A Lonesome Appalachian Holler in West Virginia

[@angelaakers9261]

You turned around at my grandmothers house. Hers is the white one on the right, last one you see. I've sat on the porch and broke beans, watched the rain come across the mountains, listened to the birds, the creek, and watched deer play in the field. Its such a special place to me. When we visited at Christmas years ago, you could smell the burning coal used to heat the homes as you turned up the road. That smell still brings back good memories. And the head of that holler goes on up a good ways. My aunt lives on out past my grandmothers.

[@lorie1357]

Brings back precious memories of my grandmother, and grandfather. Memaw and Peppow.

[@sandragrant3005]

So cool. I'm from a coal camp in Harlan, KY. Well, we spent every summer up there at my grandparents. They're so much alike....creek in back, chickens, dogs howling at night, spooky legends, the coal smell, steam coming off the hills . Like yourself, it takes a certain smell and I go back in time . The memories live on in my heart.

[@thepatriot8514]

That is totally cool! Excellent memories

[@radialwavellite5310]

Thank you for sharing that,great memories. 🕊️

[@breakupgoogle4668]

Is this place as dangerous as some people claimed?

[@larryrucker]

Having been born in WV over 70 years ago, I have experienced living in the "holler" and on the "Ridge". The big problem with the "hollers" is that it takes a long time to warm up as the sun only hits you a few hours a day, and when it rains hard everyone worries about flooding. Ice and snow remain much longer through the winter months. The lack of wind keeps the smoke from wood and coal stoves down near the ground level. It would be great to have a little more flat ground for homes and agriculture, yet we stay. I keep asking myself why, but a reasonable answer is never found. Family? Topography? Natural Beauty? The answer is somewhere near and dear, and still I can't find it. I have worked throughout the country, and I keep coming home. I was born here, and I will .............

[@sv4653]

Finally !! Someone else who uses the term “crick” to describe a creek, thought we were the only ones 😂

[@jjjthomasson8902]

Wow! Wonderfully described!

[@savaialaddams6273]

I wish you had written for FoxFire Magazine. You are a poet with a story to tell.

[@nathanstrickland8692]

Voice of experience right there buddy!!!! Lived in the bottom most of my life. 14 years ago the wife and I moved on top of the ridge. Love it on the top. Only problem is that wind in the winter will cut you fast boy. Have a great day sir.

[@Reach41]

Hi Larry. The answer you are looking for may be because it’s home. You and I are related; my dad’s mother was a blood-line Rucker, traced back to Peter Rucker in 1700s Virginia. My paternal grandfather hales from the same area, ca late 1700s. Many years of genealogy research have demonstrated that a lot of people in both Virginia and West Virginia from both families still live there, and they are all my cousins. Rucker got to be a huge family line, and a very prosperous one. Everywhere they went they seemed to do well, from Tennessee to Georgia to Texas. There are several towns named Ruckersville, and Rucker family cemeteries. After having spent my whole life on the opposite coast, I feel drawn to the Deep South, especially Virginia and the towns around Staunton in Augusta county where hundreds of distant relatives lay at rest. But sadly for me, I’ll die here, the smoke from my cremation added to the smog in Los Angeles being my lasting legacy. This isn’t home.

[@dennishardy4402]

From NZ and travelled the world. One of the best things we ever did was spend several weeks travelling around WV and the Appalachias doing all the little towns side roads and places tourists don't bother going to. It was a very special experience.

[@realappalachia]

That does sound like a great trip, thanks for watching

[@mikejohn0088]

It would be a humbling experience...good for the soul.

[@johnmartin7158]

That would have been so awesome. I enjoy these type of vids. Cheers from Ak. NZ.

[@WanderThisWay]

I really appreciate how KZbin has brought people together over the last two years, by allowing folks from across the world to explore places they've never been (or might not even get to go).

[@realappalachia]

Very very true

[@radialwavellite5310]

Me too, I am learning so much. 🕊️

[@davidsdiamond3269]

My mom had a best friend that lived in a holler, when I was a kid, and she was absolutely an amazing woman. We'd go spend a week with this woman and her family every summer and it's a memory I'll never forget. Getting woken up, at 5 or 6 in the morning, to the smell of fresh ground coffee brewing, fresh biscuits baking, and the sound of bacon frying. The men would be on the front porch ratchet jawing with their coffee, then women on the back porch gossiping away in between food prep, and the kids just waking up. I can still see, smell, and almost taste the food. After breakfast, the kids would red up the kitchen, and we would take a walk down the dirt road afterwards. Later in the evening, kin would show up, and they would be a shindig that lasted into the early morning. Man what great memories. I live an hour from WV now and do a lot of shopping and travel to that great state.

[@benallen1167]

I moved to West Virginia 17 years ago and bought a home in a beautiful holler. Lived in Pittsburgh area 4 years and Toledo 2 years prior to moving don't miss those rat races. Love the hills here and mountain streams.

[@peggyhill7283]

Ben Allen......... I really happy for you. Please don't ever leave. Did you know Bob Denver of Gilligan's Island came moved to West Virginia? Any place is waaaay better than Toledo. Lol! Cheers!

[@breathless8075]

I moved to Somerset Pa from Pittsburgh four years ago. My husband and I lived in Pittsburgh almost our whole life. I get anxious and uneasy every time we go to Pittsburgh to visit family. Love my mountains.

[@johncreighton908]

How are the prices?

[@luv2cook.]

@@breathless8075 my husband won’t go back. Not great memories..

[@Cheryl_Haydon]

Ben Allen, just watch out for flooding because those mountain streams can turn into rivers during heavy storms! I've heard about terrible flooding in the hollers...

[@julianhermanubis6800]

The media often depicts West Virginians in the most unflattering ways, but, in reality, they are some of the nicest people I've ever met.

[@galleste]

The media also portrays scumbag as innocent victims or heroes like Cuomo in NY who is a sex pervert . West Virginia people are good people. Media people suck

[@marybetheby5184]

The media needs to do one thing...Burn!!!

[@buttkid3548]

Nobody ever said they weren't friendly.

[@buttkid3548]

@@galleste Once Cuomo's allegations came to light, NOBODY portrait him as an innocent victim. But I'll bet you certainly don't have a problem with the lies that come from right wing media. Hell, you just lied about the media and Cuomo.

[@julianhermanubis6800]

@@buttkid3548 Except for the ten thousand bad "hillbilly horror movies" set in the state.

[@dwolfe1121]

Born and raised on a hillside just outside of Charleston. Mom and Dad raised three children in a four room shack with a path. We were taught the value of hard work, and to treat people with respect. I am 68 now, have traveled all over the world, and have lived in Richmond, Virginia for the last 30 years. My childhood home and the memories still call to me.

[@realappalachia]

great comment, thanks so much for sharing

[@cindyguild8086]

I love your story

[@savaialaddams6273]

That wouldn't be Loudendale, would it?

[@bubbalong7646]

@@TruthBeTold121212 Trump treated good people with respect but just did not like turds the latter of which there are many. How you like paying 100 bucks to fill your tank? Be sure to be polite and say, "Thanks, Joe!"

[@dwolfe1121]

@@savaialaddams6273 If your question is directed to me, I grew up on Chandler Drive. Loudendale sounds familiar. Please expound.

[@SJ-wg9hz]

The old “cool building” has been many things. My grandfather had his welding shop behind it eons ago. The building was a combination of an old company store and school. My dad and his older siblings all went to school there as children. I still have a cousin there and the people of Litwar are genuinely good. My grandparents home was leveled many years ago after Granny passed. Thank you for going. Seeing it again brings a flood🥲🥰

[@realappalachia]

Thanks for that information, extremely helpful

[@Republic3D]

This might sound weird, but this place reminds me of a typical small neighborhood where I live, in Norway. Same type of narrow roads, small houses (although different style), kept and unkept gardens, down to earth and nice people, but a bit skeptical towards strangers.

[@realappalachia]

I can actually believe that

[@meintingles4396]

Down to earth usually doesn't involve having sex with your siblings....

[@ronb8052]

I spent my first 6 1/2 years in Wall, Pa. I lived at the entrance to the holler. I remember once a year everyone would have a picnic at the end of the holler. There was a pipe coming out of the hill that had ice cold water coming out of it 365 days a year.....we would take (glass) jugs every few days and fill them for our drinking water. I also remember sitting in the front yard on a blanket....my mom and I would count the stars. After college, I went to Los Angeles and spent 35 years in California. Seeing this video reminded me how happy and carefree I was as a child.

[@lastnamefirst4035]

@Russ Sabourin guess you have never been. I won't insult where you live so why do you insult my home of Ca?

[@frankcompagnone8550]

Thank you

[@Dweller415]

@@lastnamefirst4035 I also live in California and the State has turned into one big 💩 hole.

[@hunzilla3122]

@@DR-hy6is Jesus is now on the side of illegals and dodocrats?

[@lastnamefirst4035]

@@Dweller415 guess it depends on where you live. Really nice where Iam

[@LarrySVAS]

Over the years I've traveled the back roads of Venezuela, Colombia and Peru. Viewing how others live their lives is fascinating. And I must say that people in these countries seem happy, friendly and they take pride their homes no matter how poor one might be.

[@realappalachia]

that is interesting, I haven't traveled as extensively but love to make a point of seeing how the common people really live, such a diverse world.

[@chemagonzalez3157]

Seems to me here in the sierras of southern Mexico, we have much in common with the Appalachia, community, chickens, dogs, nature and tranquility. 🖐🏽

[@williamschirmacher6526]

Excatly then u go to NYC or Chicago etc... There assholes

[@illex759]

Here in upstate NY it's exactly like the south. It's really weird, actually. We just got internet last year, roads still dirt, cars piled in the yard, neighborly people, very tight community, gossip. I could go on. You know what I'm saying.😂

[@gonesideways6621]

My mama always told me when growing up that we may be poor but we will never be nasty she took pride in what little we had.

[@tomraw4893]

I'm Australian and loved this video of that wonderful hollow. Love the lady's accent. Chuck Yeager, fighter pilot war ace and test pilot and first to break the sound barrier, came from West Virginia and wrote about a relative who lived in a 'holler' where they had to pipe the daylight in.

[@265hemi7]

Australia here as well

[@junehbee29]

@@265hemi7 funny, I've been to Australia and been up Litwar "holler"....Love Australia and Litwar as well...

[@sugarnads]

Aussie here too. I have relatives up in them thar hills i met as a boy. Its another world.

[@terribarrett9381]

In Eastern KY and West Virginia it's "holler"......NOT "hollow".

[@JuiceOg0311]

Charleston Airport is named after him. Tiny little airport that fits our country life style.

[@jlalbee]

My mother's entire family is from West Virginia and I've visited all my life. The family is from the Greenbrier Valley, in and around Lewisburg and the tiny town of Williamsburg, WV. But the family farm, called the "Lazy F" is in a holler outside Trout, WV, up an old creek bed. I absolutely love visiting this place. The most pleasant memories from childhood, as modest as they are, they are the most genuine.

[@georgekelly5338]

I was born in Beckly, WV, but moved to Florida when I was a baby. I always looked forward to going up to visit the grandma's house literally on the side of a mountain. The cherry trees and the thorny blackberry bushes everywhere is my fondest memory.

[@harrietjohnson4698]

I was raised in a holler in West Virginia and it was dirt and gravel like it still is today. Yes, alot of them are paved now but not all. The people are still the best people in the world.

[@gemjourney5210]

Ah... but then there are the Great Canyon Folk of the West!

[@edwardseaton4492]

proper americans. they wouldn't take a payoff from big pharma because they'd been screwed by big coal for generations and have learned their lesson. the difference is these people remembered their lesson. good for them. continuously underestimated.

[@PhilLesh69]

Far more of America is unpaved road than most Americans realize. They think the whole country is one giant manicured suburb with paved roads, concrete sidewalks and curbing and modern infrastructure. Most of america , once you get about an hour away from a major interstate, is really just rural, backwater and no different from the developing world. Many of their schools are worse than third world, too.

[@aeofaiosda]

How do black people fare in this part of the country? Id never visit because I’d be scared

[@Hiljack67]

Good ole WVa. Born and raised there. Going back down to visit my mother next week. Miss it dearly.

[@MissAmazanda]

My dad was born in 1942 in Eastern Kentucky and he was the definition of an Appalachian person, it is a very specific and definite culture that is different from other people

[@realappalachia]

Very true

[@WhiteBoy-mq9nt]

Im from south eastern ohio. Lived in randolph county WV for a bit. I never realized how hillbilly we Really are til i joined the Army and met people from everywhere. People hear me talk and ask “where in the alabama are you from” im like no im from ohio lmao. Proud to be Appalachian.

[@krikitbiskit9780]

Everybody's normal is how and where they are and what they go thru

[@OceansideSpiderHouse]

I’m a native West Virginian and have lived in the state most of my life, though I’ve lived in other states and countries for shorter periods of time. Our state gets ragged on so much for being poor or derelict or whatever, but our state is so gorgeous and people mostly so nice that I’m happy here and couldn’t imagine living in another state. I think other states’s media depicts us so bleakly because we appear technologically deprived and isolated, but while there’s some truth to that I think it’s offset by how nice it is to unplug from the rest of the world, especially with how unhappy the world appears to be these days. Seriously, try waking up to birds or rain on the leaves somewhere quiet, far away from the urban sprawl or hell go give mountain climbing or white water rafting a try if you’re feeling unfulfilled. Go somewhere those constant advertisements and polluting noises can’t reach you. Everywhere I’ve been in the world, it’s the simpler lifestyle that makes for happier people.

[@Hamrik_Oswald]

The twang is just to die for. Love hearing your accent.

[@jb6305]

I love learning about the hollers!!! I moved to the Lexington, KY area from Chicago about 6 years ago and have been fascinated with eastern KY, Appalachia, and hollers. I love driving around & exploring in eastern KY. Thank you so much for this channel and these videos.

[@realappalachia]

As you know, it is totally different world from Chicago. Thanks for watching.

[@rediron44]

Its beautiful country. But a word of warning, be careful who you trust down there

[@randallbates9020]

@@rediron44 yes, be very careful. I have family deep into the past from eastern Kentucky West Virginia border up through Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania, generational, they always warned me to steer clear of some of the deeper places there for my own good.

[@katygravley54]

I was brought up in West Virginia. I could touch a foot hill right off my back porch! In the front we had a foot bridge going over the “crick” to the one lane road. Another foot hill was “smack-cadabbed” right as we would get onto the road! Yes, we had horses come and plow in tiers ! Lots of fun running those hills over 70 years ago! 🙏🙏👑👑🙏🙏👑👑🙏🙏

[@stacyfreeman6278]

Both n raised in mason county West Virginia. Lived in NC Salem burg for six years

[@joesprague1464]

I wish you had your own channel focusing on mountain speak as a second language and also native to W Virginia customs.Those of us planning a trip to this region would benefit from your insight.

[@janetturnmire]

You got that right Kathy! What part of West Virginia are you from? Almost Heaven West Virginia!

[@katygravley54]

@@janetturnmire janetturnmire I lived in Chester, West Virginia. Even tho’ the Allegheny Mountains were east; we lived in the foot hills of the mountains! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@danielkokal8819]

is it true they all have one leg longer than the other from walking around foothills ?

[@aprilmcdonough7416]

It doesn't matter if they all look the same. They represent a way of life that is sacred to the people who live there. The sense of community, the willingness to help a neighbor, plus some good gossip out on the front porch swing is what makes this the best place to be for the people who live " up a holler"!

[@robertfisher5558]

Willingness to help a neighbor is no longer a thing in WV. Now people just worry about being inconvenienced. Helping others is now considered a weakness.

[@glennbeadshaw727]

Plus a little bit of honesty

[@adambrown3918]

Sacred? I'm sure if they could afford to leave; they would.

[@robertfisher5558]

@@danbailey96 I've lived in Fairmont all my life. This state has drastically changed, especially the last few years. It's become "get out of my way and don't interfere with me, I'm too busy to help anyone."

[@jolla9963]

@CharlesNheather some people just don't get it do they?, sometimes a fist full of bills is useless. What ya have is all ya need. And all ya have is what ya need, simplicity. No hustle and bustle, peace and quiet, friends and family and clean air, money can't buy that peace of mind...

[@nicolejackson4990]

I have lived in West Virginia my whole life & there are some amazing loving kind hearted folks here. There’s bad people everywhere but it’s so wholesome here. Its my safe place. I’ve never lived anywhere else and honestly don’t think I could.

[@davejackson3869]

too many drugs there

[@HAMMERHEAD-g3h]

​@@davejackson3869live in these hills my whole life. There is drugs but people don't bother you like they do in big cities.

[@mariaq8087]

I loved watching this, I live on a tiny Greek island in the Mediterranean. Never heard of Appalachia or the way of life there until watching Soft White Underbelly. If I could ever visit the States, then this is where I want to visit❤️❤️

[@chrisroberts7900]

America is full of quite, isolated areas like this.

[@mariaq8087]

@@chrisroberts7900 compared to where I'm from, the States would be very overwhelming for me.. Lol but I do love watching stuff on the Appalachian people and those areas.

[@annadenham5259]

There are some of the most beautiful places to see as I'm sure where you live is also beautiful. I love the hollers of Kentucky and it is where I will live my days.

[@TOOL_MARKS]

I can relate. These places remind me of what it was like to visit the Χοριο back in Greece 🙂

[@averagejoe4932]

Its funny most people that have watched the soft white underbelly videos of the Appalachia people would be afraid to visit😁

[@joyfullivingwithmeg7500]

We moved to the beautful hollers of West Virginia from Texas a few months ago.💛🌻 I can honesty say this is the happiest I have ever been and everything I could have ever wanted for my children! The people here are the nicest and so welcoming!

[@realappalachia]

That is awesome, happy to hear that

[@nononever3592]

We're in Texas, would love to follow you out but am clueless how to make it work.

[@joyfullivingwithmeg7500]

@@nononever3592 Start filling out those applications! Our first step was finding a job, the rest was just the details. West Virginia is growing in so many ways, they are hiring in all different sectors. We then sold most of our possessions and lived in a tiny rental until we could buy a home. We would have loved to buy a home first, but it actually worked better that way becuase we were able to figure out what areas we loved the most!❤💫🌄 Good luck to you and go for it if you are able!!!

[@wvbygraceofgod5508]

Welcome to West Virginia.

[@joyfullivingwithmeg7500]

@@wvbygraceofgod5508 Thank you so much!!!!

[@kevo3480]

I went on a Mission trip to Appalachia. All the hollers looked the same. Beautiful country. Beautiful friendly people. We were in Stinking Creek, Kentucky and I loved it there.

[@doctruth9402]

My wife and I have driven by the Stinking Creek exit a 100 times , and always wonder about that area , as well as the name !

[@kevo3480]

@@doctruth9402 After I returned from our Mission Trip I found an old book thru our library about Stinking Creek. Interesting. Check it out.

[@doctruth9402]

Thank you , will do !

[@loriguild6045]

Have always wondered about Stinking Creek

[@kevo3480]

@@loriguild6045 Lori, it’s quite a place. There actually is a Stinking Creek that runs thru it. It comes by its name honestly.

[@1950kath]

👋🏻 Holler is a variation of Hollow which is a very old English word meaning a small valley or depression between hills or mountains usually with a river running through it 💕

[@xboxleep6484]

My grandparents lived in McDowell county before they moved up north to Berkeley county. I've never visited but i've always been told how beautiful the mountains and scenery were.

[@steve1300]

I started getting so many flashbacks at 2:51 when he just stopped and made that u-turn. Always a little dicey popping a u-ey when you're on the backroads 😂 I have some vivid memories of seeing window blinds being bent down, people even coming out of their house to see what's going on, some yelling a couple of times. Awesome video man! The world doesn't get to see much of this forgotten culture.

[@realappalachia]

Thanks so much!

[@PhilLesh69]

Those three murderers who gunned down a black jogger had the same mentality. Only the right people are allowed in their hoods. Funny how they hate "inner cities" when they all think, talk and act the same way, provincial and with insularity and racist undertones.

[@susanlimle5368]

Going camping in West Virginia my older sister convinced her husband to pull off the road for her to go to the bathroom. We got turned around, lost I say, and pulled into a driveway..the owner pushed open his front door with a shot gun, never said a word and my sister tried to ask for directions to the National Park...just glared at us and we hightailed it out of there! Lol!

[@realMaverickBuckley]

@@PhilLesh69 Not really. It was nothing to do with race. A burglar was somewhere he shouldn't have been so the police called an ex policeman and his son to go and stop him if he was still there and then get them to bring him in. Sadly Arbery sprinted toward them and began attacking, one if the guys aimed a Shotgun at him. Arbery wrestled for the shotgun and got shot. The 3rd guy wasn't even involved but the Judge read the jury instructions in such a peculiar way (its political to appease people like you) that they pit the guy who filmed it .. away for life 😆 By the way, how'd you think those two would've git on the other way round? If they'd gone burgling in Arbery's neighbourhood?

[@realMaverickBuckley]

@@PhilLesh69 Oh I just noticed you called him a Jogger. I genuinely feel for you. You don't need to hate yourself. Arbery's own prosecution admitted he was a burglar and wasnt 'jogging' you div.😆 Also he'd been caught(and convicted) taking powertools from that very site 5 months earlier.He attacked the people that caught him then too. How could you really believe that crap?! Why not just watch the trial ? If you're gonna talk about a serious thing you should at least know more than TYT base level propaganda. You can feel empathy for someone without lying about them. Oh and that was nowhere near here Phil.

[@ChicagosSinfulSwede]

My family lived in Dingess midway up a Mountain. I have such great memories of us driving from Chicago to spend weeks down there visiting family and friends. My uncle was a coal miner for several years in those parts as well. I've been so far deep in hollers that was nearly impossible to drive, kids couldn't even make it to school because it was so hard to get in & out. Never have i been on a paved road in a holler. I believe there's positives and negatives to doing that, of course it makes their lives easier, school busses can pick-up kids, mail gets delivered to each house, ambulances can get in, etc... but back in the day most of the people that lived in the hollers preferred that way of life being secluded, no busyness, and tending to their daily lives. I'm not lost with the fact that times have changed and are always changing, but I also believe in preserving the past and living the very simple life.

[@audiemccall5332]

I took a load of lumber up in Litmore holler for mountain ministries.they were helping a family who’s brother had a birth defect and couldn’t walk. Eye opening !

[@RobbsHomemadeLife]

I have spent my life in flat South Florida, seeing the hills and wonderful trees and creeks and different homes makes me enjoy your video a lot, it all looks pretty decent to me. Thanks for sharing.

[@hollywhite2942]

I'm thankful for everyone that makes videos all over the country and the Earth of showing me places and giving me the ability to take virtual trips it's very fun and enjoyable and I thank you very much both of you.

[@realappalachia]

Thank you very much for riding along with us, Holly

[@arcandmetal953]

Incredible!!! Im from PR and was raised in the mountains of the island and that place looks like were I was raised.

[@seanh5922]

This is my type of living! This working myself to death for tax money in the city is really getting old. Living in the hills in a shack was always my dream and it's about to happen.

[@gino423]

Wish ya the best. You only come around one time in life.

[@maddierosemusic]

You ain't kidding! Just today I looked at a house for $30,000 in a real poor town in Virginia, my wife asked what was I thinking? I said - "living on the cheap, my taxes would be about $40 a year!" And I own my house outside D.C. free and clear. I'm DONE with the rat race!

[@Addicted2Antlers804]

@@maddierosemusic don't take this personal. If you're just looking for better prices please stay up there. The northeasterns that move down here ruin everything. Just be willing to adapt, not complain so Va is just like where you just ran from.

[@hlf_coder6272]

@@Addicted2Antlers804 Believe me, we're all feeling that. I'm in Maine and we're being inundated with people fleeing Mass & NY. I just signed a contract on a house 6 hours north of where I live now, which is a MUCH more rural area, to get away from it. In fact, the house is on a river that is literally the Canadian border. I can't go any further and remain in the U.S. And just like you describe, they move here and bring their destructive political ideology with them, so the whole process will predictably repeat itself. It's a problem.

[@petert1692]

@@maddierosemusic $40/year in 2021 means you’re going to the biggest sh$those of the developed world. Living cheap? No, living stupid in 2021.

[@christinecortese9973]

My ancestors came from West Virginia many generations ago. Since I’m not from the area now, I’m free of local attitudes and just find the “hollers” not only interesting but kind of admirable. The homes might be slightly impoverished but they look to be tidy and not junkyards. More power to chickens and dogs! I hope to get both next year. Thanks for the tour! I really appreciate it.

[@realappalachia]

glad you enjoyed it, Christine

[@candaceroberts3238]

My grandmother always said soap is cheap.

[@alexeubanks467]

In South Carolina we have mill hills . A lot of the Knitting mills were close to the river which was used for power . Workers were called lint heads and in some areas those workers were more or less shunned from society . The workers rented small houses which was taken out of their pay and a majority of their remaining pay was given in mill tokens to be used in the mill store . My great grandmother was the Red Cross nurse at valley falls mills in boiling springs (Spartanburg county) South Carolina. Their house was slightly bigger and right beside the mill store and office .

[@realappalachia]

Wow, never heard of mill hills before. Sounds so very comparable to coal camps.

[@ES-pc8kf]

I was born in WV and lived there until I left when I was 21. I miss the hills, the windy canopied roads following the streams. I remember having to drive thru a stream to get onto one of my friends property as the stream flowed over the driveway. Now I live on flat land near the ocean. 🌊 When I visit home I always go for a long drive to renew my soul.

[@deborahkoller9463]

I grew up with my Granny in Piedmont Hollar by Matoaka, West Virginia in Mercer County!!! Loved the video and thank you!!!❤

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Deborah how are you doing today.

[@maryannanderson2213]

When you're back in one of those hollers the days are a lot shorter because it doesn't take long for the mountains to block all traces of the sunshine. I love these places though. I wasn't quite "born on a mountain-top in Tennessee" but my family moved to a mountain top in Tennessee when I was eight and I lived there until I came to Nashville to go to college and that was 50 years ago and I'm still here. I love the mountains and the valleys and the hollers. I'm feeling homesick!

[@realappalachia]

Very true!

[@lastnamefirst4035]

Im always happy for anyond who goes to college. Education is priceless

[@jeffparker3334]

I had an opportunity a decade or so ago to visit WV with a friend who grew up in Charleston. He wanted us to see an area called Paint Creek. It was a glaring example of Appalachian poverty. People living in school buses, RV’s, pallet shacks, tire houses, etc. You get the idea. We stopped at a small store and chatted with a few locals over some cold drinks. What amazing, god fearing, honest people. I pray for them all to this day.

[@PhilLesh69]

Fearing God is part of the reason those people have clung to a dying past while their offspring have packed up and moved to parts of the country with jobs and better schools. Just saying. I saw this in 1988 when I went off to college in the raised middle finger of West virginia. It hasn't changed. The jobs were long gone already by 1988. I delivered pizzas to people who were so poor they tried to pay with Purdue chicken refund checks, coupons, bags of home grown weed, you name it. Anything but good old American currency.

[@andylane3739]

God sleeps on these people

[@timothyandrewnielsen]

Jobs and school is what you thi k is important? Work and family are far, far more important. Before u say work = job, it doesnt. Bothing modern being offered today is worth a damn.

[@spankiedoodlesteve2086]

I’m from out pax, small town on paint creek road, in Fayette county just below Charleston. We ain’t too friendly around here lol. But I’m glad people can have a good visit

[@timothyandrewnielsen]

@@spankiedoodlesteve2086 Don't let America haters take root.

[@ddavis3599]

I think WV is one of the most beautiful states in the country and I'm from the mountains of CO.

[@frankrodman6133]

same here, also from CO...

[@charliedillon1400]

You would like Ward, near Boulder. About as Appalachian as it gets.

[@ddavis3599]

@@charliedillon1400 Yeah Ward is really nice. I lived in Nederland for a few years as a kid. It's close to Ward.

[@taxthesocialist2602]

It's beautiful because of low population. It wouldn't be so beautiful if it had the same population as Commiefornia...

[@ddavis3599]

@@taxthesocialist2602 I'm referring to the landscapes and geography of the state, not its political leanings. WV is trump country. It's full of fascistic inbred racists who rail on about Antifa, Communism and liberals destroying their country all while voting for an authoritarian traitor who lead an insurection against that very country they pretend to love so much. So if you want to claim the people of a state make it what it is you sure picked a bad one to be on your side. If it wasn't for CALIFORNIA and other blue states subsidizing red states you traitor clowns would be fucked. Blue states keep you ungrateful fucks above water so you better be thanking those supposed 'communists'. And guess who utilizes the vast majority of welfare programs? RED STATES that's who. WV is literally #2 on the list of states who get the most welfare. So please do tell me more about that horrible little state known as CALIFORNIA.

[@TheRealShadowhawk]

I'm from Welch, I now live in Washington state and the people in my social circle have no idea about this kind of life or that it even exists. My wife is from Chicago but spent some time in Alabama so she kind of gets it but still - not really. West Virginia hollers are a different thing. The people are beautiful, wholesome, and just need a chance.

[@realappalachia]

You nailed it right on the head

[@2bitmarketanarchist337]

What side of the cascades? I live in Northwestern Oregon about 15 minutesfrom the Washingtonborder & honestly although the trees are different we have a lot of places similar to this holler

[@clarissaelisa2196]

I'm born and raised in California and I really enjoy seeing these kinds of videos from other states, .. Its so comforting to know that theres still good people out there and looking out for one other. Thank you for the video, Hope all is well and stay safe

[@realappalachia]

thanks so much, Clarissa, we appreciate you watching and the kind words

[@shaunsteele8244]

same... almost makes me want to move there lol. I was born and raised in California but it's not the same place I grew up in, can't wait to leave

[@daniellebcooper7160]

Thank you for sharing. As an Australian, I'm interested in other parts of the world, especially places that arnt on tourist maps.

[@realappalachia]

I do the same thing, love seeing the real parts of other countries

[@bubbalong7646]

You like folk named Billy Bob, Leroy, Bubba, and Delmar and a well armed populace? Come on down!

[@benbernal6455]

I wonder what people do for living?

[@bubbalong7646]

@@benbernal6455 They farm, commute miles away to work, a few mine coal, grow tobacco, grow pot, many of same things other folk do to live. Nice people but don't fuck wid em. Especially not with Billy Bob, Eddie. Leroy, Delmar, and Joe Boy. Oh yeah and Bubba!.

[@benbernal6455]

@@bubbalong7646 thank you for the info👍🏿

[@johnhurst7940]

Enjoying y'all's channel. You're right. It doesn't matter where you go in Appalachia most hollers look the same. Whether its West Virginia or upper East Tennessee where I grew up, they are quite a bit alike. They are some of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit. Thank you for sharing the beauty and history of Appalachia with the world. Keep the videos coming and I'll keep watching.

[@realappalachia]

Thank you so much for the kind words, we thank you for watching

[@retired6247]

What's a holler

[@johnhurst7940]

Southern Appalachian Mountain dialect for a hollow.

[@gojudude]

Holler boy from Mingo county Wv...wouldn't trade my upbringin' for anything.....

[@johnholland723]

Know what ya mean

[@riverbankfisher]

Beautiful countryside. The evening sun catching the treetops makes for an idyllic scene right out of a travel brochure. You almost expect to hear someone pickin' on a banjo while sittin' in a rockin' chair on the front porch

[@michaelwalter3399]

I hear the late, great John Denver: "Almost Heaven, West Virginia ..."

[@peggycomer1]

We moved to the mountains in WV and have loved every minute of the 18 yrs on top.

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Peggy how are you doing today.

[@chrislorenzo7883]

That sound sweet! Hi there how are you doing with your family i do hope you’re safe from the Covid?

[@katekat1064]

Reminds me of my grandparent's homes/farms in Mississippi except tbe houses were separated by more land. Tire swings, tin roof, day lilies, outhouse, wells, wringer washing machine on the back porch.

[@souljourney60]

My Dad was born in 1930's in Wyoming Co, but raised in McDowell Co until he enlisted in the Air Force. His family was a coal mining family. He passed away a few years ago, and watching this video brought back memories of the stories he would tell us about life in McDowell, as well as our visits to my grandparents home in a holler. Thanks for sharing.

[@maggieking6619]

Yes, my ex's father left the holler to enlist in WWII. It was the best opp to escape the mines. His mother returned there after their divorce. Her home still had an outhouse though they had water in kitchen. She killed a hen, plucked and singed and made the best dumplings ever. I did not try the buttermilk with cornbread in it though-lol. Father stayed in DC, but his mama would never leave that holler again. Good people done wrong.

[@carolyncozine6375]

Looks like area's in my neck of the woods in Tennessee...people are more friendlier in the South they wave and if your hungary you'll be invited in for some food too! Or sit a spell on the front porch! I Love these down to earth people...

[@aliceelliott5997]

Sounds nice..

[@lindagill1793]

My beloved grandma was raised in w.va.! I LOVED all her stories! It's a beautiful way of life.. Especially way back then!xoxo

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Linda how are you doing today.

[@JoBlakeLisbon]

I don't know why exactly but I find it very moving to watch your videos and listen to you. It feels like I'm seeing the US I saw as a child but one that isn't displayed in the media of film nowadays. I love hearing your conversation and accent. Best wishes from UK.

[@gypsymom0819]

We have Frog Holler here in NC. I was born and raised in a cotton mill town and knew from a young age that I would never stay. Fortunately we had a very Cosmopolitan aunt and uncle that took us many places on this earth due to his job with Lockheed. Left NC in 1980 for Orange Co. California and thought I would never look back. I did move back to Charlotte in 1996 so we could have our twins be around family.

[@goldilocks913]

Thanks for a look into your beautiful country! Love your accents! All the best from Birmingham UK 🇬🇧 😊

[@realappalachia]

Thank you, hope things are well in the UK

[@shaunsteele8244]

I loved the Birmingham accents when I was in the UK!

[@jackkircher1755]

I lived in Beckley WV for 12 years. The wintees were very harsh on my sinuses but Fall and Sring were something to behold! What I really miss most are the people. I even spent a year in MacDowell County and the reason holars looked thr same was because they were built by the coal companies who sold or rented them to the workers.

[@patriciaeddy7629]

Not originallyl from the state of WV, but arrived at the age of twelve and went wild once here. Travelling up every wild flowering path and road we children of four could possibly find. Over hilltops,into old cemeteries or up hollows we could venture into.We were endlessly on every new twist and winding road our horses took us onward to. Country roads were so free to wander on and we..... big city kids, thought we owned the new world we landed in.😁

[@realappalachia]

Great comment, painted a picture of that life

[@UncleWally3]

As a Canadian motorcycle rider, over many years I’ve spent many an hour exploring Appalachian back roads and communities. From Québec to Georgia, the Appalachians have kept my heart beating. During the time I spent in West Virginia, it appeared to me that there’s as much, or more, allegiance to the county as the country. Am I wrong?

[@mysticchicken6292]

Reminds me of my hometown in Clarksburg. Kinda makes me miss it, especially in the fall. My grandparents raised 7 kids in those hollers. They were poor but very self sufficient. They always had a big garden & my grandmother did a lot of canning. She had food storage enough to feed a small army, made her own bread & butter, and my grandfather & uncles & cousins hunted deer. They always had a couple of milk cows, hunting dogs, and chickens. They were the hardest working and the most kind and accepting people I ever knew. In fact, I think most West Virginians are like that. Very down to earth, no nonsense people. I'm thinking about going back to retire.

[@deliveryguyrx]

Me too. I have a brother who lives in WV and he loves it.He's been there 10 years and they still haven't paved his road. I'm from Baltimore MD and I can't wait to retire and kiss this place goodbye!

[@aarondigby9859]

@@deliveryguyrx I'd kill for a nice little mountain flat, a parcel of land, maybe 50 acres, so I can have a garden.

[@aarondigby9859]

@@deliveryguyrxI'd love to have a little mountain flat, maybe 25-50 acres, so I can plow a modest garden. But I'd have to get a little gator skin because my sis in law told me that my years of city life has made me a little soft. You know what, she probably right.

[@pamelagay3303]

I haven’t been home to WV for 3 years. Now you made me home sick. 😀 But enjoyed seeing my homestate.

[@realappalachia]

glad we brought you a slice of home

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Pamela how are you doing today

[@jc19766]

Although this channel focuses primarily on southern WV/northeast TN/southeastern KY, you can see these types of places in northern Appalachia. Southern and upstate NY, western PA, eastern OH, northern WV (above Clarksburg), and western MD...these areas all have a similar look and feel. There are hollow type communities even in the city limits of Pittsburgh.

[@mrknotthall]

“Holler” not “hollow”

[@butifulyamazed1]

@@mrknotthall semantics.

[@williamconway470]

Two neighborhoods within the city limits of Pittsburgh fit that description: Spring Garden on the North Side between Troy Hill and Spring Hill, and New Homestead in the 31st Ward across the bridge from Hazelwood.

[@recbo]

Same or similar as north Arkansas, hollers, hillbillies, moonshine, not much economy, marijuana, meth, feral hogs, some towns hardly there. Skills, arts, culture, language, ethnic background.

[@lynnjacques3632]

Yes looks like parts of W PA. Along the upper Allegheny River we do have 2 local places were you can get cold spring water coming from the mountainside. Bring your gallon jugs.

[@susankern4412]

My son went to WVU in Morgantown and I fell in love with WV then . Hope to get back someday before I see those glorious doors! WV is naturally beautiful 😀🌻🌲

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Susan how are you doing today.

[@BeanieUSA]

Thank you for this video. I ❤ West Virginia. Lovely people. Beautiful country

[@5-minute-witness356]

I am accomplishing my dream of a home in a West Virginia holler. I was overjoyed when you mentioned that you were looking for the dog in the road and the chickens! My holler has dogs in the road and chickens. It is unbelievably beautiful and I love my drive in, it lifts my heart. When you said "Someone's always watching" I didn't realize that. I always wave and love how people wave back! Also I LOVE seeing the men on their riding mowers in the afternoon sun. Something about it is just so simple and satisfying.

[@realappalachia]

What an awesome story, congratulations

[@5-minute-witness356]

@@realappalachia just subscribed - what a great channel!!!

[@realappalachia]

@@5-minute-witness356 thank you so much, welcome to the family

[@nitasmith7993]

Thanks for sharing! Very interesting, the “Hollar” is very beautiful and lush.

[@realappalachia]

really glad you enjoyed it!

[@theresaakins2317]

I didn't realize how beautiful and peaceful the hollers were. The media paints them so differently and uses stereotypes. I would love to live there. I hate the crime ridden loud and obnoxious townn I live in and it's in California!

[@MrGruffteddybear]

I grew up in a small suburb of Oklahoma City. So I enjoy a slower, and quieter, pace to things. Unfortunately I live in Phoenix now. If I had a nice nest egg I would move there in a heartbeat and spend a good chunk of my day sitting on the porch with a pitcher of sweet tea watching the world go by. The whole Appalachia region is just beautiful. And I love southern accents. It is music to my ears.

[@realappalachia]

i am sure Phoenix is quite a difference from here, you described the dream...nothing better than tea on the front porch

[@MrGruffteddybear]

@@realappalachia Oh yes it is, and not in a good way. Lol!

[@jeremycole3008]

Fascinated by how narrow the road is. Here in central Illinois it's flat from the Illinois river to indianapolis, and somewhat hilly between the Illinois & Mississippi rivers. Your road looks like it runs right up against everyone's house. Interesting.

[@gojudude]

In a holler...mountains on both sides...and a creek. There's only so much land one can put asphalt on. The main road they are on looks like a state road, jus' don't know which one.

[@michaelmcglynn5863]

Driver seemed to be going fast for such a narrow road.

[@EttaBailey-Jesus]

That building was an old grade school…. Drove by it every Sunday

[@TheJeepinjigga]

I learned something today! I grew up Listening to my folks country music. 60's, 70's and early 80's. I remember Loretta Lynn's song Coal Miner's Daughter and her singing about Butcher Holler. Loved her music and story. I use to think what a weird name for a town. It makes 100% sense now. Thank you for the education and this great little video.

[@1M005E1]

I'd take Appalachian's over stinking city slickers any ole day. I come from a small town in the middle of Kentucky. Our hollers are gorgeous, & the neighbors are all friendly, mostly all related too.

[@streetsofgold100]

i agree ,i am from Hazard myself

[@charliehenderson38]

Amen!!!

[@susanwiggins7847]

Grew up in Inez Kentucky on the border of Kentucky and West Virginia. We didn’t have much but I knew I was loved and cherished. It is true that you can’t take the country out of the girl.

[@rjmprod]

Love seeing where the good people of WV live….! I love these Patriots……!

[@johnbbolton]

I'm from Lexington but I sure did love visiting my papaw and granny back in their holler growing up, White Oak holler in Estill Co KY. Thank you all for bringing back these memories.

[@realappalachia]

glad you enjoyed, those memories are priceless

[@sambarnard9628]

Great little video. Very few things in life I enjoy more than riding thru the country in the Appalachian Mountains. I live on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee, & it's beautiful, but the mountains of N.C., Virginia, W.V. & Kentucky are special. Thanks 4 sharing the video. God bless you!

[@realappalachia]

Thanks, Sam!

[@flyhead5972]

A friend of mine was from West Virginia and he always reminded me to call it “West By God Virginia” and that’s how I always reference it 40 years later. 🇺🇸

[@lorifaye150]

That building was the Litwar School. My mom is 83. She went to that school in the 1940's.

[@realappalachia]

That's awesome, that explains the little carousel horses on the fence

[@lorifaye150]

@@realappalachia Those put up after school closed by a family that bought the house.

[@rlperryspage9311]

It later became the office for the Red Ash Coal Company. I worked as Lab Manager there.

[@ADL304]

Love to see this. I was born in welch and raised in panther. Love the place

[@realappalachia]

We drove through Panther that day too

[@leeannbrumfield]

Yes indeed I'm proud of my family roots born and raised ❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸❤️ I have legendary roots and family from all over the hills of West Virginia in the hollows. GOD bless y'all ❤️

[@jacquelinerodenbush6691]

My 1st husband's family lived in a hollow, and we moved right up there when we got married. The single lane road followed a creek, just like you said.

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Jacqueline how are you doing today.

[@Harlowerayne]

Back in the '80s I lived in Charleston West Virginia when I attended Job corps. I was treated like a king there with respect and kindness. I love West Virginia. I was never called out my name in West Virginia first time. I was calling nigger was in 2016 in so-called liberal Seattle! God bless the Patriots keep West Virginia strong and RED, y'all I'm pulling for you. Perhaps one day I can return to the place I considered home even though I wasn't born or raised there. West Virginia just feels right 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲.

[@realappalachia]

sometimes you just feel at home in certain places. I have found the folks of WV to be very accepting, much more than many other places so your experience seems to match up. Thanks for the comment, we really appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment with your experiences.

[@savannahsputnik1663]

Awesome post, thanks.

[@williamcoe9200]

I used to go to the horse races in Charleston back in the 80s..I wouldn't mind living there now except I hate snow..that's why I live in sunny Florida now...my neighbor moved here from harpers ferry.

[@mrjon75]

And God Bless you Sir.

[@lynncombs7069]

@@williamcoe9200 Where was there any horse races in the 80's in Charleston?

[@karencaddle7288]

Keep the hollers coming. Such an important part of American history. Thank you both.

[@realappalachia]

Thanks for watching, Karen

[@gailsgardenherbsmore1605]

When I use to live in KY, we went up to West Virginia a lot. Yes, their hollars do look alike... Nice folk down that way.

[@kristiN1214]

I’m from Eastern KY and the hollers look very similar…some nicer, some not so nice and everything in between. I get to go back and visit a lot and I’m very thankful for that, it gets in your blood and your heart…it’s just home to me. ❤️

[@nickstevens3139]

Greetings from Australia, I’ve always been fascinated by West Virginia, I’ll get there one day!

[@realappalachia]

Hope you make the trip, you'll really enjoy it, I'm sure

[@charliehenderson38]

Country roads take me Home…..🙂

[@isaiahmoore7664]

Went to college in West Virginia, Potomac State in Keyser, WV . Played basketball there . God bless this beautiful state .

[@susanroberts3813]

It’s beautiful !

[@gsdfan8455]

I live in a holler in Pennsylvania, but it’s nothing but steep mountains on either side with a little flat ground along the creek

[@ogamhunter]

Thanks guys for respectfully sharing this history before it's gone. I wish I knew you were coming, you are around 10 miles from my hometown of, "Rockhouse." I would've loved to have met with you guys and introduced you to some amazing hollows. Dang did I say that? HOLLARS people HOLLARS! If ya are in the area, give me a "hollar." God Bless you both! (Glen).

[@realappalachia]

We're sorry we missed you too, that was awfully close by

[@gojudude]

I always spelled it hollers.....Raised there, know where Rockhouse is...the "Tube" makes it a small world lol

[@justanotherlistener]

Hmmm, I see the same things where I live i Wisconsin. Trailers on the side of the road, tires for sale in the front yard, dogs n chickens and cows in the street on some days. We're not that different across this country. It takes all kinds spread everywhere. We are the great melting pot. Politics divides us, let our differences unite us. We are not pawns for our government officials to play with. No more lies, no more division. Lets support each other for the betterment of all.

[@mishalea]

Beautiful mountains. It always amazes me how much the Appalachians in all the states have many similarities. I grew up in PA, and miss the mtns so much. Have a good weekend!

[@realappalachia]

Thanks so much, Misha, hope you have had a good weekend too

[@jarrypason9884]

Hello Misha how are you doing today.

[@darlenemartin248]

It amazes me how much these roads look so much like the roads in Briceville, Tennessee. I love watching videos like this. I can't get out and ride due to illness. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@realappalachia]

Glad you enjoy them, Darlene, Briceville is a great place to go too

[@johnnielson7676]

Thank you! That was a short but very relaxing tour. Makes me wanna HOLLAR

[@realappalachia]

Holler all you want lol. Thank you

[@jimpetterson3447]

Makes me want to Hollar hidee hoo chugalug chugalug don't ya know

[@johnnielson7676]

@@jimpetterson3447 just not while you’re roller skating in a buffalo herd!

[@myrtlebeachwolfman7493]

Looks peaceful. My plan is to move either to west Virginia or Kentucky. I live in the Boston area and it sucks. So overrated. Soon I will be happier

[@TheThemattyo1]

Absolutely beautiful place "...don't worry about the chickens or dogs , keep your ears out for a banjo "

[@CallSignJammer]

I had to ride some hollows just like these in Breathit County, KY after the flood to take stock of the damage to our telephone plant. Its wild how you can be riding the most narrow gravel road and getting your truck scraped by brush, parts of the road are to literally be driving up the flat rock part of the creek itself....all of a sudden you'll come into a clearing between the mountains where there are these perfectly manicured farms, green and gorgeous. Under less tragic circumstances I would have enjoyed those rides the same as you are here in this video.

[@pietro4772]

Nice. I would live right there in the holler than any city you care to mention. Looking forward to going off grid. God bless to my American brothers and sisters from Australia.

[@Harlowerayne]

I love your show. Thank you so much 💝. God bless you both 🙏🏾.

[@realappalachia]

thanks so much for the kind words, God bless you too

[@CJ_7519]

I'm a born and bred West Virginian myself who was raised up in McDowell County. I miss every day of growin' up in the holler. If I could go back in time, believe me, I would!

[@skyking4501]

I was born there and lived there until i was sixteen. If i could go back in time I would live on a deserted island before i’d go back there. But thats what makes the damn world go round, ain’t it? Differences...

[@imreallyrotten]

My heart lies buried in West Virginia , bravo.

[@sarahsaville6829]

Man I tell ya I love this video! Born and raised in West by God Virginia! Been gone since 96 but always come back to visit. Mom and Dad still love in the Shenandoah Valley. Graduate of Marshall Univ. and been all around the State! Home Sweet Home! Keep postin' these vids! Ty!

[@realappalachia]

Will do, thank ya so much, Sarah

[@Richard-fv7rq]

Great seeing different parts of the US. I am English and have read a lot of books on the early settlers etc. I have been fortunate to have been to Vegas, Florida, Chicago, NY and Texas. This video looks like parts of south west England.

[@bostonwalkdrive7763]

Great ride. Always wanted to drive through WV in the autumn. Must look absolutely spectacular with the foliage at peak. It's too bad they destroyed the coal economy there. Looks like a good place to live in better times.

[@gojudude]

It was a great place to live when I grew up there...the economy boomed until 2010 or so on average...town dependent, could have the economy crashed by 95 or so

[@SJ-ni6iy]

I’m from a coal mining town in WV, I actually live near the UBB mines. The coal mines have always went up and down but we never fully bounced back. Every time the mines would shut down families would move away and stores would close. When the mines opened back up we would only get a 1/4 of the families back and businesses. Now it’s on a straight decline even though many of the mines around me are hiring.