Hello again to everyone out there in the Acorn Sphere. In this blog, we are going to head to a little town in Virginia where music, art, granola, and maybe just a strange vibe all come together. It’s a town that the acorn had never heard of before, but once we went there, it reminded us of a little place in Colorado called Boulder, but 20 years earlier. So, fasten your seatbelt, and let’s take the crooked road to the town of Floyd.
Overview of a Quirky Town
Floyd, Virginia, is a small town situated in the southwestern part of the state. While not an extensively documented history, there are notable events and developments that have shaped the area over the years.
Floyd County was formed in 1831, and the town of Floyd was established as the county seat. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee. European settlers gradually moved into the region, primarily attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.
Like many rural communities, this town relied heavily on agriculture in its early years. The fertile soil of the Blue Ridge Mountains provided a suitable environment for farming. The city grew as a center for agricultural trade, and the surrounding county became known for its farming communities.
The Vibe and Tourism
In recent decades, Floyd has seen a growth in its artistic community. The town became a haven for artists, musicians, and craftsmen, contributing to its vibrant cultural atmosphere. Tourists are drawn to Floyd for its artistic events, music festivals, and the picturesque scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Floyd has also embraced a sense of community and sustainable living. The local food movement gained momentum, with farmers’ markets and organic farming becoming integral to the town’s identity. The emphasis on sustainable practices and a close-knit community has attracted residents seeking a more connected and mindful way of life.
Where Blue Ridge Meets Bohemian Spirit
Floyd is a town that hums with a unique melody. With a population of just over 450, it might seem unassuming at first glance. Beneath its quaint facade lies a vibrant tapestry of music, and a deep-rooted love for the land.
Floyd’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. The agriculture and textile manufacturing for this town started to dry up and this community started to shrink as more families started moving out of the area. The loss of these industries started to leave the town adrift, but Floyd wouldn’t be easily silenced. In the 1970s, a wave of artists and musicians seeking refuge from the urban sprawl found solace in this mountain haven’s rolling hills and friendly spirit. They brought a bohemian spirit, infusing the town with a creative energy that continues to be its lifeblood.
Today, Floyd’s main street is a kaleidoscope of colorful storefronts housing art galleries, antique shops, and cozy cafes. The air is alive with the sounds of bluegrass, folk, and Americana music spilling out from venues like the iconic Floyd Country Store and the Dogtown Roadhouse. This isn’t just background music; it’s the very heartbeat of the community, drawing in aspiring musicians from all corners of the country to jam alongside seasoned veterans.
But Floyd’s charm extends beyond its artistic pulse. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic ribbon winding through the mountains, is just a stone’s throw away, offering breathtaking vistas and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hike to cascading waterfalls, bike along winding trails, or bask in the serenity of the untouched natural beauty.
For those seeking a taste of local flavor, Floyd’s farmers’ markets brim with fresh produce and artisanal delights. Sample cheeses are crafted by hand, savor wood-fired pizzas that are made with organic ingredients and throw back some local craft beers that are brewed with mountain spring water. (Take that Coors, it appears you are not the only one.) The people here take pride in their connection to the land, which shows in the quality and care poured into every bite and sip.
Floyd’s magic lies in its ability to transport you to a simpler time, where community spirit reigns supreme, and creativity finds fertile ground. It’s a place where strangers become friends over shared plates and lively music, nature’s symphony drowns out the city’s noise, and every corner holds a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
At the heart of this community, there is one place that ties together the old and new vibes this town gives off. This place is the County Store, where people from all over come together and simply listen to music. The Friday Night Jamboree, hosted at the Floyd Country Store, became a renowned venue for bluegrass and old-time music. The town’s cultural scene attracted visitors interested in experiencing the region’s rich musical traditions.
The Country Store, steeped in history and tradition, is a sanctuary for Appalachian music, where generations of melodies intertwine with the very spirit of the community. Let’s embark on a journey through its aisles, exploring the vibrant music scene woven into this iconic store’s fabric.
From General Store to Musical Mecca
The story begins in the early 1900s, when the store served as a vital hub for the community, offering essential goods and fostering social connections. The 1980s, however, marked a turning point. Local bluegrass musicians, tired of playing behind closed doors, opened the store’s doors on Friday nights, welcoming all to join their impromptu jam sessions. Soon, the infectious energy drew in listeners and fellow musicians eager to share their tunes. The “Friday Night Jamboree” was born, and the legend of the Floyd Country Store as a musical haven began.
A Legacy of Appalachian Sounds
Today, the music scene at the store thrives. Every Friday night, the Jamboree continues, pulsating with the energy of traditional bluegrass, mountain music, and old-time fiddle tunes. But the musical tapestry extends beyond a single night. Saturdays offer Americana jams, Sundays bring traditional mountain music gatherings, and special events throughout the year showcase diverse musical talents. The store itself becomes an instrument, its wooden beams resonating with the strum of banjos, the twang of guitars, and the rhythmic tapping of flatfoot dancers.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
The Floyd Country Store is more than just a stage for performances; it’s a living archive of Appalachian musical heritage. The “Live at the Floyd Country Store” series captures the essence of these gatherings, ensuring that future generations can experience the raw, unadulterated beauty of this musical tradition. It actively nurtures young talent through workshops and jam sessions, creating a space where musical legacies are passed down and new expressions emerge.
A Place Beyond Music
While music undoubtedly takes center stage, the Floyd Country Store offers much more. Browse aisles stocked with local crafts, savor homemade Appalachian fare, and soak in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that transcends generations. It’s a place for community, connection, and celebration where the spirit of Floyd truly comes alive.
So, if you find yourself drawn to the heart of Appalachia, don’t just visit the Floyd Country Store, experience it. Let the music wash over you, feel the rhythm of the community, and discover a slice of American history where tradition and innovation dance hand-in-hand. It’s a journey that will leave you tapping your feet, humming a tune, and forever connected to the magic of this mountain music mecca.
Additional things that make Floyd interesting
The Floyd Fest: This annual music festival, held in July, attracts over 100,000 people and features a diverse lineup of musicians from all genres.
The Crooked Road: This 330-mile music trail winds through southwestern Virginia, and Floyd is a major stop along the way.
The Mabry Mill: This historic gristmill, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
The Buffalo Mountain Wilderness: This 5,000-acre wilderness area offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re a music lover, an art enthusiast, or simply a nature seeker, Floyd, Virginia, has something to offer everyone. So come, wander its streets, soak in its beauty, and let its unique spirit capture your heart.
Well, another fun week of discovering some new areas of this great country and we here at the Acorn, wish you safe travels and until next time we talk.
Have yourself a Day!!!