Foxfire

We've enjoyed visiting lots of places to learn new skills and find useful resources (and hope you have, too)!

Recently, we had the privilege of visiting the Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center. If the name "Foxfire" sounds familiar, perhaps you have heard of or even read some of the books written by high school students to learn and preserve the skills of pioneer life in southern Appalachia. This phenomenal educational program began in 1966 and was named "Foxfire" after a bioluminescent fungus that grows on rotting trees, sometimes called "fairy fire" because of its bluish-green glow. According to the official website:

"This spark of an idea, and the work that followed, has turned into a phenomenon of education and living history, teaching readers, writers, visitors, and students how our past contributes to who we are and what we can become – how the past illuminates our present and inspires imagination."

The Heritage Center consists of 10 authentic pioneer cabins on 106 acres, each of which demonstrates an aspect of pioneer life.

We were able to see a weaver and a broom maker displaying and demonstrating their crafts. Other displays included a blacksmith forge, basketry, spinning wheel, stilts, gristmill, root cellar, carriage room, chapel, and so much more. Our visit was on a weekday and on weekends things really pick up so you might want to plan your trip to include a weekend.

Your first stop is the museum store where you pay admission. You will also see and have the opportunity to buy items created by local artisans. The original Firefox books are available, too, along with educational magazines and other publications.

While you're in the area, you might want to grab a bite to eat at The Dillard House. When we say "bite," we are just kidding! Prepare yourself to be stuffed with some amazing southern cuisine and lots of it, served family style! Enjoy!