In this first part of a two-part conversation, I’m joined by Tim Hamilton, professor of physics and researcher of grist mills in the Great Smoky Mountains.

We dig into the history of the Smokies’ grist mills—why there were so many of them, the unique stories behind the grist stones, and what these mills tell us about Appalachian ingenuity and community life. Tim also shares insights on the TVA’s use of eminent domain in Swain County, how families were uprooted, and the lasting impact of those decisions.

Our conversation doesn’t stop at history, though—we also discuss present-day issues, like the new parking fees in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and how many locals see them as breaking a promise made to Appalachian people generations ago.

If you love Appalachian history—or want to better understand how decisions of the past and present shape daily life in the Smokies—you won’t want to miss this episode.

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#GristMills #GreatSmokyMountainsNationalPark #LakeFontana #TVA #EminentDomain #NCHistory #TheRoadtoNowhere #WhereTheDogwoodBlooms