Echoes of Appalachia
“Stories, culture, and memories from the heart of Appalachia.”
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recent posts
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about
Author: Tim Carmichael
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Mistletoe, with its glossy green leaves and white berries, is a prominent feature in the Appalachian landscape during the winter months. Although not native to the region, this evergreen plant has become a well-known presence in the Appalachian forests. Mistletoe thrives on hardwood trees like oaks, maples, and hickories, growing high in the treetops where…
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The Appalachian region is rich in folklore and traditions, particularly when it comes to the holiday season. Christmas in the mountains has long been a time for celebrating with family, food, and a strong sense of community. Alongside the merrymaking, the people of Appalachia have woven a tapestry of superstitions and weather predictions that not…
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William “Fighting Billy” Tipton, renowned for his service in the War of 1812, is often associated with the early history of Cades Cove, though there is no record of him ever actually living there. In 1821, Tipton received a land grant and combined this 1,280-acre plot with previous holdings, helping to shape the region’s early…
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When I share stories about growing up in the mountains of Western North Carolina, people often look at me like I’m telling a tale from the 1800s. It’s hard to believe, but in many ways, life in that small community, a community called Spillcorn tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains was like living in a…
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The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness. But for many, including myself, Christmas can also bring feelings of sadness, grief, and loneliness. As the world around us celebrates, some of us struggle with the absence of loved ones, and the holidays can feel like a stark reminder of…
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Appalachia, a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, has long been known for its rugged mountains, lush forests, and tight-knit communities. For generations, coal mining has been the backbone of the local economy, providing jobs and fueling the nation’s industrial growth. However, this industry’s methods have come at a steep environmental and human…
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I woke up at 3 AM last night with my heart pounding, still heavy with emotion from the dream I’d just experienced. It was one of those dreams that felt so real, so vivid, it lingered in my chest long after I opened my eyes. It was a dream of my little Appalachian granny and…
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In the Appalachian Mountains, holidays were once celebrated in a way that was anything but quiet. Forget the sweet harmony of modern-day carolers; back in the day, people would take part in a boisterous tradition known as serenadin’. This loud and rowdy custom involved a group of friends or neighbors gathering after dark, armed with…
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The Civil War in Appalachia was a conflict that tore through the mountains and valleys of the Southern highlands, a region that often found itself torn between loyalties to the Union and the Confederacy. For many people living in the Appalachian foothills, the war wasn’t simply about ideology or grand strategy—it was personal, and it…
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In the heart of Appalachia, where the mountains meet the sky, Christmas was a time for community, reflection, and old traditions passed down through generations. Among the most charming and enduring practices was the tradition of the paper poke—a simple yet heartwarming custom that brought joy to both young and old alike. These small, lunch-sized…
Echoes of Appalachia 