George Gibson
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
George Gibson is a long-time resident of Knott County, Kentucky, with a rich history and deep roots in the community. Born and raised on a farm, Gibson's early life was centered around his family's country grocery store, which served as a vibrant social hub for the local rural community. His recollections paint a vivid picture of the area's social life, filled with humorous anecdotes and stories that have shaped the area's history. Gibson's experiences extend beyond the family store, encompassing various communities and social spaces in the area. He recalls the Stampers growing peanuts, the Blue Goose log home, and the Black church on Breeding's Creek. Gibson also has a keen interest in local music, noting the notable musicians in the area and the decline of dances and social gatherings in the 1950s. His narrative also touches on the technological advancements of the time, including the telephone system and the exchange at the Stamper family.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with George Gibson provides a comprehensive overview of life in rural Knott County, Kentucky, during the mid-20th century. Gibson shares his personal experiences and observations, offering a unique perspective on the area's social, cultural, and technological changes. The interview covers a wide range of topics, from the vibrant social life centered around his family's country grocery store to the decline of dances and social gatherings in the 1950s. Gibson also discusses the various communities and social spaces in the area, including the Stampers growing peanuts, the Blue Goose log home, and the Black church on Breeding's Creek. A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to the controversial construction of a dam and lake in the area. Gibson provides a detailed account of the project's impact, including the displacement of families, the destruction of historical buildings, and the overall negative effects on the community. He also discusses the cultural and psychological impact of the construction, expressing a lack of interest in the current state of the lake area.
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