Meet the Author: A Conversation and Book Signing with Michael C. Hardy

Join us at the Museum of Butler, TN for a special afternoon of history, storytelling, and Appalachian heritage as we welcome acclaimed historian and author Michael C. Hardy for our next Living History Saturday program.

Saturday, July 18, 202612:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Museum of Butler, TN123 Selma Curtis Road, Butler, Tennessee

This special Author Talk is free to attend.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own chair.

Michael C. Hardy is an award-winning writer and historian known for his extensive work on Civil War, Revolutionary War, and Appalachian history. He has authored more than 25 books and is a frequent speaker across the Southeast, bringing the stories of our region to life through engaging research, vivid storytelling, and a deep understanding of the people and places that shaped the American story.

His newest book explores a powerful and often overlooked chapter of the American Revolution in Southern Appalachia — a time when “Patriots vs. Loyalists” was not simply a slogan. It was your neighbor.

Across the rugged ridges of Southern Appalachia, the fight for American independence took on a raw and uncertain life of its own. Long before the ink dried on the Declaration of Independence, the backcountry of Western North Carolina and what would become Eastern Tennessee was already a pressure cooker of rebellion, loyalty, and survival.

Here, far from Philadelphia’s debating halls, the American Revolution unfolded in skirmishes, alliances, and personal gambles that helped shape the future United States. Although George Washington never set foot in these mountains, the region’s role in the American War of Independence proved critical. Patriots, Loyalists, frontier dissidents, and multiple Native American nations fought for control of strategic valleys, trade routes, and communities.

Their clashes left lasting marks on both regional identity and the national story. From shifting frontier loyalties to decisive campaigns, this was a battleground where everyday families became part of America’s founding struggle.

Through profiles of influential figures, accounts of pivotal events, and insights into the geopolitical stakes of the backcountry, Hardy reveals how this overlooked frontier helped forge the nation.

Guests will enjoy an engaging author talk followed by a book signing and an opportunity to meet the author.

Experience “The Town That Wouldn’t Drown”

While you are here, we invite you to experience the Museum of Butler, TN and explore the remarkable story of “The Town That Wouldn’t Drown.”

The museum shares the history of Old Butler, the Watauga Valley, and the families whose lives and communities were forever changed by the creation of Watauga Lake. Through exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and personal stories, visitors can connect with the people, places, and heritage that continue to shape Butler today.

2026 Museum Season

The Museum of Butler is open for the 2026 season from May 23 through October 29.

Saturdays: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sundays: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Admission: $5 per personChildren under 12: Free

Cash, Credit or Debit Accepted

The Museum of Butler is proud to be a Blue Star Museums participant, offering free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families during the summer season. Children love our new Pioneer Passport program! Visit our Gift Shop.

About the Living History Saturday Series

This program is part of the Museum of Butler’s Living History Saturday Series, which brings the stories of our region to life through engaging speakers, author talks, demonstrations, and interpretive programs.

Living History Saturday Programs are made possible through support from the TN 250 grant as part of Tennessee’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.

We hope you will join us for this meaningful afternoon of history, conversation, and Appalachian heritage at the Museum of Butler, TN.

America 250 Acknowledgement

This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee administered by the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial.