Fisher F. Finks interviewed by Dorothy Noble Smith, transcribed by Peggy C. Bradley, 1978

Creator:

Finks, Fisher F. (Fisher Filmore), 1907-1993, Finks, Myrtle Hurt, 1913-1996, Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999, and Bradley, Peggy C., 1943-

Scope and content:

Records the reminiscences of Fisher Finks and his wife, Myrtle Hurt Finks, who lived near the Big Meadows area of Shenandoah National Park until the mid 1920s. Opens with Mr. Finks reading from family documents that establish the presence of the Finks family in Virginia dating back to 1736. Describes daily life in the mountains, including local agriculture, livestock production and food preservation, as well as the important tan bark industry. Discusses popular community events, such as weddings and funerals, corn husking, apple butter boilings and courting. Recalls the traditional remedies used for common ailments and injuries, as well as a brief discussion on deadly diphtheria outbreaks and the Influenza Epidemic of 1918. Includes discussions of race relations in the region, the prevalence of moonshine and its possible connection to numerous local murders. Also recalls local entrepreneur, George Pollock, owner of Skyland resort and the construction of Camp Hoover, the presidential retreat created by Herbert Hoover.

Names:

Finks, Fisher F. (Fisher Filmore), 1907-1993
Finks, Myrtle Hurt, 1913-1996
Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999
Bradley, Peggy C., 1943-

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