About Us
The Pop Top Checkers Tournament Founders
The Pop Top Checkers Tournament was founded by two long-time residents of Waxhaw, Mark Hernig and Gladys Kerr. Both individuals remember fondly the Waxhaw of long ago when the center of town was not just for shopping, but a place where neighbors met to catch up, share news, and when a game of checkers was a favorite pastime.
The Pop Top Checkers Tournament promises to be a premier event in the world of checkers, held annually in the historic town of Waxhaw, North Carolina. Our tournament celebrates the rich history and strategic depth of checkers, bringing together enthusiasts from across the region. Participants and spectators alike are treated to a unique blend of competitive play and cultural exploration, as the event is set against the backdrop of Waxhaw’s charming historical district.
Our mission is to return, briefly, to a time in the past where checkers and its intellectual challenge had a timeless appeal. We are committed to providing a platform where both seasoned players and newcomers can engage in this classic game, fostering a sense of community and sportsmanship.
The 2025 Pop Top Checkers Tournament is a memorial event; in memory of two gentlemen who played an important part in the history of Waxhaw – William Henry Collins and Robert Maxwell McCain.
Mark’s great-grandfather, William Henry Collins (W.H. Collins; 1873 – 1956), played a prominent role in Waxhaw history.
Henry Collins moved to Waxhaw in 1907, at the age of 34, and first worked at the A. W. Heath Mercantile. Collins became a leading citizen and respected business owner in the community, and even served as mayor. In 1911 he purchased an existing livery stable barn and business, that became W.H. Collins & Son. Today that business is known as the Mule Barn Mercantile. Henry’s son, John Collins, upon his return from WWI, join his father in the business. It served the town folk and farmers in an array of ways until Henry’s passing in 1956 at the age of 83.
Gladys’ father, Robert Maxwell McCain (1900 – 1984), was a merchant on East South Main Street.
Maxwell McCain managed a general store on Main Street in Waxhaw for 45 years. He sold everything from feed and seed to overalls and flour! The store operated a cotton gin, and McCain was a cotton buyer. His home, where he lived with his wife and 3 children, was two blocks from the store. Currently, the very popular restaurant, Maxwell’s Tavern is located in the old store building.
You can view our Pop Top brochure below. Scroll down to download or print the brochure.
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You can download and/or print our 2025 Pop Top Brochure using the button below.
The 2025 Pop Top Tournament brochure for download.