Elmer Atkins interviewed by Dorothy Noble Smith and Jim Northrup, transcribed by Sharon G. Marston

Creator:

Atkins, Elmer Jackson, 1906-1993, Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999, Northrup, Jim, and Marston, Sharon G. (Sharon Gates), 1944-

Scope and content:

Records the reminiscences of Elmer Atkins, who was born and raised near Beech Spring, Virginia prior to the establishment of Shenandoah National Park in 1934. Describes his home and family life, schooling, holidays and community events. Among the topics discussed are farming, raising of livestock, log homes and the local bark peeling industry. Includes references to revival meetings, wakes and funerals, herbal remedies, moonshining, the Influenza Epidemic of 1918-1919 and the chestnut tree blight that decimated the species in the early decades of the 20th century. Mr. Atkins also comments on the forced eviction of his family and neighbors to make way for the construction of the national park.

Names:

Atkins, Elmer Jackson, 1906-1993
Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999
Northrup, Jim
Marston, Sharon G. (Sharon Gates), 1944-

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