In this project, Joseph Gregory interviewed Ray Dickerson and Glenda Runion about their experiences and knowledge of canning, especially the canning of meat. Much of the information sought was about canning in the 1930s, but information about modern times was also shared. Changes in how canning is done include changing from canning in tin cans to canning with glass jars. Mr. Gregory also learned that canned goods were both sold to raise money, and used in barter.
These interviews are interesting because they provide a different perspective from many depression stories we have heard. This interview is among projects created by students enrolled in English 446 (initially English 452), “Appalachian Folklore,” 1981-2019, and in graduate level counterparts English 548 and 648 “Appalachian Folk Culture(s)” offered 17 fall semesters between 1987 and 2009. Minimally contain collector’s introduction and analysis, transcribed informant interviews, and excerpted and labeled examples of oral, customary, and/or material folklore/folklife collected primarily within the Appalachian region. Most include also tables of contents, informant information, indexes (outlines) of interviews, photographs, miscellaneous paper items, and indexes of informants, genres, and geographic locations. Accompanying audio recordings (several minutes to 2+ hours). Transferred to McConnell Library Archives & Special Collections from Appalachian Regional and Rural Studies Center, Fall 2013.