Discover the rugged beauty, rich culture, and captivating stories of the Southern Appalachian Highlands in this timeless classic. Horace Kephart, an intrepid explorer and passionate advocate for the region, takes you on an unforgettable journey through mist-shrouded mountains, hidden hollows, and resilient communities.
Inย Our Southern Highlanders, Kephart delves into the lives of the hardy mountaineersโtheir traditions, folklore, and struggles. From moonshiners to fiddlers, from log cabins to wild game hunting, Kephart paints a vivid portrait of a people deeply connected to their land. His keen observations and genuine affection for the highlanders shine through every page.
Whether youโre drawn to the haunting ballads echoing through the valleys or the age-old wisdom passed down from generation to generation, this book immerses you in the heart and soul of Appalachia. Kephartโs lyrical prose captures both the harsh realities and the enduring spirit of these proud mountain folk.
Our Southern Highlandersย is more than a travelogue; itโs an ode to a way of life that persists against all odds. Join Kephart as he explores the untamed wilderness, meets colorful characters, and uncovers the hidden treasures of the Southern Highlands. Whether youโre an armchair traveler or an adventurer seeking the wild, this book invites you to step into a world where time slows down, and the mountains whisper their secrets.
Horace Sowers Kephartย (September 8, 1862 โ April 2, 1931) was an American travel writer and librarian.ย He is best known as the author ofย Our Southern Highlanders, a memoir about his life in theย Great Smoky Mountainsย of western North Carolina, and the classic outdoors guideย Camping and Woodcraft.ย Kephartโs contributions extended beyond writing; he played a pivotal role in establishing theย Great Smoky Mountains National Parkย and helped plot the route of theย Appalachian Trailย through the Smokies. His adventurous spirit and love for the wilderness continue to inspire outdoor enthusiasts to this day.ย