photo #7857457

The photograph taken in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, during the 1920s shows Evelyn Bishop (left) and Aunt Sophie Camel (Campbell, right) standing in front of "bee gums," a type of traditional beehive made from hollowed-out black gum trees. Bee gums were commonly used in rural Appalachian communities, particularly before the widespread use of modern beekeeping equipment. These natural hives were crafted by removing the center of a black gum tree trunk, creating a hollow space where bees could build their colonies. The use of bee gums reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of mountain people who relied on the land and natural materials for their survival. Beekeeping, particularly honey production, was a key part of the agricultural lifestyle in Appalachian communities. Honey was not only a valuable food source but also had medicinal and practical uses. In an era before refrigeration and the mass production of sweeteners, honey was highly valued for its sweetness and preservative qualities. The photograph of Bishop, Campbell, and the unidentified young boy highlights the close relationship these individuals likely had with their land and the traditional ways of life passed down in the region. The image is part of the University of Tennessee's historical collection and offers valuable insight into the cultural and practical aspects of life in the Smoky Mountains during the early 20th century. It serves as a reminder of the deep connection between Appalachian families and the natural world, as well as the ways they adapted to and preserved traditional methods of agriculture and craftsmanship.