The Rays' Red Roof

05/17/2014

When do you think this photograph was taken?
The answer, where it was taken and the family who owned the homestead will be revealed tomorrow morning!

12/31/2013

Do you have your black-eyed peas on the stove? If not, you should, if you plan to ring in a new year full of prosperity and good luck.
Dating back to the Civil War, black-eyed peas were planted in the south as food for livestock and later became a staple for slaves. When Sherman’s troops took over farmers’ fields, stealing crops and animals, the black-eyed peas were completely ignored, and left behind. It was at that point that the black-eyed peas became a major food source for the surviving Confederates. That was the beginning of the tradition of black-eyed peas bringing good luck.
Eventually, folks in the south began serving them on New Year’s Day. Along with black-eyed peas, you would also be expected to serve collard greens or cabbage that represented money. Cornbread represented gold. Now, if you wanted all of that wealth and luck, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy any of it without good health. So, a true Southerner would add a pot of stewed tomatoes to the menu for good health.
So, get that pot of black-eyed peas started simmering, and have a happy, lucky, healthy, and wealthy 2014!

11/27/2013

An ever growing site of non-fiction,flotsam, fiction,memoir,autobiography,literature,history, ethnography, and book reviews about Appalachia, Appalachian Culture, and how to keep it alive!!! Also,how to pronounce the word: Ap-uh-latch-uh. Billy Ed Wheeler said that his mother always said,"Billy, if…

11/10/2013

Sadly, we have to announce that The Rays' Red Roof will not be open for business this Christmas. It was a hard decision to make because we have so much fun selling Christmas trees, inviting folks into the cabin to string popcorn and cranberries, telling stories, and teaching families and school children about Old Appalachian Christmas traditions. We hope to be back in full force next year. We are, however, making our old fashioned fresh Fraser Fir wreaths again. Please place your order this week, if you are interested. I have photos of what they will look like. Feel free to send me a private message. Thank you and we wish each and everyone of you a blessed Christmas.

11/10/2013

Taking orders for Fresh Fraser Fir Wreaths

Fresh Fraser Fir wreaths, plain or decorated. Place your order today. You can send me a private message with your order. Thank you!

11/10/2013

Fresh Fraser Fir wreaths, plain or decorated. Place your order today. You can send me a private message with your order. Thank you!

06/03/2013

Had a great time today with our Amish friends from Pennsylvania!

05/26/2013

05/13/2013

Spring has Sprung at The Rays' Red Roof!

02/04/2013

I'm thankful for farmers.