Tan Your Hide by Steve Tweed – Tuesdays with Tweed
Howdy, Folks!
Years ago, it was common place to see animal hides tacked up on the sides of barns and sheds all over Appalachia.
From the sport of hunting with dogs or trapping, mountain folks would “show off” a wide array of hides on the side of their barns or sheds.
One would see the hides of Raccoons, ‘Possums, even Skunks! It was unheard of to see a Fox or Bobcat hide tacked up for drying, as they are all quite elusive and valuable.
Mountain folks would tan the hides for either personal use or selling them as a way of making extra money for their family.
It is quite a rarity to see this in todays world, as modern technology and other interests have changed the mountain lifestyle.
This particular example in Madison County, North Carolina is a stunning reminder and holdout of Appalachia’s rich cultural heritage.
Y’all have a great week!