The Fascinating World of Morel Mushrooms: A Forager’s Delight

For mushroom hunters and culinary enthusiasts alike, morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.) are among the most sought-after wild fungi. Their unique appearance, rich flavor, and elusive nature make them a prized find in the world of foraging. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just beginning to explore the joys of wild mushroom picking, learning about morels can deepen your appreciation for these incredible fungi.

What Are Morel Mushrooms?

Morels are a type of wild mushroom belonging to the Morchellaceae family. They are distinctive for their honeycomb-like, cone-shaped caps and hollow stems. Unlike many other mushrooms, morels cannot be easily cultivated, which adds to their mystique and desirability.

There are several species of morels, including:

• Yellow Morels (Morchella esculenta) – The most common variety, found in hardwood forests.
• Black Morels (Morchella angusticeps, Morchella elata) – Typically found in burned or disturbed areas.
• Half-Free Morels (Morchella punctipes) – Have a smaller cap that is only partially attached to the stem.

Each variety has its own growing preferences, but all share the characteristic wrinkled and pitted exterior that makes them easily identifiable.

Where Do Morels Grow?

Morels are mycorrhizal and saprotrophic, meaning they can form symbiotic relationships with trees and also decompose organic matter. They tend to thrive in:

• Deciduous forests, especially near ash, elm, poplar, and sycamore trees.
• Burn sites, where wildfires or controlled burns have occurred the previous year.
• Disturbed land, such as logging sites, areas with downed trees, or places where the soil has been recently disturbed.

Morel hunting season typically runs from March to June, depending on location and climate. They emerge when daytime temperatures reach around 60°F (15°C) and nighttime temperatures remain above 40°F (4°C).

How to Hunt for Morels

Foraging for morels is as much an art as it is a science. Here are some tips to increase your chances of finding them:

1. Learn to Identify Morels Properly – Morels have a distinctive honeycomb structure and are completely hollow inside when cut in half. Beware of false morels (such as Gyromitra species), which can be toxic. False morels are often more irregularly shaped, have a wavy cap, and are not completely hollow.
2. Check the Right Locations – Look near dead or dying hardwood trees, in moist soil, and around areas where the ground has been disturbed. South-facing slopes warm up faster in early spring and may produce morels earlier in the season.
3. Move Slowly and Scan Carefully – Morels blend in exceptionally well with the forest floor, making them difficult to spot. Look closely at the base of trees, under leaf litter, and near fallen logs.
4. Use a Mesh Bag for Collection – Using a mesh bag instead of plastic helps spread morel spores, promoting future growth in the area.
5. Keep Track of Successful Spots – If you find morels in one location, mark it down! Morels often return to the same spots year after year.

Cooking and Eating Morels

Morels have a rich, earthy, and nutty flavor that makes them a gourmet ingredient in many dishes. However, they should never be eaten raw, as they contain compounds that can be toxic when uncooked.

Cooking Tips:

• Sautéed in butter – The most popular way to prepare morels is to cook them in butter with a pinch of salt and garlic.
• Added to pastas, risottos, and soups – Their deep umami flavor enhances many dishes.
• Battered and fried – A crunchy, delicious way to enjoy them.
• Dried and rehydrated – Morels can be dried for long-term storage and rehydrated for use in sauces or stews.

The Magic and Mystery of Morels

Morels are one of nature’s greatest treasures. Their seasonal rarity, combined with the excitement of the hunt, makes them a favorite among foragers. Whether you’re searching for your first morel or you’ve been hunting them for years, each find is a small victory in the wild.

Happy hunting, and may your basket be full of golden morels! 🍄

Chang and Eng Bunker were the famous conjoined twins born in 1811 in Siam (now Thailand), who became globally recognized figures and gave rise to the term “Siamese twins.” Their unique condition—being connected at the sternum by a small piece of cartilage—allowed them to live remarkably independent lives despite their shared physical connection. In 1829, they were discovered by a British merchant and later began touring the world as a curiosity act. The Bunkers settled in the United States in the 1830s, where they eventually became American citizens.

They married sisters Sarah and Adelaide Yates and had a combined 21 children between the two families, living alternately between two households. Despite challenges, they thrived as farmers in North Carolina, running a successful business and raising large families. Their ability to lead relatively ordinary lives, coupled with their physical condition, has fascinated historians, scientists, and the public alike.

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The Bunkers’ legacy remains significant not just in medical history but in American cultural history as well. They are buried in Mount Airy, North Carolina, where their story continues to be remembered as one of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to defy expectations.

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The Legend of the Woodbooger: Appalachia’s Mysterious Forest Guardian

Deep in the misty hills and dense forests of Appalachia, whispers of an elusive creature echo through the hollers and ridges. Known as the Woodbooger, this legendary figure has captivated locals for generations, blending folklore, mystery, and a touch of humor into one of the region’s most enduring tales.

What (or Who) is the Woodbooger?

The Woodbooger is East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia’s very own version of Bigfoot. This mysterious, ape-like creature is said to roam the Appalachian forests, hiding in the shadows but leaving behind telltale signs of its presence—giant footprints, snapped tree branches, and the occasional eerie howl that sends shivers down your spine.

The name “Woodbooger” is a playful spin on its alleged behavior. Folks claim the creature is notorious for sneaking around and “boogering” off with things—chickens, apples, or even camp supplies left unattended in the woods. Stories of Woodbooger sightings are often shared around campfires, adding a thrilling edge to evenings under the stars.

A Protector of the Wild?

Some legends suggest the Woodbooger isn’t just a spooky forest dweller but a guardian of nature. It’s said to live deep in the woods, avoiding human contact, and might even play a role in protecting the environment. Hikers and hunters have reported feeling “watched” in remote areas, with some saying they’ve stumbled upon oddly arranged sticks or rock formations thought to be Woodbooger markers warning people to stay away.

Hotspot: Norton, Virginia

If you’re on the hunt for the Woodbooger, Norton, Virginia, claims the title of “Woodbooger Capital of the World.” High Knob Recreation Area, near Norton, is a hotspot for sightings, and the community has embraced the legend with open arms. There’s even a Woodbooger Sanctuary designation and a statue in Norton celebrating the creature. Every October, the town hosts a Woodbooger Festival, complete with storytelling, music, and Bigfoot-inspired fun for the whole family.

Famous Sightings

The Woodbooger’s legend grew thanks to local tales and national attention. A notable nod came in a 2015 episode of Finding Bigfoot, which explored reports from the Norton area and further cemented the creature’s status as an Appalachian icon.

One story tells of a hunter spotting a large, hairy figure in the woods at dusk, standing nearly eight feet tall before it vanished silently into the trees. Another account involves a group of campers who found their food supplies missing and large footprints around their campsite the following morning. Was it a bear—or the Woodbooger? The mystery remains unsolved.

How to Spot the Woodbooger

If you’re brave enough to seek out this mythical beast, here are some tips:

• Explore Remote Areas: The Woodbooger is most often “spotted” in dense, quiet forests far from human activity.
• Look for Signs: Oversized footprints, twisted branches, or peculiar rock formations might hint at its presence.
• Keep an Open Mind: Whether you believe in the Woodbooger or not, the fun lies in embracing the legend and enjoying the beauty of Appalachia’s wilderness.

A Fun Appalachian Tradition

The Woodbooger is more than just a scary story—it’s a symbol of Appalachian folklore and a playful way to connect with the region’s rich storytelling heritage. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the legend of the Woodbooger adds a touch of mystery to every hike and campfire tale.

Have you ever heard the Woodbooger’s howl or seen its massive tracks? Share your story below—but beware, the Woodbooger might be watching!

You can see the video of our quest to find Woodbooger at Flag Rock in Norton, Virginia below:

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Mabry Mill, tucked in along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, is one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in the Appalachian region. Built by Ed Mabry in 1903, this historic gristmill stands as a testament to the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of early mountain communities. Originally, the mill was used for grinding corn and sawing lumber, eventually expanding to serve as a blacksmith shop as well. Over the years, Mabry Mill became an essential gathering place for the local community, providing services and a social hub for families living in the mountains.

Today, Mabry Mill is much more than a historic site; it’s a beloved symbol of Appalachian heritage. The National Park Service maintains the mill and offers live demonstrations that showcase traditional mountain crafts and trades, including blacksmithing, basket weaving, and spinning. Visitors can walk around the beautiful grounds, listen to live bluegrass music, and see the fully restored waterwheel in action—a sight that has made the mill one of the most photographed spots on the entire Parkway.

The nearby Mabry Mill Restaurant serves up classic Southern fare, including their famous buckwheat pancakes, making it a must-stop for anyone traveling through the area. And in the fall, the mill is surrounded by vibrant colors, with the foliage reflecting off the pond, creating a scene straight out of a postcard.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a taste of Appalachian tradition, Mabry Mill offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where you can step back in time, take in the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge, and connect with the rich heritage of the region.

The Brown Mountain Lights: Appalachia’s Mysterious Phenomenon

Nestled in the rugged foothills of North Carolina’s Appalachian Mountains lies one of the most enduring mysteries of the region: the Brown Mountain Lights. For centuries, these strange, glowing orbs of light have been spotted hovering, flickering, and floating above Brown Mountain, captivating residents, tourists, and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Despite scientific investigations and countless theories, the origin of these lights remains an unsolved enigma.

The Brown Mountain Lights have been reported for well over a hundred years, though some accounts suggest that Native American legends referenced the phenomenon long before European settlers arrived. Documented sightings became more frequent in the early 20th century, when people began noticing the lights while traveling through the area by train or visiting the Linville Gorge.

One of the earliest recorded observations came in 1913, when a U.S. Geological Survey report attributed the lights to distant locomotive headlights. However, when a major flood washed out the train tracks in 1916, the lights continued to appear, leading to more speculation and a revival of the mystery.

Locals described the lights as small, glowing orbs that appear at various heights above the mountain, sometimes moving slowly and other times darting rapidly through the night sky. They change in intensity, sometimes glowing faintly and other times burning bright white, red, or yellow. On clear nights, they can be seen from various vantage points, like Wiseman’s View and the Blue Ridge Parkway, drawing curious onlookers hoping to catch a glimpse of the supernatural.

Many legends and supernatural explanations have been offered over the years to explain the Brown Mountain Lights. One popular theory suggests that the lights are the spirits of Cherokee or Catawba warriors who died in a great battle on the mountain long ago, their restless souls manifesting as glowing orbs. Another tale tells of a heartbroken woman wandering the mountain with a lantern, searching for her lost lover who never returned from the war.

Some have speculated that the lights are extraterrestrial in origin, possibly linked to UFO sightings. The eerie, otherworldly movement of the lights has led to speculation that they could be some form of alien visitation, or even an interdimensional phenomenon—portals opening and closing on the mountain.

While folklore and ghost stories are a fun way to explain the lights, scientists have proposed a variety of more grounded theories. Some believe the lights are caused by natural phenomena such as marsh gas, where decaying organic material produces gases that ignite in the air. Others suggest that atmospheric conditions or reflections of distant lights could explain the glowing orbs, though this fails to account for the regularity of the sightings.

One of the most intriguing scientific theories is piezoelectricity, which occurs when certain materials, such as quartz in the mountain rock, generate electrical charges under pressure. The geological makeup of the region includes quartz and other minerals that could create electrical discharges when stressed, such as during shifts in the Earth’s crust. This might explain the spontaneous bursts of light seen above the mountain.

Another theory involves ball lightning, a rare atmospheric electrical phenomenon. Ball lightning occurs during thunderstorms, appearing as glowing, spherical objects that float and move erratically before dissipating. While this could explain some sightings, the Brown Mountain Lights have been observed in clear weather as well.

Regardless of the explanation, the Brown Mountain Lights have become a major attraction for both locals and tourists. Each year, thousands of visitors flock to Brown Mountain in hopes of catching a glimpse of the elusive lights. There are even annual festivals celebrating the phenomenon, and local businesses have embraced the legend by offering tours, selling souvenirs, and holding events dedicated to the mystery.

Scientists have tried to study the lights over the years, but no definitive explanation has been confirmed. The U.S. Geological Survey and various universities have conducted research, setting up cameras and monitoring equipment in the area, but the lights remain unpredictable and difficult to capture. While many theories exist, none fully explains the mysterious behavior and sporadic appearances of the lights, keeping the allure alive for curious minds.

The Brown Mountain Lights have persisted as one of Appalachia’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Whether caused by natural phenomena, paranormal forces, or something stranger altogether, the lights continue to fascinate and baffle all who witness them. For now, they remain a beautiful, eerie puzzle—one that draws people to the heart of the Appalachian wilderness, hoping to catch a glimpse of something beyond explanation.

In a region already rich with folklore, ghost stories, and tall tales, the Brown Mountain Lights serve as a reminder that not all mysteries can be easily solved, and some might be better left to the imagination. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, there’s no denying the lights’ place in the curious lore of the Appalachian Mountains.

What do you think is causing them? Have you seen the mysterious Brown Mountain Lights? We have and it was pretty unsettling, I am not sure what to make of them, especially after having a personal experience.

The Coal Creek War was a major labor uprising in the 1890s that erupted in the coal-mining communities of East Tennessee. Rooted in the struggle between coal miners and mine operators, it pitted miners against a system that used convict labor to break strikes and drive down wages. Centered around Coal Creek (now Lake City, Tennessee), the conflict lasted from 1891 to 1893 and highlighted the tensions of the time: workers’ rights, the abuses of the convict lease system, and the role of industrial capitalism in shaping lives and communities.

Background and Convict Leasing

In the 19th century, Tennessee, like many Southern states, used a convict lease system to cut costs and generate revenue. Convicts were leased to private industries like mining, where they worked under brutal, dangerous conditions for little to no pay. For mine operators, convict labor was cheap and easy to control, making it an attractive way to suppress labor costs. This practice became widespread in Tennessee and infuriated free miners, who felt it unfairly threatened their jobs and worsened their already challenging working conditions.

In 1891, the situation reached a boiling point. Miners in Anderson and Campbell counties had endured poor wages and dangerous conditions for years. Many miners and their families lived in company-owned housing and bought goods at company-owned stores, keeping them locked in a cycle of debt. When mine operators brought in convict laborers to break strikes and keep wages low, miners realized their livelihoods were directly threatened. They argued that the use of convict labor created an unfair advantage for mine owners and left free workers without the power to demand fair treatment.

The Start of the Conflict

Tensions peaked in July 1891, when miners at the Briceville mines organized against the use of convict labor. The miners tried legal petitions, appeals, and protests, but their pleas fell on deaf ears. Frustrated and angry, they decided to take matters into their own hands. In a dramatic show of defiance, a group of armed miners descended on the state prison stockades where convicts were housed. They overpowered the guards, freed the convicts, and sent them by train back to Knoxville.

The state government quickly intervened, sending militia troops to protect the stockades and restore order. However, the miners were determined. In a series of escalations, they repeatedly overpowered the militia, freed the convicts, and burned the stockades to prevent their reuse. This cycle continued over the next two years, with miners dismantling or destroying convict camps each time the state attempted to re-establish them.

Escalation and Violence

As the conflict intensified, both sides began to take more extreme actions. The miners fortified themselves in the rugged hills around Coal Creek, using their knowledge of the landscape to elude and fight back against the state militia. They held rallies, calling for the end of convict leasing and better working conditions, and appealed for support from miners in other parts of the state and region. Armed skirmishes broke out, and tensions boiled over into violence, with both miners and militiamen losing their lives.

In response, the state of Tennessee increased its military presence, stationing hundreds of soldiers in the area and even deploying artillery to dissuade the miners. But the miners remained resolute, continuing their campaign of freeing convicts and resisting the militia’s attempts to control the area. They saw themselves as fighting for justice, not only for themselves but for the dignity of their labor and the survival of their families. Local sympathy for the miners ran high, with many residents offering support and shelter to the miners despite the risks.

The End of Convict Leasing in Tennessee

The Coal Creek War reached its conclusion in 1893, but its impact was profound. While the miners didn’t succeed in immediately ending the convict lease system, the sustained conflict had brought national attention to the brutal conditions of convict labor and the injustices miners faced. Ultimately, the cost of deploying troops, combined with mounting public pressure, convinced Tennessee officials that the convict leasing system was untenable. In 1896, Tennessee became one of the first Southern states to abolish the convict lease system, and it replaced it with a state prison system where inmates worked on state-run farms or in state-operated industries.

The end of convict leasing was a major victory for the Coal Creek miners and a crucial step forward in the labor movement. Though it didn’t resolve all the challenges miners faced, it sent a powerful message about the need for fair labor practices and limitations on corporate power over workers.

Legacy of the Coal Creek War

The Coal Creek War remains a defining episode in American labor history. It demonstrated the power of collective action and underscored the role that ordinary workers could play in challenging exploitative practices. Although the miners faced overwhelming odds, they were able to achieve real change, highlighting the strength and determination of working communities in the face of corporate and governmental opposition.

Today, the legacy of the Coal Creek War is honored in Anderson County, where historical markers and educational programs keep the memory alive. The miners’ resistance serves as a reminder of the struggles workers endured to secure basic rights and dignity in the workplace. It also calls attention to the continued importance of workers’ rights and fair labor practices, inspiring future generations to stand up for justice in their own workplaces.

The Coal Creek War is a story of resilience, courage, and the unyielding pursuit of justice in the face of hardship. It remains a powerful chapter in the fight for workers’ rights in the United States and a reminder of the enduring strength of communities bound by solidarity and a shared sense of purpose.

The Kentucky Meat Shower: A Bizarre Mystery in Appalachian History

On March 3, 1876, a truly strange and still-unexplained event took place in Bath County, Kentucky, that came to be known as the “Kentucky Meat Shower.” On that afternoon, residents of the small community of Olympian Springs reported seeing pieces of raw meat—ranging from the size of snowflakes to chunks several inches across—falling from the sky and covering an area of roughly 100 by 50 yards. Witnesses claimed the meat shower lasted only a few minutes but left a substantial amount of mysterious material scattered across the ground.

What Exactly Was the “Meat”?

The people who examined the falling pieces of meat were understandably baffled. Two local men who tasted the meat (in the name of science, of course) reported it had the texture of lamb or deer. Some initial samples were sent to scientists and specialists, who analyzed them as best they could with the tools available in the late 19th century.

Analysis yielded varying results: some claimed the samples were lung tissue from a horse or possibly a human, while others thought they resembled muscle, cartilage, or connective tissue from an animal. A report by the New York Scientific American even suggested that the meat was likely from a horse or bear. Despite numerous examinations, there was no consensus on the exact type of meat, much less how it came to rain down from the sky.

Theories Behind the Meat Shower

Over the years, multiple theories have emerged to explain the mysterious Kentucky Meat Shower. Here are some of the most notable:

1. Vulture Theory: The most widely accepted theory is that a group of vultures may have been responsible. Vultures are known to regurgitate their meals when startled, sometimes in mid-flight. If a flock of vultures was flying over the area and collectively expelled their stomach contents, it could explain how various pieces of meat “fell” from above. While this is plausible, it remains speculation since no one actually saw vultures in the sky at the time.
2. Supernatural Explanations: Given the lack of concrete evidence, some at the time believed the meat shower was a supernatural phenomenon, perhaps a sign from God or an omen. In the 19th century, without scientific explanations, it wasn’t uncommon for people to view such events as messages or portents.
3. Unidentified Animal Origins: Some have theorized that the meat could have come from an unknown or misidentified animal species. However, the presence of lung and muscle tissue makes this idea less likely.
4. Meteorological Phenomenon: Some people speculated that the meat shower might be connected to unusual weather patterns. However, there were no storms, tornadoes, or strong winds reported that day to suggest that the meat could have been carried from one place to another by natural forces.

Legacy of the Kentucky Meat Shower

The Kentucky Meat Shower remains one of the most bizarre and unexplained events in American history. The phenomenon was widely reported in newspapers across the country, sparking a mix of curiosity and horror among readers. To this day, the event is an enduring mystery and part of Kentucky folklore, often cited in discussions of odd natural phenomena.

Though no conclusive answer has ever been found, the vulture theory remains the most plausible explanation. However, lacking concrete evidence or eyewitness accounts of vultures, the Kentucky Meat Shower continues to puzzle and fascinate. It has inspired books, articles, and even art, with people intrigued by the possibility of a “meat shower” falling from the sky.

While the Kentucky Meat Shower might never be fully explained, it’s a curious reminder of the strange events that sometimes unfold in our world—leaving us wondering just how many mysteries we have yet to uncover.

Grave Houses in Appalachia: A Unique Burial Tradition

In the rugged and mysterious hills of Appalachia, where folklore runs deep and traditions often stretch back centuries, one of the most curious and lesser-known practices is the construction of grave houses. These small, roofed structures are built directly over graves and are a striking reminder of the region’s distinct blend of customs, spirituality, and practical ingenuity.

What Are Grave Houses?

Grave houses are miniature, cabin-like structures built over individual graves, typically made from wood or occasionally stone. They can range in style from simple, sloping roofs to more intricate, house-like designs. These structures are not just decorative markers but serve specific symbolic and practical purposes, preserving both memory and heritage.

The Origins of Grave Houses

While grave houses can be found in other regions, they are particularly associated with Appalachian burial traditions. The practice is thought to have originated with Scots-Irish settlers, who brought with them a unique blend of folk beliefs from Europe. Over time, this tradition became a part of Appalachian culture, reflecting the region’s deep connection to the land and the spirit world.

Symbolic Meanings

In many ways, grave houses serve as a continuation of the deceased’s home, offering them shelter in the afterlife. For communities that believed in the presence of spirits or haints, these structures were a way to protect the dead from wandering souls. Some saw the grave house as providing the dead with a place of comfort, shielding them from the elements.

Additionally, grave houses could signify the importance of family lineage and continuity. In isolated mountain communities, where families often stayed on the same land for generations, these structures became lasting memorials, honoring the life of a loved one and marking their resting place with care and permanence.

Practical Purposes

Grave houses may have also had a practical function. In the early days of Appalachia, when graves were dug in rocky, uneven terrain, the mounds of dirt used to cover the bodies would sometimes shift or wash away due to rain and erosion. The small house provided protection from the elements, helping to keep the grave intact. It also prevented animals from disturbing the site.

Decline and Preservation

While the practice of building grave houses began to decline in the early 20th century with the rise of more modern cemeteries and burial methods, some grave houses can still be found scattered throughout rural areas of Appalachia. These relics of the past are often weathered and worn, blending into the landscape but still standing as markers of a bygone tradition.

Some communities have made efforts to preserve these unique structures as a part of their cultural heritage. Grave houses now serve as points of interest for historians, anthropologists, and those drawn to the rich folklore of Appalachia.

A Haunting Reminder of Appalachian Tradition

For those fascinated by Appalachian traditions, grave houses offer a tangible connection to the region’s relationship with death, the afterlife, and the land. They stand as a symbol of the enduring belief in the importance of sheltering and caring for the dead, a poignant reminder of how Appalachian culture blends practicality with deeply spiritual practices.

In an age where many burial customs have become standardized, these tiny houses, perched over graves in old cemeteries, remain a striking testament to the individuality and enduring legacy of Appalachian life.

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“Catchable But Not Fetchable”

Mahala “Big Haley” Mullins was a legend of the Appalachian Mountains, known far and wide as the most notorious moonshiner of her time. Born in the mid-1800s, she lived in the remote hills of Newman’s Ridge (on the outskirts of Sneedville), Tennessee, in an area where the rugged landscape provided both a home and a haven for those looking to live outside the reach of the law.

Mahala was part of the Melungeon community, a group of mixed-race people who lived in isolation, often misunderstood and marginalized. But despite the hardships she faced, Mahala built a reputation that transcended the hollers and ridges. She was known for producing the finest moonshine in the region, a craft that was passed down through the generations in Appalachian families. Her whiskey was so good that it brought people from miles around, willing to make the treacherous journey up the mountain to her cabin.

At over 500 pounds, Mahala was famously immobile, which only added to her legend. The local law enforcement knew all about her illegal moonshine operation, but arresting her was easier said than done. Time and again, deputies and revenuers would trek up the mountain to arrest Mahala, only to be met with an impossible challenge: they couldn’t get her out of the house. Her large size and stubborn spirit made her physically unmovable, and the steep, narrow paths leading to her cabin made it impossible to transport her down the mountain.

“Catch me if you can,” she was said to have laughed, knowing full well they couldn’t. One frustrated lawman would dub her as “catchable but not fetchable.” I think that might be the greatest line in the history of great lines, but I digress.

Mahala Mullins’ story is about more than just moonshine; it’s about the spirit of independence and resilience that defines Appalachia. She was a woman who lived on her own terms in a time and place where survival wasn’t easy, especially for a woman. In a region where making a living often meant bending—or breaking—the law, Mahala Mullins became a folk hero. She stood her ground, both literally and figuratively, and became a symbol of Appalachian defiance.

She passed away in 1898, but her story lives on, passed down in Appalachian lore. Today, she’s remembered as one of the most colorful characters in the history of moonshining, a legend of the mountains who couldn’t be caught. Mahala Mullins was more than just a moonshiner—she was a symbol of the unshakable will that defines the people of Appalachia.

You can see a video about our visit to her famous cabin in this link:

Cabin Of Famous Melungeon Moonshiner, The Catchable But Not Fetchable Mahala “Big Haley” Mullins

https://youtu.be/mV8TrsUKaTk?si=d1hllx8XDIsu3FvV

We also have a discussion of her life and times in this video:

The Melungeon Moonshiner Who Was “Catchable But Not Fetchable”: Legends and Folklore of Appalachia

https://youtu.be/V4saFGMrA_k

This is a photo of Swimmer, a Cherokee traditionalist and storyteller, who hailed from the heartland of southwestern North Carolina. His given Cherokee name, Ayunini, translates to “he is swimming” or “he is a swimmer” – which explains the English moniker “Swimmer.”

He was trained by tribal elders as a priest, healer, and guardian of Cherokee traditions. Swimmer chose to forgo learning English in favor of preserving his Indigenous heritage throughout his life. True to his role, he became the steward of his people’s history and customs.

As a young man, Swimmer learned the Cherokee Syllabary from his elders and began meticulously documenting sacred rites, cultural stories, and practical knowledge in a personal notebook. He also cataloged plants, roots, and barks with beneficial uses. During the Civil War, he enlisted on April 9, 1862, serving as a second sergeant in the Cherokee Company A, Sixty-ninth North Carolina Confederate Regiment under Colonel William Thomas.

In 1887, the Smithsonian Institution dispatched James Mooney, a former journalist turned ethnologist, to study the Cherokee people. Mooney, who had previously collaborated with a Cherokee chief to develop a Cherokee grammar, spent three seasons in the field and became acquainted with Swimmer. Through their interactions, Mooney amassed a wealth of information and acquired Swimmer’s notebook. Swimmer may have seen in Mooney a worthy successor to preserve the knowledge he had painstakingly collected.

Mooney’s work, including “Myths of the Cherokee,” documented the Cherokee’s oral history and wisdom for posterity. While Mooney gathered additional information from Swimmer’s contemporaries, he acknowledged the significant contribution Swimmer made through his meticulous records. Swimmer shared with Mooney insights into tribal ceremonies, ancient rites, games, legends, and animal imitations. In return, Mooney introduced Swimmer to Irish folk myths from his own upbringing.

Swimmer was a constant presence at dances, ball games, and other tribal events, often serving as a guide or referee. Upon his death at age sixty-five, he was interred on a mountain slope following Cherokee rituals.

This photograph of Swimmer, now housed at the Smithsonian Institution, depicts him holding a gourd rattle—a symbol of his tribal authority—and wearing his traditional turban, as well as moccasins, which Mooney noted were always part of his attire.

Swimmer’s gracious sharing of his wealth of knowledge of Cherokee culture went a long way toward preserving a great history for future generations to learn and pass on down the line.