Nearly ninety years ago, the largest insurrection in United States history took place in the lush, isolated mountains of West Virginia. Thousands of coal miners marched and then battled on Blair Mountain, Logan Co. WV in outraged reaction to harsh conditions and the murder of their comrades by local coal operators. Blair Mountain has been identified as a site qualified for the National Historic Registry, and yet strip mining daily endangers this mountain and destroys its historic integrity. Virtually unknown to most Americans, the story of Blair Mountain must take its rightful place in history in order to be saved.
Blair Pathways is a unique music project designed to lead the listener through the events of the 1921 Battle of Blair Mountain and create an understanding of the labor movements that came before and after this crucial event.
The project involves three phases:
► Construction of a musical narrative of Blair Mountain through archives research.
► Creation of a CD utilizing new versions of chosen pieces by contemporary artists.
A fold-out map will provide details about track numbers and locations of specific events.
► Distribution of the CD and creation of on-line learning materials for classroom usage. Proceeds from Blair Pathways will directly aid those working to preserve the Blair Mountain battle site.
Blair Pathways is currently pursuing its initial phase of research and narrative construction. Our monetary goal for the initial phase is $3,000. We are calling on you for monetary aid not only because we know you value Blair Mountain’s historic integrity, but because you also recognize the combined potency of music, education and enthusiasm as a tool to strategize for a better future. With your help, Blair’s legacy will be forever preserved not only in the mountains of Appalachia, but in the shouted melodies and triumphant marching tunes of voices across America. Thank you for supporting this important project.
Yours in song,
Jordan Freeman and Sara Lynch-Thomason
Donations can be made through paypal at blairpathways.blogspot.com
Check donations can be sent to Sara LT, please e-mail saralyncht@gmail.com for more information.
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