Digital Traditions

General - Traditional Arts

Home to a wealth of folk traditions, South Carolina is culturally and geographically diverse.  From the Appalachian Mountains to the Sea Islands and from rural crossroads to urban centers, the state boasts rich sources of traditional culture and folklore. Rooted in family and community activities, folklife involves expressive forms of many kinds that are communicated verbally and by observation or imitation.  Folk artists can learn through apprenticeships, but most often are taught informally by family members or close friends. This sharing of information can occur in many different group settings - familial, occupational, religious, social, and educational. Folklife is dynamic by nature, a part of a community's history that continues to develop every day, with every generation.  

Digital Traditions was developed to provide access to the Folklife Resource Center (FRC) at McKissick Museum.  For thirty years, deeply rooted traditions like quilting, pottery, basketry, communal foodways, and folk music have been documented through audio, video, and photography. For further information about any of the artists featured on Digital Traditions, send your questions and comments to hallagan@mailbox.sc.edu.

Two Peas in a Pod | Digital Traditions
Episode 3

Video

Additional footage from the SCETV program Carolina Journal in 1984. Pappy Sherrill and Snuffy talk about music, features Hired Hands performance at SC State Fair and Greasy Medlin and Snuffy...
Beaumont Rag | Digital Traditions
Episode 4

Video

Snuffy, Pappy and the Hired Hands perform the "Beaumont Rag" on the "Pickin' Time" program, WIS-TV Columbia, 1974. Snuffy plays his washboard.
Firing His Kiln, Part 2 | Digital Traditions
Episode 4

Video

This is an excerpt from the program "Folkways: Face Jugs and Folk Pots" narrated by David Holt. Learn more about Burlon Craig and the firing of his kiln from this is an excerpt from the program...