The sun beamed smiles down on Narrow Ridge for the 19th Annual Hogskin History Day. All the rain for a solid week had me antsy a few days before–what can we all do except sit in our cars until the rain stops and the grass dries off? Thankfully, that did not happen and the day could not have been nicer. There were about 10 to 15 tents set up with quality goods and displays. I read a few excerpts from stories from my books and told my story of how Hogskin got its name. Early on in my journey as a County Historian I inquired of local people how place names originated. I was told by many who have gone on that Native Americans inhabited the Hogskin area; and, in order not to be seen as early settlers moved Westward, some Indians had tanned hogskins and wore them while walking in creek beds so their tracks could not be seen and possibly confronted by neighbors.

Betsy Davis was there with hand made jewelry and some of the most beautiful terrariums. She says they can be left on the porch in spring and summer; but in the fall when brought inside a plate or saucer needs to be placed on the opening to hold moisture.

There were many nice door prizes including a gorgeous Raku vase contributed by Joppa Mountain Pottery, horse shoe pitching, a cake walk, face painting for children, blacksmithing, quilting demonstration, woodworking, Marsha Phelps spinning, wool carding and other crafts. I came home with a sack full of wild flowers to add to my wild flower garden. A group called Wild Ones of Kodak has as a project Native Plant Rescue and were selling numerous varieties such as Bloodroot, Swamp Hibiscus, fern, wild iris and many other native plants.

Tours of the Natural Burial Ground were offered about very two hours. Bill Nichol manned the traditional homemade Ice Cream making and fresh apple juice squeezing. The musical alignment was great as always; however, Bob Wood had hurt his right middle finger and had to take the day off. We missed his picking, but really enjoyed his vocals. Daughter, Mitzi, Executive Director at Narrow Ridge, also performs with the Emancipators. Dixie Nicely’s grandson, who looks to be about two, just about stole the show patting his foot for grandma. There is always so much talent at Hogskin History Day. About a dozen Carson-Newman University student volunteers for Operation Inasmuch helped with parking, set up and cleanup.

A Great Day to Hogskin–HISTORY DOES MATTER.