West Virginia Archives - Appalachian History

December 17, 2020 Christmas traditions / West Virginia

Extended Family

Mom passes me an ornament with a family of black bears on it. I spin it around to find the words Gatlinburg, TN painted along its base. “From our vacation?”

Adaland Mansion decked out for Christmas

December 1, 2020 Christmas traditions / West Virginia

The Beautiful Holiday Trees of Adaland Mansion

Each year the staff of Adaland makes changes to what they do for Christmas decorations. But the warmth and love is always a huge part of the display.

b&w etching color toned of man hanged at night in a tree

October 27, 2020 Appalachian scary tales / Ghost stories / Halloween / West Virginia

The Ghosts of Guyan

At one juncture, the moon appeared from behind clouds and fully revealed his consort: a Negro apparition, barely dressed, with a broken neck!

October 23, 2020 Appalachian scary tales / Coal mining / Halloween / West Virginia

Tommy Knockers & Mine Ghosts

The name ‘Tommy Knocker’ comes from the knocking on the mine walls that happens just before cave-ins – the creaking of earth and timbers.

October 12, 2020 Halloween / Supernatural / West Virginia / Writers

“Everyday” Appalachian Superstitions

See a black cat crossing the road before you? Draw an X in the air 3 times to void bad luck. Finish before the cat reaches the other side!

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