The legless coal miner - Finding William *Boots* Grimmett - Stirrat West Virginia

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[@bunnysthndr]

This is one of my favorite videos. I especially loved the talk with the older gentleman who gave Leo directions to the cemeteries, especially his military story, and his religious values. Not to mention Leo's efforts in finding Boots grave. Thanks Heather,Lei and Mr. Military Veteran! Blessings!💕

[@suzybailey-koubti8342]

Leo and Heather - pronounced like stair-it” has n the area. I grew up in Omar right down the road. Maybe Ms Denise Dillard or Mrs Cora Lee (Phillips) Hairston of Omar can tell you where the graveyard is. Mrs Cora Lee was born at Sarah Ann, WV. I was always told the cemetery is on the side of the mountain across the tracks where the last house is going toward Omar. My daddy told me this when I was young. There were houses all over that area and a big company store. That’s where my mom went to church after daddy died. Stirrat Community Church was mostly a Methodist Church.✝️

[@edielawrence97]

That was the best ❤ !

[@christineberry3076]

Mr. Farley, U.S.M.C.

[@JennyBerry-b7k]

The world needs more Mr. Clark's,

[@SusanWilliams-g7r]

What an incredible story! This story should be remembered and told for a long time in the future as an example of curious.

[@SusanWilliams-g7r]

Courage not curious!

[@patricatfurever4051]

Love the 92 yr old Veteran & his ATTITUDE! 🙏🏼🥰

[@corinnerichardson9093]

You may not have found him but at least you looked and told his story. Thanks for searching and sharing

[@beverlyjackson3089]

WOW LEO LISTENING TO THAT OLD MARINE TELLING THAT STORY MADE ME CRY.

[@beverlyjackson3089]

BOTH MY SONS ARE MARINES THEY JOUNED TOGETHER. 1 OF RHE HARDEST THING A MOM DOES US SEND HER SON'S TO WAR.

[@sadielevens1144]

What an amazing man! Thank you for the story and the hunt for him. This story needs to be shared and retold for future generations.

[@billmarks8246]

Leon, I usually don’t comment on the different channels that I watch, but I wanted to tell you how much I throughly enjoy your channel! I especially enjoy your tours through the cemeteries and your telling about the history of many of the characters.

[@patricatfurever4051]

Thank you for keeping Boots story alive! As well as all these other ancestors!

[@ohmeowzer1]

Loved this story very interesting. He was an amazing man.

[@sherrilee230]

Leo thank you for sharing this story with us. Boots was leading all the way to all 3 cemetery. And yes his story was told only if we're written down to be remembered. Thank you Leo and Heather

[@judypierce7028]

My family cemetery is on the top of a mountain in Kanawha County. My great-great-great grandfather and grandmother (1806) and many of my other ancestors are buried in the cemetery, There coffins had to be carried up to the top of the mountain just like the one you just climbed. Thank goodness the county finally put in a road.

[@judypierce7028]

The lady's name in Greenbrier County is Zone Hester Shue who was killed by her husband. Hester apparently appeared to her mother and told her that her husband killed her.

[@dontaylor3039]

It's hard to see the unmarked graves god bless you and heather for these videos

[@bonepicker1]

It's sad that the town made the effort to interview Boots, or write about him in 1939. Yet left him obscure when he passed away. His grave site should have at least been documented, and marked if they truly cared about him that much. Leo, your are one of the most tenacious, and best investigators I've ever seen. You're also in darn good shape to make those climbs you made. Some youngsters probably would have given up after the first graveyard.

[@thehillbillyfiles]

thanks so much!

[@ggdeb2963]

Omg...all the medicinal plants & roots I could collect there...wow❤❤❤

[@kevinbode6483]

Hopefully these resting places get recorded in the county registry now that you did the work finding them.

[@julielifejusthappens1232]

I Loved this story and I love watching y'all . Please keep doing the good work.Thank you so much

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Thank you! Will do!

[@michaelbedinger4121]

Boots 👢 sounds like he was a very interesting person. You probably did walked past his grave not knowing that it was his. I wonder 🤔 if his grave ever had a marker at all, in those days being he was African-American, and in those days, he would not be referred to as being African-American, but something less polite. Thank you very much Leo, for all that effort to try to find boot's grave. And thank you very much Heather, for all your efforts at research.😊

[@judypierce7028]

I love the area where you are Leo. Beautiful. The trail looks like it hasn't been traveled much recently. This is an awesome story about a wonderful coal miner, "Boots." So, you are in Logan County? WOW! Need to visit this area. Actually, I liked your first area Leo, however, both are nice. Basically, I loved the wildflowers. I am glad that you and Heather are going to spend some time in Greenbrier County. Are you going to share the story of Hester Zone (the story of the woman who was murdered by her husband). If so, perhaps you will visit her grave. There is also a Greenbrier Ghost. I know what it's like trying to find a cemetery that is not on the registry. I have been searching for 2 years for a cemetery in Charleston that is not on the registry. Haven't found it yet. This can be very frustrating. The cemetery you are looking forward to is probably overgrown this time of year. Thank you for this absolutely awesome story Leo. You and Heather stay safe on the road.

[@thehillbillyfiles]

thanks Judy! yes we are doing the Greenbriar ghost locations and grave =)

[@judypierce7028]

@@thehillbillyfiles That is just awesome! Thank you!!

[@rosevrabel7210]

I used to love exploring cemeteries, but I'm too old now. Thank you for taking me with you,

[@thehillbillyfiles]

You are so welcome

[@wondergirl367]

Extraordinary story - thanks for reviving his memory!

[@sandrahunter5749]

I like watching your history videos 👍😎

[@suzybailey-koubti8342]

The couple Fred and Cora Lee Hairston of Omar may remember Boots. Cora Lee was born at Sarah Ann, WV. They have honored the African-American community for years and years and were my parents friends. Mrs Cora Lee has written a couple of books about the African American culture in WV. They are in their 80’s. Mrs. Hairston is always dressed beautifully ❤ I love them both.

[@jbandle9252]

Thanks for the serch. Boots sounds like a really cool person. So was the marine

[@swankyswig51]

Love this video! The gentleman that was in Korea was so pleasant! Bless his heart. Would love to have met “ Boots!” 🥰

[@Lauren36984]

Should you report this cementary to some WV bureau of census or whatever? Wonderful and most interesting vlog as usual for Leo and Heather!!😀

[@denisehibbs9576]

Leo , i bet you have some strong legs. You do so much climbing ! I appreciate your hard work! Thanks for telling us about "Boots " !

[@thehillbillyfiles]

I do like to keep active, and thank you 😊

[@taylorfamily8176]

That was a great video loved that old man he was great

[@dianayount2122]

Sp appreciated your efforts! looking for an open business, finally talking to that great local. And then schlepping up that monster to try to find him. Amazing.

[@mercedithcompala8148]

Thank you Leo for sharing this story with us...God bless Boots and Jesse Gomez and all the resting Souls on that mountain ❤

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Thanks for watching!

[@christineberry3076]

Amazingly, found Jesse Gomez!

[@45beetle]

Thank you for looking

[@barbaramilli980]

I love watching Leo traipsing through the woods, his commentary keeps me laughing. Sir, those thorn bushes are wicked sharp. Im excited to see where in Fayette county you go, I was raised in a little place called Layland.

[@DonaldKDever]

Love the tours and stories.

[@mango8918]

Leo...Thank you for giving recognition and honor to someone that made a real impact on others by the work that he did and now lays in an unmarked/unfound grave. It would be very nice if some historical society would organize an archeological project to systematically locate and document the graves located on this mountain. These were real human beings that deserve to be remembered. Thank you again for your contribution.

[@deltonwatts9726]

That is a very fascinating story! Thanks for sharing.

[@beverlydixon5921]

Oh my this poor child grew up wth determination good for him

[@lisalarosa4546]

I thank you for taking the long walk to forgotten cemeteries. In memory of people who are forgotten, but lived an amazing life. When I saw all the poison ivy and oak, I definitely thank you!

[@Tee-cl6dc]

I could talk to Mr. Farley all day 😊 What a sweet Gentleman ❤ again enjoyed your video Mr. LEO ❤❤❤❤

[@brianlykins6663]

Great story, tough adventure. That man proved what I was always told growing up, someone is only handicapped if they let themselves be. God bless the man you talked to and got directions. I truly believe he knows he's blessed by God. God bless ya'll, Leo and Heather. Ya'll stay safe on your travels.

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Thank you!!

[@gailweikelcorrea]

Leo your southern drawl is so smooth I cant listen to y'alls vids cause I fall asleep....youre better than sleeping pills....I just got home from work, ill try to watch this in the mornin...😉

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Thanks! Appreciate you watching

[@bethgiesey9405]

Leo you make my day!!😂😂 I can't believe all the trouble you go thru for us. True dedication!! Thank you & Boots appreciated you too

[@thehillbillyfiles]

My pleasure!! thank you

[@barbaramai7610]

OMG, Leo, you worked hard on this one! Disappointing that you could not find Boots' grave, but you gave it your all and we know his story at least! Truly inspirational! I also liked your visit and the story shared by the ex-Marine, older people have so much to share. Thank you both, Leo and Heather, for this wonderful video!

[@white2147]

I just know your going back this winter right LEO great video thanks again

[@janemckee4922]

Love love love Mr Farley!

[@SusanWilliams-g7r]

My maternal grandfather was a WV coal miner and also a heavy drinker. Both sides of my family were, are from WV.

[@beverlydixon5921]

It is sad that Lot of these cemetaries are so over grown and forgotten...

[@normah]

Omg I loved Leo! Please try to do some more old timer stories

[@wildapy2]

Love this and I have to think he (Boots) needs to be a movie or at least worked into a movie … Thank you both so much for carrying on .

[@cathy5072]

Wonderful

[@debbiesnavely4676]

Thank u for telling this man's story. His parents probably made him the man he was. Kudos to his parents, too.

[@ruthshelton-tp9ie]

The Coal Miners back then made $1. A FOOT. Yup for every 'foot' of a mine they got paid a dollar a foot. A dollar then went way further than a dollar today, but still, that's alot of work for $1. In the back of my 1860's dresser mirror I found old newspapers -- from the 1800's. It was cool to see how much stuff cost way back then. A fancy dress shirt cost: $3. , hat: 50c, eggs doz like 4c - pound of flour- or sugar 15c I fixed my mirror & put those old papers back wrapped in our time news papers where folks could see what stuff costs now a days. When I got that dresser it was from a beautiful Victorian home-- I cleaned it by rubbing cooking oil on it, that took off the mold & helped the wood. Funny thing is they were throwing the dresser out, when I walked up to them, & when I asked if I could have it they charged me $300. -- I said OK but they'd have to bring it to my apt-- which they did. After they left I put my hands on the dresser & said; " I can't believe you're mine, I'll take very good care of you." -- The dresser actually moved on it's own ! I took a quick picture and saw an orb above the dresser top. I sent a picture of the dresser when it was all cleaned & the folks said they'd of never gotten rid of the dresser if they'd of known it could look so good again. I wouldn't tell them how I cleaned it -- but said I'd clean any they have that needed cleaning & I had fun cleaning 5 more dressers & other bits of very old furniture & made $1,000. It cost me $1. in bus fare, & 10 or so bottles of cooking oil. I didn't tell them I'd of done it for free. Plus they gave me a very old secretary. It was a mess when I first got it but it's beautiful now. 😊

[@peggypowell2699]

Love love love this

[@wrp3621]

Lookout ! Leos on the prowl.

[@donhinchey9148]

Good job Leo + Heather , keep up the searching !!

[@duckscustomgarage9239]

Well done my friend .

[@melindaschluter1669]

Such a shame they are forgotten.

[@peggypowell2699]

Thank you for sharing love this

[@thehillbillyfiles]

You are so welcome

[@edielawrence97]

God Bless You " Boots "...

[@stevenww3560]

Im curious on how many of those graves were marked in the beginning with wooden markers that time took away ? Its hard to believe that many people would be buried without no marker!

[@thehillbillyfiles]

oh for sure, I agree with that

[@robcates2383]

Great video, Leo!! Mr Farley was awesome too!

[@corinnestearns6661]

God bless yah

[@geofftaylor934]

Leo...it canNOT be said that you are lazy...WOW!!! You worked this story!!!!

[@robertmiles2735]

D9nt know why but the sight of the first graveyard hit me hard. All those folks at one time had friends and loved ones who knew them now they are all forgotten. I know it happens but still found it sad.

[@karrenwebb3341]

Hi Leo. Sad you were unable to find the grave. I suspected you wouldn't. I follow a couple of guys from rural GA. Sidestep adventures into history. Robert and the other. Robert (yep) go to old grave yards and cemeteries looking for people and also to make a record of the stones and do some cleaning. If you have the time please check it out. Thank you for documenting history before it slips away ❤.

[@thehillbillyfiles]

We do find the stones often actually, but yes I'm aware of them. It's about the adventure to us

[@Cliffyzjiffy]

Love those guys

[@marlenataylor8758]

Great history of a great man. Thank you for trying

[@stephenhobbs1174]

Leo, you need an "in-case pack." A whistle, water, and maybe a few bandages. Always look for that tree in case something comes after.

[@bunnysthndr]

Leo,Does Heather document these graveyards on findagrave? Or anywhere? If you all need any help in doing this,I am eagerly offering my assistance. I do it here in Virginia as a labor of love and respect anyway,so I'd be more than happy to assist in any manner ! Please don't hesitate to reach out if I can help in any way!!

[@thehillbillyfiles]

We don't document them, we just don't have time honestly. But you can add them while watching the videos, a lot are not documented, but quite a few are , thanks for offering 😃

[@bunnysthndr]

I understand the time restraint issue because if done correctly by researching each person to add something personal or immediate family members along with the burial information ,it's extremely time consuming. But I'm going to take you up on your suggestion and start documenting the graves when you or Leo let's it be known they aren't, like in this video. Blessings!!

[@judypierce7028]

You might want to carry a machete with you next time you visit such a cemetery to cut back some of the vines and weeds.

[@beverlydixon5921]

It is sad to see these old cemetaries corgotten and neglected...

[@angelatoler4269]

I worked there for Massey diamond energy

[@pakedermsfavs9080]

So Leo is going mountain goating again. Lol. Poor Leo !

[@corinnestearns6661]

Love your videos

[@williamqueen8790]

Always awesome videos

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Glad you like them!

[@janapetty2806]

Love the Vet! All those weeds, arent you afraid youre going to get on a snake?

[@securityconsultant9036]

Anyone else see the full size R2-D2 in the guys yard that gave him directions?

[@t.s.butler191]

yes...acting like junk

[@thehillbillyfiles]

HAHA I didn't even notice him until you mentioned it!

[@trennalogsdon245]

I like watching these videos, finding the old graves is truly interesting. I wonder how many times have you come out of one of these excursions with poison ivy or oak?

[@thehillbillyfiles]

I'm immune to both. :-) Been in them since birth, pretty much... LOL

[@indycharlie]

Man , what a guy "boots " was . R.I.P. Boots . What a hike up . I was going to say the same thing . How did they get these folks up there in the 20's and 30's ?! Great try Leo !

[@roxannelandolt7852]

Amen sir

[@lonniehhenson7925]

How in the world did they get up there unless they had a road in that time I'm from Kentucky I've seen graveyards in strange places but nothing like this

[@christineberry3076]

Some in forests are serene.

[@JanetWilham]

strange==my uncle James Burdette had a friend name Billy Grimmett(bill, william) He was from around point pleasant, Leon that area.

[@gearhead2017]

Heather does the research and leo does the footwork lol! Was thinking who buries people high up in the woods? Jeez, I googled boots and the 1 link mentions his name but no gravesite to visit

[@sherrylivingstonwhite1983]

Hey guys this was another great video!!!! I had left you a message one your video the other day. I wanted more info on Matewan! You guys have got me so interested we live pretty close and thought about going. WOuld love to ride the boat etc. Any advice or reccommendations would be appreciated!! You guys do a great job!!!

[@bbernard1981]

You can take the boy out of Appalachia, but you can't take the Appalachia out of the boy.

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Truth!

[@bbernard1981]

@thehillbillyfiles being from the Mountains unites the Appalachian people. We will be the first to pull you out of a snow ditch, give you better directions than Google maps, and tell you true stories you can't find anywhere else. I hate how we are betrayed as backwards, poor, and un cultured. Thank you for your honest videos and work.

[@tamelaingram1260]

Sure hope you find him.

[@nyatvtrailhogs6927]

A long time ago when we were in W,V riding we talked to a Cleavus Hatfield. do you know of him he was a older man very nice to talk to .

[@thehillbillyfiles]

No I don't believe so

[@AmberDarlene]

Lol this guy had the same nickname of my grandma on my sperm donors side! I'm finding it hard not to think of her! 😂

[@AmberDarlene]

I forgot to mention her name! Her name was Martha "Boots" Staten.

[@chuckthomas8176]

Was that a stone laying flat on the ground at 3016 est . While ur walking up . Looked like 2 of them .

[@LucasLinda-lm7sb]

Salutations y'all

[@johngibson5018]

when you have pop ups to read you go kinda fast im a good reader but not that good lol just sayin other than that ii watch almost every nite and love the channel keep up the good work a few more seconds will do lol

[@dorascott8286]

WOW....

[@sandrasmith7091]

Did find out anything about his family? Kids?

[@scottbatzler412]

Easier to see around in the fall or winter with less growth?

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Yes, It's getting pretty weedy... LOL

[@michaelhenneman5600]

I'd be lost as soon as I got out of my car! Terrible at directions! Got lost one time deer hunting, the scariest 5 minutes of my life!

[@corinnestearns6661]

You need your ATV

[@mariallen3995]

You need a helmet with a visor.

[@virginiacook2724]

Did you ever find BOOTS? I would like to know

[@thehillbillyfiles]

Nope

[@carladavis4648]

We need to get you some oxygen tanks, when you take off like that. Worries a person to death 😅

[@TheOutdoorLivingChannel]

Leo do you guys have a email ? I have a story that no one has done and it would be awesome if you guys could do it

[@thehillbillyfiles]

you can message trail 10 tours on facebook