Miriam Katherine Efird was born on this day in 1901, in Winston-Salem. Her parents were Jason Adam and Mary Stafford Efird. Since her father managed the Phoenix Hotel, and that is where her family lived, that is where Miriam was born. The Phoenix Hotel was located on the corner of West Fourth and Liberty Streets.
Miriam graduated from R. J. Reynolds High School, Salem College, and the University of Wisconsin at Madison. She taught English and Biology for three years at Salem Academy. In 1929 she traveled around the world, spending much time in India, Southeast Asia, China and Japan.
Miriam married William King Hoyt in 1935. At that time, he was business manager of the Winston-Salem Journal and Sentinel. Later he became president of Piedmont Publishing Company.
In 1937 Miriam and William restored the Ebert-Reich house in Old Salem, and they made it their home. It was the first house privately restored for personal occupancy in Old Salem.
Miriam participated in many civic organizations and activities. For almost 20 years she headed the Tree Committee of the Winston-Salem Garden Council. During this time she implemented the planting of hundreds of trees along public roadways. In conjunction with this work, she served on the City Beautification Committee of Winston-Salem Garden Club Council, and the Horticultural Committee of Old Salem.
Miriam passed away in 1998.
Photo courtesy of Forsyth County Public Library Photograph Collection.
