S4 EP4: Aaron Collins

Melungeon Voices

Aaron Collins is an amateur genealogist and researcher. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, and minor in Appalachian Studies. He served twelve years in the US Army reserves. Earlier this year, Aaron started his own business, Lefthanded Guy Upholstery and Woodworking.

Aaron is a descendant of “Old” Benjamin Collins via his maternal grandfather. He spent his formative years visiting his Mamaw and Papaw in Sneedsville, TN. Additionally, Aaron is on the Board of Directors for the Vardy Community Historical Society in Sneedsville, TN. Aaron lives with his husband and two dogs in Knoxville, TN.

In this episode, Aaron and Heather discuss Melungeon ancestry, the Melungeon settlement of Vardy Valley/Newman’s Ridge, and how one can research their own Melungeon heritage.

For more information on the Vardy Community Historical Society visit them on the web here: https://www.vardymuseum.org/?mibextid=Zxz2cZ

Melungeon Voices is presented by the Melungeon Heritage Assocation, hosted by Heather Andolina (MHA Board President) and produced by Lis Malone (Lis Malone LLC).