Wedding Rituals of Pocahontas County, West Virginia

 

When exploring the wedding rituals of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, it's essential to understand them within the broader cultural tapestry of Appalachia. While there are few, if any, wedding customs documented as being exclusive to Pocahontas County itself, the county shares a rich history of traditions rooted in the Scots-Irish, German, and English heritage of the Appalachian mountains.

These rituals can be divided into historical practices, many of which valued community and practicality, and modern adaptations that often celebrate the region's stunning natural landscape.

Historical Wedding Traditions

Historically, weddings in rural areas like Pocahontas County were practical, community-centered affairs. They were less about elaborate display and more about the joining of two families and the affirmation of the couple by their neighbors.

• Home Weddings: Most weddings took place in the home of the bride’s parents rather than in a church. A traveling preacher, or "circuit rider," or a local Justice of the Peace would often perform the ceremony. The setting was intimate, involving close family and neighbors.

• The Shivaree (Chivaree): Perhaps the most notable post-wedding ritual in Appalachian culture was the shivaree. After the couple had retired for the night, friends and neighbors would sneak up to their house and begin a loud, cacophonous "serenade" by banging pots and pans, ringing cowbells, and firing guns into the air. This noisy celebration would continue until the newlyweds emerged and offered the crowd a treat, such as a drink or a piece of cake. The shivaree served as a boisterous community acknowledgment and acceptance of the new marriage.

• The Stack Cake: A classic Appalachian wedding food tradition is the stack cake. In a show of community support, guests would each bring a thin layer of a spiced cake. The bride’s family would then assemble the layers, spreading a filling of cooked, sweetened dried apples (apple butter) between them. The height and quality of the cake were a testament to the bride's popularity and the community's generosity.

• Handfasting: Reflecting the Scots-Irish heritage of many settlers, the folk tradition of handfasting was sometimes practiced. This ancient Celtic ritual involves tying the bride's and groom's hands together with a cord or ribbon to symbolize their union and commitment. While not universal, its roots align with the region's primary ancestry.

• Jumping the Broom: Another folk tradition found in the broader Southern region is "jumping the broom." After the vows, the couple would jump over a broomstick together. This ritual, with complex origins in both African American and Welsh cultures, symbolizes sweeping away the past and starting a new life together.

Modern Weddings in Pocahontas County

Today, weddings in Pocahontas County often blend these older traditions with contemporary styles. The most significant modern feature is the use of the county's spectacular natural environment as a backdrop and centerpiece for the ceremony.

• Nature as the Venue: Couples are drawn to Pocahontas County for its pristine beauty. Popular wedding venues include:

  • Snowshoe Mountain Resort: Offering mountaintop ceremonies with panoramic views.

  • Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Couples can get married on a historic steam-powered train or at the rustic logging town at the base of the mountain.

  • Watoga State Park: Providing serene lakeside or forested settings.

  • Rustic Barns and Farms: These venues offer a nod to the area's agricultural heritage while providing a popular aesthetic.

• Incorporation of Tradition: Many modern couples choose to incorporate historical elements into their ceremonies for a touch of local authenticity. This can include:

  • Live Bluegrass Music: Featuring a local string band with fiddle and banjo music during the ceremony or reception.

  • Folk Rituals: A handfasting ceremony or jumping the broom may be included in the proceedings.

  • Local Flavors: Catering might feature regional dishes, and some couples still opt for a traditional stack cake or an apple-themed dessert.

In summary, the wedding rituals of Pocahontas County are deeply connected to the broader traditions of Appalachia—emphasizing community, simplicity, and a connection to heritage. While the raucous shivaree has largely faded into memory, the spirit of these traditions lives on in modern ceremonies that celebrate family, local culture, and the profound beauty of the West Virginia mountains.