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.

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

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!

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