An Appalachian History and Folklore Magazine
Cassard was a notable community in 1938, around 10 miles west of Kingsport, Tennessee. This Scott County region had a number of unique features, including the Pennsylvania Glass plant and a Swedish mission. It was shaken to its foundation on August 3, when the body of 14-year-old Willie Mae Gentry was found.
The stereotypical “woman in black” has been a ominous figure throughout much of history. The Appalachian regions were no exception.
A mysterious collision occurred in Gate City, Virginia, on January 27, 1940. The victims’ families were never given reason as to why the tragedy happened, and the unknown lingers even today.
There were multiple families in the initial group. They were varied in hue and features, but the outside world wasn’t aware of them for nearly a century.
Being an original Melungeon must’ve been a difficult life. The overwhelming majority of the media held you in utter contempt.
The earliest “proof” of Melungeons is commonly cited is the Stony Creek church minutes from 1813. One church member accused another of “harboring melungins.
Sadly, it seems even less is known of the people today. Early historical accounts suggest the Melungeons were there before the white settlers.
As word spread of the “new race” so did fantasy. Northern reporters made it a point to briskly “investigate the community,” by speaking to one or two families, so they might carry off biases, prejudices and unfair assumptions of all.
This word has been used for centuries, although in strikingly different contexts. The most likely origin is the French term “Mélange,” which simply means “mixture.
This is one of the most difficult ethnic groups to research today. The overwhelming majority of information is authored by those who use the research process to support preconceived notions.