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A 70 yr old man comes to tears listening to the music and the story remembering my childhood in the Ozarks of arkansas , have a super good day JD thank you
Oh what a magnificent story JD! It’s a testament to the strength and perseverance that Uncle Tom & Aunt Sophie had and they were determined they would never be far from their cabin and their beginnings. I believe that bear was a “ guardian angel in a fur coat” watching over Tom & Sophie. The very sad thing today is a lot of us don’t know our heritage. You are amazing JD! Blessings always my dear friend! ✝️🙏😊
I would like to thank the bear for providing some comic relief. Thank you, JD for providing a sanity break from chaos. Thank you, Aunt Sophie and Uncle Tom for reminding us to adapt and keep moving forward.
So beautiful. Cathartic during these difficult times of division. These stories so beautifully told are a reminder of a time when living in harmony with nature was just a thing we did. I wish we had not left so much of this behind to such an extent that the very idea of working with nature instead of against it is vilified.
Many thanks, JD, for sharing Sophie and Tom's story and the history of Gatlinburg. The black bear footage just made me remember all the others I saw on one of my visits to Gatlinburg. Stay safe and blessed.
That was a wonderful story about 2 people who loved the mountains. A beautiful mountain with trees, food, and animals. Oh!!! How I wish I was born in those times, especially today. I was raised on a farm until I was a teenager.
Wouldn’t it be great if there were older generation still around and still telling the old stories of the mountains and the travels that came about. I can set and listen to them stories all day long now. That’s why I listen to your stories JD. I had some of them times and I loved every minute of them.
You can tell by the old, weathered skin that these 2 folks knew the meaning of hard work. Tough folks, indeed. I think the next time I visit Gatlinburg, I just might take a few seashells to Miss Sophie. I bet she'd like that. Thank you, J.D. 🙏
Thank JD, for telling the story of Aunt Sophie & Uncle Tom! Times of a simpler life of strong Appalachian folks! Such wonderful souls, Sophie & Tom. Never thought that their mountain home over looked Gatlinburg. I’d like to visit Sophie when I go to Gatlinburg again 😊
Thank you so much, it was my honor to share Uncle Tom and Sophie's story. I would have loved to have sat on their porch and just listened. I did my best to honor them.
I live in the metropolitan space between NYC and Philadelphia - all over-crowded, snaking highways, strip malls, and noise. Whenever we visit E. Tennessee and W. North Carolina (each spring and autumn), I sleep like a drowsy baby. I love the peacefulness of Appalachia, where my Cherokee grandmother lived her entire life. I will be retiring down there in my grandmother's home in two years. Feels more like home in Appalachia than here. Great storytelling on this channel; I never miss a new episode. I love your unique delivery of the tales that are told. Never stop.
It’s a beautiful place. I certainly feel blessed to call this area home and I’m so glad that you too see the beauty in it. Thank you so much, my friend.
The story of Aunt Sophie Documentary......Some how this story touched my old heart more than most + the black Bear so high in that tree over Aunt Sophie grave....... Thank you brother JD...... Old Shoe🇺🇸
My friend I have been watching your stories for a while now and just wanted to say thank you for all of the beautiful stories. I grow up in Tennessee as a kid I now live in Michigan and your stories take my home every time I listen.
Thanks again JD for bringing to life the stories of these beautiful resourceful mountain folk. They certainly were hardy folk, that’s for sure. I’m glad Aunt Sophia and Uncle Tom are resting on the mountains they loved. I would have loved to have been blessed to sit and listen to their tales and buy their handmade goods. It’s always a shame when the government and big business come in and destroy peoples peaceful lives, paying no mind to the destruction. Bless you JD for your incredible work, 😊
I spent a many of nights sitting on the edge of the porch,listening to my elders talking,telling stories. I treasure everytime. This is an awesome story ,such good,strong woman. Rest In Heaven Aunt Sophie. Which was my Great Grandma's name. Thanks for sharing this. We absolutley love your channel. Lord bless my freind.
Thank you so much. I appreciate your support. It’s people like you and many others that give me the opportunity to keep these stories alive. Blessings to you, my friend.
Such a beautiful story! I think this is probably my favorite. Going back to a time where people worked hard, lived a simple life and knew what was really important. I could listen to you all day JD. Thank you!!
Very nice to hear the history of Gatlinburg and the Campbell's family! I love the Smoky Mountain park, but looking back it was stolen from these amazing families. My heart goes out to all the victims of the recent flooding & mudslides. Peace be in the valley, and all the families residing there😢❤!!
What an amazing story JD. Also a bit sad that we have lost so much. The supposed gain of a tourist town and ski resort hardly seems worth it. 😢 Loved the Story!! Thank You!! 💖
What a heartwarming story JD👍. One thing I don’t understand, how can the government claim eminent domain for the park, then investors buy land to build all the hotels, stores, etc.? If I could travel over the mountains like Uncle Tom and Aunt Sophie did, we’d have been neighbors. Now going by the roads it takes about 1 to 2 hours. Thanks JD Have a great weekend
In my mind, I can still see my great grandmother sitting in front of a fireplace smoking an old clay pipe with a long stem. On my mom's side I watched them build sleds, plow with horses and mules, milk the cow and churn butter. It warms my heart to know I knew people like aunt Sophie. And, I can't forget the Moonshine.. Great story, JD Thanks
What a sad and beautiful story. Thank you, JD. Now, whenever I'm in Gatlinburg, when I look up at Ober Gatlinburg, I'll always remember who called that mountain home.
You got that right Michael! Im so glad it's the weekend, and I can't believe how warm it's been here in East Tennessee. I just heard on the radio there is snow on the west coast so it looks like cold weather is one the way. I hope you have a great weekend brother.
Dear J. D. Your books arrived this afternoon. As soon as I put the groceries away I headed to my recliner. I opened Vol 1 and can barely put it down. Although I live in north central Indiana near the Michigan line its a tiny village of Wakarusa, In. I moved here from Mena, Ark 35+ years ago. I often miss Mena and I am a deep southern girl yet my youngins are settled here with their adult children and my beloved church (Conservative Mennonite) is near me. So, at least for now I feel God wants me to stay put in my 200 yr old farm house. Widowed and nearing 70 yrs myself I can not see myself remarrying but if I were to he'd need to be a true southern country boy 🤗. You bring memories back for me. Thank you!❤ Blessings Brook.
Hi JD and Sarah, we are fairly new to your channel about 3 months or so. We subscribed instantly because your stories are so heartwarming and we especially love the historical stories such as this one. We are very familiar with the Ogles and their history and admire all those pioneers of East Tennessee. It was a simple life but a hard life at the same time, for these Appalachian people. There's another Gatlinburg resident that we so admire and have read his books and tried finding out as much information as we could and that is The Roaming Man of the Mountains, Wiley Oakley. He is also buried at White Oak Flats Cemetery with his wife Rebecca Ann who's father is Noah Ogle.Don't know if you heard of him or not? There's so much history about Wiley.Him and Rebecca lived on a mountain I think in the 30's or early 40's called Scratch Britches Mountain near where Le Comte Creek is. We tried finding out info about that but never came up with anything. All I can think of is the mountains name has changed? In Gatlinburg the history is found behind the tourist attractions.We camped alot in Cades Cove and Elkmont, alot of history of course in those two places.Quit going because it got to crowded. Sorry this is so long, but we were wondering if you could do a mini documentary on Wiley Oakley one day, that is if you have heard of him? We thank you for all the hardwork that goes into these stories, we love them all. From the Northeast Georgia Mountains,USA ❤❤ PS. The bear in the tree was priceless, really enjoyed seeing White Oak Flats Cemetery again, been there a few times to see Wiley Oakley's and Rebecca Ann's gravesites and cleaning them up a bit.Also liked reading the familiar names on grave markers.
Have you ever been to the Appalachian center at Berea college in Kentucky? They have a great Appalachian center and students learn about our history there in the hills .
My daughter is in her 3rd year there now and I keep telling her if you come there to speak that she has to get me an autographed book lol @@TheAppalachianStoryteller
Love your stories , J.D. I Love to listen to how people lived off the land. As a Native woman from Canada , who has lived in the city all of her life { I have never been up North where my parents were from.} I often imagine what life would have been like living in the bush. Learning my language , to know the forest like the streets of a city.
Howdy! Here I am again. Another great heartwarming story in history!! Love learning about the past!! You have such a soothing voice.Thanks for caring about this history and people to write books about them also. God bless.❤🙏
Great story, crazy to think of this last 150yr of advancement has been witnessed, heck just in my 53 yrs how much it's changed ! Book sets are gonna make great gift for my bonus daughter's
Good morning JD! What a wonderful story and I wonder if the Ogle’s that own a large part of Pigeon Forge and are in government now were related. I do remember Ogle’s water park before it was torn down. I used to take my kids there. I believe Ogle’s own most of Pigeon Forge. I’m glad you are keeping their memories alive. Very hard times, but tough and rugged people who survived. Thank you for such an incredible story. Have a very blessed weekend with your family!
This is a story that touches my soul. White Oak Flats is where my ancestors came from and lived, some still live there today. Ya see my last name is Huskey. The Huskey linage in these parts goes back to and along side the Ogles. And yes theirs a place called Huskey's Gap still right there in the Smokey's.
Going to Gatlinburg since I was a child, and it holding a special place in my heart, this is one of my favorite stories so far. Even as child my heart was heavy for all the people who had to leave their homes and comfort & provision of the beautiful mountains and would imagine as we visited historic sites what life was like for them. Appreciate your channel
This channel deserves a bigger audience. Growing up in Alabama in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains I can relate to the stories and the History. Great job Sir.
That was a definite sign when you saw the black bear! I cried loud with this wonderful story. How "progress" and greed is eating up the planet 😢 Thank you- beautiful story x
JD I never knew the history of Gatlinburg Thank you for that. And that bear. I would have loved to see that in person. This was a fantastic story to tell. ❤
my wife and i look forward to your stories every sat. JD, thanks for all the work you do. we are from the lowcountry of SC, my grandmama was an old lady when she died, she never saw the ocean either, and she lived about 60 miles from it. Tom reminds me of my grandaddy. he worked at the same sawmill all his life; it was the only job he ever had, but he could do just about anything, i don't think he ever saw the ocean either,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
You sir are blessed with great story tellin'. I have been binge watching for a week now and love how you use the words of old, and your voice is as smooth as silk. The music goes with the story and is beautiful. Thank you for your hard work! Know that you are appreciated!
Just when you think a video is the best you've ever done, you come along with yet another JD. I absolutely love this channel! I literally dropped my jaw when I learned they took their cabin down. What a tragedy. 😢
Ain't nothin' better'n starting a Saturday with a story from Mr JD! Thanks for sharing this great tale & God bless! ~ Scott 💙🙏🏼 And I know exactly where you were in the cemetery. We lived for a short while there at an RV resort on hwy 321 bout 8 miles outta Gatlinburg. Almost exactly midway between Gatlinburg and Cosby
Thank you sir for this story. As a descendant of the first European child born west of the Appalachian mountains, Russell Bean....it's nice to see stories remembering how we got here. Oh and the story of Russell being arrested by Andrew Jackson is a good one. Thanks again
I think it’s great that there are families who kept track of how they came to America and the things they began doing to make it and thrive here! ❤ My family background with all that is very unclear and gives a feeling of great loss……
What a poignant tale of beauty and times gone by. The beauty is still there and alive in the people🎉 I love to listen to your tales(only The Appalachian Storyteller will do😉❤❤) each Sunday morning down here in New Zealand. I feel as if I'm right there cos you paint the picture so well of places I've never seen or will see,but that's OK cos I've got you😊 Thank you so much. Mia Flett
I sure did enjoy that story Sir. The history you bring to us listeners is food for our collective souls to be sure. Thank you once again for your generous efforts. I bought my first house in Clarksville when stationed at FT. Campbell. I lived there for 5 years. Minus deployment time you understand. Anyway, I made more than my fair share of trips to Gatlinburg. I sure wish I was aware of the history you've wonderfully enlightened me to today. I know that cemetery and sure wish I could have paid my respects.
A million thanks for keeping these stories alive.. I can't imagine one man carrying an iron cook stove anywhere, much less that steep mountain! I think you're right about the bear 😊👍 Thanks JD ❤
Thank you so much, brother. It’s still warm here in East Tennessee, but I hear there’s snow out there in Colorado so it looks like it’s heading our way time to bring the boat in for the year.
Support this channel by clicking LIKE, COMMENTING and SUBSCRIBING. Support the costs of research and production by clicking THANKS or JOIN buttons or by visiting www.theappalachianstoryteller.com
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I think mama bear was definitely watching over them. Oh I loved watching that mama bear nothing better than enjoying nature.
Hi JD are you going to do? Wright and Templeton Gang
A momma bear seems a fitting tribute to such a strong woman! You did Uncle Tom and Aunt Sophie justice, JD, thank you.
Thank you! I sure wasn’t expecting that bear up above me 🤣
@TheAppalachianStoryteller stay safe out there, JD!
@@TheAppalachianStoryteller
I BET! 😆🤣🤣
Thank the Lord she was only hungry for tree nuts 😉
I Agree, if she can't be laid to rest there, she should be laid where she could always have sight of her mountains.
A 70 yr old man comes to tears listening to the music and the story remembering my childhood in the Ozarks of arkansas , have a super good day JD thank you
Bless you, brother I’m so glad to hear this. Bless your heart.
This 73-year-old man feels the same. I grew up in Alabama in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Oh what a magnificent story JD! It’s a testament to the strength and perseverance that Uncle Tom & Aunt Sophie had and they were determined they would never be far from their cabin and their beginnings. I believe that bear was a “ guardian angel in a fur coat” watching over Tom & Sophie. The very sad thing today is a lot of us don’t know our heritage. You are amazing JD! Blessings always my dear friend! ✝️🙏😊
Thank you so much Betty!
To many tears, sometimes I think the old ways were the best of times and the harshest thank you for your amazing gift my friend, hugs.❤🍁✨️
Thank you so much. Stay warm up there in Canada.
Strength thru strife...❤
Beautiful sad story.
What a shame that their cabin could not be preserved. ❤️🙏😢
I was thinking they could have moved it instead of destroying it
Ah it wasn't that sad,they got to live out their long lives in the place they loved, many are not so fortunate.
I would like to thank the bear for providing some comic relief. Thank you, JD for providing a sanity break from chaos. Thank you, Aunt Sophie and Uncle Tom for reminding us to adapt and keep moving forward.
You are so right, his story did provide sanity from current chaos! Amazing to think 150-200 years ago how little government impacted our lives!🎉
JD.
What an amazing story. Thank YOU for telling the world about these amazing people that without you would be forgotten forever.
Thank you 😊
Love listening and learning about the wonderful folks who built this Country of ours. Thank you
Thank you 😊
So beautiful. Cathartic during these difficult times of division. These stories so beautifully told are a reminder of a time when living in harmony with nature was just a thing we did. I wish we had not left so much of this behind to such an extent that the very idea of working with nature instead of against it is vilified.
Thank you so much, my friend. I appreciate your thoughts.
Many thanks, JD, for sharing Sophie and Tom's story and the history of Gatlinburg. The black bear footage just made me remember all the others I saw on one of my visits to Gatlinburg.
Stay safe and blessed.
Have a blessed day Nonnie ❤️
That was a wonderful story about 2 people who loved the mountains. A beautiful mountain with trees, food, and animals. Oh!!! How I wish I was born in those times, especially today. I was raised on a farm until I was a teenager.
Me too, my friend, I was born in the wrong generation
What a beautiful story of resilience and loyalty!
A fantastic story of tenacity, strength and a never ending quest for freedom.
❤️
Wouldn’t it be great if there were older generation still around and still telling the old stories of the mountains and the travels that came about. I can set and listen to them stories all day long now. That’s why I listen to your stories JD. I had some of them times and I loved every minute of them.
I completely agree
Fortunately, I grew up around older people in the mountains, and I listened to every story they told me.
What beautiful story ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you! 🙂 have a blessed weekend Vicki
You can tell by the old, weathered skin that these 2 folks knew the meaning of hard work. Tough folks, indeed. I think the next time I visit Gatlinburg, I just might take a few seashells to Miss Sophie. I bet she'd like that. Thank you, J.D. 🙏
I know she would appreciate that so would I much love to you
What an amazing life they had, bless them. Thanks JD ❤
Thank JD, for telling the story of Aunt Sophie & Uncle Tom! Times of a simpler life of strong Appalachian folks! Such wonderful souls, Sophie & Tom. Never thought that their mountain home over looked Gatlinburg.
I’d like to visit Sophie when I go to Gatlinburg again 😊
You should the cemetery is hidden in plain sight
Wonderful story..
Thank you so much, it was my honor to share Uncle Tom and Sophie's story. I would have loved to have sat on their porch and just listened. I did my best to honor them.
I live in the metropolitan space between NYC and Philadelphia - all over-crowded, snaking highways, strip malls, and noise. Whenever we visit E. Tennessee and W. North Carolina (each spring and autumn), I sleep like a drowsy baby. I love the peacefulness of Appalachia, where my Cherokee grandmother lived her entire life. I will be retiring down there in my grandmother's home in two years. Feels more like home in Appalachia than here. Great storytelling on this channel; I never miss a new episode. I love your unique delivery of the tales that are told. Never stop.
It’s a beautiful place. I certainly feel blessed to call this area home and I’m so glad that you too see the beauty in it. Thank you so much, my friend.
The story of Aunt Sophie Documentary......Some how this story touched my old heart more than most + the black Bear so high in that tree
over Aunt Sophie grave.......
Thank you brother JD......
Old Shoe🇺🇸
Thank you brother!
My friend I have been watching your stories for a while now and just wanted to say thank you for all of the beautiful stories. I grow up in Tennessee as a kid I now live in Michigan and your stories take my home every time I listen.
Thank you so much for that. I really appreciate that and it means a lot to me that other people out there care about this history as much as I do.
Best creator and author ever. I love this channel!
Thank you ❤️
@@TheAppalachianStoryteller yvw
Thanks again JD for bringing to life the stories of these beautiful resourceful mountain folk. They certainly were hardy folk, that’s for sure. I’m glad Aunt Sophia and Uncle Tom are resting on the mountains they loved. I would have loved to have been blessed to sit and listen to their tales and buy their handmade goods. It’s always a shame when the government and big business come in and destroy peoples peaceful lives, paying no mind to the destruction. Bless you JD for your incredible work, 😊
Thank you Victoria! I would have loved to have known them as well. Have a blessed day!
I spent a many of nights sitting on the edge of the porch,listening to my elders talking,telling stories. I treasure everytime. This is an awesome story ,such good,strong woman. Rest In Heaven Aunt Sophie. Which was my Great Grandma's name. Thanks for sharing this. We absolutley love your channel. Lord bless my freind.
Thank you so much. I appreciate your support. It’s people like you and many others that give me the opportunity to keep these stories alive. Blessings to you, my friend.
Such a beautiful story! I think this is probably my favorite. Going back to a time where people worked hard, lived a simple life and knew what was really important. I could listen to you all day JD. Thank you!!
Thank you, I appreciate it
Very nice to hear the history of Gatlinburg and the Campbell's family! I love the Smoky Mountain park, but looking back it was stolen from these amazing families. My heart goes out to all the victims of the recent flooding & mudslides. Peace be in the valley, and all the families residing there😢❤!!
Thank You!
@TheAppalachianStoryteller Most welcome, new sub here!
Who in turn had stolen it from the natives
What an amazing story JD. Also a bit sad that we have lost so much. The supposed gain of a tourist town and ski resort hardly seems worth it. 😢 Loved the Story!! Thank You!! 💖
Thank you Joy. I hope you have a fabulous weekend, my friend.
Thank You for Such a Beautiful Story💖💖💖💖💖💖🙏🙏🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
Thank you for sharing ❤
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
What a heartwarming story JD👍. One thing I don’t understand, how can the government claim eminent domain for the park, then investors buy land to build all the hotels, stores, etc.? If I could travel over the mountains like Uncle Tom and Aunt Sophie did, we’d have been neighbors. Now going by the roads it takes about 1 to 2 hours. Thanks JD Have a great weekend
Gatlinburg rests on the boarder of the national park
You truly have no idea how truly enjoy these stories!
Thank you so much, I'm glad you enjoy them!
Beautifully done. Thank you.
thank you!
That is such a great story. Thank you, JD,.
I’m glad you found it interesting. 😊
In my mind, I can still see my great grandmother sitting in front of a fireplace smoking an old clay pipe with a long stem. On my mom's side I watched them build sleds, plow with horses and mules, milk the cow and churn butter. It warms my heart to know I knew people like aunt Sophie. And, I can't forget the Moonshine.. Great story, JD Thanks
Those are beautiful memories, Charlie, thank the good Lord that we have them
DID SOMEONE SAY MOONSHINE? Where's my Mason jar?
@@samuelschick8813I want 2 jars!!
What a sad and beautiful story. Thank you, JD. Now, whenever I'm in Gatlinburg, when I look up at Ober Gatlinburg, I'll always remember who called that mountain home.
❤️
After a hectic week it was really great to hear this story. And yes....best to leave the bears alone.
You got that right Michael! Im so glad it's the weekend, and I can't believe how warm it's been here in East Tennessee. I just heard on the radio there is snow on the west coast so it looks like cold weather is one the way. I hope you have a great weekend brother.
Wonderful story, thank you ❤❤❤❤
I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Great story JD. I had never heard the history of Gatlinburg. Very interesting.
I’m glad you enjoyed it Chris. Have a great weekend, brother.
Wonderful account of strong pioneers; thank you.
You are most welcome!
I haven't had a disappointing Saturday morning since I found this channel. Thanks.
Thank you so much Ryan so glad to have you here
Dear J. D. Your books arrived this afternoon. As soon as I put the groceries away I headed to my recliner. I opened Vol 1 and can barely put it down.
Although I live in north central Indiana near the Michigan line its a tiny village of Wakarusa, In. I moved here from Mena, Ark 35+ years ago. I often miss Mena and I am a deep southern girl yet my youngins are settled here with their adult children and my beloved church (Conservative Mennonite) is near me. So, at least for now I feel God wants me to stay put in my 200 yr old farm house.
Widowed and nearing 70 yrs myself I can not see myself remarrying but if I were to he'd need to be a true southern country boy 🤗. You bring memories back for me. Thank you!❤
Blessings
Brook.
Amazing! Thanks you so much! I hope you enjoy!
Hi JD and Sarah, we are fairly new to your channel about 3 months or so. We subscribed instantly because your stories are so heartwarming and we especially love the historical stories such as this one. We are very familiar with the Ogles and their history and admire all those pioneers of East Tennessee. It was a simple life but a hard life at the same time, for these Appalachian people.
There's another Gatlinburg resident that we so admire and have read his books and tried finding out as much information as we could and that is The Roaming Man of the Mountains, Wiley Oakley. He is also buried at White Oak Flats Cemetery with his wife Rebecca
Ann who's father is Noah Ogle.Don't know if you heard of him or not? There's so much history about Wiley.Him and Rebecca lived on a mountain I think in the 30's or early 40's called Scratch Britches Mountain near where Le Comte Creek is. We tried finding out info about that but never came up with anything. All I can think of is the mountains name has changed? In Gatlinburg the history is found behind the tourist attractions.We camped alot in Cades Cove and Elkmont, alot of history of course in those two places.Quit going because it got to crowded. Sorry this is so long, but we were wondering if you could do a mini documentary on Wiley Oakley one day, that is if you have heard of him? We thank you for all the hardwork that goes into these stories, we love them all. From the Northeast Georgia Mountains,USA ❤❤ PS. The bear in the tree was priceless, really enjoyed seeing White Oak Flats Cemetery again, been there a few times to see Wiley Oakley's and Rebecca Ann's gravesites and cleaning them up a bit.Also liked reading the familiar names on grave markers.
Yes, I have Wiley’s book and he is buried a few few from Sophie
Have you ever been to the Appalachian center at Berea college in Kentucky? They have a great Appalachian center and students learn about our history there in the hills .
I sure have, such a wonderful place with rich history
My daughter is in her 3rd year there now and I keep telling her if you come there to speak that she has to get me an autographed book lol @@TheAppalachianStoryteller
Wow, JD! Great drone work there at the end bud, really enjoyed the history too, thanks as always!
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.
Great story JD!
Thank you Brian! It's the weekend brother! Hope you have a great one!
@@TheAppalachianStoryteller I'll try to do that without getting my name in the paper!
haha! Good luck!
my granny smoked a pipe. she ws 107 years old when she passed, she had a brother that fight for the north and a brother that fight fot the south.
Mama bear watching over Sophie ❤
I like to think so too ❤️
Great video what a good day to be putting it together and seeing the bear Great story Thanks ❤
That was definitely an unexpected surprise
What a beautiful love story of 2 people and love of the mountains ❤ thank you for sharing
Thank you so much. Have a blessed Saturday.
What a special day the Lord blessed you with!
Thank you for the wonderful story!
Thank you, I agree. It was a beautiful day!
Love your stories , J.D. I Love to listen to how people lived off the land. As a Native woman from Canada , who has lived in the city all of her life { I have never been up North where my parents were from.} I often imagine what life would have been like living in the bush. Learning my language , to know the forest like the streets of a city.
I’m glad you enjoy these stories and it blesses my heart to know that people from all over the world relate to them. It makes it all worthwhile.
Howdy! Here I am again. Another great heartwarming story in history!! Love learning about the past!! You have such a soothing voice.Thanks for caring about this history and people to write books about them also. God bless.❤🙏
Thank you so much for that. I really appreciate it.
Great story, crazy to think of this last 150yr of advancement has been witnessed, heck just in my 53 yrs how much it's changed ! Book sets are gonna make great gift for my bonus daughter's
Thank you so much, my friend. I really appreciate that and I hope she enjoys them.
Good morning JD! What a wonderful story and I wonder if the Ogle’s that own a large part of Pigeon Forge and are in government now were related. I do remember Ogle’s water park before it was torn down. I used to take my kids there. I believe Ogle’s own most of Pigeon Forge.
I’m glad you are keeping their memories alive. Very hard times, but tough and rugged people who survived. Thank you for such an incredible story.
Have a very blessed weekend with your family!
Yes! This is the same Ogle family
@ I figured it was, thanks for confirming what I thought.
What an awesome couple. Strong very strong. love the pipe too.
Thank you kindly!
Oh my gosh! I've seen bears in trees before but never that high! And how much do we love Aunt Sophie?
It was incredible that she climbed so high up!
This is a story that touches my soul. White Oak Flats is where my ancestors came from and lived, some still live there today. Ya see my last name is Huskey. The Huskey linage in these parts goes back to and along side the Ogles. And yes theirs a place called Huskey's Gap still right there in the Smokey's.
Thank you so much for sharing this. I saw the last name husky many times in that cemetery as I was looking.
JD, thank you for sharing this with us. It was a amazing life story of Aunt Sofie and
Going to Gatlinburg since I was a child, and it holding a special place in my heart, this is one of my favorite stories so far. Even as child my heart was heavy for all the people who had to leave their homes and comfort & provision of the beautiful mountains and would imagine as we visited historic sites what life was like for them. Appreciate your channel
Thank you 😊
So enjoyable and peaceful to watch! Thank you!
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
This channel deserves a bigger audience. Growing up in Alabama in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains I can relate to the stories and the History. Great job Sir.
That was a definite sign when you saw the black bear! I cried loud with this wonderful story. How "progress" and greed is eating up the planet 😢
Thank you- beautiful story x
Thank you ❤️
JD I never knew the history of Gatlinburg Thank you for that. And that bear. I would have loved to see that in person. This was a fantastic story to tell. ❤
I felt like i was telling two separate stories but weaved them together at the same time.
@ well you did a fantastic job
Loved the story. Thank you for teaching us all, about life, and the way it should be.
❤️ ❤️
Thank you for sharing this story with us! ✌🏼😊 That was so sweet to see the bear in the tree! 👍🏻😊
It was a beautiful sight! 😊
@ Truly a beautiful sight! 😊
my wife and i look forward to your stories every sat. JD, thanks for all the work you do. we are from the lowcountry of SC, my grandmama was an old lady when she died, she never saw the ocean either, and she lived about 60 miles from it. Tom reminds me of my grandaddy. he worked at the same sawmill all his life; it was the only job he ever had, but he could do just about anything, i don't think he ever saw the ocean either,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
I appreciate you watching and sharing your family's story, I have a lot of respect for folks like your grandaddy.
I loved this !! Thank you for sharing the story of Aunt Sophie and Uncle Tom! 🤗
Thank you!
You sir are blessed with great story tellin'. I have been binge watching for a week now and love how you use the words of old, and your voice is as smooth as silk. The music goes with the story and is beautiful. Thank you for your hard work! Know that you are appreciated!
Thank you so much, Shirley. I really appreciate that. The world needs more positivity and appreciation for where we came from.
I live in GA and we go to Gatlinburg every year in the fall. Love it. Great story, and thank you!!😁
I’m glad you enjoyed the story!
Just phenomenal....👍🏻👌🏻👏🏻
Thank you so much 😀
@TheAppalachianStoryteller
You're very much welcome, always a pleasure!
Keep 'em videos coming! 🤜🏻🤛🏻🍻
Good morning enjoy all of your video 💗💗
Thank you so much, and you have a wonderful day 😊
What a wonderful ending to a beautiful story!!! ❤
Thank you so much. I hope you have a fabulous weekend. Be blessed.
That was a beautiful story. 🥲 Completely heartbreaking at the same time. What an inspirational couple.
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Thank you for sharing this beautiful story with us
You are most welcome!
Just when you think a video is the best you've ever done, you come along with yet another JD. I absolutely love this channel!
I literally dropped my jaw when I learned they took their cabin down. What a tragedy. 😢
Thank you so much ❤️
Thank you for sharing their story. And thank you for not disturbing momma bear.
You're very welcome!
An awesome story. The bear really added something special to this beautiful story. Thank you very much. 😊
My mother had two strong independent Aunts❤
Such a beautiful life they had. We should all be that lucky. I love the way you told their story.
I did my best to show ultimate respect and tribute to them
I really enjoyed this story. She was a respectful woman. Very stubborn. At least she stood her ground to the end.
Well, said Edward have a blessed Saturday, my friend
Amazing, Thank you 😊.
Thank you, Tammy. Have a great day.
Ain't nothin' better'n starting a Saturday with a story from Mr JD! Thanks for sharing this great tale & God bless! ~ Scott 💙🙏🏼
And I know exactly where you were in the cemetery. We lived for a short while there at an RV resort on hwy 321 bout 8 miles outta Gatlinburg. Almost exactly midway between Gatlinburg and Cosby
Thanks so much, scott it really is a beautiful area isn’t
Thank you sir for this story. As a descendant of the first European child born west of the Appalachian mountains, Russell Bean....it's nice to see stories remembering how we got here.
Oh and the story of Russell being arrested by Andrew Jackson is a good one.
Thanks again
I think it’s great that there are families who kept track of how they came to America and the things they began doing to make it and thrive here! ❤
My family background with all that is very unclear and gives a feeling of great loss……
What a poignant tale of beauty and times gone by. The beauty is still there and alive in the people🎉 I love to listen to your tales(only The Appalachian Storyteller will do😉❤❤) each Sunday morning down here in New Zealand. I feel as if I'm right there cos you paint the picture so well of places I've never seen or will see,but that's OK cos I've got you😊 Thank you so much. Mia Flett
Thank you so much, Mia that really makes my heart smile one day. I’m going to get to New Zealand. It’s on my bucket list.
@TheAppalachianStoryteller I hope you do!🥰
And yet once again another great story.
I’m so happy you enjoyed this story. Have a blessed day.
I sure did enjoy that story Sir. The history you bring to us listeners is food for our collective souls to be sure. Thank you once again for your generous efforts.
I bought my first house in Clarksville when stationed at FT. Campbell. I lived there for 5 years. Minus deployment time you understand.
Anyway, I made more than my fair share of trips to Gatlinburg. I sure wish I was aware of the history you've wonderfully enlightened me to today. I know that cemetery and sure wish I could have paid my respects.
I can truly say that I have a woman as great as Sophie! GOD blessed me that way.
Wow, I loved it ....I wish I could live a solitary life like that back in the day. Peaceful quiet, and so beautiful. Thanks for sharing my friend.
🎻🙏
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful couple. Wish I could've met them. ❤
Thank you 😊
The valley where they settled looked like paradise! Beaufiful!
❤️
I had no idea. Thank you for sharing. It is one of the best but one of the most heartbreaking stories.
A million thanks for keeping these stories alive.. I can't imagine one man carrying an iron cook stove anywhere, much less that steep mountain!
I think you're right about the bear 😊👍
Thanks JD ❤
Thank you Kathy!
I was so disappointed to hear what happened to their homestead. I would have loved to take a hike up to see it. What a great story. Thank you
Yeah, I hated it but when you look at that picture that ski resort it gives you a true sense of how high up in the clouds they lived
Another great episode! I had no idea about the history of Gatlinburg. What a shame for the native inhabitants. Thank you for what you bring to us.
Thank you 😊
This was added to my top 5 favorite stories. Thanks JD ❤
Thank you Tammy
Great. Aunt Sofie looks like she’s Indian. Love this 😊
Another great story J.D that reminds me of my own grandparents. ....
Y'all stay safe out there my friends 🙏
Thank you so much, brother. It’s still warm here in East Tennessee, but I hear there’s snow out there in Colorado so it looks like it’s heading our way time to bring the boat in for the year.
Nice! Beautiful story! Salt of the earth.
Glad you enjoyed it!