Announcing the 2022 Summer Series

Ever wonder why a fiddle is an integral part of bluegrass music, or why old moonshine stills can be found right here in Sherwood Forest? Join us for the 2022 Sherwood Forest Friends’ Summer Series as we learn about The influence of the Scots-Irish Migration on Appalachian Culture through stories, demonstrations and music.

Throughout the 17th century, Lowland Scots along with smaller numbers of English from the Borders region settled in the northeast (Ulster) region of Ireland where they became known as Ulster Scots. Ulster Scots is a term used primarily in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while Scots-Irish (or Scotch-Irish) is used here in America.

During the 18^th century a hundred thousand Ulster Scots (Scots-Irish) emigrated to America. They were pushed out of Ulster by discrimination by the Anglican Church of Ireland against their Presbyterian religion, by a depression in the linen trade that provided income to so many of them, and by a steep increase in land rents driven by an explosion of population. With them, they brought their crafts, traditions and folkways, but here they had to grow or make everything they needed to live. While many other cultures integrated into Appalachian culture (African, Native American and European) this year’s Summer Series will focus specifically on the Scots-Irish migration.

Programs start at 7:00 PM unless otherwise noted and will be held at Robin Hood Barn. Refreshments sold beginning at 6:30 PM.

August 13, Connie Regan-Blake
“Finding Your Way Home: Stories of True-Life Adventures & Mountain Roots”
Connie Regan-Blake is one of America’s most celebrated storytellers. She has captivated the hearts and imaginations of people around the globe with her powerful performances and workshops. Entertaining audiences in 47 states, 18 countries, and 6 continents she brings the wisdom, humor, and drama of stories to main stage concert halls, libraries, and into the corporate world.

August 20, Doug and Darcy Orr
“Influence of Scots-Irish Immigrants on the Music of Appalachia”
Doug Orr and his wife, Darcy, will be telling stories and performing the songs that came across the “carrying stream” from Ulster to Appalachia. Orr is President Emeritus of Warren Wilson College and co-author, with Fiona Ritchie, of the book, Wayfaring Strangers: The Musical Voyage from Scotland and Ulster to Appalachia.

August 27, Cassie Dickson
“Textile Traditions: Scotland and Ulster to Appalachia”
Cassie Dickson specializes in the weaving of coverlets using traditional patterns handed down for generations. Like the Scots-Irish settlers, she grows her own flax and processes it into linen cloth. She has been spinning, weaving, and natural dyeing for over 40 years and has raised silk worms to make silk fabric for the past 32 years.

September 3, Owen Grooms & Friends
“An evening of old-time mountain music”

Acoustic musician, Owen Grooms has been playing Mandolin since childhood and Banjo since 2008. Since then, he has enjoyed playing clawhammer banjo and mandolin in several groups in Western NC and teaching both instruments to children through the Junior Appalachian Musician program and private lessons. He will be joined by guitarist Mark Queen and special guest, Jenn Linville, for an evening of foot stomping music. As a bonus, dance teacher Linda Block will give a group clogging lesson starting at 6:30 PM.