Echoes of Appalachia
“Stories, culture, and memories from the heart of Appalachia.”
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recent posts
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Category: Appalachian food
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In the Appalachian Mountains, where the ridges and valleys shape both the land and the people, many families have a tradition of laying their loved ones to rest on mountaintops. For my family, that tradition lives on in Spillcorn, a small community tucked away in Marshall, North Carolina. It’s where my grandparents, great-grandparents, my mother,…
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As the calendar turns and we usher in a new year, many of us seek ways to cleanse, rejuvenate, and set intentions for the months ahead. For those living in or connected to the Appalachian region, the ritual of using herbs, roots, leaves, and bark carries deep cultural significance. Rooted in ancient traditions and passed…
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Growing up in Appalachia, I quickly learned that the region is far more than its stunning landscapes or its distinctive dialect. Appalachian culture is a rich blend of practices, customs, and values passed down through generations. It is a way of life shaped by the creativity and resourcefulness of the people who live here. From…
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With Christmas just around the corner, it brings with it the sweet scent of baking, the joy of gift-giving, and cherished family traditions. One such tradition that has warmed homes for generations is making homemade hard candy at Christmas. The process of crafting this festive treat is as much a part of the holiday spirit…
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Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains, we didn’t have much. My family lived below the poverty line, and my mother did everything she could to provide for us. She worked long hours, stretched every penny, and made sure we had a roof over our heads, food on the table, and the lights kept on. But…
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The Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted for most of the 1930s, was one of the most difficult times in American history. For millions of families across the country, it meant widespread poverty, unemployment, and hardship. But for children growing up in Appalachia—a region already struggling with poverty—this period was especially harsh. In…
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In the Appalachian Mountains, where history, folklore, and nature intertwine, New Year’s is about more than just ringing in the passing year—it’s about ensuring a prosperous, healthy, and safe year ahead. Passed down through generations, Appalachian customs and superstitions are rich with meaning, offering guidance for the coming year, particularly in food security, family wellbeing,…
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It’s been two months since the devastating floods hit Marshall, North Carolina, transforming the picturesque town into a scene of destruction. Homes were submerged, businesses lost, and countless residents found themselves displaced. As the floodwaters receded, the real work began — the arduous task of cleanup, rebuilding, and recovery. While volunteers, local officials, and residents…
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There’s something magical about a good slice of cornbread. It’s warm, comforting, and somehow always brings a bit of nostalgia with every bite. This simple recipe, passed down from Granny, is the kind of cornbread you make when you want to feel at home, no matter where you are. It’s crispy on the outside, tender…
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The Appalachian Mountains, with their mist-covered peaks and deep, secluded valleys, have long been a place of mystery and legend. For centuries, people living in these rugged hills have clung to a rich tapestry of folklore, much of which is steeped in superstition. These beliefs, shaped by the region’s isolation and close connection to the…
Echoes of Appalachia 