Embarking on an Uncharted Exploration Through the Appalachian Subregions

Speaker 1: 0:23

You're listening to Tennessee Roads, recorded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Well, hey there, everybody, and welcome back for another episode of Tennessee Roads podcast. My name's Dusty and I'll be your guide as we hitchhike through all the towns and communities that make up the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Well, hey there, guys, and welcome back to another episode of Tennessee Roads. It is finally fall, it is October, we are here, it is almost my birthday, the leaves are starting to change, the temperature, for the most part, is starting to drop, it is Halloween season. It is personally my favorite time of year, right next to the holiday time, which we are also very quickly approaching on. But wow, guys, we have got a fun episode to talk about today. We have a lot to talk about and just there's a lot of stuff that we have to cover and not a lot of time. So, with that being said, let's just go ahead and get started. Well, guys, in our last episode, I told you that I had some exciting news coming up into the future and I just wasn't quite ready to share with you all what that news was, and the time has come I am ready to share. So, for the next little while this will be the last episode that I will be producing. I know it's sad, but that is because I will be relocating and moving. Once I get finished with my current contract at Frightworks Haunted Attraction, in the beginning of November, I will be packing up and moving to Orlando, florida, to the theme park capital of the United States, to pursue employment in the theme park and hospitality industry. Once again, this is something that I have worked for for a very, very long time and I'm really glad to finally see it come to fruition. I have a lot of people supporting me and backing me friends and family that have wished me well. So I'm going to pause on the podcast for a month or two. I'm to be honest, I don't even know. I may get down there and get situated and decide to do something at the end of November, but for the time being, I'm going to go ahead and say that I don't plan to do anything for the month of November and maybe December and excuse me and we will get everything running back up again in January of 2024, if you don't hear from me before then, out of Orlando, florida. Now, that being said, yes, I do still plan on doing Tennessee roads. I do plan on doing it from Orlando, so we will not be recorded live in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. We'll be coming to you all the way from Orlando, florida, and, who knows, I may bring you guys along for my life down there and things. So if you want to see what's going on and, I guess, keep up with me be sure that you guys follow me on TN Roads podcast on Instagram and Tennessee Roads podcast on Facebook and you guys can follow my personal Instagram. Just look me up there. You can look me up under Dustin Payne. Yes, I know my real name is is Dustin, not Dusty. But if you guys want to come along for that fun ride, yeah, why not? But I guess it's time that we go ahead and jump directly into some exciting stuff we have going on Without further ado.

Speaker 1: 4:25

It's not a news segment, but it's something new for today because I've got a lot to tell you about. So here we go Entertainment news. On October 1st, guests aboard the Dollywood Express got more than they expected when the almost 100 year old locomotive experienced what the park is calling a mechanical issue. While the train was making its scenic five mile journey around the park, the train came to a sudden stop just before 8 30pm, guests were shocked to find out that two of the passenger cars had derailed. Luckily, no injuries were reported and the guests were evacuated from the attraction by park staff. Park officials stated that the attraction would be closed until further notice and that they would be working with state inspectors to determine the cause of the issue. This comes exactly one year after Dollywood's sister park, silver Dollar City in Branson, missouri, derailed, hospitalizing six park goers and one employee. Sdc was plagued with another derailment in May of 2023. Fortunately, there were no injuries at Silver Dollar City during the second derailment and it was determined that a faulty manufacturing park was the cause of the issue. The attraction at Silver Dollar City has since reopened.

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Now Dollywood has also announced that one of the park's flagship roller coasters, the Lightning Rod, will close for the season on October 30th, so the ride can replace its problematic launch with a high speed lift chain. Lightning Rod opened in 2016 as the world's fastest and first wooden launched roller coaster. Since its debut, it has been plagued with several mechanical issues in downtime. The park hopes that when they reopen in the spring, lightning Rod will run with a higher consistency and better guest satisfaction, but not all of it is bad news. Some good news, though. Dollywood hosted the 2023 Golden Ticket Awards presented by amusement today, and, per usual, dollywood swept the competition by winning titles such as Best Guest Experience, best Kids Area, best Christmas Event and they are the only park to ever win this award Best Family Coaster, with the new Big Bear Mountain and supporting Trip Advisors Claim to. They were awarded the best amusement park, making it the current reigning park across the globe. Dolly Parton and her business partners, jack and Pete Hirschend, were named amusement today's Golden Ticket Legends for their excellence and being the best of the best within the amusement industry. For more information on the Golden Ticket Awards, you can visit goldenticketawordscom.

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Now for today's episode, I want to ask you a simple question. I'm interested to see what it is. You think the answer may be what is Appalachia? Now I can tell you that one common misconception is that Appalachia is East Tennessee, kentucky and West Virginia. People say that it's one room school houses where you run around barefoot and there's no electricity, or it's the area that District 12 was based on in the hit book and movie series the Hunger Games. But if you look it up on a map, you'll see that Appalachia is a region that goes as far north into the southern borders of Canada all the way down into the northern parts of Alabama, georgia and Mississippi. It contains 423 counties across 13 states.

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Appalachia may sound like it's just a place, but it's so much more. The Appalachian Mountain Range is an ancient and majestic natural wonder, stretching over 2,000 miles across the eastern United States and has long captured the imaginations of travelers, artists and nature enthusiasts. This diverse landscape is not only marked by its towering peaks and lush forests, but also by its unique subregions that dot its length. In today's episode, we will explore the breakdown of the Appalachian subregions and shed light on the distinctive features and characteristics that make each one of these a treasure trove of culture, history and natural beauty. The Appalachian region consists of five subregions. Many sources list these areas differently, but most people agree that Northern Appalachia includes parts of Pennsylvania, new York, northeastern Ohio and a few counties in Maryland. South Central contains most of West Virginia and Southern Ohio. Central Appalachia contains Southwestern West Virginia and seven Southwestern counties of Virginia, kentucky and 13 Northern counties between Middle and East Tennessee. South Central Appalachia contains parts of Virginia, north Carolina and Tennessee. And lastly, southern Appalachia, which contains South Carolina, georgia, alabama and Mississippi. Today we will break down these regions and discuss some of the most notable parts of these areas.

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The Northern Appalachians encompass a region from the Canadian border down to Pennsylvania, new York, eastern Ohio and parts of Maryland. Renowned for its rugged beauty and glacially carved valleys, this subregion is characterized by dense, spruce fur forest, picturesque lakes and abundant wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Mount Davis in Pennsylvania and wild turkey rock in Maryland for hiking, skiing and camping adventures. The Northern Appalachians are also rich in cultural heritage, with communities preserving traditions like maple sugaring, textile arts and bluegrass music. As a haven for biodiversity, the Northern Appalachians harbor an astonishing variety of plant and animal life. The dense forest provides sanctuary for numerous bird species, including the regal bald eagle and many melodious songbirds. The area is also home to elusive mammals such as the black bear, the moose and the lynx. Exploring the network of trails, visitors might be fortunate enough to witness deer's foraging or catch a glimpse of a curious fox darting through the underbrush. The Northern Appalachian Mountains embody a delicate balance of wildlife and human coexistence, providing valuable lessons on conservation and preservation.

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Now, as summer heat fades into autumn, the Northern Appalachian Mountains undergo a stunning transformation. The hillsides and valleys erupt into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, with leaves at the deciduous trees turning fiery red, golden, yellow and rustic orange. The phenomenon known as leaf peeping attracts visitors from across the country, eager to witness the breathtaking display of nature's artistry. Hiking through the trails during this season is an unforgettable experience, offering a sensory feast for the eyes and soul. When winter arrives, the Northern Appalachian Mountains transform into a picturesque wonderland. Blanketed in snow, the landscape becomes a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The slopes of Pennsylvania ski resorts attract visitors from far and wide, offering skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing opportunities for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. The cozy alpine lodges and roaring fireplaces create a perfect setting for relaxation and camaraderie after an exhilarating day on the slopes. The region is also celebrated for its contribution to the world of music, particularly bluegrass and folk music. Local artists and musicians keep the spirit of Appalachian melodies alive, hosting festivals and gatherings to celebrate the unique musical heritage. The Appalachian culture is steeped in storytelling, craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for the land, all of which add layers of charm to this already enchanting region. Now this area is also home to the inspiration for the movie and video game Silent Hill.

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Centrelia, pennsylvania, is a small borough in Columbia County. It is perhaps most well known for the ongoing underground coal mine fire that's been burning since 1962. The fire started accidentally in a landfill located near an abandoned coal mine and spread to the coal seams underground. Efforts to extinguish the fire have been unsuccessful and it continues to burn to this day. Due to the underground fire, centrelia experienced severe environmental and safety concerns, leading to the evacuation and relocation of many of its residents. The town's population continued to decline dramatically over the years and it has become a ghost town, with only few residents remaining. As of the 2020 census, there were only five people residing in the borough, one of which being under 18. The underground coal fire has created a unique and eerie landscape, with smoke rising from cracks in the ground, abandoned buildings and graffiti covered roads. It has also inspired various books, movies and documentaries, making Centrelia the subject for many tourist and urban explorers, despite the area being mostly closed off to the public due to safety concerns. Now, while this is a sad part of the history of this region, it has played a part in American culture in creating the fictional city of Silent Hill.

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The Northern Appalachian Mountains stand as a testament to the timeless allure of the natural world, with its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife and captivating cultural heritage. This sub-region embodies the essence of the Appalachian mountain range. Whether it's the thrill of conquering a majestic peak, embracing the tranquility of a snowy wonderland, or being mesmerized by a kaleidoscope of fall foliage, the Northern Appalachians beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of this untamed and cherished landscape. Next, we're going to talk about North Central Appalachia Now. North Central Appalachia boasts a diverse and captivating landscape that showcases the beauty of both Ohio and West Virginia. The region's rolling hills, expansive forest and meandering rivers offer a picture-esque setting for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. The Appalachian Mountains of this sub-region are adorned with bright foliage in the fall and blanketed with serene snow in the winter. This just adds to the region's charm, making it a year-round destination for breathtaking vistas. But this area is often overlooked by the neighboring sub-regions. However, this region is one of the most notable areas that play into the lore of what most people's ideas of Appalachia are.

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In March of 2012, a popular book series named the Hunger Games released the first of many movies. In the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, north Central Appalachia is portrayed as one of the regions in the fictional nation of Pan Am, a post-apocalyptic America. It is one of the poorer districts and is referred to as District 12, located in this Appalachian region. This series is set in a dystopian future where the capital, a wealthy and technology-advanced city, controls over 12 districts, each specializing in various industries. Now, district 12, situated in a coal-rich Appalachian mountain setting, is known for its coal mining and production. The people of District 12 live in poverty and harsh conditions, which limited access to technology. The district's inhabitants endure difficult lives, with many struggling to obtain enough food and basic necessities. Now, the protagonist, katniss Everdeen, hails from District 12. The book portrays her home as a place of despair and depression, reflecting on the stark contrast between the impoverished districts and the opulent capital. Now the Appalachian setting in the Hunger Games adds to the story's atmosphere of social inequality and economic disparity, emphasizing the harsh reality of the world in which these characters lives. So I want to talk a little bit about this dystopian setting versus reality. Now, in the Hunger Games, it's a dystopian fiction set in the future, where a totalitarian regime oppresses its districts.

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The depiction of District 12 in the book is exaggerated as bleak, emphasizing poverty and depression and harsh living conditions. In reality, modern Appalachia is diverse, with unique cultural heritage. Now they do have challenges, but it's not a dystopian society. So let's take a look on how the Hunger Games portrays this area of Appalachia versus what it's like in reality. So one of the areas is resource focus In the book, district 12's economy revolves around coal mining and while coal mining has historically been an essential industry in some parts of Appalachia, it's not the only economic activity in this region. Today. The economy of modern Appalachia is more diverse, with sectors like manufacturing, health care, education, tourism and technology are significant roles in these areas.

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Another thing which is common in this area of Appalachia is stereotypes. So the portrayal of District 12 in the Hunger Games relies on a specific stereotype, commonly associated with rural and impoverished areas. It depicts the people of Appalachia as living in extreme poverty, which doesn't represent the full reality of the region. While Appalachia does face economic challenges and it depends on where in Appalachia it's located, it is essential to recognize the strengths and resiliency of the communities and not reduce them to simplistic stereotypes.

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Another difference between this book series and the reality of Appalachia is cultural identity. In the book, district 12's culture is overshadowed by its oppressive capital, which suppresses any sense of identity and autonomy. Now, in the real modern North Central Appalachia, there is rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, arts and crafts and storytelling, which people of the region take pride in preserving and promoting. Now, another thing that is a stark difference is the political context. So in fictional North Central Appalachia in the Hunger Games they're under the control of the capital, facing forced labor, oppression, and, in contrast to modern Appalachia, it's a part of the United States. Its residents enjoy democracy and freedoms like any other American citizen. So, overall, while the Hunger Games uses this region of Appalachia as a setting to explore themes of inequality, power and resilience, it is a cultural.

Speaker 1: 20:32

I don't know. There's a difference between the fictional representation and the real, vibrant, diverse, modern Appalachia, which makes it a unique culture and challenge. I don't know. I kind of lost it there a little bit. It is different in the book. Now, yes, there are some things that do happen. There are places in Appalachia, in all portions of Appalachia, in all parts of our country in general, where there is poverty and people that live without electricity. But that is not the general consensus of what Appalachia is, this region.

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It's also steeped in history. North Central Appalachia serves as a living museum of America's past. This region played a pivotal role during the Civil War, and the remnants of this period can be explored through historic sites and battlefields, for Borman Park in West Virginia and John Hut Morgan Heritage Trail in Ohio are just a few examples of places where visitors can gain insight into this region's role in shaping our nation's history, and I mean in this area. History knows no bounds. The residents of this region take pride in their close-knit communities, where neighbors are more like family. Travelers are welcomed with warm smiles and open arms, making them feel at home as if they're exploring or as they're exploring the region's unique offerings. Engaging with locals provides an authentic experience that immerses visitors in the true essence of North Central Appalachia.

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Now, food Food is an integral part of the cultural experience of North Central Appalachia. The region's cuisine reflects its heritage in natural abundance, offering a delightful array of dishes for every palate, from the American hearty staples like cornbread beans to the wild game of Ohio's famous Buckeye candies and West Virginia's pepperoni rolls. If you've never had a West Virginia pepperoni roll, you definitely need to. I mean, it is a culinary journey for the senses. Farmers, markets and farm-to-table experiences provide fresh opportunities to savor fresh and locally sourced produce.

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Now, another way that this region has found its way into pop culture is through the world-famous video game Fallout 76. Now, fallout 76 is a 2018 action role-playing video game developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. You can play it on PlayStation, on Xbox, I'm pretty sure it's on PC as well. Set in the year 2102, players control a resident of Vault 76, who must venture out into a dilapidated world known as Appalachia to recolonize the region and uncover a mysterious plague that has killed off the inhabitants' after nuclear warfare. The game features an open world four times the size of the previous Fallout 4 video game. The game world is called Appalachia, or New Appalachia, as some people call it, and it is represented by parts of West Virginia. Now it features recreations of real locations in the regions, including the West Virginia State Capitol, the Green Barrier, woodburn Circle at West Virginia State University, the New River Gorge Bridge, camden Park, a 26-acre amusement park near Huntington, west Virginia, and Point Pleasant, the city based on the lore on the folklore of Mothman.

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Now, speaking of Point Pleasant, west Virginia, this is a quaint and picturesque town situated on the Confluence Did I say the right Confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. I apologize if I said that incorrectly. It's known for its charming small-town atmosphere and its friendly residents. However, it gained widespread attention due to a mysterious haunting and legend known as the Mothman. Now, the Mothman is a creature that is said to have glowing red eyes and large wings, resembling a monstrous moth or a humanoid figure with wings. Now, according to local folklore, sightings of the Mothman begin in the late 1960s, accumulating in a series of eerie encounters that gripped the town with fear. Many residents reported encountering the creature, leading to theories of impending disasters, including the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967, which claimed the lives of 46 people. Over the years, the Mothman myth has become an integral part of Point Pleasant's identity, attracting curious visitors and enthusiasts from the supernatural, making it unique and intriguing destination for those seeking a taste of the unknown.

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Now, north Central Appalachia is a land where Ohio and West Virginia unites and offers a journey through time and nature. From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich cultural heritage and the warm embrace of its communities, every aspect of this region beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its enchanting charm. Whether you're exploring the historic landmarks, savoring local cuisine or visiting locations from your favorite games or movies, north Central Appalachia promises to be an unforgettable experience that would leave you yearning to return. Nestled amid the rolling hills and lush valleys of the eastern United States lies a region that holds a captivating allure Central Appalachia. This vast and diverse area stretching across parts of Kentucky, virginia and Tennessee, west Virginia and North Carolina, has a storied history and a vibrant culture that have shaped the lives of its inhabitants for generations.

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Central Appalachia's history is deeply rooted in the complex interplay between indigenous cultures and European settlers. Native American tribes like the Cherokee, the Swani and the Delaware once inhabited these regions, leaving behind traces of their heritage. However, in the late 18th to early 19th centuries, we saw an influx of European immigrants seeking opportunities in the timber, coal and iron industries. The coal mine boom in particular significantly transformed the landscape and brought both prosperity and hardships to the region. The soul of Central Appalachia is encapsulated in its rich cultural heritage, which has been preserved and passed down through generations. This area is renowned for its traditional music, like bluegrass and mountain folk tunes, reflecting the joys and the struggles of everyday life. The distinct Appalachian dialect, with its unique vocabulary and pronunciation, further exemplifies the region's cultural identity. Now, hospitality is hallmark of all parts of Appalachian communities, but specifically in this area, as they warmly welcome visitors and extend a helping hand to their neighbors. Stories and folklore are an integral part of life, transmitting valuable life lessons and experiences from one generation to another from around the hearth where the front porch.

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Despite its undeniable charm, central Appalachia has encountered numerous challenges throughout its history. Economic dependence on industries like coal mining has led to the cycles of boom and bust, leaving communities vulnerable to economic downturns. Modernization and urbanization have also led to an outmigration of the younger population seeking better opportunities elsewhere, leaving behind aging communities. However, one of the most remarkable aspects of Central Appalachia is its resilience In the face of adversity. The people have demonstrated an unwavering spirit, adapting to change and finding innovative ways to sustain their traditions and values. Organizations and initiatives have emerged to promote education, sustainability and cultural preservation, empowering local communities to carve a brighter future.

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Beyond its cultural heritage, central Appalachia boasts breathtaking natural beauty that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The region is adorned with picturesque landscapes, including the majestic Appalachian mountain range, serene, lush rivers and lush forests. Hiking trails, campgrounds and scenic byways offer ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and appreciation for the region's natural wonders. As the region's natural resources have been heavily exploited, central Appalachia has faced many economical challenges, including deforestation and water pollution. Activists and organizations have tirelessly fought for environmental conservation and sustainable practices to protect the region's pristine beauty and for future generations. Now, central Appalachia's culinary traditions showcase a blend of diverse influences. Now each of them contribute to an array of mouthwatering dishes, from those comforting Appalachian staples like cornbread, country ham and fried apple pies, to the introduction of new flavors from various cultures. Now the region's cuisine reflects the harmony of its diverse community.

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Central Appalachia boasts a mesmerizing landscape sculpted by the hands of time and the forces of nature. Towering peaks, deep valleys and winding rivers paint a picture of unparalleled beauty. Among the most prominent features is the iconic Cumberland Gap, a historic gateway to the West which has played a vital role in shaping the American history. Central Appalachia is a land of contrasts, where the past and the present intertwine to form a rich tapestry of history, culture and resilience. Its rugged landscapes and strong sense of community continue to inspire and captivate those who venture into its embrace. As we celebrate the spirit of Central Appalachia, we must also recognize the challenges that lie ahead and strive to support this region's efforts to sustain its unique identity for generations to come.

Speaker 1: 32:13

Now, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, lies likely the most famous and equally enchanting region, south Central Appalachia, spanning across parts of southwestern Virginia, northeastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. This hidden gem is a haven of breathtaking landscapes, cultural heritage, theme parks and attractions, and warm hospitality. The region's verdant forest and diverse wildlife offer an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, birdwatching, camping. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling Tennessee and North Carolina borders, is the crown jewel of South Central Appalachia, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its natural wonders. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to visit and it's the most visited national park in the country. It contains more flowering plants and trees than anywhere else in North America, and it hosts over 200 different kinds of birds. Now, some Cherokee called these mountains Shikanei, which is believed to be land of blue smoke, and if you're lucky, you can almost catch it every day when you look out over the mountain range and you see a blue, smoky mist in the sky. Those aren't fog machines, it's just the smokies.

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Now, the Appalachian quilt trails are a unique and colorful form of public art that dot the landscape of the Appalachian region. Now, they're inspired by the rich quilting traditions of the area, and these quilt trails showcase quilt patterns printed on wooden or metal panels, and they're typically displayed on barns, homes or other buildings. Now each quilt pattern holds special significance, with many designs reflecting the history, heritage and stories of the local communities that they're in. As visitors follow these picturesque trails, they not only admire the beauty of the quilt patterns against the backdrop of the Appalachian countryside, but they also gain insight into the region's cultural legacy and tight-knit bonds of community. The Appalachian quilt trail has become a beloved symbol of regional pride, celebrating both the artistry of quilting and the spirit of togetherness that defines the Appalachian people.

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Now, the logging industry in this region has played a significant role in the shaping of the history and economy. With its vast forest of hardwoods and softwoods, the area became a prime location for timber harvesting and processing. Through the 19th and early 20th centuries, logging operations thrived, providing much-needed employment opportunities for local communities. However, the rapid deforestation and unsustainable practices also raised environmental concerns, leading to the establishment of regulations to protect the region's natural resources. But after the logging industry slowed down, the people of this area still needed a way to make a living. Once the National Park was created, many people began to move west to find work. But those that stayed behind knew that there was a way to thrive on the beauty of the land that they once logged, lodges began to spring up along the rivers of the mountains and on January 14th of 1946, the Smokies soon to be biggest entrepreneur, dolly Parton, was born. After Dolly grew up, the area that she was born in continued to grow as people flocked to the area to enjoy the natural beauty of this land and in 1985, she joined forces with the Hurshan brothers and rebranded the small theme park, opening Dollywood. Now the area has continued to grow and is now one of the largest vacation destinations in the country, with her theme park continuing to grow and is now considered the best theme park in the world. Just over the mountains in Bryson City, north Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates diesel and steam powered locomotives taking guests on an epic rail adventure through the Nahala Gorge and Tuckaseke rivers. Now this region of Appalachia is also home to Oak Ridge, tennessee, which contains the labs where parts of the first atomic bombs were developed. Knoxville, tennessee, is also home to Knox Pride, the South's largest free pride event for LGBTQ plus individuals, and another cool pop culture reference.

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The movie Evil Dead holds a significant place in the horror genre, captivating audiences for its terrifying plot and groundbreaking practical effects. Directed by Sam Rahami. The film follows a group of college students who encounter a malevolent spirit while staying in a remote cabin in the woods. Now, one of the reasons this movie was filmed in Morstown, tennessee, was because the state was the only area that showed interest in the film. The dense forest and misty landscapes and secluded cabins in Morstown lent an authentic and unsettling ambience to the film, amplifying the feeling of isolation and dread. Additionally, the relatively low production cost and cooperation from the local community made Morstown an attractive choice for filmmakers. By setting the stage in Morstown, evil Dead achieved a sense of realism that made it a classic in the horror genre, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

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Now, preserving the natural beauty and the unique heritage of South Central Appalachia requires a collective effort of residents, visitors and policymakers alike. By supporting sustainable practices, celebrating cultural diversity and cherishing the bonds of the community, we can ensure that this hidden gem shines brightly for generations to come. Now, that being said, if you're a tourist and you come to this area, please just leave the bears alone. I don't know why people always want to get so close to them. It's a bear. Please don't feed the bears. Stay away from them Now.

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Southern Appalachia is a captivating region that encompasses parts of Mississippi, alabama, georgia and South Carolina. Distinguished by its picturesque landscapes, diverse cultural heritage and warm hospitality, this southern stretch of the Appalachian Mountains offers a unique tapestry of history and traditions. The region's rivers, such as the Chattahoochee in Georgia, provide not only water supply resources but also offer recreational opportunities like fishing, kayaking and rafting. Hiking trails are abundant, beckoning adventurers and explorers to find hidden waterfalls, ancient forests and breathtaking vistas that dot the landscape. Now Southern Appalachia is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of various cultures and traditions. The region's history is deeply influenced by the presence of Native American tribes like the Cherokee and the Creek, whose legacies are still visible in the names of towns, rivers and mountains that pepper the area. African-american communities have also left an indebable mark on Southern Appalachian's cultural landscape, particularly in the music and storytelling traditions. The blues, gospel and bluegrass music that resonate through the hollers and valleys reflect the enduring spirit and resilience of these communities. Now European settlers, including Scotch-Irish, german and English immigrants, have contributed to the region's rich heritage through crafts, cuisine and folk traditions. An annual Oktoberfest celebrations in Helen, georgia, are a testament to the lasting influence of German culture, while the American quilt trail showcases an intricate craftsmanship of quilting which binds together communities with threads of art and history. Now, hospitality and a strong sense of community are hallmarks in Southern Appalachia. Whether you're exploring small towns, attending local festivals or dining at family-run restaurants, the warm and welcoming spirit of the people permeates its atmosphere. The tradition of community gatherings, such as barn dances and potluck suppers, foster connections among neighbors and newcomers alike. In these close-knit communities, it's not uncommon to strike up a conversation with a stranger as soon as you find yourself feeling like family.

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While Southern Appalachia boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, it hasn't been without its challenges. Economic diversification has been a concern, as the region has historically relied on industries such as textile, agricultural and mining, which have faced shifts and fluctuations over time. Education and health care have also been points of concern, particularly in rural areas where access to quality services can be limited. Nevertheless, the people of Southern Appalachia have shown remarkable resilience, coming together to support one another and develop innovative solutions to these challenges. Efforts to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Southern Appalachia have gained momentum in recent years. Conservation organizations have worked tirelessly to protect the region's natural resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife. Cultural preservation initiatives aim to celebrate and revive traditional crafts, music and storytelling. Festivals and events dedicated to Appalachian culture draw visitors from far and wide, adding to the region's lore and spreading awareness about its unique identity.

Speaker 1: 42:06

Southern Appalachia is a mesmerizing region that captivates, the heart of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and genuine hospitality. As we've journeyed through the diverse mosaic of Mississippi, alabama, georgia and South Carolina, we discover a land where the threads of history and tradition are woven into the fabric of daily life. Now, by embracing sustainable practices and preserving cultural legacies and supporting local communities, we can ensure that the allure of Southern Appalachia remains intact for generations to come. Now, another area of pop culture references oh Brother, where Arthau.

Speaker 1: 42:49

This film was inspired and set in Southern Appalachia for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the Coen brothers, the film directors, wanted to capture the distinct cultural and historical backdrop of the region during the Great Depression. Now, southern Appalachia offered a unique blend of folklore, music and traditions that perfectly completed the film's whimsical and allegory storytelling. Secondly, the picturesque landscapes of Southern Appalachia provided an unauthentic and visually stunning setting for the characters. Odyssey-like journey, the rolling hills, the dense forests, the winding rivers added a sense of charm and mystique to the film's narrative Now. Lastly, the region's strong musical heritage, particularly in bluegrass and folk music, played a significant role in shaping the film's iconic soundtrack, featuring classic tunes that further enrich the cinematic experience. Overall, the setting of when Brother, where Arthau in Southern Appalachia allowed the Coen brothers to create a compelling and immersive world that brought together history, culture and music in timeless and memorable tales.

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So there you have it. The Appalachian subregions, with their picturesque landscapes, traditions and histories, offer an abundance of experiences for those willing to explore its charm. From the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Appalachians to the coal mining heritage of the Central Appalachians and the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachians, each subregion has a story to tell and leaves a lasting impression on those who venture through their mountain touring. Whether you seek an outdoor adventure, cultural immersion or simply a moment of tranquility in nature, the Appalachian subregions beckon you with open arms and an invitation to discover their many wonders. So pack your bags and embark on a journey of discovery through these extraordinary lands. Until next time, stay safe and stay educated.