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Enjoy our collection of oral histories from elders throughout the South. This Archive is copyrighted by the Center for Cultural Preservation and is for personal use only. Any other use of this Archive or its images, sound, text or video for public distribution is prohibited without express permission.

African American Culture

Alma Avery

Alma Avery was a resident of Bat Cave, NC, working as a farmer and a factory worker.

Amythyst Kiah

Amythyst Kiah, an American singer-songwriter and a student of Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music, shares her musical journey, her passion for old-time music, and the history around it.

Beatrice Gilbert

Beatrice talks about growing up in Overtown and her concerns for the area.

Cece Conway

Cece Conway, a Professor of English and Folklore at Appalachian State University, talks about the African Roots of the Banjo and the history of black musicians.

Cora Young Interview

Cora Young was a native of the Brooklyn section of Hendersonville.

David Holt

David Holt, singer, songwriter, and storyteller talks about his passion for music, "I wanted to play the music. I loved the sound of the music and I know I didn’t want to do anything else."

Dom Flemons

Dom Flemons, known as the American Songster and musician, talks about how he has spent a good deal of his career advocating for traditional music in different ways.

Enid Pinckney – Overtown History

Enid Pinckney is the founding President and CEO of the historic Hampton House Community Trust and grew up in Overtown, FL and knows the history of this historic African-American community. .

Justin Robinson

Justin Robinson, who grew up in a musical family, discusses what led him to explore the African American string band traditions.

Marvin Dunn on Overtown History

Marvin Dunn in an historian who discusses Overtown history and the lessons we can learn from the many attempts to obliterate black communities from the landscape.

Max Rameau – Overtown History

Max Rameau, founder of Take Back the Land, shares the history of Overtown in Miami-Dade County and the gentrification of the area that severely damaged a once-thriving African American community.

Paul George on Overtown History

Paul George looks back on 100 years of Overtown and Miami history giving a detailed analysis of lessons learned.

Phil Jamison

Phil Jamison, a traditional musician, player of old-time music, the fiddle, banjo, and guitar, and a dancer, discusses the history of the music and what it meant to him.

Reverend Greg Mathis

Rev. Greg Mathis of Mud Creek Baptist Church discusses his efforts to reconcile with Mud Creek Missionary Baptist Church and the black community that the church had discriminated against in its early days.

Reverend Matthew Tolleson

Reverend Matthew Tolleson was the minister of Mud Creek Missionary Baptist Church who was part of a reconciliation with Mud Creek Baptist Church who apologized for their prior racism on how they treated their black parishioners.

Rhiannon Giddens

Rhiannon Giddens, musician, singer, banjo player, educator, and founding member of The Carolina Chocolate Drops talks about African-American music and its place in the tapestry of folk music.

Sushma Sheth on Liberty City

Sushma Sheth, director of the Miami Workers Center, discusses the history of Miami's housing boom and bust and its effect on the displacement of its African-American residents and the continuing struggle for affordable housing.

Artisan Crafts

Betty Maney

Betty Maney, a member of the Big Cove Community and the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about learning the art of basket weaving.

Gabriel Crow

Gabriel Crow, a young Cherokee basket maker, talks about his passion for basket making and the Cherokee history of basket making and keeping the tradition alive.

Marie Hall

Marie Hall, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about her family and their history of basket making.

Mary Thompson on Cherokee Basketmaking

Mary Thompson discusses basketmaking and its role in Cherokee life.

Max Woody – 5th Generation Chairmaker

Max Woody, a chairmaker and fiddler, talks about Old Fort Music, his long career as a master chairmaker, and his involvement with the town of Old Fort, NC.

Max Woody- Tour of His Wood Shop

Max Woody, master chairmaker, tours his woodshop, shows his equipment and furniture and discusses woodworking and the changes he has seen over the years.

Robert Morgan at Flat Rock Middle (2015)

Robert Morgan is an award-winning novelist and poet and 8th generation member of the Green River Valley.
Black Education

Cora Young Interview

Cora Young was a native of the Brooklyn section of Hendersonville.
Carolina Village History

Anita Pittman-Storm – Carolina Village History

Anita Storm discusses her career, life, and the people who helped create Carolina Village.

Betty Hensley – Carolina Village

Betty Hensley, Carolina Village long time employee discusses her 23-year history with Carolina Village.

Dan Williams, Carolina Village

Dan Williams, Board member for Carolina Village, explains how Carolina Village has grown and his personal experience with family there.

David Kelly - Carolina Village

David Kelly discusses the history of Carolina Village and what drew him to become actively engaged with it

Doley Bell

Doley Bell was one of the founders of Carolina Village and he discusses his involvement and what makes Carolina Village special.

Ken Youngblood - Carolina Village History

Ken Youngblood was one of the founders and visionaries for the birth of the Carolina Village retirement community.

Marion Lowry

Marion Lowry, a long-time resident at Carolina Village, talks about the Wellness Program and its benefits, all its activities, and her various roles over the years.

Phyllis Smith

Phyllis Smith, PR Specialist for Carolina Village, discusses what makes CV so different from all the other retirement homes.

Shirley Owens- Carolina Village

Shirley is a CNA and has been at Carolina Village for 33 years, she discusses her career at Carolina Village and what makes it so special.

Churches

George Oldham

George Oldham, a practicing Quaker and resident of the mountains for years, shares an oral account of his life.

Reverend Greg Mathis

Rev. Greg Mathis of Mud Creek Baptist Church discusses his efforts to reconcile with Mud Creek Missionary Baptist Church and the black community that the church had discriminated against in its early days.

Reverend Matthew Tolleson

Reverend Matthew Tolleson was the minister of Mud Creek Missionary Baptist Church who was part of a reconciliation with Mud Creek Baptist Church who apologized for their prior racism on how they treated their black parishioners.

Environment and Sustainability

Aaron Bradley

Aaron Bradley, whose family has been farming for generations, explains why he is farming sustainably and his relationship with the Hendersonville, Co-op.

Amelia Taylor

Amelia Taylor, a whitewater river guide and organizer for Cweet, Clean Water Expected in East Tennessee, talks about the Pigeon River and the pollution.

Andrews Agyekumhene

Andrews Agyekumhene is from Ghana and works with the Wildlife Commission to protect sea turtles. He discusses his conservation work and how it connects to cultural preservation as well.

Anne Stokley

Anne Callison Stokely, Wilma Dykeman's daughter-in-law, reminisces about growing up connected to nature and the Stokley family.

Beau Carroll

Beau Carroll is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and is an Archaeologist for the EBCI Tribal Historic Preservation Office. He talks about his projects and Cherokee Culture.

Betty Osceola

Betty Osceola, a member of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida from the Panther Clan, talks about being raised in the Everglades and the changes she and her family have experienced.

Betty Osceola Tour of Everglades

During a tour of the Everglades Betty Osceola discusses the changes to the Everglades caused by pollution, overgrown vegetation, and the disruption of natural water cycles due to human interventions.

Bill Holbrook

Bill Holbrook, a sixth-generation farmer, talks about his passion for his family history, farming, and the land.

Bradley Rosendorf

Bradley Rosendorf, an Education and Outreach Associate for the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, talks about the programs he runs, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, and what she inspires in the students.

Brandon Kyle Jeter

Brandon Kyle Jeter, a teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, describes the inspiration and creation of Marjory's Garden.

Chief Anthony Davidson, Edisto Tribe

Chief Anthony Davidson, the chief of the Edisto people, discusses the history of his people, their traditions, and their connection to nature.

Chris Wilson

Chris Wilson discusses how industrialization and urbanization led people to turn to historical revivals and fraternal organizations for a sense of stability and identity.

Chuck Schaffer

Chuck discusses turtles and the relationships humans have had with turtles. He shares some Native American stories and folklore surrounding the turtle.

Cliff Ruth, Growing Agriculture Sustainably

Cliff Ruth, who worked for the Henderson County Extension Service explains the BMP, Best Management Practices, for conserving the quality of the water in WNC. Cliff explains how to keep sediment out of the streams and demonstrates how to build a rain garden and the best plants to grow.

Connie Washburn

Connie Washburn, a longtime resident of South Florida and member of the Friends of the Everglades, talks about her passion for the Everglades and Marjory Stoneman Douglas' desire to protect the Everglades.

David Whitmire

David Whitmire owner of Headwaters Outfitters, shares his knowledge of and passion for the streams and rivers in WNC.

Deborah Bahr

Deborah Bahr, a social activist, talks about her campaign and passion to bring about environmental and social changes for future generations.

DWQ Brett Laverty on Protecting Water Quality

Brett Laverty works for NCDEQ focusing on the monitoring of water quality in Western North Carolina.

Eric Romanizyne

Eric Romanizyne, the executive director for Haywood Waterways Association, talks about the challenges and success he has seen during his career.

Gay Webb

Gay Webb, Cocke County Tennessee resident, Korean War Veteran, and environmental activist, talks about his 30-year battle to get the Pigeon River cleaned up.

Gray Jernigan

Gray Jernigan is a Greenriver keeper, he works for MountainTrue, and he explains the importance of what he does to protect the natural environment.

History of the Chestnut with Anne Rogers, Gordon McKinney and Tom Saielli

A cultural program focused on chestnut loss, the role chestnuts played in Appalachian life and ecosystems and what we can learn from this history.

Jack Frazier

The Fascinating World of Marine Turtles: Insights from Biologist Jack Frazier

Jamie Brown

Jamie Brandon Brown, a native of Cocke County, talks about the Pigeon River before and after Champion Paper came to the area and the efforts to clean up the river.

Jane Hargreaves

Jane Hargreaves, an invasive plant specialist who started work in 2013 on the Humphrey Farm, removing invasive plants, talks about the importance of removing invasive plants.

Jill Hodges

Jill Hodges who an activist on behalf of the Pigeon River Gorge area, talks about the fight to clean up the Pigeon River.

Jim Stokely

James R. Stokely the III, the youngest son of James R. Stokely Jr. and Wilma Dykeman, talks about Wilma and her connection to and passion for the environment.

Joel McCraw

Joel McCraw, a Henderson County farmer, details how he developed his property into an artificial wetland.

John Humphrey

John Humphrey, who, at 102, remains active on his farm in Mills River. John has been practicing land conservancy for over half a century.

Kevin Howell, Davidson River Outfitters

Kevin Howell, owner of Davidson River Outfitters discusses water quality of the rivers in Transylvania and Henderson County.

Lexi Smith on Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Lexi Smith talks about Marjory Stoneman Douglas, her inspiration to the students in the high school, and the impact she had on environmentalists.

Lexi Smith on Marjory's Garden

Lexi Smith shares her passion for Marjory's Garden, which was built by students of Marjorie Stone Douglas High School.

Maggie Hurchalla

Maggie Hurchalla of Stewart, Florida talks about being an environmental advocate and her passion for protecting and preserving the Everglades.

Marci Spencer

Marci Spencer, a native of Asheville NC, a nurse practitioner in cardiology, and emergency medicine who worked as a medical missionary in third-world countries, and an avid hiker talks about her family and the environment.

Margot Wallston

Margot Wallston, director of the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, discusses her work and the importance of protecting hemlocks and how they protect the watershed.

Matthew Tooni

Matthew Tooni, storyteller and musician, who grew up on the Qualla Boundary, the tribal lands of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, and continues to live there in the Painttown community, shares stories that are part of the Cherokee Culture.

Michele Skeele – Naturalist Tour of Jackson Park

Michele Skeele is a long-time Hendersonville native and naturalist who leads a nature walk along the trails in Jackson Park, Henderson County NC.

Nancy Basket Interview 2013

Nancy Basket, who has lived in South Carolina, talks about growing up as a Cherokee person, her culture, and her people.

Phil Allman

Phil Allman is a marine biologist who has worked in Ghana and the Wildlife Division on projects to save sea turtles.

Regina Goldkuhl

Regina Goldkuhl, water quality administrator and AmeriCorps member serving with Mountain True talks about the volunteer program that monitors the quality of the water in the surrounding area.

Roger Clapp

Roger Clapp a retired scientist of the Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River, talks about one of the things that he is most proud of—and that brings the kids together from the Cherokee, and from the community, which is learning about the fish weir.

Ron Moser

Ron Moser founding member and former leader of the Haywood Waterways, talks about his passion for water quality, and programs important to him, particularly Kids in the Creek and Higher Creek Project.

Ruth Eaton

Ruth Eaton, the first cousin of Wilma Dykeman, talks about growing up in the mountains and her fond memories of Wilma.

Sandy Schenck- Green River Preserve

Sandy Schenck, founder of Green River Preserve discusses what his environmental camp stands for and what the concerns are about the Green River.

Sara Bell – Green River Adventures

Sara Bell of Green River Adventures talks about her passion for the Green River and the effect of river quality on her business and family.

Theron Maybin Farming Workshop

Theron Maybin, an eighth-generation farmer from the Green River Valley in North Carolina, discusses farming wisdom based on his family's experience and the Farmer's Almanac.

Thrisa Murphy

Thrisa discusses her family history that dates back to 1768 and how to live a sustainable lifestyle.

Wilma Dykeman Presentation by Jim Stokely

James R. 'Jim' Stokely III, Wilma Dykeman's son, shares the extraordinary life of his mother who was a writer, activist, and environmentalist.

Farming

Aaron Bradley

Aaron Bradley, whose family has been farming for generations, explains why he is farming sustainably and his relationship with the Hendersonville, Co-op.

Alma Avery

Alma Avery was a resident of Bat Cave, NC, working as a farmer and a factory worker.

Apple Country Tour with Marvin Owings

Marvin Owings, former member of Henderson County Cooperative Extension, gives a tour of Apple Country.

Betty Smith Interview

Betty Smith, acclaimed ballad singer, discusses her personal history as well as ballad traditions.

Bill Hill

Bill Hill, an 84-year-old resident of Polk County, talks about growing up on a farm and offers advice to the younger generation.

Bill Holbrook

Bill Holbrook, a sixth-generation farmer, talks about his passion for his family history, farming, and the land.

Bill Holbrook

Bill Holbrook, a sixth-generation farmer, talks about his passion for his family history, farming, and the land.

Cliff Ruth, Growing Agriculture Sustainably

Cliff Ruth, who worked for the Henderson County Extension Service explains the BMP, Best Management Practices, for conserving the quality of the water in WNC. Cliff explains how to keep sediment out of the streams and demonstrates how to build a rain garden and the best plants to grow.

Cora Young Interview

Cora Young was a native of the Brooklyn section of Hendersonville.

Drew Brannon

Drew Brannon, a lifelong resident of Henderson County and a farmer talks about his family's farming history and the 1916 flood.

Edison Capps

Edison Capps, a native and lifelong resident of Henderson County, talks about farming according to the Almanac and self-reliance

Effie Russell

Effie Russell talks about growing up in the 30s on a farm in rural Hendersonville, her strong work ethic, and her deep family connection.

Gladys Barnwell

Gladys Barnwell who was born and raised in Landrum SC, works at Barnwell Apple House and the Curb market, talks about growing up on a farm where they raised everything they needed.

Gloria Houston

Gloria Houston, author and educator, talks about growing up in Spruce Pine in the 1950s.

History of the Chestnut with Anne Rogers, Gordon McKinney and Tom Saielli

A cultural program focused on chestnut loss, the role chestnuts played in Appalachian life and ecosystems and what we can learn from this history.

Hubert Barnwell on His Aunt's Washpot

Hubert Barnwell talks about his Aunt Ollie, the 1916 flood, and her wash pot.

Jacobs Family Farm – Dean, Donya, Dahlia & Dawson

The Jacob Family chose to go back to farming to teach their children to live close to the land, grow their own food and learn to live with nature.

Jamie Brown

Jamie Brandon Brown, a native of Cocke County, talks about the Pigeon River before and after Champion Paper came to the area and the efforts to clean up the river.

Jane Hargreaves

Jane Hargreaves, an invasive plant specialist who started work in 2013 on the Humphrey Farm, removing invasive plants, talks about the importance of removing invasive plants.

Jerry Wolfe

Jerry Wolfe was a tribal elder of the Eastern band of the Cherokee in Western Carolina, and was named Beloved Man of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians – the first man to receive this honor in over 200 years

Joel McCraw

Joel McCraw, a Henderson County farmer, details how he developed his property into an artificial wetland.

John Humphrey

John Humphrey, who, at 102, remains active on his farm in Mills River. John has been practicing land conservancy for over half a century.

Larry Ball

Larry Ball, an 8th generation native of WNC, reminisces about growing up in Baker Heights, Duke Power, Oscar Meyer, and old cars.

Larry Ball on his Old Timey Equipment

Larry Ball, 8th generation elder of Henderson County, shares his passion for old-timey equipment.

Leon Pace

Leon Pace a native of Henderson County takes a tour of his garden and shares his family history.

Liz Enloe

Liz Enloe grew up in Edneyville and lived on Clear Creek, she discusses growing up in this community.

Louise Hill

Louise Hill a native of North Carolina talks about wild flowers, her family and growing up in the mountains of NC.

Lullabelle Capps

Lullabelle Williams Capps, who was born at home with a midwife, talks about her family and growing up on Sugarloaf Mountain.

Mark Elliot

Mark Elliot discusses growing up in the Black Mountain area in the 1930s and farming.

Norman Lyda

The Lyda Family settled in what is now Henderson County in the late 1700s. Norman is part of ~ the 6th generation of descendants.

Ollie Huntley

Ollie Huntley, who turned be 100 in July 2016 talks about Middle Fork and growing up after the flood of 1916.

Opal Parkinson Tour of Her Farm

Opal Parkinson, 8th generation native of Etowah, NC gives a tour of her farm.

Rebecca Earline Garrison Hornby

Rebecca Earline Garrison Hornby was born and raised on a farm in Haywood County where they raised just about everything they needed.

Robert Morgan at Flat Rock Middle (2015)

Robert Morgan is an award-winning novelist and poet and 8th generation member of the Green River Valley.

Sybil Freeman

Sybil Freeman was the Gerton, NC Postmaster, a farmer and came from a family that worked in the cotton mills.

Theron Maybin Farming Workshop

Theron Maybin, an eighth-generation farmer from the Green River Valley in North Carolina, discusses farming wisdom based on his family's experience and the Farmer's Almanac.

Thrisa Murphy

Thrisa discusses her family history that dates back to 1768 and how to live a sustainable lifestyle.

Floods and Freshets

Bill Carson

Bill Carson, retired and moved to Little Switzerland, becoming the owner of The Orchard at Altapass. He learned about the 1916 flood from elders in the area.

Bill Holbrook

Bill Holbrook, a sixth-generation farmer, talks about his passion for his family history, farming, and the land.

Drew Brannon

Drew Brannon, a lifelong resident of Henderson County and a farmer talks about his family's farming history and the 1916 flood.

Great Flood of 1916 Discussion Panel

Great Flood Panel Discussion with John Paul Jones, James Fox, McCrae Coates, Jennie Jones Giles, Toby Linville

Great Flood Panel Discussion

Great Flood Panel Discussion with John Paul Jones, James Fox, McCrae Coates, Jennie Jones Giles, Toby Linville

Hubert Barnwell and his Aunt’s Wash Pot

Hubert Barnwell talks about his Aunt Ollie, the 1916 flood, and her wash pot.

Hubert Barnwell on His Aunt's Washpot

Hubert Barnwell talks about his Aunt Ollie, the 1916 flood, and her wash pot.

Jennie Jones Giles On Flood of 1916

Jennie Jones Giles, a lifelong resident of Henderson County and historian, talks about the 1916 flood.

Jerry Moore

Jerry talks about stories he has heard about the 1916 flood and how we would survive if it happened again.

Jimmie Huntley

Jimmie Huntley, who was raised by his grandmother in Middle Fork, discusses the 1916 flood, his family and moonshine.

Joy Anders

Joy English Anders, who grew up in Yancey County, talks about her grandparents, the 1916 flood, and growing up in a rural community.

Liz Enloe

Liz Enloe grew up in Edneyville and lived on Clear Creek, she discusses growing up in this community.

Luverne Haydock

LuVerne Haydock a lifelong resident of the area talks about her family, the 1916 flood, and the effect it had on the family and the community.

Lynn Hensley

Lynn English Hensley, a native of Yancey County with strong ties to Henderson County, talks about her family and the 1916 flood.

Ollie Huntley

Ollie Huntley, who turned be 100 in July 2016 talks about Middle Fork and growing up after the flood of 1916.

Rick Wooten on the 1916 flood

Rick Wooten, a Senior Geologist, talks about Landslides in Western North Carolina

Sheila Walsh

Sheila Walsh, a resident of Middle Fork, shares family stories of the 1916 flood and her stories of the 1996 flood in the Chimney Rock area.

Shirley Corn

Shirley Corn who was born in Gerton and grew up in Bat Cave, talks about the 1916 flood and the impact it had on the communities of Bat Cave, Middle Fork, Chimney Rock, and Gerton.
Jewish Culture

Adrienne Cooper

Adrienne Cooper, the assistant executive director of the Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring, talks about the history of the Workmen's Circle, Yiddish culture, and the state of the Workmen's Circle in South Florida.

Al Weinstein – On Miami Jewish Culture

Al Weinstein discusses the importance of preserving the legacy of Jewish culture in South Florida and beyond.

Anna Rozenthal

Anna Rosenthal talks about her background, her family's immigration to Florida, and the Jewish way of life in Miami.

Ari Fuhrman

Born in a little town in Romania, Ari shares his family history, their WWII survival, immigration to America, and his career in Yiddish entertainment.

Ari Fuhrman on his History with Yiddish Theatre

Ari Fuhrman shares the historical background of Vaudeville and Yiddish Theater.

Ben Wolpe

Ben Wolpe reflects on the thriving Jewish community in South Beach about forty-five years ago, dominated by Cuban immigrants.

Charlotte Cooper

Charlotte Cooper, a Yiddish Actress, talks about her upbringing, her career as a Yiddish actress, and the Yiddish theater in the United States.

Corey Breier

Corey Breier discusses his family origins, their immigration to America, his connection to Yiddish theatre and Yiddish culture in South Florida.

David Nevel

Born in Miami, David Nevel talks about growing up in Miami, the Jewish community, and Wolfie's, his family's restaurant.

Deborah Dash Moore

Deborah Dash Moore, the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies director, explores the Jewish migration to Miami, particularly post-World War II.

Esta Salzman

Esta Salzman, born in Boston Massachusetts, talks about her career in the Yiddish theater, the other stars she worked with, and Yiddish culture.

Feder Sisters (Mimi Sloan and Sylvia Roebuck)

Mimi Sloan and Sylvia Roebuck, the Feder Sisters, were an internationally acclaimed Yiddish singing group and actresses who performed in Jewish theatre companies around the world.

Helen Spitz

Helen Spitz, an actress in Yiddish plays, shares her passion for Yiddish theater.

Hindi Diamond

Hindi is a Yiddish teacher and actress and was the first person in the state of Florida to introduce Yiddish at a college level.

Howie Pepper

Howie Pepper, a Yiddish cultural performer, talks about his life in the Yiddish theater.

Millie Nyman

Millie Nyman, born in the Bronx, talks about her family, growing up in NYC, Miami Beach, and her father establishing Yiddish Radio Miami.

Moreno Habif

Moreno, born in Cuba, talks about his family, growing up in Cuba, Castro, coming to Miami, and Jewish culture.

Moshe Bondar

Moshe Bondar discusses Jewish Miami Beach from the Cuban émigré perspective.

Paul George on Overtown History

Paul George looks back on 100 years of Overtown and Miami history giving a detailed analysis of lessons learned.

Moonshiners and Bootleggers

Dan Pierce – NASCAR and Moonshine

Dan Pierce, UNC Asheville history professor and writer, discusses his research into early NASCAR and its ties to moonshine.
Mountain Music Traditions

A Musical Conversation with David Holt

David Holt is a musician, storyteller, and entertainer. He discusses his life, his music, and the people who have influenced his career.

Amythyst Kiah

Amythyst Kiah, an American singer-songwriter and a student of Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music, shares her musical journey, her passion for old-time music, and the history around it.

Anna Rollins

Anna Rollins, who works at Mountain Music, discusses what it means to her and the community.

Barbara Willis and Old Fort Mountain Music History

Barbara Willis describes the origin and growth of a music venue in her community of Old Fort, which started in a woodworking shop 25 years ago and has since become a beloved destination for people worldwide.

Betty Smith Interview

Betty Smith, acclaimed ballad singer, discusses her personal history as well as ballad traditions.

Bo Taylor

Bo Taylor, former director of the Museum of the Cherokee People, talks about his Cherokee culture, the music, the dance, and why it is important to remember the traditions.

Bo Taylor Cherokee Presentation

James “Bo” Taylor Cherokee dancer and storyteller, introduces the audience to Cherokee dancing, powwow dancing, dance songs, and discussion of Cherokee history, culture, and stereotypes.

Bobby McMillon

Bobby McMillon of Yancy County shares the story of his ancestors and the history of Ballard singing.

Brett Riggs

Brett Riggs, Sequoyah professor of Cherokee Studies here at Western Carolina University, talks about the intersection of Cherokee heritage, history, culture, and string band music, both are lifelong interests.

Cal Calhoun

Cal Calhoun, Co-founder and emcee of The Carolina Barn Dance in Spruce Pine talks about his time at the Panama Canal and the success of the Carolina Theater.

Cece Conway

Cece Conway, a Professor of English and Folklore at Appalachian State University, talks about the African Roots of the Banjo and the history of black musicians.

David Holt

David Holt, singer, songwriter, and storyteller talks about his passion for music, "I wanted to play the music. I loved the sound of the music and I know I didn’t want to do anything else."

David Wiseman Tour of Carolina Theatre

Local musician, David Wiseman gives a tour of the historic Carolina Theatre in Spruce Pine, NC

Dom Flemons

Dom Flemons, known as the American Songster and musician, talks about how he has spent a good deal of his career advocating for traditional music in different ways.

Donna Ray Norton

Donna Ray, an 8th generation ballad singer, who grew up in Sodom NC, talks about her family background and ballad singing.

Donna Ray Norton and Melanie Rice Penland Concert

Ballad concert and discussion on ballad traditions by Donna Ray Norton & Melanie Rice Penland.

Doug Orr

Doug Orr, co-author, educator, and past president of Warren Wilson College, talks about his great passion, for traditional music, and the origins of American folk music.

Elton Allison - The Legacy of Old Fort Mountain Music History

Elton Allison is a WNC bluegrass and old time musician who discusses Old Fort Mountain Music and its Impact.

Joe Penland

Joe Penland, a ballad singer, storyteller, father, builder, and a general man about town talks about the history of ballads and ballad singers.

Justin Robinson

Justin Robinson, who grew up in a musical family, discusses what led him to explore the African American string band traditions.

Marc Pruett and Darren Nicholson Musical Conversation

Marc Pruett and Darren Nicholson are Grammy award-winning musicians who were bandmates in Balsam Range, an award-winning bluegrass band.

Max Woody – 5th Generation Chairmaker

Max Woody, a chairmaker and fiddler, talks about Old Fort Music, his long career as a master chairmaker, and his involvement with the town of Old Fort, NC.

Max Woody- Old Fort Mtn Music

The Journey of Harmony: A Chairmaker’s Melody. Max Woody talks about Old Fort Mountain Music and making chairs.

Mike Ennis

Mike Ennis, is a native of Old Fort and expresses concern about the disappearance of traditional ways of life in the mountains of North Carolina and the closure of Old Fort Mountain Music.

Phil Jamison

Phil Jamison, a traditional musician, player of old-time music, the fiddle, banjo, and guitar, and a dancer, discusses the history of the music and what it meant to him.

Rhiannon Giddens

Rhiannon Giddens, musician, singer, banjo player, educator, and founding member of The Carolina Chocolate Drops talks about African-American music and its place in the tapestry of folk music.

Wayne Douglas Rowland

Wayne Douglas Rowland was the President of Old Fort Mountain Music. He discusses the closure of the nearly 30th year old musical institution.
Mountaineers

Amelia Taylor

Amelia Taylor, a whitewater river guide and organizer for Cweet, Clean Water Expected in East Tennessee, talks about the Pigeon River and the pollution.

Anna Rollins

Anna Rollins, who works at Mountain Music, discusses what it means to her and the community.

Anne Stokley

Anne Callison Stokely, Wilma Dykeman's daughter-in-law, reminisces about growing up connected to nature and the Stokley family.

Apple Country Tour with Marvin Owings

Marvin Owings, former member of Henderson County Cooperative Extension, gives a tour of Apple Country.

Barbara Lyda Lackey

Barbara Lyda Lackey is an eighth generation resident of Henderson County whose family owned the Beehive Cottages in Edneyville.

Bill Carson

Bill Carson, retired and moved to Little Switzerland, becoming the owner of The Orchard at Altapass. He learned about the 1916 flood from elders in the area.

Bobby McMillon

Bobby McMillon of Yancy County shares the story of his ancestors and the history of Ballard singing.

Cal Calhoun

Cal Calhoun, Co-founder and emcee of The Carolina Barn Dance in Spruce Pine talks about his time at the Panama Canal and the success of the Carolina Theater.

Cherokee language teachers - Louise Brown and Rainy Brake

Cherokee language teachers, Louise Brown and Rainy Brake discuss the importance of keeping the Cherokee language alive and thriving.

Dan Pierce – NASCAR and Moonshine

Dan Pierce, UNC Asheville history professor and writer, discusses his research into early NASCAR and its ties to moonshine.

David Holt

David Holt, singer, songwriter, and storyteller talks about his passion for music, "I wanted to play the music. I loved the sound of the music and I know I didn’t want to do anything else."

David Whitmire

David Whitmire owner of Headwaters Outfitters, shares his knowledge of and passion for the streams and rivers in WNC.

Deborah Bahr

Deborah Bahr, a social activist, talks about her campaign and passion to bring about environmental and social changes for future generations.

Donna Ray Norton

Donna Ray, an 8th generation ballad singer, who grew up in Sodom NC, talks about her family background and ballad singing.

Donna Ray Norton and Melanie Rice Penland Concert

Ballad concert and discussion on ballad traditions by Donna Ray Norton & Melanie Rice Penland.

Doug Orr

Doug Orr, co-author, educator, and past president of Warren Wilson College, talks about his great passion, for traditional music, and the origins of American folk music.

Edison Capps

Edison Capps, a native and lifelong resident of Henderson County, talks about farming according to the Almanac and self-reliance

Effie Russell

Effie Russell talks about growing up in the 30s on a farm in rural Hendersonville, her strong work ethic, and her deep family connection.

Elton Allison - The Legacy of Old Fort Mountain Music History

Elton Allison is a WNC bluegrass and old time musician who discusses Old Fort Mountain Music and its Impact.

Eric Romanizyne

Eric Romanizyne, the executive director for Haywood Waterways Association, talks about the challenges and success he has seen during his career.

Gay Webb

Gay Webb, Cocke County Tennessee resident, Korean War Veteran, and environmental activist, talks about his 30-year battle to get the Pigeon River cleaned up.

George Oldham

George Oldham, a practicing Quaker and resident of the mountains for years, shares an oral account of his life.

Gladys Barnwell

Gladys Barnwell who was born and raised in Landrum SC, works at Barnwell Apple House and the Curb market, talks about growing up on a farm where they raised everything they needed.

Gloria Houston

Gloria Houston, author and educator, talks about growing up in Spruce Pine in the 1950s.

Great Flood of 1916 Discussion Panel

Great Flood Panel Discussion with John Paul Jones, James Fox, McCrae Coates, Jennie Jones Giles, Toby Linville

History of the Chestnut with Anne Rogers, Gordon McKinney and Tom Saielli

A cultural program focused on chestnut loss, the role chestnuts played in Appalachian life and ecosystems and what we can learn from this history.

Hubert Barnwell and his Aunt’s Wash Pot

Hubert Barnwell talks about his Aunt Ollie, the 1916 flood, and her wash pot.

Ila Hatter

Ila Hatter, a descendant of Pocahontas, a teacher of edible and medicinal plants, and an artist, talks about foraging and native plants.

Jennie Jones Giles On Flood of 1916

Jennie Jones Giles, a lifelong resident of Henderson County and historian, talks about the 1916 flood.

Jerry Moore

Jerry talks about stories he has heard about the 1916 flood and how we would survive if it happened again.

Jill Hodges

Jill Hodges who an activist on behalf of the Pigeon River Gorge area, talks about the fight to clean up the Pigeon River.

Jim Stokely

James R. Stokely the III, the youngest son of James R. Stokely Jr. and Wilma Dykeman, talks about Wilma and her connection to and passion for the environment.

Jimmie Huntley

Jimmie Huntley, who was raised by his grandmother in Middle Fork, discusses the 1916 flood, his family and moonshine.

Joe Penland

Joe Penland, a ballad singer, storyteller, father, builder, and a general man about town talks about the history of ballads and ballad singers.

Joy Anders

Joy English Anders, who grew up in Yancey County, talks about her grandparents, the 1916 flood, and growing up in a rural community.

Kevin Howell, Davidson River Outfitters

Kevin Howell, owner of Davidson River Outfitters discusses water quality of the rivers in Transylvania and Henderson County.

Larry Ball

Larry Ball, an 8th generation native of WNC, reminisces about growing up in Baker Heights, Duke Power, Oscar Meyer, and old cars.

Larry Ball on his Old Timey Equipment

Larry Ball, 8th generation elder of Henderson County, shares his passion for old-timey equipment.

Leon Pace

Leon Pace a native of Henderson County takes a tour of his garden and shares his family history.

Liz Enloe

Liz Enloe grew up in Edneyville and lived on Clear Creek, she discusses growing up in this community.

Louise Hill

Louise Hill a native of North Carolina talks about wild flowers, her family and growing up in the mountains of NC.

Lullabelle Capps

Lullabelle Williams Capps, who was born at home with a midwife, talks about her family and growing up on Sugarloaf Mountain.

Luverne Haydock

LuVerne Haydock a lifelong resident of the area talks about her family, the 1916 flood, and the effect it had on the family and the community.

Lynn Hensley

Lynn English Hensley, a native of Yancey County with strong ties to Henderson County, talks about her family and the 1916 flood.

Marci Spencer

Marci Spencer, a native of Asheville NC, a nurse practitioner in cardiology, and emergency medicine who worked as a medical missionary in third-world countries, and an avid hiker talks about her family and the environment.

Margot Wallston

Margot Wallston, director of the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, discusses her work and the importance of protecting hemlocks and how they protect the watershed.

Mark and Jean Raymond Walkabout Program

Mark and Jean Raymond, long-time residents of Hendersonville, NC, set out for a walkabout, a journey through Western North Carolina on foot.

Mark Elliot

Mark Elliot discusses growing up in the Black Mountain area in the 1930s and farming.

Max Woody – 5th Generation Chairmaker

Max Woody, a chairmaker and fiddler, talks about Old Fort Music, his long career as a master chairmaker, and his involvement with the town of Old Fort, NC.

Max Woody- Old Fort Mtn Music

The Journey of Harmony: A Chairmaker’s Melody. Max Woody talks about Old Fort Mountain Music and making chairs.

Max Woody- Tour of His Wood Shop

Max Woody, master chairmaker, tours his woodshop, shows his equipment and furniture and discusses woodworking and the changes he has seen over the years.

Norman Lyda

The Lyda Family settled in what is now Henderson County in the late 1700s. Norman is part of ~ the 6th generation of descendants.

Opal Parkinson Tour of Her Farm

Opal Parkinson, 8th generation native of Etowah, NC gives a tour of her farm.

Phil Jamison

Phil Jamison, a traditional musician, player of old-time music, the fiddle, banjo, and guitar, and a dancer, discusses the history of the music and what it meant to him.

Rebecca Earline Garrison Hornby

Rebecca Earline Garrison Hornby was born and raised on a farm in Haywood County where they raised just about everything they needed.

Robert Morgan on the French Broad River

Robert Morgan, American poet, short story writer, novelist, fly fisherman, and professor, talks about growing up on the Green River and his connection to the area.

Rufus Fisher

Rufus Fisher, who was born into a large family in Cramerton, NC, talks about growing up and surviving in a Mill town,

Ruth Eaton

Ruth Eaton, the first cousin of Wilma Dykeman, talks about growing up in the mountains and her fond memories of Wilma.

Sheila Walsh

Sheila Walsh, a resident of Middle Fork, shares family stories of the 1916 flood and her stories of the 1996 flood in the Chimney Rock area.

Shirley Corn

Shirley Corn who was born in Gerton and grew up in Bat Cave, talks about the 1916 flood and the impact it had on the communities of Bat Cave, Middle Fork, Chimney Rock, and Gerton.

Theron Maybin Farming Workshop

Theron Maybin, an eighth-generation farmer from the Green River Valley in North Carolina, discusses farming wisdom based on his family's experience and the Farmer's Almanac.

Wilma Dykeman Presentation by Jim Stokely

James R. 'Jim' Stokely III, Wilma Dykeman's son, shares the extraordinary life of his mother who was a writer, activist, and environmentalist.

Native Culture

Beau Carroll

Beau Carroll is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and is an Archaeologist for the EBCI Tribal Historic Preservation Office. He talks about his projects and Cherokee Culture.

Betty Maney

Betty Maney, a member of the Big Cove Community and the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about learning the art of basket weaving.

Betty Osceola

Betty Osceola, a member of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida from the Panther Clan, talks about being raised in the Everglades and the changes she and her family have experienced.

Betty Osceola Tour of Everglades

During a tour of the Everglades Betty Osceola discusses the changes to the Everglades caused by pollution, overgrown vegetation, and the disruption of natural water cycles due to human interventions.

Bo Taylor

Bo Taylor, former director of the Museum of the Cherokee People, talks about his Cherokee culture, the music, the dance, and why it is important to remember the traditions.

Bo Taylor Cherokee Presentation

James “Bo” Taylor Cherokee dancer and storyteller, introduces the audience to Cherokee dancing, powwow dancing, dance songs, and discussion of Cherokee history, culture, and stereotypes.

Brett Riggs

Brett Riggs, Sequoyah professor of Cherokee Studies here at Western Carolina University, talks about the intersection of Cherokee heritage, history, culture, and string band music, both are lifelong interests.

Cherokee language teachers - Louise Brown and Rainy Brake

Cherokee language teachers, Louise Brown and Rainy Brake discuss the importance of keeping the Cherokee language alive and thriving.

Chief Anthony Davidson, Edisto Tribe

Chief Anthony Davidson, the chief of the Edisto people, discusses the history of his people, their traditions, and their connection to nature.

Chief Harold (Buster) Hatcher, Waccamaw Tribe of South Carolina

Chief Harold Hatcher is the longstanding chief of the Waccamaw Tribe of South Carolina who fought for many years to acheive state recognition.

Chris Wilson

Chris Wilson discusses how industrialization and urbanization led people to turn to historical revivals and fraternal organizations for a sense of stability and identity.

Davy Arch Interview# 2

Davy Arch, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about Cherokee culture and his concern about the family connection being broken.

Gabriel Crow

Gabriel Crow, a young Cherokee basket maker, talks about his passion for basket making and the Cherokee history of basket making and keeping the tradition alive.

Ila Hatter

Ila Hatter, a descendant of Pocahontas, a teacher of edible and medicinal plants, and an artist, talks about foraging and native plants.

Jerry Wolfe

Jerry Wolfe was a tribal elder of the Eastern band of the Cherokee in Western Carolina, and was named Beloved Man of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians – the first man to receive this honor in over 200 years

John Cox

John Cox a Waccmaw Storyteller talks about native culture.

Marie Hall

Marie Hall, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about her family and their history of basket making.

Mary Thompson on Cherokee Basketmaking

Mary Thompson discusses basketmaking and its role in Cherokee life.

Matthew Tooni

Matthew Tooni, storyteller and musician, who grew up on the Qualla Boundary, the tribal lands of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, and continues to live there in the Painttown community, shares stories that are part of the Cherokee Culture.

Nancy Basket Interview 2013

Nancy Basket, who has lived in South Carolina, talks about growing up as a Cherokee person, her culture, and her people.

Roger Clapp

Roger Clapp a retired scientist of the Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River, talks about one of the things that he is most proud of—and that brings the kids together from the Cherokee, and from the community, which is learning about the fish weir.

T.J. Holland Presentation on Cherokee History

TJ Holland was the director of the Eastern Band of Cherokee's IRB and the Junaluska Museum discusses Cherokee history.

Storytelling

Bo Taylor Cherokee Presentation

James “Bo” Taylor Cherokee dancer and storyteller, introduces the audience to Cherokee dancing, powwow dancing, dance songs, and discussion of Cherokee history, culture, and stereotypes.

Davy Arch Interview# 2

Davy Arch, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, talks about Cherokee culture and his concern about the family connection being broken.

John Cox

John Cox a Waccmaw Storyteller talks about native culture.

Matthew Tooni

Matthew Tooni, storyteller and musician, who grew up on the Qualla Boundary, the tribal lands of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, and continues to live there in the Painttown community, shares stories that are part of the Cherokee Culture.

Robert Morgan at Flat Rock Middle (2015)

Robert Morgan is an award-winning novelist and poet and 8th generation member of the Green River Valley.

Robert Morgan on the French Broad River

Robert Morgan, American poet, short story writer, novelist, fly fisherman, and professor, talks about growing up on the Green River and his connection to the area.

Textile Mills

Rufus Fisher

Rufus Fisher, who was born into a large family in Cramerton, NC, talks about growing up and surviving in a Mill town,

Sybil Freeman

Sybil Freeman was the Gerton, NC Postmaster, a farmer and came from a family that worked in the cotton mills.