THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT. THE MUSEUM HAS A RUNNING WAIT LIST FOR THE CLASS. IF A MINIMUM OF 10 PEOPLE SIGN UP, THE CLASS WILL BE HELD A SECOND TIME ON SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH FROM 1-3 PM AT THE SWANNANOA VALLEY MUSEUM. PLEASE CALL THE MUSEUM AT 828-669-9566 OR EMAIL SVMVOLUNTEER@GMAIL.COM TO BE PLACED ON THE WAIT LIST. 

Learn the fundamentals of Appalachian Folk medicine as a living practice. In this class we will explore the broad cultural influences that make the Appalachian region and it’s folk healing practices unique- from European humoral medicine to West African spiritual traditions. Key plant species used and classic remedies will be covered and we’ll sample a few ourselves. Come ready to taste, mix, touch and smell barks, powders, teas and syrups. Go home with a vinegar remedy you’ve made all on your own. All supplies will be provided. 

Instructor: Rebecca Beyer

Rebecca Beyer is an instructor in Appalachian Ethnobotany, Appalachian Folkways, Foraging, Homesteading and Primitive Skills. She is the founder of the Blood and Spicebush School of Old Craft and a co-founder of the Sassafras School of Appalachian Plantcraft. She currently also teaches people how to forage wild plants and mushrooms with Asheville-based eco-tour company No Taste Like Home. 

Rebecca has a B.S. in Plant and Soil Science from the University of Vermont, and received her Masters in Appalachian Studies and Sustainability from ASU in 2018, with a concentration in Appalachian Ethnobotany. Rebecca has been studying Appalachian folkways and folk magic since she moved to Asheville in 2010 and has conducted numerous lectures, presentations and workshops on the intersections of folk beliefs and plant usage in Appalachia. 

Cancellation Policies

Cancellation by the Swannanoa Valley Museum: If a class needs to be cancelled because it 1) does not meet the minimum number of registrants or because of 2) inclement weather, attendees will be notified at least 24 hours in advance. Cancelled workshops will be rescheduled. 

Cancellation by Student: Cancellations with one week’s notice or more will be reimbursed, but registration fees will not be reimbursed for cancellations within 6 days of the class. If an attendee does not show up and does not give notice, registration fees will be treated as a donation to the museum.