You see them in unexpected places. Around a bend in the road a small stone church appears. They are found in mostly higher elevation hollows and coves of the Appalachian mountains. Some of the buildings exhibit design of a Scottish origin. Typically Presbyterian, these lovingly crafted chapels and their congregations are the tangible legacy of a people who arrived in this area long ago. Many Scots-Irish, or Scotch-Irish as most Americans call them, settled in the high country of the southern Appalachians. Many of their descendants still remain.

The history of this area and the United States was heavily influenced by the actions of the Overmountain Men from this region. Many of them were Scots-Irish in origin. Anyone who is familiar with this group has heard of the famous quote by George Washington at Valley Forge. "If all else fails, I will retreat up the valley of Virginia, plant my flag on the Blue Ridge, rally around the Scotch-Irish of that region and make my last stand for liberty amongst a people who will never submit to British tyranny whilst there is a man left to draw a trigger."

Scottish, Irish, and Celtic culture in general are enjoying renewed popularity in the region. The Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain in nearby North Carolina is one example. Music fills the air in September when the Sycamore Shoals Celtic Festival is held in Elizabethton. This event has been growing every year and showcases talented musicians both local and distant in an intimate small town setting. Several clans make an appearance along with an interesting mix of other Celtic people. Here's a video clip from 2007.

A few links to people involved in the Celtic/Scottish/Irish culture of the local area:

Sigean - traditional Celtic music - Be sure to visit the sounds page. Are you sleeping Maggie?

Sandra Parker - harpist - Sandra also sings. She does weddings and other events. There's nothing like a lass with a harp.

Celtic Grove - Locally operated internet radio site with Celtic music and news.

East Tennessee State University Center for Appalachian Studies

WETS East Tennessee Public Radio - Supporting traditional music in our region.