Echoes of Appalachia

In the heart of Appalachia, the story of Federick Messer stands out as a testament to the region’s rich history and resilient spirit. Born on August 12, 1792, in Lincoln County, North Carolina, along the south fork of the Catawba River, Fed’s remarkable life spanned over a century, making him a living connection to a bygone era. While family researchers suggest he may have actually been born in 1791, the date on his tombstone in the cemetery near Panther Creek Baptist Church immortalizes him as a man of enduring legacy.

Roots in Revolutionary History

Fed Messer was the son of Christian Sergeant Messer, a veteran of the Revolutionary War. This heritage of courage and dedication influenced Fed’s upbringing. Around 1796, Christian moved the family to what is now Haywood County, settling initially in Dutch Cove. Over time, they found their home in the Panther Creek community along the lower Pigeon River, where Fed would live out his long and colorful life.

Interestingly, Fed had vivid memories of the family’s journey to the mountains. He recounted a notable incident where he was bitten by a dog while passing through Asheville, which at the time may have still been known as Morristown. He also remembered the somber atmosphere that surrounded the death of George Washington in 1799, a poignant moment that marked his early years.

A Life of Adventure and Family

Fed Messer was born with an adventurous spirit, destined to roam the forests and embrace the thrill of the hunt. He eventually acquired land in White Oak, downstream from Panther Creek, and married Anna Hunter, a native of Wilmington. The details of how a mountain man met a coastal woman remain shrouded in mystery. Interestingly, though records suggest he was 25 when he married, he was actually 35. Anna, based on her tombstone, was only 13 when she became his bride.

Together, Fed and Anna had nine children, and their life was filled with the joys and challenges of family. Anna passed away in 1894 at the age of 79, and Fed would outlive all of their children except for one—his daughter Sue, who devoted her life to caring for him. He fondly reminisced about his daughters, sharing that the others had moved westward, pursuing their own dreams.

The Hunter’s Legacy

Fed Messer was renowned for his hunting prowess. “Yes sir, I was a great hunter after bear, deer, and turkeys,” he told a reporter. He boasted about his remarkable feats, claiming to have killed 26 deer in one day, 32 turkeys in another, and even four bears in a single outing. His skills and stories made him a legendary figure in the region, reflecting the deep connection between the people of Appalachia and the land they inhabited.

On Feb. 21, 1907, the Charlotte Observer reported that “A long distance telephone message from Waynesville last night conveyed the intelligence that Federic Messer of White Oak Township, Haywood County, died Sunday night,” At the time of his death, the Observer reported, Messer was the oldest white man in North Carolina, if not in the South.

Conclusion

Federick Messer’s life is a rich tapestry of adventure, history, and family. As we reflect on his remarkable journey—from his birth in the early 19th century to his vibrant life in the Appalachian Mountains—we are reminded of the enduring spirit of the region and its people. Fed’s story serves as a bridge to the past, a celebration of the tenacity and love that define the Appalachian way of life. His legacy continues to inspire those who seek to honor the rich heritage of this beautiful region.