Appalachian Shine

The Appalachian Mountains are among the oldest on Earth—and perhaps among the most mysterious. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, host J.C. journeys deep into the hills and hollers to uncover ten of the strangest things ever found in Appalachia. From glowing lights floating above North Carolina's Brown Mountain to abandoned coal towns reclaimed by the forest, hidden moonshine tunnels, unexplained sounds in the wilderness, ancient artifacts, forgotten schoolhouses, cryptid encounters, and legends of lost treasure, this episode explores the fascinating intersection of Appalachian history, folklore, and mystery. Along the way, you'll discover the real locations behind these stories, the historical events that shaped them, and the enduring legends that continue to captivate generations of mountain people. Are these tales rooted in fact, folklore, or something stranger? Pull up a chair, settle in, and join us as we explore the secrets buried deep within Appalachia—because the mountains keep their secrets, but every now and then, they let one slip. Have a strange Appalachian story of your own? We'd love to hear it. Send us your experiences, local legends, and mysterious locations for a chance to be featured in a future episode of Appalachian Shine. #Appalachia#AppalachianMountains#AppalachianHistory#AppalachianCulture#AppalachianStories#MountainLore#MountainLife#Folklore#AmericanFolklore www.supportappalachia.org

The Appalachian Mountains hold more than just natural beauty — they keep secrets, too. For generations, people have whispered about glowing ghost lights, drummers who never left the battlefield, and spirits that rise from the water. In this episode, we share five unforgettable ghost stories from the region, each carrying history, mystery, and chills. Turn down the lights and listen close — the mountains have stories to tell. #GreenbriarWV #ClaytorLake #CivilWarGhosts #ghoststories #appalachianghosts

In this episode we talk about some of the tales as told and written by Appalachians following the WEP works project under FDR. Jack Tales, Grandfather Tales and some ghost stories! #appalachia #appalachiantales #appalachianstories

In the 1930's FDR implemented the Works Program Administration (WPA). As a part of that program writers were sent to all parts of Appalachia to collect our stories, our traditions, our histories and folklore. Those collected stories today still live on in our region and published at the Library of Congress. Join in and hear about the history of that project right here on Appalachian Shine. And while you're at it, stop by our website and support our mission. www.supportappalachia.org

We continue our exploration into the importance of the growth of the railroad in our region. It impacted Bristol VA/TN in profound ways making it a cultural and business hub that literally changed the music industry nationwide! Norton, VA grew from just a small settlement on the way to frontier Kentucky into a hub because rail moved due to the rich coal resources in Wise County. But what were the early businesses that popped up from the quick rise of Norton, VA...and where did Norton get its name? #WiseCountyVirginia #NortonVA #BristolVA #BristolSessions #birthplaceofcountrymusic #appalachianhistory #appalachia www.supportappalachia.org

Author Chris Skates stops by to talk about his book, Moonshine Over Georgia. Set back in the 1940's, this story is based on real events that took place in the region and the dangers that his own grandfather was in working as a revenuer. You can find his work on Amazon. #moonshine #ChrisSkates #Appalachia #history #Georgia

In this episode we discuss the history and legendary story of the Bondurant Brothers of Franklin County, Virginia. Also, we look into the history of the Big Six from North Carolina. Both gangs sowed tales of resilience and defiance in the face of law enforcement (even the corrupted ones). This and more in this episode of Appalachian Shine. #Appalachia #moonshine #AppalachianHistory www.supportappalachia.org Donate Today!

Have you ever wondered what Thanksgiving was like for the early settlers of Appalachia? It certainly wasn't the amazing spread on our tables today. It has changed much over the years. Also, we talk about the rich history of Damascus, Virginia. #appalachia #DamascusVA #TrailTownUSA #ThanksgivinginAppalachia Foundation For Appalachian Advancement P.O. Box 397 Richlands, VA 24641 www.supportappalachia.org To help our mission, can you pay it forward $20 today? Thank you!