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Uncovering realities of American chattel slavery in the Appalachian region, Shadows of A Time Gone By is a powerful piece of work that combines history, scholarly research, and creative storytelling. Despite the long-standing myth that slavery was almost non-existent in mountain counties, this document explores the significant impact of slavery in western North Carolina, focusing on the Historic Charles McDowell, Jr. House, which still stands as a thought-provoking reminder of the past.
Traditionally, stories about enslaved people have been told from the viewpoint of the people who owned them. Shadows takes a different approach, giving voice to the lived experiences of unfree people from a viewpoint intended to resemble their own. Through this unique lens, readers gain a deeper understanding of the impact of slavery on individuals, communities, and the region. Shadows of A Time Gone By is a must-read for anyone interested in moving beyond the traditional mythology of slavery in the Appalachian Mountains.
As someone who has studied, taught, and presented Southern history, I found Shadows of a Time Gone By enlightening and powerful. Most importantly, this work gives a deeper understanding of the lives of enslaved people, particularly in Burke County, and gives them a voice.
— Mary Charlotte Safford
Historic Burke Foundation, Inc.
Tel. 828-437-4104
P.O. Box 915
Morganton, NC28680
Email historicburke@gmail.com
Historic Burke Foundation promotes knowledge of local culture and history through
educational programming and historic site preservation.
Bringing books to market, one manuscript at a time!
Since 2017, Redhawk Publications at Catawba Valley Community College has been proud to bring distinctive voices and original books to life, with more than 200 titles published so far. We are one of only a handful of community colleges in the United States with a literary press. To learn more about Redhawk, our submission guidelines, local literary services, or writing workshops, feel free to contact Patty Thompson at pthompson994@cvcc.edu.
Books are available for purchase through our website and directly from our authors at book events. We encourage readers to support authors and small presses by buying directly whenever possible.