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I was born in the foothills of the Appalachians, and for most of my adult life I lived in that region until moving to the West Coast during the pandemic. As a practicing Druid since my teens, I’ve noticed that there is a distinct and separate flavor of Druidry common to the Appalachian region, which was settled by Scots-Irish folk. This only makes sense, since Druidry is about spirits of place and the spirits of the Appalachians are different from the spirits of the Scottish Highlands.
Even so, many of the spirits of place of the Appalachians have much in common with those of the Scottish Highlands, since the Appalachians and the mountains of Scotland were once connected billions of years ago. Appalachian Druidry has its own distinct rites and practices, just as other forms of Druidry in other regions have their own distinct flavor. Now that I’m near the Cascades of Washington State, I’m learning a whole new type of Druidry.
A Unique Blend of Traditions
Appalachian Druidry is a blend of Celtic traditions brought over by the Scots-Irish immigrants and the indigenous spiritual practices of the region. The Scots-Irish, with their strong oral traditions and deep connection to the land, brought with them a rich tapestry of Celtic myths, legends, and folkways. These traditions intertwined with the existing spiritual beliefs of the indigenous peoples of Appalachia, resulting in a unique and living expression of Druidry.
Key Characteristics of Appalachian Druidry
- Emphasis on Ancestral Spirits: Appalachian Druidry often places a strong emphasis on honoring ancestors, both biological and spiritual. This may involve visiting family graveyards, conducting ancestral rites, looking into family heritage and genealogy, and seeking guidance from deceased family members.
- Strong Connection to the Land: The mountains, forests, and rivers of Appalachia play a central role in Appalachian Druidry. Practices may include connecting with the spirits of the land, honoring sacred sites, and utilizing local plants and herbs in rituals.
- Folk Magic and Traditional Crafts: Appalachian Druidry often incorporates traditional crafts and folk magic practices, such as herbalism, storytelling, and music. These practices are seen as ways to connect with the land, ancestors, and the spirit world.
- Community and Storytelling: Storytelling is a vital part of Appalachian culture, and it plays a significant role in Appalachian Druidry. Stories of local legends, myths, and historical events are shared and passed down through generations, helping to maintain a strong connection to the past and the land.
- Music and Dance: Music and dance are also integral to Appalachian Druidry. Traditional Appalachian music, such as bluegrass and folk music, often incorporates themes of nature, spirituality, and community.
Appalachian Druidry Today
While Appalachian Druidry may not have a formal organization or a single defined set of beliefs, it continues to be practiced by many individuals and groups throughout the region. Modern Druids may draw upon traditional practices while adapting them to their own unique needs and perspectives.
Learning from the Cascades
Now that I reside in the Pacific Northwest, I am immersed in a very different landscape and a different set of spiritual influences. The towering Cascades, with their ancient glaciers and lush forests, offer a unique and powerful connection to the Earth. I am learning to connect with the spirit of this place, to understand the local legends and lore, and to develop my own practice of Druidry within this new context. My daughter’s heritage includes the coastal Salish people, and I am learning about their legends and the local herbs and edible plants.
While a lot of crossover occurs between the Appalachians and the Cascades of the Pacific Northwest, it’s an entirely different bio-region so in some ways it feels like I’m starting all over, but I love learning and I like a challenge. The spirits of place here feel more connected with the darkness, and this is a great place for shadow work, even though at times I remember the lessons learned from the Appalachians and look back with gratitude.
Conclusion
Appalachian Druidry is a vibrant expression of the Old Religion, demonstrating the diverse and evolving nature of spiritual practice. It serves as a reminder that Druidry is not a static tradition but a living and evolving path that adapts and changes in response to the unique circumstances and environments in which it is practiced. Whether in the Appalachian Mountains or the Pacific Northwest, the essence of Druidry remains the same: a deep reverence for nature, a connection to the ancestors, and a commitment to living in harmony with the Earth.
Share Your Thoughts on Appalachian Druidry!
Have you experienced Appalachian Druidry? Is there a distinct flavor of Druidry where you live and practice? Tell me what you think in the comments below!