Growing up in Eastern Kentucky as told by Lily Newman

Interview by Aaron Roark and Ryan Newman for APP 200 at EKU.
Edit: Thanks so much everyone for your wonderful comments and stories! I didn't expect this college project to get so many views, but I'm glad that you enjoyed Lily's story and could take something away from our interview with this wonderful lady.

[@jamesstamper2444]

I grew up in Letcher Co. Raised by two drunks. If it hadn’t been for my paternal grandparents who lived next door, I never would’ve made it to adulthood. My father would work, but only to buy beer & cigarettes for him and mom. When food stamps came along, dad would spend them on ingredients to make home brew with. When I was 9, dad found a free supply of wood chunks. He’d haul them home and make me and my brother (age 10) split those chunks with sledge hammer & wedges to make firewood, which dad would then sell to get beer & cigarettes. My brother & I worked daylight til dark, all Summer long, splitting that wood and never got a penny from it. Most people go to school to learn, we went to eat. Many a time, if I didn’t go to school that day, I didn’t eat that day. I would dread the weekends because I knew it meant 2 days without eating. Our grandparents owned the land and the house we lived in. And Grandma would feed us if we asked. But Dad threatened us with a whipping if we went over and asked her for food. In the summertime the electricity would get shutoff because dad wouldn’t pay the bill. But when school started back, Grandma (a retired school teacher) would pay to keep the lights on during the school year. I lived with my parents but I was raised by my grandparents. Grandpa taught me how to use tools and work. Grandma made cakes and cookies and pressured us 4 boys to get an education. We survived in spite of our parents, not because of them. The only Christmas presents we ever got were school clothes, work boots and school supplies. Toys only came on birthdays and usually only 1 toy then. I loved my childhood, some of my classmates were just as poor as me, some were worse off. Some didn’t have a daddy, some didn’t have grandparents next door. But one thing I remember, nobody ever put anyone else down no matter how poor they were. Because everybody in the county knew what it was like to be poor at one time or another. We were all equals and we treated each other that way.

[@greenshp]

I don't think alcoholism, or poverty for that matter, has much to do with location. My dad grew up dirt poor. They lived seventeen miles from any town, and rode a horse to a one-room school. They grew all their food and raised chickens, pigs and cattle. That was in Colorado....

[@xochitl9161]

You people from Appalacia are amazing !!

[@50haywood]

Love you’re story about your life in Kentucky so similar to mine my mother was the one that really saved us My father was an alcoholic which struggled to work sometimes he just did odd jobs to earn money He worked in the mines all the children were born at home sometimes we didn’t have food or very little of it. Daddy drink and smoke mother did neither but she always worried about everything trying to feed us trying to close as my mother was a remarkable woman.But we never really had anything closing gave them to us . He was very abusive to my mother when he was drunk I witnessed that into this day I struggle with a spirit of fear that God intervenes in my life and helps me to overcome the spirit of fear. Never had no education I have a sister and a brother that graduated from high school my brother went onto the Marine Corps and my sister moved as far away as she could and she never came back for my mom and dad‘s funerals my baby sister never even got to see my sister that moved away there was 10 of us your story is so similar to mine but God always seems to find a way to take care of the poor I praise God today for all that he has given me in spite of the way I begin he has the last say so over my life. What did I learn in Kentucky.The state is beautiful used to go home quite a bit but I haven’t been there in a while still got realtors down there we lost out brother in December 2021 none of the family went back home for his funeral my sister was there which lives there in Kentucky we just sent money to pay for the funeral you got to know for sure when you were poor and I need educated life is going to be a little bit hard but God has provided all the way for my life .Thank God for your grandparents if I had the knowledge and understanding I would write a book about my life in Kentucky but I really don’t have the skills to do that God bless you

[@moniquefrancis753]

❤️🙏🏻

[@brendad3570]

I'm sorry you had such a rough childhood, except for your grandparents. I hope you have thrived in spite of it

[@IrishAnnie]

My mom was raised in WVa. A black lady knocked on the door wanting work. Her husband and son were both killed in a coal mine accident. My grandparents hired her to help grannie with washing, making soap, canning vegetables. She ate at the same table as my grandparents. She was family. Mom was little and loved her so much, she followed her around all day! When I was 10 or 11, we went back and mom found out she was still living. We went to her house and I remember seeing them both in tears and talking for a long time. Mom loved her so much and certainly NO segregation in our family. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@joeecarbonee6849]

Born and raised in Kentucky. I'll never leave this beautiful state y'all. Ain't nothing like a waterfall in the mountains..

[@orange70383]

My mom was born in Dark Hollow Kentucky in 1930, she's still goin strong with my 90 year old dad.

[@WhispersFromTheDark]

Bless their hearts!

[@slkken1768]

I'm a 61 year old Black woman and I was raised in a small town in Ohio. People used to call it "Barbertucky" cause most of the Black folks came from the deep South. My grandparents were farmers and came from Georgia and Kentucky. Oh how I appreciate my early years in a small town. I wasn't born when the farm was in the family. But I so miss that little small town life. I love listening to older folks like this lady. It's so good to hear this.

[@AnnieFarmerFarm]

Good Job Lily I'm from Eastern Kentucky a and proud of it. Born and raised here and still live here! She is 100% right on everything including what they did to our mountains and trees and left them bare!

[@jerryduhon1075]

NOW THIS WAS WHAT IT WAS ALL ABOUT HONESTY . RESPECT AND BEING THANKFULL FOR WHAT YOU HAVE

[@mwhittaker9159]

Oral histories are important to America’s stories. Thank you for posting this interview

[@elteescat]

I grew up in southeastern Kentucky in Leslie county in the 70s. I had a mountain for my backyard and I would play beside my own personal miniature waterfall fed by a mountain spring. I was rich beyond measure!

[@lisalovett6080]

That's sounds wonderful.

[@johnmac4769]

Grew up in Leslie co also up on Cutshin Creek.

[@deborahchesser7375]

I have kin in Knox Co. it was always my escape from reality every summer, running like wild Indians with my cousins.

[@dakotawinters5062]

Love to all my fellow Kentuckians

[@romans828.]

My father was born in Perry co KY 1921. He's 98 and loves the mountains. Mom was born in Knott co. She's passed on but Dad is doing well.

[@paulgran8716]

My grandparents raised me in Hazard KY. I lived in ohio untill I was 13 but I love the mountains ppl are so genuine..

[@alorr4uz]

I was born in Hazard,1970, but raised in Ashland (Boyd Co.). I've got the mountains in me.

[@justincecil4900]

My family is from hazard. My papaw owned a body shop called "Cecil's body shop". I sure do wish I could have been raised in Perry county. It feels like home and always will, even thoe I've been in Michigan my whole life.

[@tracienunya1939]

I love hearing older folks tell their stories. Just fascinating

[@thatguyonabicycleofconsurv3908]

You and me both tracie

[@linguinepast3743]

Tracie Nunya it is interesting

[@oldman9843]

For about 6 years I did maintenance work at a nursing home . Those people were like living history books . I made a lot of good friends there but being their age , I lost a lot of good friends .

[@shauna5466]

I love these stories also funny about being told to take their shoes off so they look poorer typical media that we see now......

[@lindabeebe9943]

@@oldman9843 I agree! They are like living history. I worked in a small ALF, in a small town. Our residents were mostly 85 and up. Losing them, thier friendship, love and support, was the hardest part of care giving. I truly miss working there, only it never felt like going to work, though. It is a shame, that more Americans do not appreciate, our elders. There bodies become feeble, but they still have so much to give....

[@JustinSmith-re8hc]

I love this, I was born in the mountains of Hazard, Ky and im proud of my heritage.

[@justinpotter9996]

Letcher co. here!

[@petenanney737]

I was born and raised in ashville north carolina. And I was taught to appreciate all things. And I'll tell y'all folks sumin. Better not get to dependent on all this new technology cause the days of wood stoves oil lamps and out houses are gonna be only way to make it again in the near future. I still live this way today not because I have to, but because I want to. I love ole timely ways. To all of y'all who understand I love y'all country folks too. God bless you all.

[@michellehitt1976]

I know what you mean..

[@robbinlynnspencer-buchtel6896]

Nice to know that I'm not the only one who thinks there is too much reliance on technology. People laugh & poke fun at those who know how to survive without all the tech & fancy gadgets. It's the 'old fashion' folks who are gonna have the last laugh though.

[@janlovesmany712]

God bless you..

[@lorascelsi8102]

Very wise way to live. Old school going green, in other words going green before it was trendy.

[@joycenorton2368]

Well we love you to! Country ways run deep roots.

[@lisar6453]

I love that this interview was part of a college project. The Foxfire series started as a high school project in the late 60s. For those unfamiliar, it consisted of interviews with the "oldtimers" of the students' area (Rabun Co., GA and thereabouts...southern side of Appalachia). Lots of good information on homesteading, building cabins, planting by the signs and all that, along with the personal stories. I grew up reading my Dad's books. Now, 30+ years later, I'm helping him rebuild his collection (and starting one of my own). Lily's story would be right at home in a Foxfire book (or a KY equivalent).

[@glenngray8865]

A lot of very nice people there in Kentucky. I lived in Wilmore for little while. My son married there and still lives there. Enjoyed listening to you speak of the good old days, growing up there. May God always bless you and all your love ones.

[@truthneverchangeswakeup2762]

Whàt a wonderful gift, thanks for sharing your memories... Memories can be food for the Soul. 💞

[@laurajohnson1165]

Kentucky is my home . I have lived here all my life. I was born in 1947 . I grew up in the best times possible. I grew up a lot like this lady . I live in South Central Kentucky.

[@1945pappy]

Howdy Laura, I was born in 1945 and live in the mountains in the small town of Cumberland.

[@rhondawilliams5859]

Laura Johnson, IM FROM FLATWOODS KENTUCKY!!!!!😘😘😘 HOWDY NEIGHBOR 😊😊!!!!!!

[@dickymiller7196]

I am born and raised in Kentucky , been here for 62 years in Western Kentucky ! I still love Kentucky, this is my home!!

[@Spiller333]

Me 2

[@nicolec7290]

Wish I could have been there

[@MommaRaver]

My husband was born in Murray & grew up in Fulton, KY ~ he’s always been fiercely proud of his birth state. He’s always said he’s a COUNTRYBOY & not a cowboy. Lol ~ a boyhood friend once told him, “I hear you married yourself a sen-nor-rita!” ~ referring to me being of half Mexican & half Native American heritage from California ~ that was almost 30 years ago & I still giggle at it. One thing for sure about Kentucky is the amazing people - I’ve never met a mean person while there & admire the beauty of the land ~ and swear to this day that Kentucky BBQ is THE BEST~!!!

[@marieconley7139]

She has lived a beautiful life that most of us could only dream of. If only we understood this beautiful simplicity. It is a way of life I strive to get back to. Thank you for a beautiful video.

[@darlenegallegos8908]

I was born in Covington Kentucky. My mother was raised in the moutains. The lady speaking sounds like mom and grandma. Same stories. Beautiful. They were poor but happy ! Thank you for you're stories. My mother's last name was Gadd. Coal miners too !

[@carlosphillips8447]

My mom said we didn’t know we were poor until Roosevelt told us we were She was born in 1928 in Livingston Kentucky in Rockcastle County

[@lovelana3595]

When I was adopted at 6, I always thought our new family was super "rich$" ($$-in actuality lower middle class)it wasn't until I was probably a teenager when I realized most people didn't think the same as I did regarding "wealth/riches" and values. The woman doing this interview is awesome! She knows her life has been Rich! 😊

[@davidpringle8089]

My mom was born in Livingston Tennessee.

[@Pr1ncesssierra]

Carlos Phillips omg..... I live in rockcastle!

[@nikkibalt4279]

Okay... Louisville

[@lisa9867]

My mother grew up in Massachusetts in the 30's and 40's. She always told me she didn't know they were poor. They lived like everyone around them. Most had a lot of children and smaller homes. Some had outhouses but her home had a bathroom for her family or 8. They always had food. My father grew up in a family of 12 and said the only day he got enough food was Thanksgiving. They never wasted anything. My uncle's wife grew up in a family of 12 and they didn't have their own bathroom. They had a room with just a toilet (no sink) that they shared with another large family. They took a bath once a week (Saturday so they were clean for church) in a big metal tub they put in the kitchen. They boiled water for the tub.

[@kathygarber9407]

Grew up with granny n pap on a farm in Owsley County. I was born in 45 and life was good...we had all we needed to eat because we canned everything out of the garden n wild berries too. We milked our old daisy cow and raised another to eat, slaughtered pigs in the fall, we had a smoke house n salt cured meat! Fresh eggs daily cause we had chickens for that n to eat ! We raised corn in one feild for fodder and food..and we raised tobacco for the market! Hard work but wonderful rewards!

[@pambeyers9081]

Kathy GARBEŔ U are so lucky to have those memories. You should write a short story or something for readind ur writing was so soothing and I could almost picture how it was. It seems u have a talent.

[@kathygarber9407]

Thank you ! Perhaps someday I will, I've been told that many times! I appreciate it😁

[@paulmoss7940]

Yes,maam me too.

[@chig9357]

i worked in owsley co. blacktopping roads,beautiful country and wonderful people.

[@janalogsdon]

Oh I loved listening to her. Her voice is so soft she reminds me of my grandmother 😊 I was raised the same way. I was #6 child and 5 girl. Morales and values,manners, It’s gone. It’s a crazy world we live in now. Nothing like I grew up in.

[@steve-n-stacydowdy8722]

I grew up on the other side of Kentucky, in Mayfield, and wanted so say that I enjoyed listening to Lily’s take on growing up in Eastern Kentucky so very much. Especially, her closing remarks. She is a true treasure of Kentucky! We love you Lily!!!

[@melodygodbey3092]

Thank you for telling us your story. You are a beautiful woman .

[@teresapren3266]

yes indeed,, what a nice lady.she had no room for hate or bitterness inher life.she didnt see color whether you were black or white it didnt matter..bc she had church and God to keep her happy....and had a great respect for her parents....

[@beckylipps7286]

I truly imagine these folks were closer and happier than most of us are today!

[@jewels3596]

I grew up in southeastern KY (Middlesboro, Bell County) and tho I moved away after getting married in 1994, we still love our hometown. Middlesboro was built literally inside of a crater formed by a meteorite but decades of strip mining and mountain top removal has changed the entire landscape of the area. And yes, we had a devastating tornado in the late 80's that nearing destroyed our little town. The coal companies have been restoring the mountains for many years and I noticed it looked so much better when we visited for the 4th if July. Thank you, Lily for your story. It reminds me of my mother and grandmother's stories. 💜💜💜💜

[@cathyyeater771]

What a blessing to have wonderful parents and a strong loving family

[@libertygiveme1987]

I'm a PROUD KENTUCKIAN myself!!!! Thank-You Lily. GREAT STORY!!!!

[@duckiegirl58]

I love her! Her heart, her ethics, her insite. She was more blessed growing up like she did than any child today. I drive a school bus. I know what I'm talking about.

[@susiesmith7694]

I was born in 1964 in Rockford Illinois but no memory of it. I have lived in Somerset Ky since I was 5 years old. I lived behind the Shopville School beside my mother’s parents Boyd & Lora Bingham. My fondest memory of my grandmother was breaking beans on the porch and listening to her wisdom which I repeat to my granddaughters daily!

[@SuperKaren1953]

My mother and father lived in Pruden,TN.Mamaw and Papaw never did without. He was a coal miner,then worked in the timber mines.They raised all their food,papaw went hunting. Back in the 60's,I remember mamaw always having food on the table that she cooked on a wood cook stove. That food tasted better than any food. She made the best biscuits and gravy on the wood cook stove. I agree with the woman,they came down here and found the poorest of the poor and made it look like the mountain people were in dire straits. Fact is,if anyone needed anything,the neighbors would help out.The churches helped out. My papaw would give his last dime to help someone in need,like others would do. Times sure have changed.

[@kimwilliams9417]

What is with the 70 people putting thumbs down on this video you must have a serious issue this lady is God and Country all the way

[@stevegold2672]

Kim Williams I understand the resentment from some people. Having grown up in similar circumstances the good ole days don’t always bring back good memories.

[@bethwilliams8029]

This is a beautiful video. ❤

[@sarahdeshay1394]

God and country, that was what you got from this? She is a humble person who was never corrupted with the excesses of today or the burdens that come with them. If everyone consumed only what they need the world would be wonderful. The lesson is live within your means and never worry about what you do t have, never mistreat people or pre judge them.

[@crowznest438]

@@stevegold2672 Then, I hope you consider telling your story, too.

[@alicegoodman4544]

Race was here from all kinds , blacks are always behind. Let's learn to love all. Share the love. Gen: 1.

[@dannypresley6796]

Kentucky is my home and I love the mountains and the people that are in the mountains. you can't find any better people than one that is a true ky

[@scott1lori282]

@@sirdukeusa3289 My family is from Sandstone Mountain W.Va. Many moved north for car factory jobs in the late 60's. This is why I'm an Ohioan.

[@charlottekellum2804]

Danny Presley I'm from Kentucky and alot of my childhood was being raised on a farm. We were poor but blessed. Best memories ever.

[@cynthiazeedyk6765]

Would someone on this group please tell me what became of the TVA relocations in Kentucky? What was left in the lake? Please?

[@ratacataviousbrown4702]

I'm a Kentuckian, we are independent thinkers and though poor very decent and fair. You can't buy and sell a Kentuckian like you can a Tennessean. We are not at all corrupt.

[@debrascott8492]

@ Danny Presley.....I am also extremely proud of being born and raised in Eastern Kentucky. Anything valuable and worth learning came from my days living with my Grandparents. Oh how I wish I could turn back time and go back to the wonderful life that I had. We were fairly poor however, we seem to have everything we needed and more. Even as a five year old child we had much needed chores that had to be done and it was expected of us. I know for a fact, that I am the good person I am today because of all the values instilled in me.

[@donnasmith6312]

God bless eastern Kentucky 🙏🥰🇺🇸

[@amandaleah6093]

We are still treated beneath sometimes. Truth is we have good and bad in all cultures. Drugs are taking over everywhere. I love this lady and how she explains where I live.

[@bongdudugenio9947]

Church makes people bind together. Life is good before internet and cell phone.

[@jeromesuggs8330]

AMEN. You can barely get the youngsters today to even go out in the yard and God forbid you ask them to do some work. Times have changed and not for the better. God bless

[@updownstate]

Church makes people afraid to die so what good is that?

[@sylviahatfield4451]

Born and raised in Glasgow KY 😊 I came from a family of 11! We were very poor but had many riches.! MoMA had a wringer type washing machine, we had old wood floors, wood burning & cooking stove. I can still remember when we got our first electric fridge ☺️ and a telephone soon after! We wore hand me down clothes and plenty of clothing that Mom made for us. The winters were cold and the summers hot! We didn't get presents at Christmas, our Christmas consist of fruit and peppermint candy but you could rest assured that Mom had a Christmas Dinner to feed an army then some! 😊 From homemade cakes,pies, rolls to a Christmas ham and turkey, if you left hungry it was your fault she claimed lol any and everyone was welcomed to our Dinner table, MoMA didn't turn away a soul! Those my friend were the days! We were beyond blessed.... ♥️

[@timjaeger4767]

I was born and raised in letcher county almost 60 years ago. Its been over 20yrs sense I've seen my old homeland and this video brings back many a fond memory. I live in the southwest now and it's sad to think I'll never lay eyes on my beloved mountains again. I'm an American by birth and a Proud Kentuckian by the Grace of GOD

[@gardensofthegods]

I hope somehow you'll be able to get back home to visit or to stay if you want .

[@dmkdm3343]

Take a trip back

[@cynthiazeedyk6765]

My mom's family is from Eastern Area. A few years ago, I wanted to visit there because hadn't been there since 1970s. To see what had changed. Seems Ya'll are still kinda stuck. No public transport east to west Kentucky. Was dissapointed. Half the state is cut off from business without it.

[@p.j.varner3081]

You would not recognize Jenkins. It has changed so much with the new roads bypassing everything. The town is just gone.

[@maried3717]

Find a way to visit your homeland.... I was born and raised in the southwest 70 years ago. All the dairies, orchards, ranches and farms are gone now. I was there 3 years ago and couldn't recognize where I had grown up....all gone. I cried. It was like a dream that never existed.

[@lorascelsi8102]

Blue Ridge mountains are stunningly beautiful. Strip mine shameful. So sad to see those mountains destroyed. The folks we have met from this part of the United States would give you the shirt off their backs. Hope life gets better there.

[@ronaldmccoy8994]

We all was poor and everyone was happy wouldn’t change anything about my childhood went barefoot everywhere still do most of the time you get out what you put in.i just love people that are real this lady here is real. Loved your story sounds like my mom when she was growing up.

[@amberramseytwyman8570]

My grandparents came from Mount Vernon Ky. I absolutely love going down to visit my great-aunts when we go down to the family graveyard. The scenery is beautiful!

[@kyfishingdude4134]

Love the people and mountains in eastern ky. My grandparents lived in Letcher County on Linefork,Defeated Creek and we would spend summers there in the late 60's and 70"s.What a time we had and a great place to grow up.

[@burly636]

Quite a lady. Now we raise entitled generations.

[@wintergaming1554]

Can't put all the blame on the younger people, parents are to blame as well!

[@evagibson4511]

All my dad's family are from hazard Kentucky and I always feel at home every time I go! I miss my mountain maw maw and my Dad both are gone now.

[@christinewoodruff4980]

Honestly, i am at a loss for words, incredible story.

[@jewellsmith7860]

Çhristine Woodruff I lived that way. Was a simpler peaceful time. I loved it. It is a shame so many younger people never want to hear our stories. What lessons they could learn.

[@janfitzpatrick3817]

Beautiful wise woman.

[@johnboy3035]

The life she has lived was the best in many way. Having things are not the answer to a good life. Having good friends, food, peace in your world and GOD is key and rewarding.

[@starchief5]

Having grown up in Eastern Kentucky myself in the 40s and 50s, her portrait of how things were is accurate. She and I are the same age.

[@stepstone100]

I am proud to be from Eastern Kentucky.

[@hometowncookingwithmariann1126]

What an intelligent and interesting woman. TY I really enjoyed the interview. God Bless

[@davidwhite3181]

Words of wisdom! I thoroughly enjoyed that piece. I am from a suburb in South Jersey, but I could relate to her story. I feel most people want and need the same thing, no matter where you come from. A warm house, enough food, family and a feeling of being loved.

[@maxinefreeman8858]

I'm going to make one more statement. We didn't have indoor plumbing. I carried water. My mother washed on a wringer washer. We heated house with coal stove. Our food was cooked on a coal & wood burning stove. Got cold @ night but my mama made patchwork quilts by hand so we had plenty covers. School bus ran @ six thirty. Mom had water heated, you washed from brow to feet & all between. We were clean, our clothes were. We caught rainwater in barrels that set @ back of house. There were no gutters. We ate free range chickens when we didn't know that name. We lived on pinto beans, greens & vegetables that was grown. Mama canned food. Can't forget the cornbread.I was only member of my family that didn't go north. My sisters were able to come back because their husbands got jobs on strip mines. My brother never got to until we brought him back to be buried by his twin who died in infancy. Most people want to be brought back to family cemeteries. I have a great nephew that's only one that went into underground mining. Since 18 & now over 30. His twin brother couldn't go in a mine @ gunpoint. Guess he got miner's blood from my daddy. My people, Scotch/Irish came through the Cumberland Gap 200 years ago.

[@rhondawilliams5859]

Maxine Freeman,OH HONEY WE LIVED THE SAME WAY!!!!!!😍😍 IM FROM FLATWOODS KENTUCKY!!!!!!😍😍

[@dianne8340]

That is an interesting look into your childhood. I hope that all of the mountain families would get together and make a recording along with pictures for a documentary.

[@spookygirl7761]

Thank you for sharing your story.

[@bl8680]

Sounds just like my mom's life in Manchester Kentucky where I was born by a midwife in my grandma's house. My grandpa died in the coal mines when my mom was 11.

[@cathyt144]

Maxine Freeman well said. Thank you for sharing a small portion of your life. Something tells me theres so very much more to it. Have you ever thought about writing a book? The old ways are gone in most areas and most of the ones who have lived them are gone too. It would be a great way to pass down stories to your great grandchildren .

[@shirleyharrison2580]

Brought back happy, good memories listening to her story. I was born & raised in Columbia, KY. My daddy used to introduce me as 'his baby girl '. Even after I was grown & married. I moved away after I got married because there wasn't job opportunities back then in our town. I always wished my children could of been raised like we were, free to play outside & roam around the hills & hollers, the creeks. I've been gone now since 1968, I go back to visit when I can but it's changed now, the town has grown,more jobs but I'm retired, a widow now & too old to go back & start over. But I have wonderful memories of my great parents, 6 siblings & having a poor but wonderful childhood.

[@michellehitt1976]

Oh wow I love your story😍

[@shadydave6036]

My boys put up with metro Det. for about 5 yrs.then we moved about 100 miles north of Det. now that i am retarded ( oops retired ) we all have moved about 250 miles from Det My self my boys and there family to the Manistee National Forest I don't miss the city house we had my grand kids are able to grow up Better than I did watching trees grow and NOT houses

[@shadydave6036]

Just a shot in the dark might you be kin to Tammy Harrison in Michigan

[@shirleyharrison2580]

@@shadydave6036 Not that I know of. My husband ( deceased now) was raised in Scottsville,Kentucky. He lived/ worked in Lafayette Ind. for awhile. He was my 2nd husband so there's probably his family members I don't know of / maybe in other States. We older when we married, he 42 & i was 36, we were just married about 26 years. Sorry didn't mean to write a book..lol..but theres always a chance family members are anywhere, over a span of several years.

[@ronmills8092]

I'm from Jamestown.

[@juliedavis990]

I love hearing the stories of the past in the south especially Kentucky

[@songbirdy]

A girl child loved by her daddy is able to face the world on solid ground. I've met people like this lady. You feel their love and strength when you are in their presence. People who are the salt of the earth are the best people on this planet.

[@gregoutdoors7]

Thank you Aaron, i enjoyed this video. I'm from Harlan and Letcher county area. I now also live near Richmond Ky. :)

[@jgraysmithy3868]

I enjoyed your story of Eastern Kentucky. I grew up in Southern West Virginia about the same time. Life was good growing up in the mountains in that era. Lily said it best there wasn’t much difference on her side of the mountain because coal connected us all. God bless you Lily! 🌷

[@milespuckett392]

I live in eastern KY and love it ,i was born in Columbus Ohio and could never live there again !!From Salyersville KY !!

[@royfrancis7732]

Miles Puckett I was raised in Eastern KY as well, (Magoffin County) ran the hills with friends, hunted, fished and picked blackberries. I didn’t realize what I had at the time. I still live in Kentucky, albeit in the Louisville area, Guncreek (near Royalton) is still the neares to my heart.

[@MarilynfromKY]

Miles Puckett I too was born in Columbus Ohio and mostly raised in Wolfe County.

[@keithoberg9273]

I've lived my entire life so far 44 years in NYC but I love the country small towns NATURE mountain creeks all of it. I hope one day I can enjoy that type of life with someone

[@barbarakelly1916]

One of my happiest experiences is a visit to Berea College in Kentucky. I am so appreciative of the hard work and dedication to education, as evidenced by the Appalachian colleges where students worked to pay for their education. From this Canadian teacher, appreciation of,and best wishes to, the people of Appalachia: beautiful country, and beautiful soul.

[@DISCODAN1]

Sounds so much like my Dad's side of the family! They didn't have much money, but they are amazing people. You will never meet any more honest or good or down to earth! They are a dying breed unfortunately today! Great interview by the way!

[@lovelana3595]

That woman sets a great example of a good life. As I listened to her speak, felt very connected as I was hearing her speak my own thoughts & values. So cool! I adore hearing people talk with genuine gratitude for what they had or have instead of the 'had/have nots'. People who do not feel they missed out because they know what "wealth" truly is. I don't know her, but I sure like that woman from what she did share in this short video! Thanks for posting this video! 🤗

[@shawtatl]

This was so inspiring to me. Mrs. Lily sounds like a genuine wonderful soul.... Thanks for uploading

[@OneSun11]

What an amazing eye opening story. My family is from Estill and Lee County and I have lived as far away as Brazil. Coming back here, now in southern Kentucky for the moment... I am just floored about the drug situation and more floored about how the police do absolutely NOTHING about it. I am told the in Berea its much better there because of the college and the tourism. Thankfully for that. In the town I am in at the moment near lake Cumberland its horrible. I have been in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil where there are millions of drug dealers and lots of violence so I am no stranger to what drugs can do. But I never imagined seeing it here in the place I call home and no one doing anything about it.

[@kullaooo]

Simplicity is the best life...we are too high tech....we are losing our humaness!

[@laurelbozman6997]

Amen

[@beckylipps7286]

Charlyn Kulla think of this;; if all computers shut down, so would America. That’s scary. I live in West Virginia and love it!

[@m1a1abrams93]

@@beckylipps7286 No America would survive. Some of the people may not.

[@robinmurray5266]

Exactly why I went 90% off grid. No electric (solar only) no running water, wood heat and outhouse. Big gardens and livestock. Done it for almost 5yrs now and love it! NO TV. I just have a phone for news and a little entertainment. Never turning back!

[@jpmnky]

It's dulled our minds no doubt. The cool thing about tech is the knowledge is there. You gotta get out there and find it.

[@lisarosser7406]

My dad is from Letcher County!! I am so thrilled to find this ! My family is named Mullins.... most of my family worked in the mines!

[@cjohnson7251]

My father was born in 1918 and lived through the “Great Depression”. He said he considered him and his family fortunate although they had little money. He said that they never went hungry because they lived on the bay in Florida. His mother grew two gardens for fresh vegetables, raised their own chickens for food and money, had many fruit trees on their property, and could get fresh seafood everyday from the bay including oysters and clams. Other people were starving but at least food was not a problem for them.

[@susanwiggins7847]

I was born and raised in Martin County, Kentucky in 1965. My mother was born in Pike County, Kentucky and my daddy in Jolo, West Virginia. I love where I am from. I grew up in a very close but poor family. My granny lived with us for a long time. She was the most wonderful Christian woman I’ve ever known and they were all big influences on me. Wouldn’t have it any other way. Most people leave Eastern Kentucky after high school to further their education or for jobs. Martin County’s poverty rate is extremely high. But growing up I was never afraid of crime because there wasn’t any. My granny and both my parents are gone and I miss them so much. Wish I could go back to that time.

[@joniroberson6974]

I miss these values in people. Unfortunately in today's society instead of being honest and telling the truth, people would rather sprinkle sugar on a lie and twist the truth as much as possible. It's a shame that this is the world we live in today. I just pray God forgives us and has mercy on us all.

[@arnamckee6366]

Thanks for sharing. God Bless you Ms. Lily,I grew up in the Appalachian mountains as well. Poor as the next... It made us stronger.. We pinched and worked to get by... It was a better life than most people today.. Thank You.

[@tomashope391]

My family grew up in Burkesville peytonsburg right on Dale Hollow Dam my grandma was Winnie Spears my mom was her second batch of babies my mom sisters Was grown and had babies of Their Own, which made my mother and Aunt when she was bor.. when she was born her and my aunt ninah. Fay Were midlife babies My grandmother raised 9 kids in a place called P Ridge in Burkesville Kentucky and my grandfather Lester Spears he didn't drive so he would get my uncle's to drive him to Indianapolis he would stay all week working at American Baron and then go home on the weekends to help my grandmother and they did that for years he had a big rock he would go out and pray on down by Dale holler down,& when I was a boy I used to play on it... I love my parents and my grandparents I miss those days I love Kentucky although I was raised in Indianapolis thank you for your video and God bless you all especially the lady here talkin it really helped my heart to hear her story especially considering I can relate be well and God bless the Bluegrass State

[@judyervin9]

I know where Pea Ridge is! Come from the Roach and Davidson family!

[@rhondawilliams5859]

I GREW UP IN FLATWOODS KENTUCKY!!!!!!😍😍😍 I LIVED UP A HOLLER IN THE BOONIES!!!!!!😍😍 I SURE DO MISS THE OlD WAY OF LIFE!!!!!!!😍😍 WE WAS SO POOR. I HAVE 7 BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!!!!!!😘😘 I AM PROUD TO BE AN KENTUCKY HILLBILLY!!!!!!!😍😍😍😍😍

[@sandyeggerstedt3559]

I love Her attitude. Beautiful, Simple. Putting your time and energy toward the important parts of Life. O have been purging my home. This has given me a whole new outlook on what I need in my Life, the people, and things that are most important.

[@tinahunt5474]

I think this is Wonderful! Could have listen to more!

[@christinanavarre8389]

Love love loved this. I could spend the remainder of my life...talking or listening to those that came before me. My mama was born 1927 in Pikeville, KY. Thank you kindly for this video. I'm 61

[@arborist460]

Howdy from prestonsburg neighbor..

[@jamesstaley9490]

My great grandma lived in Pikeville, Ida Blankenship. Jim Staley

[@kellybroemsen1174]

My father's mother grew up in Corbin and Pineville. I remember all the stories she told me about growing up a coal miners daughter. My father was born in Pineville but wasn't raised. My grandfather is buried in Pineville also.

[@peterpalmer9755]

What a lovely story. Thanks for sharing.

[@andreawheatley5528]

Both of my parents were born and raised in Eastern Kentucky, I was with my maternal grandparents a lot. I always listened to the elders, and remember every story. Thank you for sharing.

[@paulerickson1906]

Seems like a place I could grow up in and be right at home. God Bless.

[@davidakers6012]

Hard way of life. Wouldn't change it for nothing. I've been blessed by God.

[@jimicrack29]

thank you lily newman for sharing all you been thru. hope you are well.

[@luckymanindeed]

Nice lady, very interesting thoughts and insights.

[@katiemartell6520]

What a beautiful girl/woman Lily was. My Mom was 45, Dad 50 when I was born. I was blessed with wonderful parents,1 sibling and 2 miscarried. Lily had a wonderful upbringing.

[@katiemartell6520]

I grew up in Bremerton, Wa state and still live only 40 miles away!

[@chuckwebster565]

Love this Lady. She reminds me of my Grandma Georgia. We all grew up on dirt roads back then. I always looked forward to going to see her. She and Grandpa raised chickens and rabbits and grew all there vegetables. I sure mis fried chicken feet and the comb was great. Friends would come visit me from town and they were jealous of where I lived and all the freedom. BB guns, forts, tree houses and dirt ball in the field.

[@shoanblevins922]

Yeah, that's when people helped others.we still have great people in this world, but few and far in between.

[@ceciledeal8605]

That was amazing to hear you story. It is a part of history, and can learn from it. I always agree you should never judge a book by it's cover. I too was raised in poverty. That did not kill me. Unfortunetly, my brothers and I did not grow up in the era of the 40's and 50's. I was born in early 60's and alcohol was not the only thing around then as you know. And it destroyed a lot of good people including my parents. And dang near killed me and baby brother. We both got clean. I have 2 great sons. None got into drugs, alocohol or get into trouble with the law. I have a daughter in law and one grandson. I am happily married for 36 years this april.

[@rkiser781]

SWEET LADY RIGHT THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@johndifrancisco3642]

Lily sounds like a wonderful lady. I have been thinking about buying some land in Eastern Kentucky and Lily made me feel a little more comfortable about it. Thank you for sharing your Mom's story.

[@aprilwest9852]

If you do buy land try to stay out of the small city of Paducka it's very crime infested now.

[@williamblair3610]

Just be careful were you buy because some towns still don't like outsiders.

[@unclepecos845]

April West Paducah is in western Ky. not eastern.

[@horizonmaster67]

@@williamblair3610 That's exactly what I’m looking for!

[@charlesmichael9188]

Miss Lily is just a good, good woman. God has really blessed her.

[@papernlace123]

Thank you for this. I could have listened to much more. I enjoy learning about people all over the world, because in the end we really are all the same.

[@starlenearnold300]

💞A💞M💞E💞N💞

[@gingercox6468]

Lovely, wonderful interview

[@Tamar-sz8ox]

A wise woman - don’t judge a book by its cover

[@stormysocks]

As my Dad would say she's forgotten more than most will ever learn

[@tessareeves1300]

That's so true never judge

[@googleuser6180]

It's all about History.Thank you for sharing your story

[@rm-nelson1256]

ONE MORE FINAL IMPORTANT COMMENT ... LOVE LOVE LOVE WHAT MS LILY SAID ABOUT " JUDGING " WE ONLY HAVE " ONE JUDGE & THTS GOD ALMIGHTY "📖📖📖❤❤❤

[@pwb0511]

If only young people in our schools could be taught stories like this???

[@mountaingirl1797]

Excellent presentation‼️the real thing...

[@debbielangdon2422]

Thank you Lily. From Australia.