“Several years ago there came a great snowfall in western North Carolina. The Red Cross came to help people who might be stranded without food or fuel. Two workers heard of an old lady way back in the mountains living alone, and they went to see about her, in a four-wheel drive vehicle. After an arduous trip they finally skidded down into her cove, got out and knocked on the door. When she appeared, one of the men said, “Howdy, ma’am, we’re from the Red Cross,” but before he could say anything else, the old lady replied, “Well, I don’t believe I’m a-goin to be able to help you any this year. Its’s been a right hard winter.”
—Loyal Jones “Appalachian Values”
I love the self reliance of the woman in the story. She just couldn’t imagine the men would be coming by for any other reason than to take up money for the Red Cross 🙂 because she had everything she needed even if there was a snow storm.
Today’s Thankful November giveaway is a used copy of “Appalachian Values” written by Loyal Jones. I really love the book. In my opinion Jones sums up the personality traits of Appalachians better than any other author I’ve ever read. To be entered in the giveaway leave a comment on this post. *Giveaway ends November 17, 2021.
Last night’s video: Mountain Path 13.
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Sounds like an interesting book!!
Definitely sounds like a book worth reading. Thank you, as always, for your generosity.
So thankful that I was raised to be able to grow our own food and to do our own work as much as possible. Would love to read this book!
Oh, I loved that story. This sounds like a “can’t put it down kind of book”. Thank you for sharing and giving us pause to remember times gone by.
This reminded me of a story my brother told me years ago while trying to convince me to receive help when it was offered. It brought a smile to my face. I admire the strength, wisdom, and the ability to survive of our elders. I’d especially love to know more of their home remedies. They made the best of every resource they had and didn’t waste anything.
My Mother’s reply when someone asked her if we needed anything would be, “No, we’ve got a plenty.” Daddy and Mama took care of us. We never had a lot but we had a plenty!
This makes me think of Aunt Arie. She was tough as nails. I would love to read this book!
I loved reading that little snippet, so o know I would love to read the book!
That is one thing we always do is prepare before a snow storm! I love the fact that she was ready and able to take care of herself!!! That is a value you don’t see much anymore. Maybe with the times we are in, people will start changing their ways and learn to be self reliant.
What a dear lady! She was probably shocked when she learned they were just checking on her.
If everybody would be that prepared. . . .
Not even surprised at someone at the door in that weather, I love it! People like her have seen so much in their lives it takes something to surprise them.
Really enjoyed this story, I’ve never read any of Loyal Jones books, the replies and comments from other readers let’s me know I am blessed to live in this area, I have lived within a couple hundred yards from my childhood home all 53+ years.
That’s old time mountain folks, Love their stories.
This kind of self reliance is what I was raised with. My family would repair it, paint it or repurpose it but would hardly ever just throw something away. Never hire someone to do something-you can do it yourself. This s aspplied to my mother as well because my dad’s job required him to be out of town for several days at a time. For the longest time I thought this was a result of living through the Great Depression but it’s more than that. It’s just a can fo attitude and belief in yourself.
I greatly admire this lady who the last thing she thought of was someone coming to help
her. She was doing just fine
While I have always lived the way the lady in the story lives I can see where the America we are living in is now becoming more and more a give me people. No more of the self reliant types with the ability to survive. I don’t know it this meets your rules as it is a bit political but I love the Pig.
What a great story. I think most of us from Appalachia can say this was how our parents & grandparents were.
I love this story. She was like many of the Seniors I have known from the Mountains in NC. I hope I will follow her example!
I love my Tennesse home and I love reading about my Appalachian people
Modern conveniences have made us dependent and maybe a bit ‘soft’. I suspect however that when things get tough for everybody that we will pull together as has been the case in the past. The saddest aspect of today’s world is that so many of the skills needed to be self-reliant are fast disappearing.
I really like – and appreciate – the lady in the holler’s outlook on life and an offer of help when none was needed.
Oh bless her heart! She sounds like good people! Thanks for giving us all a chance to read such a interesting book! By the way, I am really loving your reading of the book on Youtube. I look forward to it every week.
the values covered in your post are so much like the old timers in the Missouri Ozarks , totally self sufficient and always willing to help others even when they have so little themselves
It’s always good the read about values and even better if you can put them in action!
That’s why I love this blog. It’s uplifting. What a nice story. Thank you.
What a great story!
Loyal Jones was born and bred Appalachian. He knew whereof he wrote. He was a professor at Berea College in Berea, Ky for many years. I think he was much like you are, Tipper. The ‘cardboard cutout’ representations of Appalachia and Appalachian folks bothered him both personally and culturally. He knew there was much more to his folks than the rest of the world was being shown.
One Appalachian value that is becoming increasingly rare, especially now ‘outside’, it seems is that of giving people space and time to show who and what they are. Being stereotyped for a hundred years or so has eroded it but that value is still alive. Of course the opposite side of that coin is for a ‘newbie’ to be patient about being accepted. (The key, I believe, is in having seen a glimpse of another’s heart.) In my mind, (as I have posted before) it is a great compliment for natives to forget “you ain’t from around here”. It happens when they feel you are one of them.
I strive to be that self-reliant mountain lady. Love this. Thanks for the smile.
This reminds me of when I was growing up. We did not panic if we lost our power. We had food that had been put up during the summer, oil heater that did not need electricity, a wood burning fireplace and a well we could get water out of without electricity to run a pump. Later on a wood heater that daddy would often cook on even if we had power. We would just hunker down and go right on, I think he sorta enjoyed it. I like to tell this as a joke but city water as we call it finally came by home and everyone was given free connections. I like to joke and tell everyone I couldn’t wait for the power to go off, I wanted to see how good it would feel to flush the toilet when the power was off.
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Tipper, that was a wonderful true story and one that I fully understand as I remember my parents, grandparents and greats. They were all strong in self-sufficient and examples to me of values that had been taught to each generation. I always felt my Mother and Daddy were what I think of as survivors, as their positive faith, knowledge of forest, plants, putting up, and making do always made me think they could withstand a storm. I’m going to check my library and see if they have that book.
Sounds if she was well prepared. I’d sure like to read this book. Enjoy your day.
The elderly lady in the story reminds me of my grandmother. I’d love to read that book.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be that confident in your survival skills? Wow! Enjoy your columns.
I would love to have a copy of “Appalachian Values”. Please put my name in the pot!
Appalachian Values – can’t think of anything better. Tipper, I’d love to read it.
Reminds me of thetime an ice storm, and another time a hurricane knocked the power our for a week around here. A number of neighbors were coming over to use the hand dug well in my front yard that still has a windlass and bucket.
My two oldest girls were elementary school age at the time of the hurricane, and didn’t know it was a hardship. They just knew that their grandparents and aunts came over every evening for a cook-out, and when it was time to take showers they just took turns pouring buckets of water over each others head! (Their mother was not tht happy about the situation.)
I already have the book so don’t include me in the drawing. The book was given to me by a most wonderful friend and proud Appalachian young lady. I will always treasure it and never forget this spontaneous act of kindness.
You will never guess who that generous person was so I’ll give you a hint. Her name begins with Tipper.
Well, that wonderful old lady is my new role model! i would love to read a book that teaches her values!
I have a couple of books by Loyal Jones and have used several of his stories from the pulpit through the years. I don’t have that one though. I don’t think it was among the many books I’ve given away either. Every time we move we go through our library and downsize it.
What a wonderful story! I didn’t know of this book…I’ll have to look into it more. I was taught to be self sufficient. It was hard at the time, being young. Now I understand. I never let my pantry get low and love digging in the garden, etc. I wish I lived deep in a cove.
Just to say that I’ve been happy to have found you several years ago. My first read every morning. So many memories of Appalachia have surfaced for me in your blog and I am so thankful that you are there.
That was a great story! Thank you for sharing it!
Yes, I’d love to read the book Appalachian Values! Please count me in on the drawing. Thank you!
I would like to read this book.
Wonderful story. Would love to read this book! God bless you!
I love this little story. How the lady wasn’t concerned about herself but how times were hard and she couldn’t give to the Red Cross to help others. We need these values in today’s world. Have a blessed day.
Tipper, you had me right there. I could just see her standing there and the door open and it cold and freezing. Bless her heart, didn’t think about the Red Cross coming to check on her. I would love to red the rest of this book.
Sounds like my Gramma. Nothing could stop her. She loved family and shared what she had with anyone in need. We are a reflection of our memories… the smiles and love remain. Thank you for stirring memories today, Tipper. Will have to check the library and see if they have the book.
What a wonderful story. Never underestimate an old country woman.
I love that story. I’ve been married to my husband for 53 years. We’re a blending of cultures…I’m Latina and my husband and his family are from Appalachia. Following your blog has been a real eye-opener as I never understood what his ‘stories’ meant. It has made me realize that even though we grew up in different parts of the world, our values were very similar. It’s been fascinating following you as I’ve learned so much.
I’ve recommended your youtube channel to my young friends…I truly believe that the more we know about each other, the better the world will be. Thank you!
What’s a little snow or a blizzard for that matter to an Appalachian woman? I have bought two books this month after reading about them on The Blind Pig blog. This will be the third if I don’t win your giveaway. Thanks for all you do! I doubt The Red Cross will ever need to knock on your door.
I always said that my parents taught their ten children to be resourceful. I would love to read the book.
Tipper, I love and enjoy all your stories! What a gift you give to all your readers, those who have lived in this beautiful area, and those who are being introduced to it through you. I wonder if you truly realize the gift you give to all who read your daily input. Thank you and God bless you and yours!
This reminds me of my Grandma who saved string, brown paper bags, foil in case it was needed in the future. Old timers were always at the ready to help when needed. I love these stories.
That woman lived a life style I find worthy of following. I would love that book and I love your postings so much. Thanks.
What a needed encouragement this is! Thank you for sharing so many inspiring resources. You are a blessing, Tipper.
I would enjoy that book!
Self reliance is… .or was….. part of our culture…like tenacity. Sadly, many have lost the ability to take care of their self now due to many factors. My elders only came off their mountain to buy or barter for lamp oil and sugar. Some walked off to work in the mines.
We ate what we raised and let little go to waste….gleaned the mountains for nuts and will berries. I arrived home in Wise County VA. once in late summer to see my daddy on the mountain side picking wild cherries with a bucket tied on his belt so he could hold his cane in one hand, pick with the other. He said he could not stand them going to waste . He was a dying coal miner with black lung, 75, and passed the next winter. Yep they don’t make folks like that much anymore.
And Renee Stanley I wish I knew your people !
That sounds like an interesting book! I’d love to read it.
Oh what a wonderful story of grit and determination. We all need to read more stories of these true American heroes. God bless you Tipper for sharing.
The grandmother in this story reminds me of my fathers generation. They were very self reliant. The only food my aunt Lucy and my Uncle Tim bought was staple items like coffee, flour sugar, etc. Everything else they grew themselves. They did not worry about things not being available at the store.
Hello Tipper – I do not live anywhere near your part of the world, nor have I ever been to any part of the Appalachian’s, except through what you share in your blog and videos – but I have fallen in love with your ‘neck of the woods.’ I would like to say I will ‘get there’ one day, but at 80 years old and now two years widowed, my travelling days are past and I do the ‘arm chair’ travelling now. Much of what you share reminds me of my own childhood – my father was a “Deer Hunter” too. I have been a long time fan and follower and you and yours have become like family to me. Thank you for doing what you do – you are such a ray of sunshine, positivity and encouragement. The Lord bless you and keep you.
Sounds like a very interesting book! Thank you.
That right there cracked me up! I wasn’t expecting that response which was priceless. As the young uns say now that was an “epic drop the mic moment!” God bless y’all on this morning where the snow is just now changing over from rain here in beautiful Bluefield, WV overlooking a foggy topped East River Mountain! Get out the long handles… lol most fellers here are Thanksgiving to Easter Long Johns wearers… May need an early start this year…
Can’t wait to read this book! You are an inspiration thank you for keeping our ways alive!
OMG! What a story about self reliance & the memories of all the people who sent in their replies. Hope & pray that they are passing down those stories/memories to their families.
Thank you Tipper, love your Blind Pig & Acorn site as well as your videos. Family music is so soothing.
This is a great reminder for all of us. And for those of us raised that way it’s a value we certainly need to pass on to others. I’ve heard many comments after disasters as to why some people affected think that others, especially the government, should come and rescue them. What happened to those thoughts of self reliance that most of our ancestors all over the country had to have had at one time? I’m proud that my sons can do so many of their own repairs, etc or at least try before reaching out to someone else for help and they will quickly and joyfully reach out to help others.
I’ve now caught up with your reading Mountain Path and look forward to the next chapter. I’m very thankful you have taken the time to do this and also although I would like to hear it all I know I would get into a “rabbit hole” and go to sleep listening to it even more times than I have already. I’ve had to listen to some more than once because I missed parts. I’m amazed at all the ideas you have like reading that book. Thanks so much.
Lord have mercy, that sounds like my Grandma Annie. She believed, “The Lord helps them that helps themselves.” And also, “Never be beholden.” And when I hear the name Loyal Jones, I think, “This is a man that gets us.”
I appreciate and admire our self-reliant and individualistic traits, but fear those traits are slowly disappearing because they are not being taught, or because of government overreach. At one time it was wholly understood that we relied on God, not government, on ourselves and neighbors, not politicians and their pork. Folks, teach your children and grandchildren well, lest we completely lose our identity and the traits that make Appalachians unique.
That’s a good story…..with a great lesson! We need to be more self reliant!
I’m interested to read that book!
Now, that book should be mandatory reading in every school in the world! People have for gotten how to be self reliant and how to be kind! I would love to read that book thank you for sharing Tipper!
Thanks for what you do, Tipper…
A Loyal Jones book?! Woot woot! So enjoying your blog and recipes. Now living away, I grew up near Appalachia and it’s like a touch of home.
As the saying goes, they sure don’t make em like they used to and that includes people. What was a cherished gift of self reliance has given way to reliance of others giving to them. So very sad.
So thankful to have grown up with the former!!
I love that she was not only self reliant, but seemed to actually feel a little sorry that she couldn’t donate anything. I admire that old time self sufficiency. The older folks were/are a stronger breed then most folks today.
Appalachian women were and still are remarkable ☺
True grit, for sure!
My library is able to get six books written by Mr. Loyal Jones, but Appalachian Values is not one of them.
Tipper, that’s a great story. Reminds me of a similar story that involves my Momma. Her house got flooded back in 1984. They were going to the house in a boat to see if anything was salvageable. Another boat came by and we stopped to talk. They were from FEMA. My Momma thought they were out asking for donations. She said, “I’m a bit flustered right now, I don’t have my pocketbook with me or I’d help you. ” They were wanting to talk to her and help her. God Bless those folks everywhere.
We are an independent bunch of people! LOL!
I love the story of the little cove lady and the stories in the comments are equally inspiring!
I admire both. The Red Cross men who cared enough to rough it to her and her strength and heart enough to be thinking about giving first. What a beautiful story. I’m like my Momma and my Grammaw. I thank God we have what we need. Not much it’s been a rough year. But even a jar of jam comes from deep within.
This sweetheart of a strong capable woman very easily could have been my Grammaw. After Grampaw passed “Miss Hill” was alone on a harsh Coaltown Mountainside. She passed out Sandwiches or whatever could feed a hungry straggler passing by the winding road. They raised thirteen “Chillins” on a miners wage. Rich in love though. I can’t ever remember her cooking on her wood burning stove without singing Old Hymns we don’t hardly hear anymore. She had a deep raspy Bluegrass voice. It’s my 81yr old Momma that sings like an angel.
I understand this “old lady”. I really do. Now I’m wondering what the rest of her story in history was.
Daisy Bell Hill eventually *Gave Away their long shanty home and critters to a church friend whose house burnt down. The land belonged to the Coal Company and tent was cheap. It’s all overgrown now and nothing remains except her flowers she painted the mountain side with, Grampaw’s Smoke Shed (now leaning hard and inhabited by only Gid knows) and Precious Memories. Oh how they linger.
Thank you for sharing this kindred story of givers, Tipper. Have a blessed day. I’m off to do chores and praying now. My own Deer Hunter is fixin for Monday morn. The Lord is good.
Tipper, I really NEED to read that book. Self-reliance like the snowbound lady’s is scarce in these parts and I could use some examples as inspiration. Thanks for all that you do. BP&A makes us all better people.
I am learning to play old time banjo, self taught, and have a real appreciation for self sufficiency.
My Grandfather and my Father helped build the Grand Coulee Dam and told me stories of being on it and working to repair it while it was coming apart underneath them.
So I come by it honestly.
Happy November.
I love the spirit, strength, positive attitude and self reliance of those that settled Appalachia. There is so much we can learn from the stories. Thank you for sharing.
Appalachian people are remarkable in many ways, and that would have been a well kept secret had it not been for people like Loyal Jones and Tipper Pressley. We all have a calling, and to educate on Appalachia is truly a worthwhile endeavor. The resilience of these people is something I learned early. I have seen many acts of nature that could have brought on terrible hardships, but my family and neighbors were always up to the challenge.
The Great Blizzard of 1993 left West Virginia almost paralyzed. Some had to climb out windows to scrape the snow from in front of the door so the could shovel a path. I could not get out to the local hospital where I worked at that time. Nurses stranded at the hospital had to work sometimes up to 2 shifts repeatedly. I was fortunate , as I was stranded at home and could help with shoveling a driveway I never realized was so long. I watched from my window as a lone white duck seemed to form a retreat in the side of the hillside. There was a dark place in the snow where he had managed to leave an entrance of sorts. I could not save him, because one could only walk as far as they could shovel in a day. Drifts probably were 3 feet high in places. I was finally able to get to work and relieve the exhausted staff after shoveling for a couple of days. A man with heavy equipment came through and dug the rest of the driveway. Meanwhile, I was elated to see that duck make its way out of the makeshift storm shelter safe and sound! We had to have resilience, because life always seemed a little harder traveling winding roads where coal mining was the main industry. Self reliance learned from a belief in Bible teaching. Matthew 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
That’s a beautiful story, Gosh. I’m glad you were snowbound at home. My eyes popped at the nurses stuck and doing double shifts to help aid others. Thank you for for reminding me that when I lived in the Rockies of Utah for seven years my baby and I got snowed in for near two weeks. It was 1987 and over five feet fell. Gosh I was broke living week to week and working hard. You’re so right on God’s faithfulness and goodness. I had just enough money left over from my paycheck to get the propane tank filled up a week prior.
Now how in the world did this sparrow forget that. God bless you abundantly for reminding me of the vast difference between our Appalachia and the different grandeur of the Rockies. God made both and both have hidden stories. I’m not hearing my roosters so I better get gone now. Stay well, Brave and safe, Sister. Psalm 91
Appalachian values are what this country needs! Thank you for your generous giveaway offers this month!
I once asked my grandad what it was like in Western N.C. during the depression. He said they really couldn’t tell the difference in their day to day lives. They never had cash money to speak of and all they had was grown or traded work for so it wasn’t a big change.I guess a little snow would have just been taken in stride-
Brother isn’t that the truth. The Depression wasn’t so great. God built us all adaptable. Since “The Great Recession” of 1998 we learned how to trade again too. He sounds like a kindred spirited man.
Lovely
As long as you keep giving things away, I am going to keep replying!
Thanks,
I love her reaction! It sounds like my own grandma who was a school teacher in western N C around the 1920s.