Appalachian Lore

Explore the traditional tales of the hills and hollers of southwestern Virginia. From the infamous Black Sisters of Christiansburg to the ghost of the famed Barter Theatre in Abingdon, the region is filled with stories that have haunted residents for decades. The Woodbooger, a local Bigfoot, is said to roam the mountainsides which are also home to many eccentric and inspiring legendary characters, including Molly Tynes, Reverend Robert Sheffey, Napoleon Hill and Cedar Creek Charlie. Authors Melody West and Shane Simmons uncover tales of unique people and places that have seldom been told.

Author Shane Simmons explores tales of bravery, lore and bizarre customs within the East Tennessee region. The mountains of East Tennessee are chock full of unique folklore passed down through generations. Locals spin age-old yarns of legends like Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone and Dragging Canoe. Stories of snake-handling churches and the myths behind the death crown superstitions dot the landscape. The mysteries surrounding the Sensabaugh Tunnel still haunt residents.

This book is a blend of folktales, long-held traditions, historical research, firsthand accounts and superstitions from the people and places of the Appalachian Mountains. This includes age-old folk lore, modern tales and urban legends. Additionally, there is a section dedicated to the Native American lore of the Cherokee --- who once originated in the Appalachians.

In this comprehensive history of the Appalachian region, Williams weaves social, political, environmental, economic, and popular history together to present a readable narrative that spans four and a half centuries.

This volume is the first to explore broadly many important theoretical and applied issues concerning the mental health of Appalachians. The authors—anthropologists, psychologists, social workers and others—overturn many assumptions held by earlier writers, who have tended to see Appalachia and its people as being dominated by a culture of poverty. While the heterogeneity of the region is acknowledged in the diversity of sub-areas and populations discussed, dominant themes emerge concerning Appalachia as a whole. The result of the authors' varied approaches is a cumulative portrait of a strong regional culture with native support systems based on family, community, and religion. Some of the contributors examine therapeutic approaches, including family therapy, that consider the implications of the cultural context. Others explore the impact of Appalachian culture on the impact of Appalachian culture on the development of mental health problems and coping skills and the resulting potential for conflict between Appalachian clients and non-Appalachian health providers. Still others examine cultural considerations in therapeutic encounters and mental health service delivery. The book is rich in case studies and empirical data. The practical, applied nature of the essays will enhance their value for practitioners seeking ways to improve mental health care in the region.

This comprehensive bibliography includes books written about or set in Appalachia from the 18th century to the present. Titles represent the entire region as defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission, including portions of 13 states stretching from southern New York to northern Mississippi. The bibliography is arranged in alphabetical order by author, and each title is accompanied by an annotation, most of which include composite reviews and critical analyses of the work. All classic genres of children's literature are represented.

The Spooky Side of the Volunteer State Tennessee is steeped in legend. From strange sightings to odd and macabre crimes, the Volunteer State is no stranger to lore. Author Alan Brown details the haunts, troubling crimes and spooky past.