History of the Melungeons

Who were and ARE the Melungeons? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer. It is a topic about which there are many theories, many viewpoints, and many strong opinions, but no general consensus. Most generally, I think it can be said that "Melungeon" refers to a mixed-race people living in the southern Appalachian Mountains. This area includes WV, eastern KY, TN, parts of NC and SC, and northern GA and AL. They are related in many …

…have been varying degrees of acceptance of those outside the defined norm, allowing for varying degrees of participation by mixed-race peoples in mainstream society. The fact that the public record, records the contributions and services of some Melungeons merely reinforces what I stated above, that the Melungeons have always been a thriving part of the fabric of life in America along with all other minorities that have become part of and contributed to America's history.