Synopses & Reviews
Review
The enjoyable overview articles, substantive research contributions on topic critically important to scholars and regional history buffs alike, and glimpses into surprising facets of the region's past add up to a book well worth placing in any collection on Tennessee history or Appalachian studies.
(Benita Howell, Journal of Appalachian Studies)
Synopsis
Tennessee History Book Award Finalist The Upper Cumberland region of Kentucky and Tennessee, often regarded as isolated and out of pace with the rest of the country, has a far richer history and culture than has been documented. The contributors to Rural Life and Culture in the Upper Cumberland discuss an extensive array of subjects, including popular music, movies, architecture, folklore, religion, and literature. Seventeen original essays by prominent scholars such as Lynwood Montell, Charles Wolfe, Allison Ensor, and Jeannette Keith uncover fascinating stories and personalities as they explore topics including wartime hero Alvin C. York, Socialist Party Tennessee gubernatorial candidate Kate Brockford Stockton, and even a thriving nudist colony, the Timberline Lodge.