King's Mountain

 

Happy 250^th birthday, United States of America!  This is a good time to remember the role our region played in the American Revolution. In September of 1780, troops gathered under a tree known as the Pemberton Oak which stood near what is now Highway 421.  They marched to North Carolina where they met the British in battle at a place called King’s Mountain.  Their victory there is often cited as the turning point in the Revolution.

In honor of this heritage, the Bristol Public Library is excited to present the VA250 Community Read:  King’s Mountain by Sharyn McCrumb. As many will know, McCrumb is known for her novels about our region which focus on our history and culture.  She is a New York Times best-selling author and is known for her fascinating and informative presentations.

John Sevier, like many living in the mountains, had been more concerned with everyday survival than with the dispute brewing between England and her American colonies.  Then an arrogant British officer, Major Patrick Ferguson, sends a message: join the British or I will “lay waste your country with fire and sword.” His words have the opposite effect and soon the mountain men are rallying to meet Ferguson and his troops.

McCrumb tells the story from multiple viewpoints, most notably from John Sevier on the rebels’ side and Virginia Sal, a woman accompanying the British and Loyalist troops. Her vivid portrayal gives readers a “you are there” feel and truly brings to life this important battle.

The library has a limited number of copies of the book to give away as well as bookmarks, while supplies last.  Copies will be available for pick up at both the Avoca Branch Library and at Bristol Public Library.

McCrumb will be leading a book discussion of her novel at Main on Thursday, September 24, at 6 p.m. This is definitely an evening you won’t want to miss! No registration is required; just bring your curiosity and a love of good stories.

The library would like to thank our sponsors, The Bristol Public Library Foundation, The Friends of the Bristol Public Library, and Arts Alliance Mountain Empire for making this program possible.