Mountain Escapes Volume 03 2023

JUNE | JULY 2023 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Go back in time to the early 1800’s and visit how life was lived at Fairview Farm and Homestead. Our cabin is time period decorated and we teach how families survived living during that time. We have a blacksmith, 100+ year old working sawmill, old antique equipment and hear stories on how they processed flax into linen. Our cabin will be open for tours when we hold our Civil War Living History Weekend at 908 Hillman Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210 July 29 & 30, 2023.

Come talk to the re-enactors on how camp life was for them. They will be doing demonstrations from period firearms, cannon station, dismounted cavalry, and mounted cavalry. Talk to the Civil War Surgeon and see how they cared for their patients. This will be a great opportunity to talk to the soldiers and learn more about the American Civil War. The hours on Saturday July

29 will be 9:00 am till 11:00 am and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm for the above demonstrations. Sunday July 30th will be 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 1:00 pm till 4:00 pm for demonstrations. They will have church service at 10:00 am on Sunday July 30th. Admissions will be $5 a person, 12 and under free.

We also welcome vendors to set up, $10 per site. Bring your crafts, jewelry, handmade items to this event. We will have 2 food truck on site both days. For more information, call either 276-356-5397 or 276-477-0212. We will also have a Cruise In on August 5, 2023, from 11:00 am till 3:00 pm. Come see all the antique cars, truck, classic, custom & muscle cars, rat rods, imports, motorcycles, and tractors. The cabin will be open that day for tours. Registration fee is $15 for entries and $2 public admission.

WHERE

Fairview Farm & Homestead 908 Hillman Highway Abingdon, VA 24210

WHEN July 29 & 30, 2023

$5 person, 12 and under free

Great Opportuni�es to Talk to the Soldiers and Learn More About the American Civil War

Saturday— 9:00 to 11:00am & 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm

Camp Life

Period Firearms

Dismounted Cavalry

Mounted Cavalry

Cannon Sta�on

Civil War Surgeon

Sunday 9:00 am—11:00 & 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm (Same as above) + Church at 10:00 am

1800’s Cabin will be open both days

Blacksmith open both days

Photo courtesy of Shelia Hunt Photography

Broadening the Story of Appalachia Since 1949

Robert Porterfield, founder of both the Virginia Highlands Festival and the famed Barter Theatre, held the first Festival in 1949 at the Martha Washington Inn. His purpose was to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of this area. The Festival, over the past seven decades, has grown in scope to represent all of Southwest Virginia. Now it not only preserves the arts, crafts, and skills that developed in this region, but it also imports talented artists and performers from around the world for creative exchange and the enjoyment of area residents and visitors.

More than 100 volunteers work year-round planning events, tours, performances, and exhibitions for the annual Festival. They staff information booths, take up tickets, shuttle out-of-town performers to their programs

and represent the Festival to local media.

In December 2022, the Virginia Highlands Festival team revisited the vision and mission of its organization to ensure it always remains true to its grass roots purpose sculpted by Robert Porterfield.

Vision

–The vision of the Virginia Highlands Festival is to continue to be the premier festival that highlights the diverse art, culture and history of Appalachia.

Mission

–To produce diverse artistic and cultural activity by showcasing the creative, historical and natural resources of the Appalachian region. We do this by building local and regional partnerships that engage and strengthen community participation.

The smells, the flavors, the local farm products…Southwest Virginia is a foodie destination like no other.

Culinary Arts & Traditions has quickly become a fundamental tenet for The Virginia Highlands

Festival (VHF), and this year’s events are broader in every sense of the word. The VHF Celebrity Chef events will help broaden the story we have been given about Appalachia’s cuisine. In addition, we’ve gathered local partners to offer Culinary Arts & Traditions

Men’s Apparel, Accessories, Gifts, Jewelry & Grooming

events throughout the duration of the festival for you to experience.

Located in the air-conditioned Grand Hall at the SWVA Higher Ed Center. Discover those special, hard-to-find items at the Juried Antiques Market & Vintage Show! For many attendees, this is the focal point of the Festival. Antiques lovers spend hours browsing through booths filled with formal and primitive furniture, high–end collectibles, jewelry, porcelain, china, rugs, vintage clothing, linens, paintings, pottery and more! Dealers are constantly restocking, so be sure to visit more than once.

Find hand-crafted treasures including pottery, jewelry, mixed mediums, paintings, photography, sculpture, soaps & lotions, and more at the time-honored, regional tradition and awardwinning Juried Arts & Crafts Show.

Plus the Virginia Highlands Festival Music Committee brings to you a concert series packed full of events for the entire family.

Held at various locations about town, our 2023 music events bring you genres ranging from Indie Folk, 80’s retro, Celtic Rock, and a Country & Blues day you just can’t miss! Bring your own chair and enjoy great music, the region’s best food trucks, plus beer and wine from some of your favorite summer brands at select events. Save when you purchase tickets online and in advance. Visit vahighlandfestival.com for more information or to order your tickets today!

LineupSpring & Summer

A CALL FOR VENDORS

Calling all artists, artisans, creatives and craftspeople of all trades. Applications are now being accepted for Christmas Connection 2023. The two-day event will take place November 10-11 at the Meadowview Conference Resort and Convention Center.

“The Christmas Connection – Artistic Creations Fair” is sponsored by the Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts and is celebrating its 44th year of artistic creations. The event hosts the region’s best craftspeople, artisans, artists, and creatives. People from our region and beyond look forward to the Christmas Connection year after year.

Application deadline is July 1, 2023, and there is no cost to apply. Christmas Connection is by invitation only. All applications

are reviewed by a selection committee, taking various factors into consideration in order to create a high quality, attractive show having a good mix of artistic and craft creations.

2023 DATES/HOURS: Free admission to the public Fri. Nov. 10: 12 noon – 6 p.m. Sat. Nov. 11: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

To access the vendor application from the city website, and for more information visit https:// arts.kingsporttn.gov/communityengagement/christmasconnection/

A Vibrant Summer of Must-Visit Destination for June and July

As the warmth of summer envelopes the charming town of Greeneville, Tennessee, an array of exciting events beckon visitors from far and wide. June and July, in particular, offer a delightful blend of cultural celebrations, lively gatherings, and sporting spectacles that make a trip to this historic town an unforgettable experience.

Kick-starting the summer festivities is the Greene County Maker’s Summer Solstice Soiree on June 6th. Against the backdrop of stunning mountain views, locals and visitors gather to celebrate the arrival of the summer season and the local artists in Greene County. With live music, performers, an art auction, and arts and crafts demonstrations, this event sets the stage for the memorable experiences that lie ahead.

On June 17th, Greeneville commemorates Juneteenth, a

significant day in American history that recognizes the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.The emcee for the event will be William Isom, who is the director of the Black In Appalachia Program, a non-profit whose mission is to highlight the history and contributions of African Americans in the development of the Mountain South and its culture. Live music for the celebration includes local entertainers with a range from country/hip-hop to gospel and soul. There will be a kids zone with activities and inflatables. Juneteenth, which became a federal holiday in 2021, commemorates the June 19, 1865, announcement proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas, the last state of the Confederacy with institutional slavery.

For music enthusiasts, Lyrics on the Lawn is an absolute treat. Taking place every Thursday evening in July, this free outdoor concert series showcases

June & July Events

Juneteenth: June 17th

GCM Summer Solstice Soiree: June 6th

--

Lyrics on the Lawn : Every Thursday in July

local and regional talent and offers a diverse range of musical genres. Located on the manicured lawn of the historical Dickson-Williams Mansion, enjoy food trucks, soulful melodies, and foot-tapping beats. Additional seating and adult beverages are available on the Garden Terrace of the General Morgan Inn.

Embrace the patriotic spirit on July 1st with the American Downtown celebration. The streets come alive with vibrant displays, parades, and engaging activities for all ages. Live music, a kids’ zone, and food vendors will kick off the festivities at 4 p.m. on July 1. A hot dog eating contest, nighttime parade, and fireworks show will round out the second part of the free event.

Sports lovers have much to cheer for as well. The Greeneville Flyboys Baseball Season, spanning from June to July, offers games that captivate both die-hard fans and

casual Spectators alike. And on July 4th, the Flyboys Firework game takes the excitement to new heights, illuminating the night sky with a dazzling display of colors and sparks.

Finally, the Greene County Fair, held from July 24th to July 29th, is an annual fair weekend that draws crowds from all around. With exhilarating rides, mouthwatering food stalls, and captivating exhibitions, this fair captures the essence of summer fun and provides an opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends.

As you plan your summer getaway, consider Greeneville, TN, a town brimming with culture, community, and adventure. With a calendar packed with captivating events, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to return year after year.

American Downtown celebration: July 1st

Greeneville Flyboys Baseball Season: June - July

Flyboys Firework Match: July 4th

Greene County Fair: July 24 - July 29th

Waterfalls & cycling in The Cherokee National Forest

Reenactments at The David Crockett Birthplace State Park

Art Shows & Galleries in Historic Downtown Greeneville, Main St. Community

GREENEVILLE,

Get on trend with Brolin & Bailey

Brolin & Bailey is a mother daughter owned business! If you’ve ever wondered where the name came from, I am happy to share!

The name Brolin & Bailey was inspired by the first 3 grandchildrenBrooke, Nolin, and Bailey!

Since opening 8 years ago, there is now 7 grandchildren total!

We strive to bring you unique items that you wouldn’t typically find in most shops!

Some of the children’s brands we carry are Kickee Pants, Mud Pie, Copper Pearl, Warmies, Jellycat & more! Some of the brands we carry in Women’s are KanCan, Judy Blue, Easel, Entro, Shu Shop, Blowfish and more!

You can also shop us online at www.shopbrolinbailey. com. Find us on Instagram & Facebook!

Announced

Lyrics on the Lawn 2023 Summer Concert Series Lineup

The front lawn of the Dickson-Williams Mansion will be alive with music this July at the tenth annual Lyrics on the Lawn music concert series. The free concerts are a project of Main Street: Greeneville, and will take place every Thursday evening, rain or shine during the month of July. All performances are free and open to the public.

2023 Lyrics Lineup

Thursday evenings will include the sounds of Madison Metcalf, Florencia and the Feeling, Ten Penny Drive, Vaden Landers, Moon vs Venus, WyldeHeart, The Color 7 and The Whiskey Sticks.

The Lyrics on the Lawn concerts are family friendly and open to all. Folks are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. They are welcome to bring a picnic supper or purchase food from one the event food vendors, and Main Street: Greeneville, or other area restaurants, to enjoy during the performances.

Event Sponsors

Joining Main Street: Greeneville to bring the community this concert series are the many generous Lyrics on the Lawn sponsors, known at press time, Andrew Johnson Bank, Casper’s Body Shop and Wrecker, Consumer Credit Union, Cumberland Presbyterian Church, DicksonWilliams Historical Association, Eastman Credit Union, Edward Jones Investments – Billy Endean, General Morgan Inn, Gosnell’s Stereo and Music, Greeneville Federal Bank, Greeneville Energy Authority, Heritage Community Bank, Mama T’s Eats and Treats, Marsh Propane, Radio Greeneville, Roadshow Mobile Stages, Skyline Restoration and Maintenance, Sound Studio Live, Southbound Real Estate, Spiritual Care and Counseling, Town of Greeneville, Tusculum University and A. Dave Wright Architect. To become an event sponsor please contact Jann at the Main Street office 423-639-7102 for further details. Additional sponsors will be listed as they become available.

Food Vendors

Returning food vendors include Creamy Cup and Top Dog Hot Dogs. Event sponsors would like to add a food truck each week. The number of food vendors for the concert series is limited. Vendors should be able to begin serving no later than 6:00pm. For further details on how you can become a food vendor, please contact Jann at the Main Street office either via email director@mainstreetgreeneville.org or by calling 423-639-7102. Food truck operators may also contact John Price at 423-620-8340.

The Lyrics on the Lawn series was created by Main Street: Greeneville in co-operation with the Dickson-Williams Historical Association to showcase regional musical talent.

The Dickson-Williams Mansion is located at 108 North Irish Street, adjacent to the General Morgan Inn in the heart of historic downtown Greeneville, TN.

For more information regarding this free concert series visit www.mainstreetgreeneville,org or contact Executive Director, Jann Mirkov at 423639-7102.

This authentic paddlewheeler is United States Coast Guard approved for 200 passengers. The main deck seats 110 passengers and is fully enclosed, air conditioned, and heated for year round comfort. The vessel is equipped with 2 full bars, a dance floor, band stage, and is exquisitely decorated for the most elegant dinner and entertainment available. From black tie events like weddings and receptions to a casual event like a football charter the atmosphere is right for any occasion.

Weddings onboard the “Star of Knoxville” riverboat are a most unique and distinctive choice for your wedding. We can provide complete arrangements for the most intimate

CREATE SOME MEMORIES ON AN AUTHENTIC PADDLEWHEEL

of weddings to the most elaborate, accommodating anywhere from 2 to 110 for a ceremony and reception and up to 200 for a reception only. The vessel is equipped with 2 full bars, a dance floor, and band stage. The open air observation deck is ideal for an outdoor setting. Our main interior is fully air conditioned and heated, for a great dining and entertainment experience and is a perfect choice for the most important day of your life. From black tie events to very casual, the atmosphere is right for any occasion. The beautiful Tennessee River proves to be the most romantic, enchanting, and memorable atmosphere in East Tennessee. You and your guests will be mesmerized by scenery and fully entertained during any of our cruise.

Blue Ridge Heritage Arts & Crafts Festival

On Friday and Saturday June 16 & 17, 2023 Shelton House will hold its 5th Annual “Blue Ridge Heritage Weekend Arts & Crafts Festival” on the 8.5 acres, 148-year-old farmstead (now home to the Historic Shelton House and “Museum of NC Handicrafts”) in Waynesville, NC.

This Event is open to the public with Artists and Artisans from near and far, food vendors, and Appalachian Music on the front porch of the 1875 home. This year is shaping up to be our BIGGEST and BEST Festival yet! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and settle on the front lawn for one OR two days of fun and entertainment.

The Shelton House has a 43year history as “The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts” with spectacular artists and artisans from across North

Carolina and is listed as a stop on the “Blue Ridge Craft Trail” and on the “Appalachian Mural Trail”. The Blue Ridge Heritage Festival is a free event open to the public, but donations are always appreciated. All donations go to the preservation of this historic site. Sponsors for the event are still needed. If interested, please contact Shelton House at info@ sheltonhouse.org.

Don’t forget to visit sheltonhouse.org, Facebook, and Instagram for all Events and Dates throughout the season.

Mountain Piecemakers Quilt Guild Annual Quilt Show August 4th & 5th, 2023 in Burnsville NC. The Mountain Piecemakers Quilt Guild will host its annual quilt show at the Burnsville Town Center, 6 S. Main St. The show coincides with the Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair. The show features quilts, wall hangings and fiber arts as well as a display of Veteran quilts and Linus quilts.

The Mountain Piecemakers Quilt Guild booth at the craft fair will also feature handcrafted items and will display the 2023 Opportunity Quilt, shown here. The opportunity quilt is 96” by 96” queen size from the pattern ‘For the Love of Quilting’ by Denise Stack. Visit the show from 10am - 4:30pm both days. For more information or to purchase tickets for the Opportunity Quilt raffle, visit mountainpiecemakersquiltguild.org.

“A wee bit of Scotland in the High Country of Western North Carolina.”

High in the Mountains of Western North Carolina the ancient Celtic spirit beckons. Answering the call, as hundreds of tartan banners unfurl, are the sounds of bagpipes echoing through the valley, and once again, thousands of kiltclad Scots make their way to MacRae Meadows for their annual gathering and games. Nowhere in the New World is there a place more reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands than the home of America’s grandest Highland Games—Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina.

Ceud mile failte to you and your family as you join us in celebrating the history of our Scottish ancestry and cheer as you watch the clans compete on MacRae Meadows.

Throughout the four day weekend you and your family will sample Scottish music, dancing, foods, costumes, field games and much more, and you can shop for tartans and kilts in the vendors’ tents. A weekend so full of family fun and excitement that you’ll be longing for the mother country (even if you aren’t Scottish).

The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games is full of Scottish cultural experiences that range from Clan tents, Dance competitions, musical expression and more! There is even an entire day dedicated to families!

ATHLETIC EVENTS:

Highland Athletics & Track/Field:

The Highland Athletic competition is a series of six events and the

Sunday - thursday 11am-9pm friday - saturday 11am-10pm

competitor must complete all six. These include competitive events such as the Hammer Throw, Weight Toss for Height, and the Sheaf Toss.

We are also excited to open the field to women and host the Elite Women’s Competition by invitation only. We hope to offer open competition for women in the future!

The Caber Toss is perhaps one of the most iconic events and is reputed to have originated from the need to throw logs over chasms. The event is judged on style instead of distance: the athletes’ goal is to flip the log so that it falls in the ‘12 o’clock position’. The length it travels is completely insignificant.

DANCE EVENTS:

Highland Dance Sanctioned by and conducted under the rules of the Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (RSOBHD)

CEREMONIES:

The Kirkin

A special worship service on

Sunday morning at 10 am.

What is The Kirkin’?

This is a special celebration of Scottish roots from the Presbyterian heritage. This tradition originated in the United States during World War II, when it was introduced by the late Peter Marshall at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C.

The word ‘Kirking’ comes from the Scottish Gaelic word kirk, which means church, and in this usage means ‘blessing.’ A kirkin’ can be thought of as the gathering of families to enter into the House of the Lord to worship and praise.

The colorful woven tartans that are displayed during the service are symbols of the love and togetherness of family. Worshippers are encouraged to reflect with thanksgiving on their own family and cultural heritage, whatever it may be.

The Parade of Tartans

MacRae Meadows will become a pageant of color at 11:30 AM on Sunday when more than 1,000 marchers clad in full Scottish attire

and representing over 100 clans and societies, march around the track in the annual “Parade of Tartans.” The combined length of the parade often circles the track more than three times.

Since the parade’s beginning in 1975, it has become one of the most popular events of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games. The Parade was originally conceived as a way to provide clans and societies an opportunity to participate in an important part of the activities while showing support for their organization and the Games. Although it provides a colorful vista for spectators, its

principal purpose continues to be a way to foster closer family (clan) relationships.

Torch Light Ceremony and Raise The Clans

The Expression “raise the clans” has a slightly archaic sound to our ears. It is surrounded by an aura of some long-forgotten appeal to support noble causes or high ideals. From an historic perspective, it was used to summon the clans for battle. We have chosen to transform this ancient act to symbolize a different kind of call to the clans.

The Saltire Cross is recognized as Scotland’s ancient symbol. A living cross of light is made up of a representative from all clans and families who have come to participate. They come from all the points of the compass to indicate their origins and take their place as part of the gathering on this magnificent mountain.

Together they share remembrances and offer thanks. As the torches burn brightly together in the

gathering darkness, the haunting sound of pipes is carried into the night. The clans have come again to celebrate who they are.

The Torchlight Ceremony was created by Larry Long, the 1995 recipient of the Agnes MacRae Morton Award.

The

Children’s

Tent Activities

The GMHG Children’s Tent is located just outside the main entrance to MacRae Meadows. The

ever-popular Passport Booklet can be found at the tent, which can be taken to each Clan Tent ot receive a stamp commemorating their trip to the Games.

Other activities include live readings, face painting, arts and crafts, scavenger hunt, entry to the GMHG Drawing Contest, and MORE!

Further your child’s curiosity, knowledge and interest in their heritage by visiting the GMHG

We have been busy stocking new merchandise from Antique to local artist work! We also have lots of new Items!

Summer Hours:

Tue-Sat: 10-5

Closed Sunday & Monday

We have a photo opt in downtown Spruce Pine! Come get your picture made.

125 Locust Str Spruce Pine, NC

children’s tent where complimentary fun and Activities await.

The Children’s Athletics

The St. Andrews Society of McRae Meadows is excited that Highland Wrestling is back for our children this year.

Sheep Herding

All over the world where there are flocks of sheep there are Border Collies to work them.

The Border Collies’ worth, loyalty and brilliance has stood the test of time allowing them to remain much as they were 300 years ago.

Scottish Cultural Village

Join us for the exciting Scottish Cultural Village. We have entertaining and educational presentations from experts eager to share their knowledge of Scottish culture and lore. Every thirty minutes a new topic will enlighten you and enhance your enjoyment of our Games.

Donald’s Gaelic Ceilidh Tent

Come to Donald’s Ceilidh Tent and learn songs of ineffable beauty from the Scottish Highlands and Islands sung in Gaelic. After each song-session there will be a brief period when you can learn easyto-say expressions in the Gaelic language. The tent is situated on the East Meadow near the Cairn of the Clans.

Song sheets will be provided in Gaelic. English translations of all songs will be provided along with easy-to-read phonetics. You will be amazed at the number of tunes you already know—all of which were originally Gaelic: “Morning has Broken,” “Westering Home,” “The Campbells are Comin’ ”, etc.

Music Events

• Celtic Rock Concert

• Scottish Fiddle

• Lochaber Trump

• Celtic Jam

• Piping & Drumming

• Gaelic Song

• Harp Competition

WEST JEFFERSON, NC

Special Feature! Oliver Farm Artisan Oils

The oil business came about from an idea several years ago when fuel prices soared and the American economy faltered. There was a lot of talk about alternative fuel sources. That sparked an interest in an area that I knew very little about. I began researching, visiting oil plants, and talking to individuals in this field. My initial thought was to make my own fuel. The equipment needed to extract oil is expensive, and the savings on fuel would not pay for the equipment for many years. I was fortunate enough to meet a couple of people who influenced me to consider growing, processing, and selling food grade oil During this time I discovered the cold pressed method of oil extraction which does not use chemicals or high temperatures to remove the oil. This process leaves valuable vitamins and nutrients in the oil. The oil also retains its natural flavor and color. In 2012 I grew my first crop of sunflowers for oil production and by the end of 2012 I had pressed oil from sunflowers, pecans, and peanuts all grown in Wilcox County. More oils followed and Oliver Farm Artisan Oils quickly caught the attention of chefs and foodies.

As oil production has expanded and I begin to understand a little more about the properties and uses of various oils I am filled with awe and wonder at the countless ways it can be used. Naturally tasty, nut and seed oils are necessary for balanced nutrition. They can be used in fuel, cleaners, soap, cosmetic products, and have medicinal uses as well. Our simple process, genuine care for your approval, and desire to keep it pure and fresh make Oliver Farm a natural choice for any pantry.