Blog
My book, When All God’s Children Get Together: A Celebration of The Lives and Music of African American People in Far Western North Carolina documents the stories that have been passed down through oral tradition in the seven far Western counties of our state. The book and this blog are intended to highlight and empower Black communities in particular and inform youth and adults by showing how the Black community has always been a vital part of the diversity of the region that is usually known for the Native American Cherokee and the White Scots – Irish population.
Our people have displayed a spirit of forgiveness for unequal treatment given over the years and have taken the opportunity to quietly simulate into the society where they have produced a vibrant cultural heritage. Well-known and record-setting sports figures, creative musical and visual artists, and educators have strained to preach, teach, and provide role models often under incredibly oppressive circumstances.
This blog is intended to highlight the stories of this largely invisible group of people who have helped to build the rich social, economic, and spiritual community in the mountain region west of Asheville, North Carolina even though they make up less than 1.6% of the population.
The Cowee Tunnel, Called the “Crying Tunnel”
The Cowee Tunnel is located in Jackson County near Dillsboro, North Carolina. Riders on the Great...
In an interview with the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, Ann M. Woodford discusses what it means to be an artist, where her inspiration comes from, and how she wants
I invite you to share your stories of the history of the African American people in the mountains of far Western North Carolina.