Category: Appalachian Mountains
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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…
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One of my favorite holiday traditions is finding an orange in my Christmas stocking. It’s a simple gesture, but it always fills me with a little extra joy. Have you ever wondered where this tradition came from and why an orange is so special? Well, it actually has deep roots in history, and I’d love…
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As the holiday season approaches, one of the most heartwarming and magical traditions in the Appalachian region is the arrival of the Santa Train. This annual event, which rolls through the scenic yet often overlooked corners of East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and Eastern Kentucky, brings the joy of Christmas to communities that might otherwise be…
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Growing up in Appalachia, there were certain customs that might seem strange to outsiders, but to us, they were just a part of life. One of the most poignant traditions in our mountain community was sitting up with the dead, a practice that goes beyond what people might think of as “creepy” or unsettling. For…
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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…
Echoes of Appalachia 