View From a Grapevine Swing

About the Book

These stories describe life in a Kentucky coal mining camp in the nineteen thirties as seen through the eyes of an irrepressible, feisty little girl. Many portions of the coal camp culture that no longer exists are described in detail. Included are stories about a strike at the mines, a fatal mining accident, family celebrations, a fishing trip and an experience in summer theatre as well as other stories. It is told as it is remembered.

About the Author

Faye Trail was born in a Harlan County, Kentucky coal mining camp during the depression. Her home was a four-room house without insulation, running water, or indoor plumbing. The children’s playgrounds were the mountains and creeks, their possessions: rich imaginations and creativity. Faye attended Pine Mountain Settlement School, a co-ed boarding school, eons ahead of its time in its approach to education. At age twenty Faye went to Chicago and worked at The City National Bank. Two years later, she married her high-school sweetheart, a career navy man; they have two sons and three grandchildren.