humble trade, while the flamboyant Yankee speculator Jarius Jordan spins stories of profit and opportunity. Their banter stirs both admiration and unease, as the town watches the clash between steady craftsmanship and restless ambition.

The first act sets the stage for a lively exploration of loyalty, aspiration and the pull of change, all delivered with a blend of humor and heartfelt dialogue that invites listeners into the heart of the community.