The Hollow Tree Legend of George Burkhart

Join us as we tell the captivating and somewhat mystical tale of one of the earliest settlers in Harlan County, Kentucky. This episode is rich with local history, folklore, witchcraft, and an extraordinary case of longevity.
Discover the intriguing life of George Burkhart, who, according to legend, lived to the ripe old age of 125. Hear about his unique living situation in a giant hollow sycamore tree and his multiple marriages, including one at the age of 118!
Whether fact or folklore, this tale is sure to leave you pondering the mysteries of Appalachia’s past.
#podcast
#HarlanCountyFolklore #HollowTreeHouse #Witchcraft #Longevity #EarlyKentuckySettlers #AppalachianHistory #AppalachianFolklore #StoriesOfAppalachia #AppalachianStorytelling #AppalachianMountainStories

[@vwredsfan]

To live in an actual tree. That must have been something. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@StoriesofAppalachia]

We are glad you liked our story. Thanks for watching!

[@castironskilletgranny]

Thank you!

[@StoriesofAppalachia]

You're welcome!

[@brianrogers1954]

This is actually my greatest grandfather

[@ergomrox]

My name is Eric great grandfather is Denver Burkhart in Union County TN whose heritage is from Harlan. I agree with Brian, he was a witch doctor, had many wives, and did live to 125. There use to be a monument to George at the appalachian museum outside of Knoxville. There's much more to him from the tales than the tree that grew up on from Bertha and Denver and Genelga(my grandmother) Id like to ask if anyone has any info in the Burkhart clan about Pace or our native American lineages. Thanks in advance

[@brianrogers1954]

I do have pictures of grandfather

[@michaelscrivani2721]

Burkharts are a branch of the Hunfriding dynasty , bouchardings, The first Burkhart and his brother , Adalbert ,had theirheads removed for not acquiescing to the Vatican in 911 ad. In 711 ad a monk from Wessex traveled to Germany with other monks and chopped down the Donner Oak in their zeal to spread the new Christianity. He is St. Burcardus

[@brianrogers1954]

Papaw was considered a witch dr and according to our family tree he did live that long 125 new teeth im not sure