Magazine

Everyone knows that that Independence Day (aka the Fourth of July) celebrates the date in 1776 on which the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. You probably didn’t know, however, that Independence Day has only been an official nationwide holiday since 1941. Massachusetts was the first state to make it an official holiday within its borders in 1781. Nevertheless, Americans have been celebrating their declared independence from the British monarchy unofficially since 1777. Parades, concerts, bonfires, picnics, even ceremonial funerals for King George III have evoked cheers and patriotic feelings. But until 1941, these festivities were primarily regional or local affairs, and celebrations varied from state to state.

Banjo Music Thrives in Appalachia >

Introduced to the mountain communities of Appalachia after the Civil War, the banjo has become synonymous with old-time mountain music since the early twentieth century. But the instrument has been around in the U.S. since the early nineteenth century. Originally brought to the country by African slaves, the banjo didn’t gain American popularity until white blackface minstrels traveled the country playing a mix of vaudeville, African-American, Scottish-Celtic and ballads.

Protecting Your Garden >

Early Appalachian settlers lived off the land, planting crops on mountainsides that were anything but flat. To ensure the family’s survival, though, folks in the mountains relied on agriculture. They knew that if you wanted to eat, you had to protect your garden. Since it took a lot of time and effort to build a garden fence, they often looked for other ways to keep hungry critters out.

Traditional Tactics

Craft Camp Roundup >

A review of craft camps around Appalachia Camp is not just for kids anymore. A craft camp presents a great opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to immerse themselves in activities they love. Whether you want some laid-back summer fun or a chance to hone a serious skill set, attend a craft camp. Craft camps can help you connect to local culture, develop a passion, and spend time with like-minded others. There is a strong folk tradition involved with mastering a craft, and you can find many good craft camps to choose from in the Appalachian area.

Dahlonega, Georgia >

Dahlonega, one of the first mining towns in the area, got its name from the Cherokee word tahlonega, meaning yellow or golden. And so it became Georgia’s own City of Gold. To this day, the town thrives on its past connection to the gold rush, as well as on the many natural wonders that surround the town. Hikers know Dahlonega as the closest hub to the end (or beginning) of the Appalachian Trail, which runs 2,180 miles north from Springer Mountain, about eight miles away.

Mater Sammiches, aka Tomato Sandwiches >

Two slices of white bread. Sliced tomatoes fresh from the garden. A little mayo, salt and pepper to taste. That’s the makings of one of the finest sandwiches you’ll find anywhere in the country. And every homemaker in the Appalachians knows, there’s nothing better to serve family and friends on a hot July summer evening than one of these delicious, juicy, mouth-watering treats.

What’s SUP? Stand Up Paddleboard! >

Stand up paddleboard (or SUP, for short) is a new recreational activity that’s sweeping across the globe. A fun new way to get around on calm water, SUP is safe for adults and kids who are at least nine years old. Life jackets are recommended and the ability to swim is required. If you’ve never heard of SUP, let us enlighten you. Although different paddleboards are available, they are usually between nine to 12 feet long and 28 to 36 inches wide. They resemble surfboards on steroids. A fin on the submerged side makes the board very stable as you glide across the water.

Fly Your Colors >

Bunting has come a long way from its origins. Today, you’ll see bunting hanging from Southern Appalachian porches, town halls and city center gazebos on the Fourth of July. All summer long, buntings grace the tables at family reunion picnics and church bazaars. Bunting is especially popular at political rallies, but it’s even used by patriotic hawkers at car lots and flea markets. The term “bunting” refers to most any decorative flags or drapes that you can hang from porch railings, rooftops, windows, doors and decks. Today, bunting can be made of anything from fabric to plastic or cardboard. And while bunting typically is used to showcase patriotism, it can come in an assortment of colors and themes.