November is the ultimate month for reflection, storytelling, and genealogy. Not only do holiday gatherings bring us physically closer together, but November is also officially National Family Stories Month, National Life Writing Month, and host to both Veterans Day and Thanksgiving.

Explore the rich history of the Lufty and Smokemont communities, from Cherokee settlement and pioneer families to the rise of the logging industry and the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Discover how a historic mountain church and the people who worshipped there helped shape one of the Smokies' most fascinating communities.

Whether your ancestors came from across the ocean, traveled across the country, or lived in the same community for generations, their stories have shaped who you are today. This month, celebrate your heritage by exploring family records, preserving photographs, and sharing stories with the people you love.

Preserving and sharing the stories, traditions, and history of the people of Western North Carolina.

For genealogists, local historians, and anyone with family roots in the mountains, the Civil War era offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with the past.

Explore the role of Cherokee warriors who fought alongside U.S. forces against the Red Stick Creeks during the Creek War of 1813-1814.

If you’re building or refreshing your genealogy library, these titles will give you a strong foundation—and help ensure your research stands the test of time.

What do fried pies, soup beans, canning jars, and Sunday dinners have in common? They all tell the story of Southern Appalachia. Join authors and Appalachian culture experts Jim Casada and Tipper Pressley to find out!

Think of genealogy less like a straight line and more like a web. Every thread connected to your ancestor has the potential to lead you back to missing parents, maiden names, or places of origin.

In short, a brick wall is not a single problem—it’s a signal that traditional research methods need reinforcement.

Preserving family heirlooms and genealogical records spark curiosity, build identity, and allow future generations to feel a real bond with their past.

April is a fantastic time to dig into genealogy. Here are 10 spring genealogy projects to mix and match.

What if an entire village simply vanished? Explore the fascinating blend of history, folklore, and Cherokee tradition behind one of Appalachia's most enduring legends.

March brings longer days and a renewed sense of connection—to our communities, our neighbors, and our shared past. It’s also an ideal time to reflect on the value of belonging to a local genealogy and history society. Joining a society like the Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society offers benefits that go far beyond access to records. Perhaps the greatest advantage is local knowledge. While online databases are helpful, they can’t replace the insight of people who

How historical research is rewriting a Swain County Civil War story. The story of Jacob Shope's mule serves as a reminder that some of the most significant discoveries in local history come from patient research, careful documentation, and a willingness to follow the evidence wherever it leads.

February is a perfect time to begin exploring your family’s roots. With quieter winter days and a renewed sense of curiosity, many people feel inspired to start a genealogy or local history search—but aren’t sure where to begin. The best first step is to start with what you know. Write down names, dates, and places for yourself, your parents, and your grandparents. Talk with relatives if you can—family stories, photographs, letters, and even old Bibles often hold valuable clu

North Carolina Humanities’ award-winning statewide book club, North Carolina Reads, is returning for its fifth year starting February 2026. North Carolina Reads annually features five books that explore the history and culture of North Carolina. From February – June 2026, NC Humanities will host free, virtual, monthly book club discussion events where participants will hear from guest speakers, including book authors and topic experts. Libraries, community groups, and individ

As we welcome a new year, January offers a fitting moment to reflect on the stories that have shaped Swain County, North Carolina , and to renew our commitment to preserving local history and genealogy . Winter is often the perfect season to research family history , study historical records, and reconnect with the people and places that define our mountain heritage. The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society begins this year with gratitude for the members, volunte

We’re excited to officially launch our new website! Designed with you in mind, the updated site offers a clean look, easy navigation, and improved access to the information and resources you’re looking for. Whether you’re visiting us for the first time or returning as a longtime supporter, we hope you’ll find the new site informative, engaging, and user-friendly. Be sure to explore the pages, check back often for new content, and let us know what you think. Thank you for bein