Women are key figures in the history of Appalachia and its music. From the mothers of miners, pioneering women of bluegrass, and activists, the songs of women have long endured. Music sustains movements and carries stories throughout generations. By way of music, women brought the region’s issues to mainstream audiences through their songs. Giving a voice to the underrepresented and oppressed, these women asserted themselves in the heavily male-dominated music industry and became the voices of future generations. This talk examines some key women in Appalachia whose voices transcended generations and transformed the music we know today. 

Hatch Show Print is a letterpress poster and design shop located in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1879, HSP is still designing and printing over 700 jobs a year, using the original wood type found on countless posters advertising live music, carnivals, circuses, and vaudeville and minstrel shows of years gone by, combined with hand carved imagery that spans the history of the shop. Though the 145 year old business is known for its twentieth century country music posters, the work the shop has put out over five generations in operation reflects changes in technology, communication arts, and commerce, as well as the evolution of popular entertainment.

The complex traditions of bluegrass music have long been shaped by powerful voices, both on stage and behind the scenes. This talk moves from the stage to the perimeter of the festival grounds and industry, highlighting the ways women have impacted the genre (largely without recognition).

Join Author Eddie Huffman as he takes us through is new book, Doc Watson: A Life In Music. Huffman will take us through the process of researching and writing the book and sharing some of his favorite stories about the man, the myth, the legend of the Blue Ridge, Doc Watson.