Author: Chad Thompson

Today, we visit the Arts Depot in Abingdon Virginia. Located in downtown Abingdon, the Arts Depot is housed in a historic Norfolk & Southern train depot. Here you can expect to find ever-changing art galleries, working artist studios, and a good deal of history. Be sure you visit the Arts Depot on your next trip to Abingdon, Virginia. For more information on the Arts Depot, please visit: https://www.abingdonartsdepot.org/ For more information on all other offerings in Southwest Virginia,...

In today's episode, I had the chance to sit down and talk with Tourism Director David Rotenizer, Hammer & Forge Brewing owner Caleb Williamson, Chaos Mountain Brewing owner Joseph Hallock. We talked about all things brewing including start-ups, passion projects, innovation, and more. I had the chance to visit both of these breweries back in April of this year and enjoyed both. I went back to Franklin County in May to attend the Chaos Mountain...

If you're looking to explore an area of Southwest Virginia that is immersed in beauty, history, and moonshine, Franklin County has to be on your list. Franklin County is home to two beautiful lakes, breweries, distilleries, and plenty of quaint downtown areas. Franklin County also acts as a gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, 'Round the Mountain Artisan Trails, and is of course the Moonshine Capital. Downtown Rocky Mount Rocky Mount serves as the county seat to...

In this episode, we visit the historic and family-owned, Big Walker Lookout Country Store in Wytheville, Virginia. Expect to experience scenic beauty, great food, and entertainment on your visit. Big Walker is also a member of the 'Round the Mountain Artisan group and has a nice selection of local art and gifts in the shop. Be sure to pay Big Walker Lookout and the Country Store a visit on your next Southwest Virginia Adventure! To learn more...

In this episode, we visit the William King Museum of Art in Abingdon, Virginia. The William King Museum of Art is not only an art gallery but also a great educational and historical resource to the area. With their latest edition of Art Lab, people of all ages can learn more about art with a hands-on approach. Be sure to visit the William King Museum of Art and Art Lab on your next trip to Abingdon,...

In today's episode of the podcast, I am joined by 'Round the Mountain Artisan Henri de Hahn to talk about his life of traveling, settling in the region, and his hand-carved, hand-painted snakes. Henri was such a fun quest to speak with on the interpretations of art, various mediums, and how the materials often determine the art. If you would like to learn more about Henri and his work, be sure to view his website here. If you...

In today's episode, we visited the Holston Mountain Artisans Guild in Abingdon, Virginia. Holston Mountain Artisans has been around for a number of years, assisting and working with and for artisans in the Abingdon, Virginia, and surrounding area. Located in an old police station, Holston Mountain Artisans has a wide variety of handmade arts, crafts, and gifts. Listen to the podcast episode here: https://visitswva.org/holston-mountain-artisans-celebrating-50-years/ Visit Holston Mountain Artisans on the web: https://www.holstonmtnarts.org/ Visit the Holston Mountain Artisans Facebook page:...

Today's episode continues the Franklin County Moonshine Heritage month episodes. Today we chat with Franklin County Tourism Director, David Rotenizer, Bethany Worley Director of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, and Karen Dillion Editor of the Franklin News-Post. In this episode, we talk about what events visitors can expect to participate in during Moonshine Heritage Month, a month-long celebration of moonshine heritage in Franklin County. Two larger events of interest include a themed car show around...

In today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, I take the show to the Moonshine Capital of Franklin County, Virginia. I am joined by Franklin County Tourism Director, David Rotenizer, Twin Creeks Distillery, and Laws Choice. This special edition episode takes a deep dive into SWVA Moonshine's history with stories of the past. Sit back as we talk about the days of prohibition, bootlegging, and homemade moonshine production. We also take a look at...

In today's special edition episode, we dive into the history of Holston Mountain Artisans located in Abingdon, Virginia. Formed in 1971, Holston Mountain Artisans has spent the last 50 years helping artisans within a 75-mile radius of Abingdon, Virginia. Originally located at the Cave House Craft Shop on main street, Holston Mountain is now located in the old Washington County Jail on Park Street.  Today I was joined by Kathy, Eric, Rees, and Sara   To learn more...