Charles Feller Frazier, better known as Feller, is a native of Cody, Kentucky, born in New York City while his parents were working there. His family moved back to Kentucky, where they started their business, and Feller has lived there ever since. His father's family originally hailed from Letcher County, Kentucky, from a community called Hot Spot, while his mother's family was from Jackson County, Kentucky, near Annville. Feller's parents met in Vicco, Kentucky, and after working on the road for a while, they returned home to start their business.

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.

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.

Karen Jones Cody is a native of Smiths Borough in Knott County, Kentucky, where she has deep familial roots and a rich personal history. As co-owner and editor of the Troublesome Creek Times, Cody has a strong connection to her community and a passion for storytelling. Her childhood was marked by a love for reading and writing, and she attended multiple schools, which likely contributed to her broad perspective and understanding of her community.

Nancy Pigman is a native of Knott County, who spent her formative years in the small community of Litt Carr. Pigman's early experiences were shaped by the natural environment of her hometown, where outdoor activities such as fishing in the creek were a staple of her youthful adventures. Pigman's life was notably affected by the construction of a dam in her area, which resulted in the displacement of her family and others in the community. This event had a significant impact on her and is a central theme in her recollections of her past.