The homecoming
“If I am to live as a man, I must have a Mountain.”
jamie fraser
Drums of Autumn
(Diana Gabaldon)
A Fraser's Ridge Homecoming
A Fraser's Ridge Homecoming is a celebration of the history of Jamie & Claire's North Carolina backcountry wilderness. The Homecoming is Outlander inspired but history focused making it a truly unique event for the history-loving Outlander fan. Drawing from the places the Frasers lived and visited, the events that shaped their lives and the people who crossed their paths, the Homecoming takes us back in time via workshops, living history, music, performances, food, drink and so much more. Combine that with a fun dose of Outlander and you have the perfect combination. Come home to A Fraser's Ridge Homecoming!
Outlander Inspired...History focused!
A Fraser’s Ridge Homecoming is the only Outlander-Inspired Event to Focus on the History of Jamie & Claire’s 18th Century North Carolina.
SPECIAL GUESTS
The 71st Highland Regiment, Fraser’s Highlanders, was raised in Scotland for the revolution. They participated in every major battle and campaign in the war from Brandywine, PA to Guilford Courthouse, NC and the final surrender at Yorktowne.
They will be encamped with us at Leatherwood on October 3 and October 4!
Over the past ten years, the Warriors of AniKituhwa have inspired Cherokee people and the public with their image of strength and pride, bringing back dances from the 1700s, when Cherokees were a world power, making treaties with England, France, Spain, South Carolina, and Virginia. They broke the old stereotypes of Trail of Tears and Plains feather warbonnets, and provided a new image for Cherokee people. Most recently, The Warriors were invited to and participated in the 2019 London New Year’s Day Parade and have been invited back again for 2020.
The Warriors will be with us all day on Saturday and will perform their dance program at lunchtime.
Attakullakulla was the Peace Chief of the Cherokee Nation from about 1754 until his death (ca.1780-1783). He was called the “most important Indian of his day.” He was trained to become a leader among the Cherokee people.
Attakullakulla is portrayed magnificently by Captain Robert K. Rambo (USA, Ret.), who earned his BA (History) from the Virginia Military Institute, his teacher certification (History) at UVAWise, and his M.A. (US History Cherokee Studies Program) at Western Carolina University. His research centered on Attakullakulla during the 18th century.
Attakullakulla travels through time to be with us Sunday morning.
Entertainers
Bruce Wright has been playing the pipes for over 30 years and has studied piping under several of the most prominent piping instructors in North America, including Sandy Jones (former Pipe Major of the US Air Force Pipe Band and former Director of Piping at the Citadel in Charleston, SC), Colin MacLellan (Winner of the Gold Medal and the Clasp, two of piping’s highest awards), and Ed Neigh (Former Pipe Major of the Grade 1 Guelph Pipe Band from Ontario, Canada). Bruce was the Pipe Major (Director) of the City of Oaks Pipe Band in Raleigh for over 10 years, and is currently the piping instructor for the North Carolina State University Pipes and Drums Grade 4 band. He currently plays with the NCSU Pipes and Drums Grade 3 (upper-level) band. Bruce will playing for us during our arrival on Thursday!
Celtic Sessions, Dogwood, is a Celtic Band from Western North Carolina that features musicians who have a strong authentic Celtic roots background. The members also understand the Celtic connection to the music of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Being well versed on a wide variety of musical instruments, their program will take Outlander fans & Homecoming attendees back to deep Celtic roots through the music they perform plus the stories and notes that they share during the program. Dogwood will be performing during our Hello The House Reception on Thursday night!
With over 12 years on the Celtic music scene, singer/songwriter Tom Eure, along with his musical partner Amelia Osborne, offer up a heartfelt fusion of folk, Celtic, and Appalachian influences. The two multi-instrumentalists swirl together fiddles, banjos, mandolins, guitars, bodhráns, and rousing vocal harmonies, painting a musical picture that is fresh and uplifting. Their latest album “The Coin, The Prayer & The Crow” is available now. The release is a joyful retrospective of folk traditions with an eye set on the future. Tom & Amelia will be performing at lunchtime and throughout the daytime hours on Friday!
Thistle & Heather, formerly called Bandit’s Roost, from Elkin, NC, brings its audiences an array of original and fresh sounding material that melds the backgrounds of these talented songwriters and instrumentalists into a unique fusion of folk, Celtic, Newgrass, and Americana.
The combined musical backgrounds of these performers come through in many textures and colors in an astonishing style that’s been described as unique and enchanting. Band members share their song and instrumental writing prowness in a wide variety of subjects including historical events, life changing experiences, relationships to various cultures, and humankind’s role in its stewardship of the Planet Earth. Bandit’s Roost will perform for us during Rosamund Lindsey’s Beans & Barbecue Dinner on Friday night!
Celtic Connections Band was formed in 1998 when the National Park Service sponsored a recording project along the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trial utilizing performers who were familiar and skilled in both Celtic music and the Scots Irish music of the Southern Appalachian Highlands region. The recording project was called “Kings Mountain Live.” The music featured lively Jigs, Hornpipes and Reels and tavern songs of the 18th Century. In addition, the CD project incorporated narration by King Mountain historians about the Revolutionary War campaign to the Battle of Kings Mountain.
Since then, Celtic Connections has performed the music at a variety of venues which included Robert Burns events, Scottish events at Midlands Golf Course in the NC Sandhills, NC Highland Games and MerleFest.
The band members are: RG Absher, Randy Gambill, Wes Tuttle and Billy Gee. The performers are not only skilled in Celtic music, but play the Appalachian and Bluegrass music styles which grew out of the old world Celtic influences.
There typical sets include everything from ancient airs on the hammered dulcimer, 18th century tavern songs and toe tapping barn dance music.
Celtic Connections will be performing on Saturday evening and for our Barn Dance!
Special Food & Drinks
Includes…
*$10.00 Voucher To Use At Snowbird Mountain Coffee Truck ~
Serving Outlander-Themed Coffees, Breakfast & Snacks Throughout Event
Plus Lunch On Saturday
*Hello The House Welcome Reception With Heavy Hors D’oeuvres
*Mrs. Bugg’s Midday Meal
Rosamund Lindsay’s “Beans & Barbecue” Pig Pickin’
With All The Trimmings
*Jamie & Claire’s Feast On The Ridge
*Outlander-Inspired Drinks plus some Cherry Bounce (not included in ticket price)
(Meals Include Vegetarian Options)
The Schedule
Schedule Subject To Change.Items marked with an asterisk (*) require pre-registration.Pre-registration begins July 1, 2019.
Thursday October 3
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hendricks Cabin
- Arrive at Leatherwood Mountains Resort to the sound of live bagpipe music by Bruce Wright
- At the Hendrix Cabin, receive an 18th-century welcome by the Overmountain Men (presented by the OVTA)
- Check-in, Badge & Gift Bag Pick Up
- Whiskey & Moonshine Tasting
- Light NC Snacks
- Backporch Photo Booth
- Tour Craig Na Dun Cabin & Standing Stones
- Visit Simon Fraser’s Highlander Encampment
- Medicinal Plant Walks*
- Start Scavenger Hunt
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Hemlock Stage
Hello The House Welcome Party
- Cash Bar
- Heavy Hors d’oeuvres
- Music by Celtic Sessions, Dogwood
- Calling of the Clans
- Outlander Fun & Games
- Ghosts of the Yadkin Valley & Beyond with R. G. Absher by the Campfire
FridayOctober 4
ALL DAY
- Encampment of the 71st Highland Regiment, Fraser’s Highlanders
- Performances by Tom Eure & Amelia Osborne
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Covered Pavilion
- Plenary Session – Outlander Season 4 Panel & Discussion
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Various
Leatherwood
Locations
- Workshops*
- Medicinal Plant Walks*
- Enchanted Wilderness Walks*
- Private Genealogy Sessions*
- Demonstrations
- Living History
- Vendors
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Covered Pavilion
Mrs. Bugg’s
Midday Meal
- Tom Eure & Amelia Osborne On Stage
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Various
Leatherwood
Locations
- Workshops*
- Medicinal Plant Walks*
- Enchanted Wilderness Walks*
- Private Genealogy Sessions*
- Demonstrations
- Living History
- Vendors
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Hemlock Stage
Rosamund
Lindsay’s
Beans & Barbecue Dinner
- Cash Bar
- Music by Thistle & Heather
- Pig Pickin’ with all the trimmin’s
- Outlander Fun & Games
- Native American Storytelling with Joe Candillo by the Campfire
SaturdayOctober 5
ALL DAY
- The Warriors of AnitKituhwa
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Covered Pavilion
- Plenary Session – Droughtlander Comedy Hour
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Various
Leatherwood
Locations
- Workshops*
- Medicinal Plant Walks*
- Enchanted Wilderness Walks*
- Private Genealogy Sessions*
- Demonstrations
- Living History
- Vendors
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Covered Pavilion
Bree’s Sandwich Bar
- The Warriors of AniKituhwa On Stage
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Various
Leatherwood
Locations
- Workshops*
- Medicinal Plant Walks*
- Enchanted Wilderness Walks*
- Private Genealogy Sessions*
- Demonstrations
- Living History
- Vendors
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Covered Pavilion
Jamie & Claire’s
Celebration
On The Ridge
- Cash Bar with Outlander-Inspired Drinks
- Music by Celtic Connections
- Feast on The Ridge
- Outlander Costume Contest
- Barn Dance
SundayOctober 6
10:00AM – 11:00AM
Covered Pavilion
- Plenary Session – Attakullakulla, Peace Chief of the Cherokee, on Stage
- Special Giveaway (Must Be Present at Plenary Session To Win)
- Goodbye From The Ridge
The Workshops
The following workshops are included in ticket price. Workshop registration Date To Be Announced!
Lessons from an 18th-Century PhysicianwithChris Grimes
Exploring medicine from the 1740’s thru the 1790’s. Discussion shall include such topics as medical practitioners (Physicians, Surgeons, Apothecaries and “Every Man His Own Physician”), Instruments of the Surgeon and Apothecaries, Common Medicines and lastly, Common Ailments and their Treatments.
Flatfoot DancingwithMadison Shepherd
Did you know clogging (or flatfooting as its called in the mountains) was the social dance in the Appalachian Mountains dating back to the 18th century? Did you know it is the official dance of North Carolina? This class will focus on learning the basics of flatfooting and buck dancing. Beginning with the roots of the dance and learning the basic rhythm patterns with our feet, we will then start to branch off learning different styles and steps such as including basic clogging steps in your flat footing while still maintaining a true flatfooting style. By the end of class, you will not only know the basics of flatfooting and buck dancing, but your instructor guarantees you will have developed your own style, too!
Ghosts of The Yadkin Valley and Beyond By The CampfirewithRG Absher
Ghostly footsteps, mysteriously locked doors, and apparitions from centuries past. The rolling hills and hollers of the Yadkin Valley have been home to many historic events, from Stoneman’s Raid to the hanging of Tom Dooley. These events have left their imprint on the county’s architecture and landscape, and some of them have even left a ghostly legacy. Join our local storyteller around the campfire as he relates the history behind the haunts with spine-tingling tales, including ghost stories from many of the area’s National Historic Register sites.
The Price of the Highland Scots' Loyalty to King George III at the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge
with Suzanne Adair
Highland Scots famously fought against the English crown at the battles of Sheriffmuir (1715) and Culloden (1745). Then, in the mid-18th century, many relocated to colonies in America, including the Cross Creek (Fayetteville) area of North Carolina, as loyal subjects of Britain. Suzanne Adair, author of an award-winning mystery series set during the American Revolution in North Carolina, discusses what persuaded Highlanders to switch allegiance and migrate, plus the price of their loyalty when the Revolution arrived on their doorsteps.
Tales of The RegulatorswithJeremiah DeGennaro
We’ve already heard about the Regulators in Season 4 and, of course, if you are a book reader, you know much more about them from “The Fiery Cross”. Join Jeremiah DeGennaro from Alamance Battleground for a discussion on "the history behind Outlander". Jeremiah will discuss quotes from the book and what certain plot points in “The Fiery Cross” are based in real North Carolina history.
Plant WalkswithKerry Masarik
Learn basic edible and medicinal plants of the Southern Highlands as we explore the trails around Leatherwood. We will discuss plant identification, and a host of 18th century uses for the plants we encounter. Participants are encouraged to bring a journal, writing utensil, and their favorite field guide. Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, and sun hat are recommended.
Hawk & Knife Throwing with Clint Byers
Essential tools of the colonial woodsman, the hawk and knife were used for a host of camp and daily chores. In a moment of necessity either could be used as a close range projectile weapon thrown with skill and accuracy. Receive instruction in the art of throwing the hawk and knife. This is a great activity for men and women, young or old alike.
Flint & Steel Fire Building with Clint Byers
Learn the art of using flint and steel to make fire. Instruction will cover basic fire lays, tinder bundle preparation, making and catching sparks, producing flames, and manufacturing charred material. All materials for the class will be provided. Instructor Clint will have flint and steel sets available for those who would like to purchase and take their own fire making kit home.
Making a Traditional Native American Turkey Call with Joe Candillo
Hunting was a very important skill learned at an early age by both frontiersmen as well as Native Americans. This skill was important for both survival in the American wilderness as well as for attaining animal pelts which were used as trade commodities. The act of hunting was not merely a tool however. In Native American culture there were many ceremonial and ritualistic aspects involved in the process of hunting. In this class audience members will learn about Native American hunting skills and practices during the frontier era. In this class audience members will actually make and learn to use a traditional Native American turkey call to take home with them. This class will also briefly explore Native American hunting philosophies (respect for animals) and rituals that were being practiced by Native Americans prior to the frontier era hunt.
Making a Traditional Native American Corn Husk Doll with Joe Candillo
Toys were just as important to a child living during the early frontier era as they are to children living today in the 21st century. These simple toys helped take children of the frontier to enchanted magical places in their imaginations. In Native American culture, corn husks, as well as a myriad of other natural materials, were used to make toys for children. These toys were made from natural materials which were skillfully recycled and repurposed. In this class audience members will get the opportunity to learn how to make a traditional Native American corn husk doll from the very same materials used to make them during the frontier era. These beautiful dolls can be taken home with participants and displayed or perhaps gifted to a special child or mother-to-be just as this tradition was done in earlier times.
Campfire Storytelling~ A Native AmericanTraditionwithJoe Candillo
Oral traditions and storytelling was a very important pastime on the American frontier. Both Native American as well as frontier families shared in the tradition of storytelling. Regardless if the tale was a frontiersman’s stories from the homelands of Europe or a Native American story that originated here in the Americas, oral traditions played an essential role in teaching lessons, keeping records, and giving human beings context in the natural world. In this presentation audience members will be able to experience the Native American oral tradition of storytelling around a campfire just as it was done long ago. Audience members will get an opportunity to hear ancient stories of creation, as well as stories of enchanted animals and places. Through these colorful sacred tales one is drawn closer to understanding Native American culture and life during the early frontier era. Take these stories with you as parts of a long-standing tradition practiced by the people of the early American frontier.
EnchantedNative AmericanWilderness WalkwithJoe Candillo
The early American “wilderness” was often seen and understood very differently by Native Americans when compared to the perspectives of early frontiersmen. In this presentation audience members will be guided into the greatest classroom ever created… the wilderness. During a low-impact hike in the woods along one of the many beautiful scenic hiking trails on the Leatherwood Resort, audience members will be guided by a Native American to learn to see the enchanted wilderness world much like Native Americans did during the frontier era. Many traditional Native American philosophies relating to respect for the natural living environment, respect for all its inhabitants, human beings place in this world, natural law, and the delicate but perfectly tuned balance of life in nature will be discussed. This presentation will be a wonderful experience for the student of frontier history as it will lay a foundation for understanding indigenous peoples appreciation, love, and respect for the natural living world as an integral part of who we are.
Living Historywith The Overmountain Men
As you arrive at the Hendrix Cabin on Thursday, October 3, you will be met by the Overmountain Men in a living history presentation by the Overmountain Victory Trail Association. Listen to the voices of those who marched through North Carolina on their way to the Battle of King’s Mountain, a battle ending in defeat for the British on October 7, 1780. Many historians believe this battle was the turning point for the Patriots in the Revolutionary War. Will we see Jamie as one of the Overmountain Men in “Go Tell The Bees That I’m Gone”? The motto of the OVTA: Keeping The Story Alive!
Finding Your Rootswith Traci Thompson
Meet with Traci for a one-on-one session to discuss how to go about finding your genealogical roots! These sessions are for those who are just beginning, for those who have already started “digging” but have run into the sometimes inevitable brick wall or for those who have questions about how to dig deeper. Who knows what ancestors you may find and Traci is excited to be able to help you!
Intro To The DARwith Traci Thompson
Do you have an ancestor who fought in the Revolutionary War? If you do, you’ll discover how to verify and submit your application for membership to the DAR. If you’re not sure, you’ll learn what resources you can use to find out.
Blacksmithingwith Todd Coleman
Join Todd by the forge on Friday and watch the process of blacksmithing from beginning to end. Todd will be explaining the process and answering your questions. Two demo times will be available on Friday for those who who would like to see and hear about the complete process. The demos will be approximately 60 minutes. Included in ticket price. Unlimited class size. If you're unable to make the demos on Friday, Todd would love for you to drop by to say hello and see him in action at the forge.
OutlanderFamily Feudwith Harmony Tersanschi
We've polled the audience and gotten the top answers to our questions! Now it's time to join Harmony for Family Feud Outlander Style. How much do you really know about the Outlander series and will you be the one to help your clan advance to the Fast Money Round. What clan will you represent or cheer for - Sassenachs or Highlanders? Prizes to be announced!! Don't miss this hilarious hour of Outlander fun!! 45 minutes. Sign up required for participants. No sign up to be in the audience.
OutlanderDiscussion Panel
Outlander Season 4: What the Series Got Right and What They Missed! Come join our panel in a lively discussion about the Season 4 series and how Diana Gabaldon’s book Drums Of Autumn adaptation played out in the series. Panel moderators will discuss their own personal pet peeves, accolades and opinions as they look at the pros and cons of the book and the series side by side. There will be plenty of time for audience members to add their own voice to the discussion. Now’s your chance for your opinions to be heard by other Outlander fans.
The following workshops are NOT included in ticket price.Separate materials fee required. Workshop Registration Date To Be Announced!
Salve Makingwith Kerry Masarik
Herbal medicine is an essential part of the Outlander series. In this activity participants will learn the secrets of preparing herbs for salves and tinctures. This allows spring and summer herbs to be available throughout the fall and winter when they are often needed but unavailable. The class will include a demonstration on salve making in which participants will help in preparing their own medicinal salve to keep and take home. All tools, materials, and labeled tins provided with class fee. Fee: $25 per person. Two hours.
Oh, Those Tea Parties!
with Suzanne Adair
Join Suzanne for tea and cake at this tasty and informative workshop. During the American Revolution, patriot men wantonly destroyed tea to make a statement to the British. Patriot women also used tea to communicate with the British—but in a more subtle fashion. Suzanne Adair, author of an award-winning mystery series set during the American Revolution in North Carolina, discusses how ladies’ tea parties in the Old North State underscored the ways that women of the Revolution controlled the economy and blindsided the British. $12 per person. 1.5 hours.
Basket Makingwith Kerry Masarik
Learn the art of basket weaving. Baskets were essential containers on the colonial frontier used for everything from collecting food to storing niceties. Basket making was a skill mastered by both men and women. Each participant will be guided in basic weaving techniques as they make their very own basket. All materials provided with class fee. $65 per person. Four hours.
Drop Spinningwith Kerry Masarik
Before a person could, as Jamie would say, ‘clickit’ there was the need to spin wool into yarn. In this workshop, participants will learn the history, types, and technique of using the drop spindle. Spinning of this type was a basic skill on the colonial frontier; as it required no large wheel. Compact and portable the drop spindle could go anywhere. Class will include a drop spindle for the participant to keep and 1oz. of wool roving. Warning- spinning is highly addictive. If you take this class you may end up with a great wheel or two sitting in your living-room someday. $30 per person. Two hours.
Scrimshaw Makingwith Clint Byers
Join Clint Byers in making a scrimshaw ornament from natural cow horn with a Clan Fraser theme. Scrimshaw is the art of scratching or engraving a design in horn, bone or ivory and rubbing in ink to reveal the design. Most know scrimshaw as engraved whale teeth and bone. Typically, the word scrimshaw is associated with ivory and the whalers of 19th Century America. HOWEVER, we will be engraving horn in the style of the 18th Century. You will engrave an ornament to keep. The design will be applied to the horn disc for those who do not feel they can draw. For those who have confidence to draw, that is an option too! $12 per person. 1.5 hours.
Knit Like Jamiewith Wanda Noble
Speaking of "clickit", Jamie won’t be teaching you in this workshop but you will learn to knit like him. This class is for absolute beginners like Claire and will consist of two separate sessions - one hour on Thursday and continuing for one hour on Friday. By the time you’re done, you will know how to put yarn on a needle and will have a perfect handle on the knit/purl process. So good, that you will be able to start on a simple scarf which you can finish at home - just in time for colder weather! All materials included with class fee. $30 per person. Two hours.
Goat Milk Soap Makingwith Dawn Mathews
Returning for her second Homecoming, join Dawn Mathews, Owner of The Thankful Goat, for this fun and informative workshop where you will learn how to make goat milk soap. Each participant will take home a bar of homemade goat milk soap. This recipe can also be used to make other kinds of soap. Class is two hours and cost is $25.
Make Your Own 18th Century Petticoatwith Kelley
Weatherley-Sinclair
Need a new petticoat to don at “Jamie & Claire’s Celebration at the Ridge”? Join us for this 2-part workshop where you will cut and construct your very own 18th century outer petticoat! A petticoat is a woman’s skirt-like garment worn with a gown or jacket. Most gowns during the 18th century were open-fronted robes needing the addition of the petticoat to fill the gap.
Each participant will supply their own fabric. Bum rolls, pockets, and other accessories can be ordered in advance, link to follow.
Because of time constraints, we will be using sewing machines to sew the majority of your petticoat. If you have advanced hand sewing skills, you are more than welcome to complete your petticoat in that fashion to achieve a more authentic look. All participants will need to know how to sew a “hem stitch” or “whip stitch” in order to complete their petticoat.
Materials Needed:
4 1/2 yards of 45” or 60” cotton, linen or wool fabric for your petticoat;
1 spool of matching thread;
Optional: fabric scissors;
Optional: sewing needle.
Cost: $30 for the 2-part session (a total of 4 hours). All materials (besides the fabric and
matching thread) will be provided.
Dressing The Backcountry 1767with Janet Pyatt
Janet Pyatt, of The Backcountry Peddler, will be joining us both Friday & Saturday for two workshops each day called Dressing The Backcountry 1767. You've seen what Jamie & Claire wear in the show, but in this workshop, you will see what Claire & Jamie would have actually worn in 1767 at the Ridge and how they would have put it on. You might even get "dressed" yourself! Workshop is for men and women alike. $10 per person. 45 minutes.
Copper Jewelry Makingwith Todd Coleman
Join Todd on Saturday as you make your own copper jewelry to take home with you by way of brown smithing. Two classes offered on Saturday. $25 per person which includes materials and the jewelry item you make. 90 minutes each.
Meet The Instructors
RG Absher
RG is a well know folklorist, storyteller, and musician from Western North Carolina. He has produced a number of musical recordings which relate to historical themes of Western North Carolina and has performed at concerts such as MerleFest and the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games. In addition to his musical background, Absher is well versed in regional history and in many stories and tales of the Yadkin Valley. In 2005, Absher set up (and still leads) the successful Ghost Tours in Downtown Wilkesboro, NC on the properties managed by Wilkes Heritage Museum, as well as many sites on the National Historic Register. Currently, Absher is employed as the Assistant Park Manager at the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir. He has been the presiding Board Chair of the Wilkes Heritage Museum since 2006 and has served as Vice President of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association since 2003. He is Chairman of the Wilkes Save Our History Committee, a group that raised enough money through donations and sponsors to produce over 200 Oral History interviews on DVD, then distributed these videos to regional school systems and county libraries. Many of these videos have been aired on UNC Public TV. His published works include A Driving Auto Tour of Historic Tom Dooley Sites for the US Army Corps of Engineers (2006). His enthusiasm for the ghosts of Wilkes County led to a series of interviews on Shadows in the Dark Radio, a station devoted to paranormal activity.
Suzanne Adair
Award-winning novelist Suzanne Adair is a Florida native who lives in North Carolina. Her mysteries transport readers to the Southern theater of the American Revolution, where she brings historic towns, battles, and people to life. She fuels her creativity with Revolutionary War reenacting and visits to historic sites. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, dancing, and hiking. In 2018, she was appointed by North Carolina’s Daughters of the American Revolution to a state-wide committee formed by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to help share information about and coordinate events of America's upcoming Semiquincentennial. She was also awarded a Professional Development Grant from the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County. For more information, visit www.SuzanneAdair.net.
Clint Byers
Clint is a North Carolina native and a proud member of Clan Henderson Society. Growing up immersed in longrifle culture, Clint has spent much of his adult life honing his skills as a backwoodsman. Equally at home in knee-breeches, a loincloth, or a kilt, Clint enjoys being in the woods while hunting and camping in period clothing. As a craftsman, Clint works in horn, leather, and iron. His passion is to craft beautiful historically accurate items in a traditional manner. You can find his shop on Etsy by searching Horn & Fiber. www.hornandfiber.com
Joe Candillo
Joe is a proud tribally enrolled member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona (Federally recognized tribe). He has a PhD in American Studies with a concentration on Indigenous Studies, a Masters Degree in American Indian Studies, and an undergraduate degree in Anthropology. In addition to being well educated in the Western school of thought, Joe has learned many material culture techniques and survival skills directly from indigenous craftspeople as well as tribal elders from diverse indigenous communities. It is from this knowledge that he draws inspiration when recreating his arts. He has created traditional material culture items for collectors as well as a number of State and National museums such as the National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian) and Meadowcroft Rockshelter. He has taught classes in Native American studies for a number of Universities. He has also presented in many venues to diverse audiences including school and scout groups, academic conferences, civic groups, festival visitors, museums docents, and national/state historic sites. His research background and artistic focus is generally centered on Indigenous material culture traditions, spirituality, and traditional aboriginal survival skills (pre-Columbian – 1900’s). Joe is an advocate of authenticity and the traditional arts. Each original piece he creates is made by intensely researching style and material culture techniques in association with a particular time period and cultural region. He is highly respectful of original works of art and does not specifically focus on reproducing original pieces. He also does not sell “sacred” objects which have been used in a ceremonial context. Although his work may look antique, it is fully functional and created in a traditional manner. www.joecandillo.com
Todd Coleman
Todd Coleman, of Banshee Metal Works, will be presenting two workshops. Todd was privately trained by Master Blacksmith, Philip Gaddy, of Scotsman’s Forge. He has demonstrated and taught blacksmithing at Turtle Island Preserve, Iredell Museums, Fort Dobbs, and Latta Plantation as well as privately both groups and individuals. Banshee Metal Works specializes in Historical blacksmithing ranging from the French and Indian War thru the mid 1900’s including several types of smithing such as Blacksmithing, Brown Smithing, Silversmithing, Tin and White Smithing, Colonial Hardware and Cooking Implements, also custom jewelry from copper, brass, aluminum, and silver. Banshee also incorporates modern techniques such as brazing, welding, and metal fabrication.
Jeremiah DeGennaro
Jeremiah DeGennaro is the Site Manager of Alamance Battleground State Historic Site in Burlington, NC. He has been in the museum field in North Carolina for over 10 years, working at sites covering the Civil War, antebellum plantations and enslaved communities, and colonial battlefields. He is a native of Southern California and moved to North Carolina to attend graduate school at UNC-Greensboro. He lives in Mebane with his daughter, Ellie.
Chris Grimes
Chris’ love for medical history began in 2009 when he joined His Majesty’s Detached Hospital, a medical living history group who portrays a British General Hospital detachment during the American Revolution. As he began to study for his role as a surgeon-apothecary, was surprised to discover that while we have made many advances during the last 250 years in the areas of anesthesia, germ theory, blood typing and antibiotics, many things haven’t changed. Major medicines today are actually descendants of centuries-old remedies. Surgical procedures and the tools associated with them remain unchanged. In addition, he was captivated by the people who helped make the advances possible. John Hunter (the father of scientific surgery and mentioned in the Outlander books), Percival Pott (Orthopedics), William Cheselden (cataract removal) and William Cullen (classification of diseases and author of “First Lines of the Practice of Physic” which was a widely used 18th century medical textbook) are just a few medical practitioners who changed the world of medicine whom he has studied. Chris is a 1991 Graduate of North Carolina State University and his biography includes the following: - President, Martin County Insurance, Williamston, NC - Historical Interpreter, Mariner’s Museum, Newport News, VA - Living Historian/Reenactor with a focus on 18th and 19th century medicine, artillery and navy. - Board member, Cupola House Association, Edenton, NC
Kerry Masarik
As an accomplished herbalist, spinner, weaver, and environmental educator, Kerry brings a lifetime of experiential education to her programs. Her more than 12 years of off-grid living give her a unique insight into the struggles faced by women on the 18th century frontier. From cooking over a fire, to treating wounds and sickness, to raising livestock and food, her practical knowledge is tempered by experience. Kerry is truly at home in her 18th century clothing. Presenting at many historic venues, camps, and outdoor education centers, Kerry is well known for her spinning and weaving, her herbal salves and teas, as well as her beautiful baskets; handwoven from natural materials harvested from the woods around her cabin.
Dawn Mathews
In 2009, Dawn Mathews dreamed of making lovely goat cheeses, so her husband bought her a goat. The goat did her plans in when she ate a laurel bush, toxic to goats, and had to be given an antitoxin which rendered the milk and drinkable for two weeks. Her only option? Make goat soap. The Thankful Goat soap and bath products business was born. Their 1/2 acre yard was transformed into a micro farm. In May 2016, they sold their house and moved to 15 1/2 acres to build their dream farm. www.thethankfulgoat.com
Wanda Noble
Wanda has been knitting for over 30 years, having started in middle school in 4H, and learning from her mother as well. She also crochets and uses a loom. She calls herself the expert beginner…since she says you are always learning in fiber arts.
Janet Pyatt
Janet's career began in 2008 as a home-based business called Pyatt's Herbs and More. For the last ten years, she has traveled as a sutler to historical reenactments and historic site festivals throughout the Carolinas and Virginia, offering a variety of wares appropriate to American homes of the 18th and 19th centuries. Her original focus was on the herbs and herb products used in homes of the previous centuries. Throughout the years, her expertise expanded to a variety of household wares, books, and period clothing. In 2017 she changed the name of her sutlery to The Backcountry Peddler, in order to convey more accurately what she really does.
Madison Shepherd
Madison has been dancing since the age of three and has quickly become one of the most familiar names in the industry in this part of North Carolina. At the age of three, she began taking clogging lessons through a local team and by the age of ten, she was instructing for the team. She began playing banjo at the age of ten as well and was quickly introduced to fiddlers conventions and bluegrass and old-time music. It was through this that she learned about flatfooting and buck dancing and quickly took hold to it developing her own style of mixing both clogging and flatfooting together. It was then that she began competing in both clawhammer banjo and flatfooting and has since then earned over eighty ribbons in competitions. Madison currently serves as an instructor for the Junior Appalachian Musicians program and is a student at Appalachian State University.
Traci Wood Thompson
Returning for her second Homecoming as our genealogy expert, Traci lives in eastern North Carolina and is a native North Carolinian. She holds a M.L.I.S degree and a certified genealogist crediential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists of Washington, DC. Traci is also a Local History & Genealogy Librarian and a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina. Traci will be holding private individual genealogy sessions by appointment.
Kelley Weatherley-Sinclair
Kelley is a history and Outlander enthusiast! She graduated with a BA in History at Maryville College in Maryville, TN, and was a member of Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honors Society. Inspired by Outlander, she began her sewing journey in the fall of 2016 and has been researching and creating 18th century garments ever since. Kelley is a the Volunteer Coordinator at Historic Ramsey House in Knoxville, TN, where she enjoys educating and outfitting reenactors and volunteers in the area, with authentic 18th century garments. Kelley is also a member of Tennesseans for Living History. Her idea of a great vacation is strolling through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg in period dress, interacting with the locals. She is looking forward to visiting Governor Tryon’s Palace in New Bern.
“How shall i tell ye what it is, to feel the need of a place?”
jamie fraser
Drums of Autumn
(Diana Gabaldon)
Leatherwood Mountains Resort
Our venue for The Homecoming is the beautiful Leatherwood Mountains Resort. Within the ten mile radius of where The Ridge is likely located, you will feel as though you have truly stepped back in time when you arrive at Leatherwood. Relax in a luxury vacation home hidden in the trees in Leatherwood's Blue Ridge Mountains and wilderness horse country. Or are you more the rustic type? Leatherwood offers camping options on site. Either way, you will know you have come home to The Ridge.
Homecoming Pricing & Tickets
FOUR DAY PASS
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Tickets Purchased On or After June 30 MUST BE PAID IN FULL at time of purchase.
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No refunds after June 30, 2019
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Does Not Include Accommodations, BreakfastAlcoholic Beverages or Any Workshop With Separate Fee (See Above)
Installment Payments
THE EASY WAY TO COME HOME TO THE RIDGE!
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Installment Payments Available for Tickets Purchased Prior To June 30, 2019
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Tickets Purchased On or After June 30 MUST BE PAID IN FULL At Time of Purchase
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Perfect For Any Budget
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Pay In Installments
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You Choose The Amount & When You Pay
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No Interest Ever
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Final Payment Due June 30, 2019
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Excludes $150 Initial Deposit*
Your homecomingOrganizers
Beth Pittman
Beth is the owner of Outlander North Carolina and host of A Fraser's Ridge Homecoming Outlander. She has been a crazed Outlander fan since 2015. Even though she has lived in North Carolina all of her life, it was her love of Outlander which led her to explore North Carolina's rich 18th century history. Beth is a wife and a mother of three, grandmother of four and a breast cancer survivor of eight years.
Susan Jackson
Susan Jackson is a mother of four who lives in coastal North Carolina, and is an avid Outlander fan. Besides reading, she loves cooking and baking, and music. She is a thyroid cancer survivor and has worked in education most of her life. She is a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina and Administrator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook Group.
Nancy Roach
In December 1996, Diana Gabaldon created a rather cantankerous animal character known as “the White Sow” in her book “Drums of Autumn". In 2016, the White Sow joined Twitter, created a Facebook page, and began creating photos, gifs and videos to entertain. According to the White Sow, “It has always been my deepest desire to become comic relief.” The White Sow lives in North Carolina, of course. She is a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina plus the mascot and a moderator of the ONC Facebook Group. You can find her on Facebook @ whitesow1 or on Twitter at @whitesow1.
Mitzie Munroe
Mitzie has been calling the Piedmont of North Carolina home for the past 25 years. She loves to unwind either in reading, knitting (newbie), vegetating in front of the TV watching something sappy or engaging in my newest hobby: collecting Outlander trading cards. Mitzie is a moderator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook Group and a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina.
Cameron Hogg
Cameron Hogg is a North Carolina girl currently living in northern Virginia. She is a mom to twin boys and works in nursing education and clinical practice, which may explain the draw to Claire and the medical aspects of the books and show. She enjoys history and loves to explore the notable sites wherever she goes, but especially those that have a tie to NC and more recently those related to Outlander. She is also a moderator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook Group and a contributing author.
Harmony Tersanschi
Harmony was born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl, but found her forever home in the mountains of North Carolina in 2017. She is married to her “Jamie” and the mom of two boys whom she homeschools. Harmony discovered Outlander while Season 2 was showing on Starz, and instantly fell in love with Jamie and Claire’s love story. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and getting outside to explore their new home in the mountains. Harmony is a moderator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook Group.
Tara Heller
Tara Heller is the mother of two boys, who lives in South Central Pennsylvania. However her heart is the South. Although she is fairly new to Outlander, she has truly immersed herself in it. She also loves history, especially the 18th century, genealogy, visiting the coast, spending time with family and blogging at ladyoutnumbered321.com. Tara is also a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina and a moderator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook Group.
Stephanie Bryant
Stephanie Bryant is a recently retired teacher of special needs children. She initially went to college for journalism, as she always loved read and write. She discovered Outlander from a book club she belonged to about five years ago. Ever since, it's been full speed ahead. She currently runs an Outlander website, Outlander Print Shop, which helps fans manuever through the vast amount of information that comes out daily in Outlander world. She loves to travel and has met many of the cast of the show and most recently, she met Diana. In addition, she is a moderator of Outlander North Carolina. You can follow her on Twitter @twingles321, @olprintshop, on Instagram @onlyoutlander, and on Facebook @ Outlander Print Shop. Stephanie is a new resident of North Carolina, having sold her home in Long Island last August. She is a wife of 26 years and mother to a 23-year old son and a set of 20-year old boy/girl twins.
Traci Thompson
Traci Thompson is a married mother of two who lives in eastern North Carolina, and is, of course, an avid Outlander fan. Traci is a Certified Genealogist and Local History & Genealogy Librarian. She is a contributing author for Outlander North Carolina and moderator for the Facebook group.
Blair Beard
Blair grew up in Eastern North Carolina, in rural Hyde County, and now lives in Pennsylvania, but her heart is grounded in NC. She fell for Outlander “hook, line, and sinker” after attending the NY Tartan Day parade in 2016. She is a moderator for the Outlander North Carolina Facebook group.
Carolyn Baker
Carolyn Baker started her Outlander journey with the beloved books and completely fell head over heals for Jamie and Claire and their love and commitment for each other. Being a mother of two sons and married for thirty-two years this year, she found Diana’s depiction of their love story and unending dedication to each other to be a welcome friend and comparative to what true love and real relationship is all about. She works full-time in the court system but escapes into all things Outlander as much as possible.
Mary Helen Ellis
Mary Helen Ellis claims both ends of North Carolina as her home. Raised in eastern North Carolina, today she hales from Historic Bathe Towne…where North Carolina’s history began along the shores of the Pamlico River and Sound. Living in the boonies has deepened her love for the flora and fauna along the roads less traveled. Those same roads took Mary Helen and her husband Scott westward to the mountains; and in 1997, horseback riding took them to Leatherwood Mountains in Wilkes County! Who would have thought a “mere” book would encapsulate all aspects of her life…. horses, history, art and design, log cabins, antiques, herbs and gardening, life on the shore and in the wilderness, and lest we forget romance. Outlander and Leatherwood Mountains were a match made in Heaven, and Mary Helen realized it upon her first reading; but it took the right connections (ie Outlander North Carolina, and Beth Pittman) to mesh the two together. Mary Helen brings her background in Art Education to the joint effort of creating our own little bit of Fraser’s Ridge at Leatherwood Mountains. See Mary Helen and Scott’s three Leatherwood cabins at www. HawksRestCabins.com
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A Fraser's Ridge
Homecoming
Outlander Inspired.....History Focused
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