A Modern Expedition to the Greater Kanawha Valley begins

I begin a short two day expedition to walk (drive) around the eastern and central portions of the valley. I am trying to place myself in this enigmatic area physically and mentally. Two of my colleagues from WVU History Department are coming along with me. In fact, it sounds like the beginning of really bad joke. "So a Russian, Medieval and Native American historian walk into a bar ..." I guess we'll find out what the punchline to this might be. All this in a effort to capture the "feel" of the landscape that was home to so much Indian activity from 1400-1650. I'll post more tomorrow night, pics, maps etc. Wish us all luck, for some reason my mates are expecting me to somehow get us in trouble. How much trouble can three historians get in while visiting the backroads of Wyoming, McDowell, Mingo, and Logan counties. Should be fun.

Seeking West Virginia Indian Information

My name is Isaac Emrick. I am a Lecturer and PhD candidate in West Virginia University's History department. I have been studying Indian History in West Virginia for over 10 years now. I recently learned about the potenial uses of blogs for the collection of oral histories. West Virginia for too long has remained devoid of animated discussion of Native American History. I know from detailed research that native people have always lived in WV, in spite of 150 years of historical literature stating that it was merely a hunting ground.

My hope, through this blog is to begin collecting information about Indians in West Virginia. I am especially interested in oral history accounts, photos and genealogical information concerning Native life in the state. Sorting out the confusing movements of thousands of different native groups in the Appalachians is a major aim of this blog. This, I hope, is the beginning of a major movement in West Virginia history. I am anxious to get serious discussions started.

If you have any information, comments,or ideas please post them or email met at barayamal@gmail.com or iemrick@mix.wvu.edu.
Thank you.