Among
these great American Spirits is Minnie Bates Yancey of Berea, Kentucky
representing the simple and hunble life of Appalachian
America.
Although
I never personally knew Minnie - what I
have read, seen and heard - tell me she was a powerful icon
and symbol of the American Spirit and of Appalachian living.
She lived a simple life - but greatly valued her
past, her family, her culture and the traditions and ways of life that
she
wanted to share and preserve. Minnie had a powerful impact on the lives of those around her - not only
to her
children and close family - but to many in her community - including
such
people as the family of the famous Wynona Judd. Quite interesting it
is, as humble as she was , she played roles in not one, but two movies and articles have been
written about her in various books and magazines. It was in
this region of Appalachian Kentucky that my own ancestors
passed through and I wonder if they practiced many
of these same customs and traditions.
the Yancey Family Surname Resource Center
"Together Forever" By Sonja Bird Yancey
