Golden Glen Hale
Carr Creek Oral History Project
This collection is comprised of audio-recorded interviews conducted during 2022-2023 by folklorist Nicole Musgrave with support from the Kentucky Oral History Commission. Her work was part of an effort to document the geographic and human impact of the construction of the Carr Fork Reservoir in southeastern Kentucky, which was completed in 1976. The collection’s twenty interviews with residents of Knott, Letcher and Perry Counties range in focus and content. Most of the interviewees were affected by dislocation in some way. They express different opinions about the lake and its impact on the community. Most interviewees share memories of what the area was like before the lake was built, and many have vivid memories of what the construction process was like.
National Capital Contracting
Golden Glen Hale is a notable figure from the Carr Creek community in Kentucky, known for his rich understanding of the local history and his personal experiences growing up in the area. Born and raised in a close-knit community, Hale's childhood was filled with games and education at Neely Elementary. His life was not without hardship, as he recalls his family's reliance on welfare and commodity cheese, and his own experiences selling newspapers as a child. Despite these challenges, Hale's resilience and dedication to his community are evident in his later career as a teacher and his involvement in the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association. His commitment to preserving local history is demonstrated by his efforts to repurpose the school building for community use after its closure due to the construction of a dam and the creation of a lake. Hale's personal anecdotes about his grandmother and his exploration of his family's genealogy further enrich his narrative, providing a deeply personal perspective on the history and evolution of the Carr Creek community.
Scope and Content Note
This interview with Golden Glen Hale, conducted by Nicole Musgrave for the Carr Creek Oral History Project, provides a comprehensive insight into the history and evolution of the Carr Creek community in Kentucky. Hale discusses his childhood experiences, the local businesses, and the impact of welfare on his family. A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to the construction of a dam, the creation of a lake, and their profound effects on the local community. These developments led to the displacement of residents, closure of schools, and significant changes in the local economy. Hale also delves into the history of basketball in the area and its influence on the region's recognition. His career as a teacher and his involvement in the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association are also discussed. Hale's personal anecdotes and exploration of his family's genealogy add a personal touch to the narrative. The interview concludes with Hale's suggestions for further research, recommending Patricia and Dianne Honeycutt Hall for more information on the Defeated Creek area.
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