Sop Doll

Although stories were told about Jack throughout the Southern Appalachians, one family group has received recognition by the Smithsonian and the Library of Congress as having told the tales in an unbroken line of descendants since 1775. The Hicks, Harmons, and Wards, the first families to settle on the Watauga River, passed the tales down for two hundred years before they were written for everyone to enjoy. In this Jack tale, Jack catches wind of some witching in his town. The presence of witches and magic in folklore often represents and symbolize humanity’s relationship with the unknown and unexplained, and throughout history there is no better way to navigate the mysteries of life-- and teach the kiddos a few lessons—than through story. To learn more about Mary Hamilton visit www.maryhamilton.info