On February 2, Groundhog Day brings thousands of people together from all over the world to celebrate the prediction of a furry forecaster.
Punxsutawney Phil: Appalachia’s Furry Forecaster
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Appalachian Stories
From Grandma’s reciepes to great hiking trails to scary stories to tell at the campfire, you’ll find it all right here as you explore mountain life.
History and Culture
Veteran’s Day – Let Us Never Forget
Every year, every November 11th we honor, remember and give memorial to our veterans. To the fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters, cousins, Aunts and Uncles, and friends, who answered the call of duty. To those who didn’t make it home, to those who served and...
Love on the Mountain: Appalachian Valentine Day Traditions
Cupid’s arrow finds its mark when it comes to love and Appalachian Valentine Day traditions. Affections and courting weren’t about fancy restaurants or diamond rings for our ancestors. Instead, they celebrate love in a simple, strong and true fashion.
Ode to Spring
Another archaic definition of Spring is the dawn or dawning as of day or light. I like this one too, because for many living things it is indeed the dawning of a new day, the dawning of new life.All in all, Spring is the thing!
From Oppression to Leadership: The Luck of the Scotch-Irish
Saint Patrick’s Day on the mountain is a perfect time to sip green cocktails and reflect on our rich Scotch-Irish history. Our ancestors escaped British oppression, facing turbulent ocean voyages and wilderness hardships to start life anew. They gifted us with mesmerizing lore, lively music, a rich culture, and the luck of the Irish!
Hunt, Tallow and a Wick: The Appalachian Art of Candle Making
Scented candles brighten a room, soothing our senses. Candles were hand crafted necessities for our ancestors, made from nature. A successful hunt, tallow and a wick once made the Appalachian art of candle making.
Modern Day Candle Making In Appalachia
Candles have been used as a source of light for more than 5,000 years, yet little is known about their origin. We do know that candles played an important role in early religious ceremonies. Use of candles in ceremonies can be traced back all the way to Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, in 165 B.C.
Secret Tunnels Under Asheville
It has long been rumored that there once was a vast network of secret tunnels under Asheville, NC. Legends of sunless bootlegger routes, abandoned subway tunnels, and hidden passages beneath the Masonic temple are hinted at by locals, bartenders, and Haunted Asheville tour guides alike.
UFO Sightings and Stories Throughout Appalachia
Learn about local Appalachia UFO stories from West Virginia journalist, Kyle Lovern and how the town of Flatwoods became known as “Home of the Green Monster.” Take a UFO tour and learn about the history of Appalachia’s UFO sightings.
This West Virginia Company Turns Coal Into Art
West Virginia is well known for being a coal state. The most common use for coal is coal-fired electricity generation. A Company in Raleigh County, West Virginia, however, is using coal in a much more creative way.