The MOOn Garden, cherished by Granny Witches, is a unique and enchanting type of garden designed to honor the moon and its cycles. Filled with white or silver plants that bloom at night, such as moonflowers, white roses, and silver sage, it is intended to be enjoyed during the evening and nighttime hours. They believed that tending to this garden would attract positive energy and bring blessings to their home. The moon garden typically features plants with white or lightcolored flowers, silvery foliage, and fragrant blooms, which help to reflect moonlight and create a serene, illuminated atmosphere. Granny Witches often grew moon gardens, and you can grow one yourself. Use this step-by-step guide to plan your garden: CHOOSE A LOCATION: Select a suitable spot in your garden or yard that receives ample moonlight and is visible from your preferred viewing area, such as a window, patio, or deck. Ensure that the chosen location has well-draining soil and appropriate sunlight for the plants you intend to grow. PLAN YOUR GARDEN LAYOUT: Sketch a design for your moon garden, considering the size, shape, and arrangement of plants. You can create a circular, rectangular, or free-form shape based on your preference and the available space. Consider the mature size of plants and their growth habits when arranging them.
SELECT SUITABLE PLANTS: Choose plants with white or light-colored flowers, silvery foliage, and fragrant blooms that open at night or have a strong fragrance in the evening. We recommend the following plants: • Moonflower (Ipomoea alba): This fast-growing vine produces large, fragrant, white flowers that open at night and close in the morning. Suitable for zones 10-12 but can be grown as an annual in Western North Carolina. • Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis): Evening primrose blooms with yellow or white flowers that open in the evening and emit a light, sweet fragrance. Suitable for zones 4-8. • Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia spp.): These large, trumpet-shaped flowers come in various colors, including white, and emit a strong fragrance during the evening. Suitable for zones 9-11, but can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter in cooler regions. • Night-blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum): This plant produces small, tubular, greenish-white flowers that release a strong, sweet scent during the night. Suitable for zones 8-11, but can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter in cooler regions. • White Nicotiana (Nicotiana alata): White nicotiana features clusters of trumpetshaped white flowers that release a sweet fragrance at night. Suitable for zones 10-11 but can be grown as an annual in Western North Carolina. • Casablanca Lily (Lilium 'Casablanca'): This stunning lily has large, white, fragrant flowers that can create a dramatic focal point in a moon garden. Suitable for zones 4-9. • Four O'Clock (Mirabilis jalapa): Four o'clock plants produce trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors, including white, that open in the late afternoon and emit a sweet fragrance. Suitable for zones 7-10, but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. • White Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'): This variety of bleeding heart features delicate, white, heart-shaped flowers that can add a touch of elegance to a moon garden. Suitable for zones 3-9. • Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria): Dusty miller is grown for its striking silvery-gray foliage, which can provide a beautiful contrast against the white flowers in a moon garden. Suitable for zones 8-10, but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. • Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina): This perennial plant is known for its soft, fuzzy, silvery-green leaves, which can add an interesting texture to a moon garden. Suitable for zones 4-7. • Artemisia (Artemisia spp.): Artemisia is a group of plants with silvery foliage that can bring a touch of light to your moon garden. Species like Artemisia 'Powis Castle' and Artemisia 'Silver Mound' are especially popular. Suitable for zones 4-9, depending on the specific species. • White Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan'): This variety of coneflower features large, white, daisy-like flowers that can add a touch of brightness to a moon garden. Suitable for zones 3-8.
PREPARE THE SOIL: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or wellrotted manure, to improve its fertility, structure, and drainage. This step will create a healthy environment for your plants to thrive. PLANT YOUR MOON GARDEN: Following your garden design, plant your chosen flowers, shrubs, and foliage. Plant taller plants towards the back and shorter plants towards the front to create visual interest and depth. Be sure to follow each plant's specific planting requirements, including proper spacing and depth. ADD ACCENTS AND ACCESSORIES: Enhance your moon garden with garden ornaments, such as statues, birdbaths, or decorative stones. You can also add a seating area, a small water feature, or wind chimes to create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Maintain your moon garden: Regularly water, weed, and deadhead your plants to promote healthy growth and more blooms. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Prune your plants as needed to maintain their shape and encourage new growth.
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56 These stor ies about Granny Witches have been passed down through generations, and there may be slight variations between versions of these stories. The Storm Whisperer Once, in a humble Appalachian village, there lived a Granny Witch who possessed a unique gift: the ability to communicate with the elements and calm storms. The villagers often turned to her in times of need, and she was revered for her wisdom and her connection to nature. One summer, a fierce storm rolled in, threatening to destroy the village's crops and devastate their livelihood. The dark clouds gathered, and the winds howled through the valley. The villagers, fearing the worst, implored the Granny Witch to use her gift to save their lands. With determination in her heart, the Granny Witch climbed to the top of a nearby hill, where she could face the storm head-on. As lightning flashed and thunder roared, she performed an ancient ritual, calling upon the spirits of the earth, sky, and water to aid her. The Granny Witch then whispered to the storm, asking it to show mercy upon the village and spare their crops. As her words floated into the tempest, a sudden calm descended upon the hill. The storm clouds began to part, and the winds died down, leaving the village untouched by the storm's wrath. The grateful villagers rejoiced and praised the Storm Whisperer, who had saved their community from disaster. Her connection to the elements and her selfless act of courage became the stuff of legend, passed down through generations as a testament to the power and wisdom of the Granny Witches of Appalachia. The Bewitched Lover In a time long ago, a young man from a small Appalachian village fell deeply in love with a woman from a neighboring community. Despite his best efforts to win her heart, his feelings remained unrequited, causing him great pain and despair. Convinced that he had been bewitched by the woman or someone close to her, the young man sought the help of a wise Granny
57 Witch who lived nearby. The Granny Witch listened to the young man's story and agreed to help him break free from the enchantment. She led him into the woods, where they gathered herbs and prepared a fire for the ritual. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Granny Witch began to chant and dance around the fire, calling upon the spirits to release the young man from the grip of his unrequited love. As the fire burned brightly, the Granny Witch added the collected herbs to the flames, filling the air with a sweet and pungent smoke. She instructed the young man to breathe in the smoke, allowing it to cleanse his heart and mind. As the ritual reached its culmination, the young man felt a sudden lightness in his chest. The enchantment, whether real or imagined, had been broken, and he was finally free to see the truth. No longer consumed by his unrequited love, he thanked the Granny Witch and returned to his village, grateful for her guidance and wisdom. The story of the Bewitched Lover spread throughout the region, and the Granny Witch's reputation as a healer and protector of the heart grew ever stronger. The Stolen Charm Long ago, in a quiet Appalachian village, there lived an old and wise Granny Witch. She was known for her powerful protective charms that brought good fortune and warded off evil. One day, a young and impulsive man named Jack heard of the Granny Witch's charms and became envious. Jack, feeling desperate for good luck, decided to steal one of the Granny Witch's charms, believing that it would change his life for the better. He crept into her home while she was out gathering herbs and took the charm without anyone noticing. Little did Jack know that the charm's power was intimately connected to the Granny Witch's energy, and it could not be used by another without her blessing. As Jack carried the stolen charm, his life took a turn for the worse. He lost his job, his crops failed, and he became ill. Jack was plagued by a series of misfortunes, and he began to realize the error of his ways.
58 Ashamed and desperate, Jack went to the Granny Witch to confess his wrongdoing. He returned the charm, begging for her forgiveness and asking for her help in breaking the curse of misfortune that had befallen him. The Granny Witch, wise and compassionate, agreed to forgive Jack but warned him of the importance of respecting the power of the charm and the consequences of taking what doesn't belong to him. Jack learned a valuable lesson, and the Granny Witch helped him rebuild his life, with the understanding that he would never again steal from others. The Ghostly Apparition In a remote Appalachian town, a family was tormented by ghostly apparitions and strange noises that haunted their home. The family, frightened and desperate, sought the help of a renowned Granny Witch, who was known for her ability to communicate with spirits and cleanse homes of negative energy. The Granny Witch, intrigued by the family's plight, agreed to visit their home and investigate the source of the haunting. As she entered the home, she felt the presence of a restless spirit, trapped between worlds and seeking solace. The Granny Witch performed a thorough cleansing of the home, using her knowledge of herbs, incantations, and rituals to banish the tormented spirit. She burned sage and cedar, drawing intricate symbols in the air to create a barrier against evil forces. She spoke to the spirit, helping it find peace and guiding it towards the light. As the Granny Witch completed her work, the ghostly apparitions and strange noises ceased, and the home was filled with a sense of peace and tranquility. The family, grateful for the Granny Witch's help, thanked her and marveled at her extraordinary abilities. The story of the Ghostly Apparition and the Granny Witch spread throughout the Appalachian region, and her reputation as a powerful healer and protector of the living and the dead continued to grow.
The Appalachian Women's Museum: Honoring the Extraordinary Lives of Ordinary Women Tucked away in the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, the Appalachian Women's Museum (AWM) stands as a tribute to the fortitude, resilience, and determination of women who have made the Southern Appalachians their home. Life in this region has never been easy, but these women, whether achieving prominence in the arts, government, education, or social causes or raising productive children, faced life's challenges with unwavering determination, grit, and grace. The AWM, located in the historic Monteith Farmstead in Dillsboro, North Carolina, is governed by an all-volunteer board. The museum's mission is to preserve and share the stories of these ordinary women who led extraordinary lives, inspiring future generations. The AWM collaborates with community organizations like the Cherokee Preservation Foundation, WCU Mountain Heritage Center, WCU History Department, and the County Extension Office, receiving significant support from the Jackson County Commission, TWASA, and other community partners. Since 2016, the farmhouse, which now hosts the AWM exhibits, has undergone major renovations. In 2020, a new roof was added, and running water was made available on-site. With the dedication of countless volunteer hours and continuous support from private and community donations, the museum is now open to the public from April through October on Saturdays, from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. The AWM's exhibit celebrating Cherokee Women of South Appalachia continues to grow. This exhibit, made possible by a grant from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation, highlights the achievements and contributions of Cherokee women within the Eastern Band and Western Carolina regions. The Appalachian Women's Museum is committed to "…gathering, preserving, and sharing the stories of the women of Southern Appalachia." The museum achieves its mission through exhibits at the Monteith Farmstead, events like Airing of Quilts and Music on the Porch, and demonstrations and conversations during Saturday openings. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the AWM has also started offering virtual glimpses into the lives of contemporary Appalachian women. To discover more about these remarkable women, scan the QR codes included in this article. Stay informed about the museum's activities by following them on Facebook @ AppalachianWomensMuseum if you'd like to contribute as a volunteer in this inspiring organization.
60 The Indomitable Appalachian Women of the 18th and 19th Centuries: Overcoming Challenges and Nurturing Communities The women of Southern Appalachia in the 18th and 19th centuries displayed incredible resilience and adaptability in their daily lives. They shouldered the responsibilities of their households and worked tirelessly to support their families and communities. Despite the lack of modern conveniences, these women overcame hardships to ensure the survival and self-sufficiency of their families. Household Responsibilities: Appalachian women managed their households with limited resources. They were responsible for cooking, cleaning, and caring for their children, often using simple tools like iron kettles, pots, and ovens. They prepared meals using locally available produce and preserved food through methods such as drying, smoking, and pickling. Additionally, they fetched water from distant springs, made soap, and laundered clothes using rudimentary methods like paddles for pounding garments clean.
Farming and Gardening: Women in rural Appalachia worked alongside men in farming and gardening, planting, tending, and harvesting crops. They cultivated gardens to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs for their families. They also managed poultry and livestock, including milking cows and churning butter. Child-rearing and Education: Women were primarily responsible for raising and educating their children. With formal education scarce in rural Appalachia, they taught their children basic reading, writing, arithmetic, and practical skills like cooking, sewing, and farming. Children were expected to contribute to chores from a young age. Social and Community Life: Women played a crucial role in fostering community ties, attending church and social gatherings, and helping neighbors in times of need. They participated in communal activities such as quilting bees and barn raisings, which strengthened bonds among families. Herbal Medicine and Healthcare: With limited access to medical care, women often assumed the role of caretakers and healers within their families and communities. They relied on folk remedies and herbal medicine to treat various ailments, using their knowledge of local plants and traditional healing practices. Textiles and Clothing: Skilled in spinning, weaving, and sewing, Appalachian women made clothing for their families using homespun cloth and natural materials like
62 wool and flax. Quilting was a common activity, serving both as a practical means of making warm bedding and as a form of artistic expression. They created intricate designs for their quilts and sometimes wove coverlids (an old word for bedspreads) and blankets from homegrown wool. It is essential to note that daily life for women in rural Southern Appalachia in the 18th and 19th centuries varied based on factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity. Native American women, for example, would have experienced different challenges and lifestyles compared to European settlers. However, the above description provides a general overview of what daily life might have been like for a typical Appalachian woman during this time period. These indomitable women of Southern Appalachia in the 18th and 19th centuries serve as a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. Despite the challenging circumstances they faced, these women persevered, overcoming hardships and nurturing their families and communities. Their dedication and resourcefulness continue to inspire generations to come. On the following pages, you can learn about several aspects of these women's lives, including soapmaking, beekeeping, daily menus, and quilting.
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64 Materials: 4 pounds of lard 2 pounds of lye 2 gallons of water Wooden spoon Large pot or kettle Heat source (stove or fire pit) Safety equipment 1. Prepare your work area by wearing safety equipment and setting up your heat source. 2. In a large pot or kettle, combine 2 gallons of water and 2 pounds of lye. Stir with a wooden spoon until the lye is dissolved. Be very careful not to inhale the fumes or splash the mixture, as it can cause burns. 3. Melt 4 pounds of lard in a separate pot over low heat. You can use lard from your own animals or purchase it from a local farm. 4. Once the lard is melted, add it to the lye mixture slowly, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Be careful not to splash the mixture. 5. Continue stirring the mixture for 30-45 minutes or until it thickens to a consistency similar to pudding. This process is called "tracing." 6. Once the mixture has traced, pour it into a mold. You can use a wooden box, plastic container, or any other container that is heat-resistant and can hold the soap mixture. 7. Cover the mold with a towel or cloth and let it sit for 24 hours to cool and harden. 8. After 24 hours, remove the soap from the mold and cut it into bars using a knife or wire cutter. 9. Let the bars of soap cure for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dry place. This will allow the soap to harden and improve its quality. Soap Making
65 Catherine Cochran Counseling PLLC Prioritize your wellness... State Licensed & Nationally Certified Counselor based in Newton, NC (980) 858-5157 catherinecochrancounseling.com In my Homestead's quaint embrace, Under Appalachian’s tranquil grace, I toil with Fat and Lye at Day, To make my Soap, the olden Way. The morning mist, the rooster's call, Within these walls, I recall, A lineage bathed in humble suds, Born of hearth, and earth, and buds. Beneath Hearth's dance, the Kettle stirs, An alchemy of Time occurs, From Mother to Daughter, the wisdom turns, In the lathery Brine, history churns. The scent of Ash, the tang of Lye, In this humble rite, I tie, A knot in Time, a bond so deep, In the quiet, while the World does sleep. In this Soap, a testament unfolds, Of women strong and stories old, A symbol of strength and hope combined, An Appalachian tale, in Time enshrined. In the waning light of Day, I know, Life's essence in this soap does glow, An echo of a timeless song, In my Homestead, I belong. Owned by Catawba County native Kendra Eades, HoneyBee Real Estate has two office locations and our agents serve the lower foothills and greater Charlotte regions. We partner with local chapters of the NC Wildlife Federation to promote the long-term health of our majestic environment. [email protected] 704.491.7944 www.HoneyBeeRealEstate.com
66 In the Kitchen In Southern Appalachia during the 1800s, life was marked by hard work, self-sufficiency, and a strong sense of community. Amidst the challenges of rural living, women in the region bore the responsibility of not only caring for their families but also creating three nourishing meals a day from scratch. Even in today's modern world, where convenience is just a grocery store trip away, many women still find it difficult to prepare a variety of meals daily. In the 1800s, Southern Appalachian families relied heavily on their gardens, livestock, and local foraging to provide the ingredients for their daily sustenance. They cultivated corn, beans, potatoes, and other vegetables, as well as fruit trees and berry bushes for fresh produce. Livestock, such as chickens, pigs, and cows, provided meat, eggs, and dairy products. Foraging for wild herbs, nuts, and fruits supplemented their diet and offered variety to their meals. Neighbors would often barter or trade goods, further diversifying the menu. This typical menu for a day in Southern Appalachia in the 1800s highlights the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of these hardworking families.
Typical Menu for a Day: Breakfast: Cornmeal mush or oatmeal with butter and honey Fried or boiled eggs Bacon or ham Biscuits with butter or molasses Lunch: Bean soup or vegetable soup with cornbread Fried or boiled potatoes Pickled vegetables, such as cucumbers or beets Fresh fruit, such as apples or peaches Dinner: Fried or roasted chicken Mashed or boiled potatoes Green beans or other seasonal vegetables Cornbread or biscuits Homemade fruit preserves or fruit cobbler for dessert Snacks: Homemade jerky or dried fruit Roasted nuts or popcorn Homemade bread with butter and honey Beverages: Water or tea Homemade fruit juice or cider Occasionally, homemade wine or whiskey Since 1990 2613 N Center St, Hickory (828) 323-8477 kellyandcompanysalon.com Use this QR code to book your appointment!
68 BEEKEEPING Honey and beeswax had a multitude of uses in pioneer times beyond just being a sweet treat. Honey was often used as a natural sweetener in cooking and baking, as well as for making jams and preserves. It was also used as a cough suppressant and to treat sore throats, cuts, and burns. Beeswax was a valuable commodity as well, and was used to make candles, soaps, and cosmetics. It was also used to coat and preserve food, such as cheese and meats. Beeswax could even be used to make waterproofing wax for clothing and shoes. Overall, honey and beeswax were important resources that provided a variety of practical uses for pioneer families. Beekeeping was a popular pastime for womenfolk, as it could be managed alongside other household duties. Women were often in charge of processing and preserving honey and beeswax for use in cooking, medicine, and other household chores. While men took care of farming and livestock management,a few were also skilled in beekeeping. In the mid-19th century, beekeepers would capture wild swarms or buy bees and hives from other keepers. They inspected their hives to ensure the bees were healthy and the hive was functioning well. Once bees produced honey, beekeepers harvested it by crushing the comb to drain the honey. They strained it and stored it in jars for use. To prepare for winter, beekeepers would wrap their hives in insulation or straw to keep the bees warm. Beekeepers had to be cautious not to disturb bees or
69 cause them harm, and also be aware of potential dangers such as bee stings and disease spread. Beekeeping in 1850 was a subsistence activity for most beekeepers, and hive design and honey extraction methods were different from modern beekeeping. Modern beekeeping is a commercial enterprise, and the tools and techniques used have evolved significantly over time. The most common hive design for beekeeping was the skep, which was made of straw or woven grasses. Skeps were portable and easy to make, but they were also difficult to manage and harvest honey from. A skep was shaped like an upside-down basket and was open at the top. The bees would build their comb inside the skep and fill it with honey. To harvest the honey, the beekeeper had to crush the comb and allow the honey to drain out. This process often resulted in lower-quality honey and damaged the beeswax comb, which could not be reused. In contrast, modern beekeeping typically uses more advanced hive designs, such as the Langstroth hive. This type of hive has removable frames that hold the beeswax comb and allow for easy inspection and harvesting of honey without harming the bees. The frames can be removed and replaced, allowing the bees to continue using the same comb. This design also allows for better management of the hive and monitoring for pests and diseases.
70 For generations, southern Appalachia has held quilting as a beloved pastime, an intimate space for women to interweave stories and skills amidst warm camaraderie. The tradition of the quilting bee—where women assembled to stitch and converse— was an emblematic social event, a testament to the vibrancy of Appalachian culture in the 19th century. A quilting bee was essentially a confluence of women focused on the creation of a quilt. This gathering was usually set in a home or community locale, where a pre-pieced quilt top was brought to life, layer by layer. It was a moment of shared indulgence, punctuated by potluck meals and stimulating conversation. This unique setting facilitated a blend of teamwork and individuality. Women, each with her needle and thread, took turns in stitching the quilt layers on a communal frame, providing a unique tapestry of styles. Such gatherings could span days, punctuated with periods of work and social interaction. A seasoned quilter often shepherded the activity, offering guidance and assistance. The quilting bee held a distinctive position in Appalachian culture. It was an assembly where women could display their talents, share narratives, and create stunning quilts that served the community or as gifts. It was a platform for preserving history, with every pattern, color, and symbol on the quilts encapsulating significant events and themes. Quilting Bees
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72 Certainly, the tradition of storytelling within quilting has always held a significant place within Appalachian culture. The quilts, more than functional pieces, often served as narrative canvases where the past and present intermingled. Women wove tales of their lives into these fabrics, encoding family histories, personal experiences, and cultural events into the labyrinth of colors and patterns. Each quilt was essentially a storybook, where every stitch represented a word, every color a sentence, and each pattern a chapter. Even today, these storytelling quilts are powerful tools of communication, whispering tales of their creators’ joys, trials, and triumphs. In this manner, quilting transcends the boundaries of craft and becomes an artistic form of expression, a form of language in which history is spoken and preserved. The process of storytelling through quilting, therefore, is as integral to the fabric of southern Appalachian culture as the threads that hold together these intricate masterpieces. In today's southern Appalachia, the tradition of quilting bees thrives. The new generation of quilters has embraced both time-honored patterns and innovative techniques, incorporating contemporary technology like online platforms to reach wider audiences. However, the spirit of the quilting bee—community engagement, artistic expression, mutual aid, and storytelling—remains unaltered. In essence, the quilting bees of the 19th century were pivotal in shaping Appalachian culture. Today, they continue to evolve, marrying tradition with modernity while upholding their core values. As the women of southern Appalachia continue to gather and create, they ensure that this rich cultural tapestry remains vibrant for future generations to appreciate and preserve. For those living in western North Carolina, particularly in the historic Catawba Valley, why not consider picking up a needle and thread and becoming a part of this living, breathing narrative? Learning to quilt is an extraordinary way to tap into the rich history of the region, fostering a deeper connection with the past while ensuring that our own stories are not lost in the currents of time. Five patterns were particularly popular in western North Carolina and you'll find them on the following page. Numerous resources are available to guide you on this creative journey. The Catawba Valley Community College offers quilting classes for all skill levels. The Western North Carolina Quilters Guild, known for its exhibitions and workshops, welcomes new members with open arms. The Hickory Museum of Art, with its impressive collection of southern Appalachian quilts, serves as both inspiration and education. As you learn, remember: every quilt you create is not just an article of warmth or a piece of art—it’s a story waiting to be told, a tangible testament to your unique perspective in the vibrant tapestry of Appalachian life.
73 Log Cabin - The Log Cabin pattern is one of the most iconic quilt patterns in American history. It involves piecing together strips of fabric to create a block that looks like a log cabin, with a central square representing the hearth. Nine Patch - The Nine Patch pattern is a simple and versatile pattern that involves piecing together nine squares of fabric to create a larger block. This pattern can be arranged in many different ways to create a variety of designs. Grandmother's Flower Garden - The pattern is a hexagonal pattern that features a central flower surrounded by smaller hexagonal "petals". This pattern requires more precision and attention to detail than some other patterns, but the results can be stunning. Dresden Plate - The Dresden Plate pattern is a circular pattern that features "petals" made from fabric wedges arranged in a circular pattern. This pattern is often used to create a more decorative quilt top. Sunbonnet Sue - The Sunbonnet Sue pattern features a little girl wearing a sunbonnet in different poses or situations, such as playing or gardening. This pattern is often used for children's quilts and is a nostalgic favorite.
In Southern Appalachia, the 1900s saw the evolution of women's experiences, from early struggles to later triumphs, including the monumental impact of women's suffrage and the obstacles faced during the Great Depression. In the early 20th century, rural women mastered household management, juggling various responsibilities. City women enjoyed modern amenities, simplifying their tasks. As time progressed, technological advancements, such as appliances, eased the lives of both groups. Rural women cultivated crops for sustenance, while urban women remained disconnected from agricultural life. Industrial agriculture eventually altered the rural landscape, reducing women's direct involvement in farming. Fashion evolved, as rural women sewed their family's clothing, while urban women wore ready-made garments. Massproduced clothing later became accessible to all, offering diverse choices. Education expanded for rural children as public schools proliferated, while urban children already enjoyed varied opportunities. This growth continued throughout the century for both groups. Socially, rural women bonded through community events, while urban women explored clubs and cultural activities. With the rise of mass media and technology, social lives evolved for both groups. Healthcare disparities between rural and urban women existed in the early 1900s, with rural women relying on traditional remedies. Advancements in medicine and transportation gradually improved healthcare access for rural women, though gaps remained. The 1900s READY. SET. CELEBRATE! Sign Gypsies offers full-service yard greeting rentals for the Morganton & Hickory areas (also everything in between)! Our unique sign rentals are a BIG way to celebrate any occasion! We do design, install & removal! WWW.SIGNGYPSIESHKY.COM (828) 237-1588
Work opportunities evolved for both groups, with rural women seeking jobs beyond their homes and urban women enjoying diverse options. As the century unfolded, women entered a broader range of professions and broke down barriers. The 19th Amendment in 1920 granted women the right to vote, empowering them to influence policies and advocate for change. The Great Depression demanded resourcefulness from both rural and urban women, as they navigated economic challenges. World War II marked a turning point, as women took on critical roles in the workforce, laying the groundwork for future opportunities. By the century's end, women had made significant progress in various industries and continued to redefine their roles in both rural and urban settings. In summary, the 1900s witnessed remarkable transformations for women in rural Southern Appalachia and urban environments. Through perseverance and community support, women overcame challenges and seized opportunities. Gaining the right to vote and entering new professions, they helped shape the social, economic, and political landscape, inspiring future generations. We are honored to be able to share some of the stories of women during this time period in our pages. Left, women spinning fibers outside their home. Right, a woman fights for the right to vote. Left, women working in a factory. Right, a scientist works on a computer.
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Velvie Rector's legacy is woven into the tapestry of Appalachia, where generations of her family's history live on through captivating tales and weathered black and white photographs adorned with handwritten names and notes. Nestled close to the South Toe River, under the imposing shadow of Mt. Mitchell, lies a place where a unique way of life once thrived. Back in 1915, the people of Busick, North Carolina favored horseback riding to navigate the rugged terrain of the newly established state park. The creation of this untouched wilderness brought with it new job opportunities to safeguard the park's wildlife and ecology. Among the few locals hired as game wardens was Blite Rector, whose duties included preventing poaching, illegal fishing, and exploitation of the park's resources that were once freely available. The Rector family, comprising of Blite's wife Bertha and their children Alvoid, Elsie, Ruth, Cartha, Cordy, Flossie, Velvie, Hugh, and Theodore, were invited to live in a cabin equipped with a working phone due to Blite's role. As Blite patrolled the park on horseback, the rest of the family took care of the day-to-day tasks at the cabin. Velvie Rector Esteemed artist Alison Willard was inspired to paint this picture after Foothills Digest posed the question, "Do you know any Strong Appalachian Women." Her grandmother Velvie Rector was a steady figure in her life, and she was excited to share her story with our readers. Willard is a multi-disciplined painter based in Hickory, NC. Her current works explore various traditional mediums including oils, watercolor, and acrylics, drawing and photography meshed with nontraditional mediums including glitter, rhinestones, and printed fabrics. Willard's work has been recognized in local and regional exhibits and has been in various print publications. Willard is a graduate of Hickory High School and Appalachian State University. She will complete her Master of Fine Arts Painting through Savannah College of Art and Design in Spring 2024. www.alisonwillard.art www.instagram.com/amwillardart facebook.com/artbyalisonwillard
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79 A single fireplace served as their kitchen, while the children tended to a garden when they weren't trekking the mile-long journey to and from their one-room schoolhouse. Chores included cleaning stables, tending to animals, doing laundry, and managing the household. To supplement their modest lifestyle, the children honed their foraging skills, gathering native plants such as American ginseng and galax from their hillside home to sell in town. As the Rector children grew, they played sports at the newly established Micaville High School or assisted their father at the observation tower atop Mt. Mitchell. Summer days were spent cooling off in the snow-fed streams, while the family huddled together for warmth during the long, cold winter nights. By the 1940s, progress and modernization had begun to seep into their isolated corner of the world. The Rector children experienced rides in friends' automobiles and ventured to the bustling cities of Marion, Morganton, or Hickory for summer jobs, only to be drawn back to the comforting embrace of the mountain as autumn returned.
Selelia Griffith, A Leader in North Carolina's School Integration Movement On October 17, 1960, black and white students sat in the same classrooms in Yancey County's two high schools for the first time. Their journey from a condemned school building, where black students of all ages were taught by a single teacher, to this newly-built racially integrated learning environment took six years. This struggle for educational equality involved numerous petitions to the county school board, daily 80- mile bus journeys by the students to attend Asheville's black schools, and finally a law suit in federal court. Selelia Griffith spearheaded these efforts, sometimes standing alone in her belief that the schools should integrate. “We older people had been deprived of our education,” said Mrs. Griffith, “but we wanted an education for our children. … The black students had the same right to the same kind of education as the white students.” Indeed, the U.S. Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka had ruled in 1954 that state laws establishing racial segregation in public schools are unconstitutional. The history of African Americans in Appalachia is hardly remembered because their population has never been large. Most farms and ranches in the region were small family operations with few slave workers. After Emancipation, freed slaves established their own small farms in areas where they could live together, but apart from whites. Of the near fourteen thousand inhabitants of Yancey County, fewer than 150 identified themselves as “Negro” in the mid-twentieth century censuses. Many lived in a small community called Lincoln Park on the outskirts of the town of Burnsville. It was easy for white authorities to ignore them. The origins of their one-room schoolhouse are unclear, but its condition in these years was welldocumented. Condemned by several different government authorities, the building had no running water and the children had to haul coal up a long hill for heat in the winter. In 1956, the school board voted to build two high schools for white students, while black students were to continue being bussed to black schools in Asheville.
When the board finally agreed in 1959, under duress, to build a two-room schoolhouse for black students, it was too late for the mothers of Lincoln Park. With the help of NAACP lawyers, they brought suit in federal court for their children to attend the white schools. “We were tax-paying, lawabiding citizens,” said Mrs. Griffith, “and we felt we were entitled to all the privileges given to other citizens, including allowing our children to go to regular county schools where they could have the opportunity to get the same education as white children.” Shortly after the new Oak Crest School was completed in Lincoln Park, Federal District Court Judge Wilson Warlick issued his ruling: Yancey County schools were required to integrate. Although a few individual schools in urban areas of North Carolina had integrated earlier, Yancey County became the first school district in North Carolina to integrate under federal court order. With Yancey County's legal proceedings as a model, petitioners forced school districts across the state to integrate over the coming years. The Charlotte Observer (May 24, 1960) declared that “Mrs. Griffith, in a way, was the one who broke the dam in the school situation.” To hear first-person remembrances of the black schools in Burnsville, see www.traditionalvoicesgroup.org and find “Lincoln Park Remembers” under the Oral History tab. (828) 324-6750 www.hickoryacupuncture.net 5,000 square feet of antiques on union square in hickory (828) 680-2263 Shoppes On Square Bldg, 1st door on Right, Lower Level, Open Tues-Sun. Traditional Chinese Healing with Bridgette Barker L.Ac, MSOM Acupuncture, Cupping, Moxibustion, Qi Gong, and Tai-chi
82 In the early fall of October 11, 1940, in the comfort of her family's home, Kathryn Mildred Propst came into the world, born to her loving parents, Newell and Mattie Gross Propst. Kathryn, their first child, was bright and quick to learn, full of life and promise. At the tender age of five, she stepped into the big world of first grade, making her way alone two miles to the bus stop. The farm she lived on was small, her family growing, but life was as sweet as the apples on their trees. May 17, 1948, was a day of endings and beginnings. Kathryn had just finished her second grade year and was looking forward to the adventures of summer. But that day turned out different than anyone could have imagined. She and her sister were playing at the end of their driveway, trying to make friends with a scruffy little brown dog their aunt had brought back from South Carolina. They didn't know what a rabid animal looked like, they only saw a skinny dog that needed a family. When the dog attacked Kathryn, their father immediately knew what was wrong. The men in the community took care of the rabid dog, and Kathryn was rushed to the hospital to start a series of rabies vaccines. While at the hospital, Kathryn believes she was exposed to the polio virus, as an outbreak was sweeping through the area that summer. This was only four years after the miraculous “Miracle of Hickory” in a nearby town. Two months later, on July 14th, the virus overtook Kathryn after a period of terrible headaches and leg pain. Her battle with polio began at Grace Hospital in Morganton, where she was definitively diagnosed. She improved enough to be freed from the Kathryn's Strength: Polio Be Damned Top, Kathryn with her mom and dad. Center, Kathryn at her family home. Bottom, Kathryn with her siblings.
83 iron lung, but her legs were left paralyzed. She was then sent to Camp Sutton in Monroe for further treatment. After her time there, she was sent home with leg braces and crutches. Kathryn bore the evidence of her fight with polio in the form of eight large scars on her legs. Her family was grateful that the March of Dimes covered the entire bill of $1,323 ($16,776 in today’s dollars). After missing a year of school, Kathryn felt left behind. It took a lot of encouragement for her to return. Her classmates and teachers were kind and helpful, but it was a daily struggle for Kathryn, being the only student on crutches and in braces. In 1957, after 10th grade, Kathryn left school and got married that summer to a young man she had met at Camp Sky Ranch, and they moved to Sanford, North Carolina. Camp Sky Ranch was a summer camp for physically handicapped children and youth. Kathryn's future husband was also a camper there. The marriage, however, was not what Kathryn had hoped for; he was very abusive both mentally and physically to her and her children. She had three children within three years. The second child was born premature nine months after the first one, weighing only 3 pounds and one ounce. Everyone was surprised when the baby not only survived but thrived. Kathryn fondly talks about how she fed her two babies at the same time, lining them up and using the same bowl and spoon. The third baby arrived 14 months later. Despite the years of abuse and the increasing number of children in her care, Kathryn Top, Kathryn with her mom at Camp Sutton. Center, Kathryn smiling. Bottom, Kathryn with her braces and crutches.
84 managed to keep a full-time 2nd shift job and learned to drive a car equipped with special controls. Finally, after 16 years, she and the children each packed a box of their most precious belongings and, in the early morning of December 6, 1971, they left behind their life of fear and returned to freedom. They were welcomed back onto the family property and found a place of safety and warmth for the next few years. Kathryn met and fell in love with James Pennell, a kind-hearted veteran of the Korean war from Boone, and they created a new home in Watauga County together, a sanctuary for the family. Years passed, filled with the trials and tribulations of maintaining a home: the steady rhythm of mopping floors, the endless cycle of washing and drying clothes, the time-honored tradition of cooking and canning vegetables, and the delicate work of sewing. Through it all, Kathryn persevered. Eventually, however, she realized that she needed to transition to a wheelchair. It was an expensive piece of equipment, and social security was reluctant to provide it for her. But Kathryn was not one to be easily deterred, and she set to work to ensure she got what she needed. By 1993, Kathryn had grown acutely aware that many polio survivors, now suffering from Post Polio Syndrome, were facing similar challenges in securing assistance. Recognizing an Top, Kathryn with first child. Center, Kathryn with 5 generations. Bottom, Kathryn with her children.
85 opportunity to make a difference, Kathryn founded the Post Polio Support Group of the High Country. She aimed to raise awareness of this new syndrome and to gather funds to help provide the necessary equipment. With the help of local friends like esteemed musicians Doc Watson and Buddy Greene and story-teller Ray Hicks they held concerts, sold tickets, raffled a new car, and wrote grants. The group succeeded in purchasing many wheelchairs and golf carts, and they also guided their members through the complex maze of insurance and Social Security to secure the help they deserved. And then, with a heart full of nostalgia, Kathryn determined to revisit the Camp Sky Ranch experience. She arranged for the now-adult campers she had known and their families to enjoy a weekend of camping, music, good food, and the simple pleasure of each other's company. They continued to meet regularly for the next two decades until Jim’s health began to decline to the point that Kathryn could no longer lead the group, and it dissolved. Jim passed away in 2009, and Kathryn now lives in a senior home in Boone, facing each new day with courage. Kathryn’s daughter, Beverly Hicks of Valle Crucis, speaks proudly of her mother, describing her as a tough woman who lives by the rules of “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” and “If you need something, do it yourself or do without.” Kathryn's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, a story that resonates with the timeless wisdom of the pioneers of old. Top, Kathryn with her guitar. Center, Camp Sky Ranch postcard. Bottom, Kathryn at the beach.
86 Dolly Parton is an American icon, an incredibly talented singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman, but she is also a philanthropist, a champion of education, and a role model for women everywhere. Born and raised in the rural mountains of Tennessee, she embodies the spirit of the Appalachian people, who are known for their resilience, hard work, and love of family and community. Parton's journey from poverty to stardom is a true rags-to-riches story. She was one of 12 children born to Avie Lee Owens Parton and Robert Lee Parton, who lived in a oneroom cabin without running water or electricity. Despite these challenging circumstances, Parton's parents instilled in her a love of music, and she began singing and playing guitar at a young age. She also had a talent for writing songs, which would later become her trademark. In the 1960s, Parton moved to Nashville, the capital of country music, and began her career as a songwriter. She wrote hit songs for other country artists, including "Put It Off Until Tomorrow" for Bill Phillips and "Fuel to the Flame" for Skeeter Davis. She also signed a recording contract with Monument Records and released her debut album, Hello, I'm Dolly, in 1967. The album contained her first hit single, "Dumb Blonde," which challenged the stereotype of women in country music as ditzy and subservient. Dolly Parton The Queen of Strong Appalachian Women
87 Photo licensed through Alamy
88 Parton's music quickly caught the attention of audiences, and she became known for her powerful voice, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. She had a string of hits in the 1970s, including "Jolene," "I Will Always Love You," and "Here You Come Again," which made her a crossover star and earned her a Grammy award. She also became a popular television personality, hosting her own variety show, Dolly!, from 1976 to 1977. In the 1980s and 1990s, Parton continued to dominate the country music scene, releasing hit albums like 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs and collaborating with other artists like Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt. She also expanded her empire beyond music, launching her own theme park, Dollywood, in 1986. Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the park celebrates the culture and history of the Appalachian region and employs more than 4,000 people, making it the largest employer in Sevier County. The park features more than 50 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment shows. Dollywood also showcases traditional Appalachian crafts and music, reflecting the culture of the region. In addition, the park hosts several annual festivals and events, such as the Flower & Food Festival and the Harvest Festival. With its unique blend of thrill rides, entertainment, and cultural experiences, Dollywood is a popular destination for families and tourists visiting the Smoky Mountains area.
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Dollywood has received several awards over the years, including the Golden Ticket Award for Best Theme Park Christmas Event for 14 consecutive years and the Applause Award, which is considered the most prestigious award in the amusement park industry. But Parton's contributions to her community and her country go far beyond her music and business ventures. One of her most well-known projects is the Imagination Library, which she founded in 1995 to promote literacy in children. Through the nonprofit Dollywood Foundation, she sends free books to children from birth to age five, regardless of their family's income. The program has been a huge success, reaching more than 2.4 million children in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. In 2018, Parton celebrated sending 100 million books to children, (now it stands at over 205 million books) and she has received numerous awards for her work in literacy. In addition to her philanthropic work, Parton has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights and equality. In a 2018 interview with Billboard, she spoke about her experiences facing sexism in the music industry, saying, "I’ve had to go against all kinds of people , from record labels to producers to even other artists who didn't think I was worth investing in or promoting because I was a woman. I've had to fight my way through all of that. But I knew what I wanted, and I wasn't going to let anyone tell me I couldn't have it." Parton has also been outspoken about her support for LGBTQ+ rights, stating in a 2019 interview with The Guardian, "I think everybody should be allowed to be who they are, and to love who they love. I don't think we should be judgmental. Lord, I've got enough problems of my own to pass judgment on somebody else."
Regional designs on t-shirts, baby jumpers, coffee mugs, etched glassware, & more. Visit our storefront at 105 South 3rd Street, Smithfield NC 27577, or give us a call at 919-810-7472. JUDSDESIGNS.COM Email [email protected] for wholesale orders. Parton's advocacy for women and marginalized communities extends beyond her words and into her actions. In 2020, she donated $1 million to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to support research into the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine has since been authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and has played a crucial role in the fight against the pandemic. Parton is also a champion of education, recognizing the critical role it plays in empowering individuals and communities. In the early 1990s, Parton became acutely aware of the high school dropout rate in Sevier County, Tennessee, where she grew up. The dropout rate was over 30%, and Parton recognized that the lack of education not only affected the individual lives of local youth, but also impacted the ability of the county to prosper. To address this issue, she started The Buddy Program, which targeted students in 7th and 8th grade. The program was simple - students had to pair up and if both they and their partner graduated high school, Parton would hand each of them a check for $500. In addition, both partners had to sign a contract that they would be each other's support system and do everything they could to help each other graduate. The Buddy Program was a resounding success, and the dropout rate in Sevier County plummeted to under 6%. But Parton did not stop there. She continued her work in education by establishing the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in 1995, which provides free books to children from birth until they begin school. Every month, participating children receive a
92 carefully selected book appropriate for their age group, and the program has since expanded to over 1,800 communities across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. To date, the Imagination Library has mailed over 150 million books to children, fostering a love of reading and promoting literacy from an early age. Parton's dedication to education is also evident in her support of higher education. In 2022, parent company Herschend Enterprises announced that all 11,000 full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees of Dollywood and the company's other ventures who wanted to pursue higher education would have their fees paid for through the Grow U program. The program covers 100% of tuition, associated fees, and books for 108 programs from 30 universities, including degrees in Business Administration and Leadership, Finance, Technology, and Marketing. An additional 149 programs in Hospitality, Culinary, Engineering, Human Resources, and Art & Design are partially covered. This initiative is just another example of Parton's commitment to education and her belief in the transformative power of learning. But Parton's philanthropic work is not limited to education. She is also a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and animal welfare. In 1990, Dollywood became home to the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, which is run in partnership with the American Eagle Foundation. The sanctuary rehabilitates injured eagles and other birds of prey, releasing them into the wild when possible. Currently, the sanctuary is the largest gathering of non-releasable bald eagles in the world. Parton's love for animals extends beyond birds of prey, and she has also worked with the Humane Society of the United States to promote pet adoption and provide funding for animal shelters across the country.
In addition to her work with education and conservation, Parton has also been a staunch supporter of disaster relief efforts. In 2016, a series of wildfires swept through the Smoky Mountains, greatly impacting the towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Just two days after the fires, Parton, who was on tour at the time, called the CEO of the Dollywood Foundation to figure out how they could help. What they set up was an unprecedented way to assist many of the families who had their lives destroyed by the fires. Through the My People Fund, about 900 families received $1,000 a month for 6 months. In the final month, the support was raised to $5,000 due to incoming donations that the foundation had received. And if that weren't enough, they also opened the Mountain Tough organization, which provided long-term assistance to residents who lost their homes or jobs due to the fires. The My People Fund ultimately raised over $12 million, thanks to the generosity of donors around the world. Parton was personally involved in every step of the process, including visiting with families who had been affected by the fires. In a press conference announcing the fund, she said, "I've always believed that charity begins at home, and my home is someplace special. We want to provide a hand up to those families who have lost everything in the fires. I know it has been a trying time for my people, and this assistance will help get them back on their feet." WPCC.EDU (828) 448-3500 1001 BURKEMONT AVE, MORGANTON Achieve Success! Experience the pioneering spirit that awaits you.
94 Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox
95 Parton's commitment to disaster relief efforts extends beyond the Smoky Mountains wildfires. In 2017, she donated $1 million to the Red Cross to aid in their Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, saying in a statement, "I am praying for all the families affected by the fire and the flood. I am pledging $500,000 to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to help with the disaster relief efforts. The other $500,000 will go towards the creation of the 'My People Fund,' which will provide a hand-up to those families who have lost everything in the fires." Parton's efforts to help those affected by natural disasters have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she received the Tennessee Governor's Arts Award for her contributions to the arts and philanthropy, including her work with disaster relief. And in 2020, she was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine, with her profile being written by actress Reese Witherspoon, who called Parton "a woman who has leveraged her success to lift others up." Parton's dedication to her community and her philanthropic work have made her a beloved figure not just in Tennessee, but around the world. She is a shining example of what it means to give back and use one's success to make a positive impact on the world. As she said in a 2015 interview with ABC News, "I'm a person of faith, and I truly believe that you can't receive until you give. You have to give to get, and I just believe in being a blessing to others. I try to do that as much as I can." In addition to her musical and philanthropic endeavors, Dolly Parton is also a beloved cultural icon in the United States, particularly in the Appalachian region where she was born and raised.
She represents the essence of Appalachian culture and the strong, independent spirit of the people who call these mountains their home. Parton has written over 3,000 songs in her career, including some of the most successful country hits of all time. Her chart-topping singles, such as "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "I Will Always Love You," have become American classics and continue to resonate with audiences today. Parton's music has influenced countless artists and has helped shape the country music genre as we know it today. In addition to her music, Dolly Parton is also known for her work in film, particularly her role in the 1980 comedy "9 to 5." The movie was a huge box office success and helped to shine a light on the issues women faced in the workplace at the time. Parton not only starred in the film but also wrote and performed the title song, which became a hit in its own right. The success of "9 to 5" helped to cement Parton's status as a cultural icon and demonstrated her ability to captivate audiences in a variety of mediums. Throughout her career, Dolly Parton has remained true to her roots and has always embraced her Appalachian heritage. She has written countless songs that celebrate the culture and traditions of the region, and her music has become an important part of the Appalachian identity. Parton's legacy as a trailblazer for women, and particularly Appalachian women, cannot be overstated. Despite growing up in poverty in rural Tennessee, she has become one of the most successful and beloved entertainers of all time, with a net worth of over $600 million. And she has used her success to give back to her community in countless ways, from promoting education and literacy to preserving wildlife and providing jobs. FACIAL & FULL BODY WAXING BRAZILIAN WAXING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Located in Downtown Hickory across from the Carolina Movie Theater, Inside The Tunnel 828-979-PLUS 221 1st Ave NW #109
97 She said, "I'm a country girl. I'm proud of it. I wouldn't change it for nothing. I love being from where I'm from, and I love the people that I grew up with." Parton continues to live in Tennessee and is actively involved in the local community. Dolly Parton's influence and impact on music, entertainment, philanthropy, and advocacy are immeasurable. She has overcome tremendous obstacles and used her success to give back to her community and promote causes close to her heart. At Foothills Digest, we are proud to recognize the tremendous impact that Dolly Parton has had on her community and on the Appalachian region as a whole. As a true trailblazer for Appalachian women, Parton embodies the spirit of resilience, strength, and determination that is so deeply ingrained in the culture of the region. For her unwavering commitment to philanthropy, education, and social justice, we are honored to crown Dolly Parton as the Queen of the Strong Appalachian Women. Vinyl Me, Please and Dolly Parton are excited to announce a first-of-its-kind monthly record club devoted to the legendary career and peerless catalog of Dolly Parton. Vinyl Me, Parton gives Dolly Parton fans a monthly connection with Dolly’s catalog on vinyl, with 12 Records of the Month spanning the entirety of Dolly’s recording career. Ranging from her debut to some of her recent self-released albums, the 12 albums included in the Vinyl Me, Parton subscription will come on exclusive color vinyl and remastered from the highest quality audio sources. Each quarter will feature a free and exclusive Vinyl Me, Parton merch item as well. The first 12 albums are shown above.
98 • “Rockstar” (special guest Richie Sambora) • “World on Fire” • “Every Breath You Take” (feat. Sting) • “Open Arms” (feat. Steve Perry) • “Magic Man” (feat. Ann Wilson with special guest Howard Leese) • “Long As I Can See the Light” (feat. John Fogerty) • “Either Or” (feat. Kid Rock) • “I Want You Back” (feat. Steven Tyler with special guest Warren Haynes) • “What Has Rock and Roll Ever Done for You” (feat. Stevie Nicks with special guest Waddy Wachtel) • “Purple Rain” • “Baby, I Love Your Way” (feat. Peter Frampton) • “I Hate Myself for Loving You” (feat. Joan Jett & The Blackhearts) • “Night Moves” (feat. Chris Stapleton) • “Wrecking Ball” (feat. Miley Cyrus) • “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (feat. P!nk & Brandi Carlile) • “Keep on Loving You” (feat. Kevin Cronin) • “Heart of Glass” (feat. Debbie Harry) • “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (feat. Elton John) • “Tried to Rock and Roll Me” (feat. Melissa Etheridge) • “Stairway to Heaven” (feat. Lizzo & Sasha Flute) • “We Are the Champions” • “Bygones” (feat. Rob Halford with special guests Nikki Sixx & John 5) • “My Blue Tears” (feat. Simon Le Bon) • “What’s Up?” (feat. Linda Perry) • “You’re No Good” (feat. Emmylou Harris & Sheryl Crow) • “Heartbreaker” (feat. Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo) • “Bittersweet” (feat. Michael McDonald) • “I Dreamed About Elvis” (feat. Ronnie McDowell with special guest the Jordanaires) • “Let It Be” (feat. Paul McCartney & Ringo Starr with special guests Peter Frampton & Mick Fleetwood) • “Free Bird” (feat. Ronnie Van Zant with special guests Gary Rossington, Artimus Pyle and The Artimus Pyle Band) When Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, she didn't feel she deserved it, since she wasn't a Rock and Roll artist. So, she determined to put out a rock album. She's spent the last year working on some FABULOUS collaborations, and she has released her tracklist of the new album, called "Rockstar". In true Dolly fashion, it has 4 covers, and you can get the vinyl in several color choices.
99 1. Resilient: Dolly Parton's childhood was characterized by extreme poverty and hardship, but she never let that hold her back. Instead, she used those experiences to fuel her determination and drive to succeed, becoming one of the most successful entertainers in history. 2. Resourceful: Parton has always been incredibly resourceful, finding ways to make her dreams a reality even when faced with limited resources. This is evident in her early career, when she relied on her own songwriting skills and self-promotion to get noticed in a male-dominated industry. 3. Determined: Parton's determination is legendary. Despite facing countless obstacles and setbacks throughout her career, she has always remained steadfast in her pursuit of success. She has never been content to rest on her laurels, always striving to improve and push herself to new heights. 4. Independent: Parton has always been fiercely independent, never relying on anyone else to make her dreams come true. From writing her own songs to starting her own business ventures, she has always taken control of her own destiny. 5. Tough: Parton's toughness is evident in both her personal and professional life. Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, she has always remained resilient and determined. She has also never shied away from speaking her mind or standing up for what she believes in, even when it may not be popular. 6. Courageous: Parton's courage is evident in her willingness to take risks and pursue her dreams, even when the odds are stacked against her. She has also used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in, including women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. 7. Tenacious: Parton's tenacity is a key factor in her success. She has never been one to give up easily, and has always been willing to put in the hard work necessary to achieve her goals. 8. Empathetic: Parton's empathetic nature is evident in her philanthropic work, which includes initiatives focused on education, literacy, wildlife conservation, and disaster relief. She has always been deeply committed to helping others and making a positive impact in her community. 9. Generous: Parton's generosity is legendary, with numerous stories of her giving back to her community and helping those in need. She has donated millions of dollars to charity, and her Imagination Library program has provided free books to millions of children around the world. 10. Compassionate: Parton's compassion for others is evident in the way she interacts with her fans and those around her. She has always been known for her warmth and kindness, and has often used her platform to uplift and inspire others. 11. Nurturing: Parton's nurturing nature is evident in her commitment to education and early childhood literacy, as well as her support for disaster relief efforts. She has always been focused on making a positive impact in her community and helping those in need. 12. Creative: Parton's creativity is evident in her songwriting and musical talents, as well as her business ventures, which include Dollywood and her fashion line. She has always been willing to think outside the box and take risks in pursuit of her goals. 13. Hardworking: Parton's work ethic is legendary, with countless stories of her putting in long hours and tirelessly pursuing her goals. She has never been content to rest on her laurels, always striving to improve and push herself to new heights. 14. Intelligent: Parton's intelligence is evident in her business acumen and songwriting skills. She has always been able to find creative solutions to complex problems, and has often been praised for her shrewd business sense. 15. Innovative: Parton's innovation is evident in her business ventures, including Dollywood and her fashion line. She has always been willing to take risks and try new things, in pursuit of her goals. 16. Self-sufficient: Parton's self-sufficiency is evident in her determination to make her own way in the world. She has never relied on anyone else to make her dreams come true, instead using her own skills and talents to create the life she wants. 17. Supportive: Parton's supportive nature is evident in the way she has always championed other artists and creatives. She has often used her platform to uplift and inspire others, and has been a mentor and friend to many in the industry. 18. Loyal: Parton's loyalty is evident in her long-lasting relationships with friends and collaborators. She has remained close with many of the people she has worked with over the years, and has always been fiercely loyal to her roots and her community. 19. Spiritual: Parton's spirituality is an important part of her life and her work. She has often spoken about her faith and how it has guided her through difficult times, and has used her platform to uplift and inspire others in their spiritual journeys. 20. Outspoken: Parton has never been afraid to speak her mind when she feels it is important, even when it may not be popular. She has often used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. She's careful to avoid alienating her audience, and she doesn't often delve into political matters. It's obvious to us that Dolly Parton is the clearest modern example of a Strong Appalachian Woman. Dolly Parton: a strong Appalachian Women Earlier in this issue, we compiled a list of twenty adjectives that we feel get at the heart of what it means to be a “Strong Appalachian Woman.” Dolly Parton embodies each of the traits.
100 Granny Eckard In previous issues of Foothills Digest, I've shared stories about my ancestors. This issue, focusing on strong Appalachian women, is the perfect opportunity to honor my mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. My great-grandmother, Delia Hildebrand (1872-1965), married Lee Kiser and was undeniably a pioneer. There are stories suggesting her ancestors may have been well-off, but it seems that money played no part in Delia's home life or in raising her large family. Homes back then had bedrooms in separate structures from the kitchen due to the risk of fire. Delia's home was heated by a large fireplace in the kitchen, which doubled as the cooking area. The house featured a spacious covered back porch, complete with a pulley system for fetching water from a spring down the hill. I have indelible memories of that old house. Delia raised ten children frugally and through hard work. After her husband passed away at 80, she lived to be 93 and moved to her daughter's house in the George Hildebran area of Burke County. A family story, yet to be verified, suggests that Delia's grandfather, who had a son named George (after whom the George Hildebran area was named), held enslaved farm workers on his extensive property. Following the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865, which abolished slavery, he provided the formerly enslaved workers with land for their own use—a practice that was common throughout the South as a form of reparations. Delia wasn't born yet when this occurred. Top, Delia in center. Next, Delia's family working the fields. Next, baby George Hildebran. Bottom, the lost cabin.