Watch Smoky Mountain Money

Smoky Mountain Money is a television show produced by National Geographic, which aired in 2014. The show takes place in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and follows the lives of four families that rely on the resources of the mountains to survive. Each family has their own unique way of making a living in these rugged mountains, highlighting the diverse culture and history of the region.

The show is filmed in and around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which spans over 800 square miles across Tennessee and North Carolina. It provides a stunning backdrop for the series, showcasing the beauty and natural resources of the area. From hiking trails to white-water rapids, the Smoky Mountains offer a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

The first family introduced is the Burlesons, who are third-generation beekeepers. They extract honey from their bee colonies and sell it to local markets, honey enthusiasts, and tourists. They use a traditional method of beekeeping called "cutting off the honey" in which they remove the combs from the hive, cut out the honey, and then put the combs back in the beehive. This method is time-consuming but results in a more natural and pure product.

The second family is the Ownbys, who work as trappers. They catch beavers, bobcats, and other animals to sell their pelts. They demonstrate how to set traps and track animals through the mountains, using their skills passed down from previous generations. The traps they use are simple and effective, and they are able to catch enough animals to sustain their livelihood.

The third family is the Suttons, who have the most unique and exciting job of the four. They are moonshiners, still producing one of the most iconic products synonymous with the Smoky Mountains: moonshine. The Suttons have been making moonshine for over 200 years and use an elaborate system of tubes, barrels, and condensers to create their signature batches. The patriarch of the family, Popcorn Sutton, is a famous moonshiner who gained notoriety after publishing a book on moonshine. The family continues to make Popcorn's recipe and sell their moonshine legally since 2010.

The fourth family is the Byrds, who are lumberjacks. They use chainsaws and axes to cut down trees, which they then mill into timber and other products. Lumberjacking is a dangerous job, and the Byrds demonstrate the skills and methods they use to stay safe while working in the rugged terrain of the Smoky Mountains. Their wood is sought after from craftsmen and builders and is considered among the best-quality hardwood found in the United States.

Throughout the series, each family exemplifies the true spirit of the Appalachians through their commitment to hard work, resourcefulness, and survival. They share stories of their ancestors and their cultural history, giving viewers a glimpse into a unique way of life rooted in tradition.

Smoky Mountain Money provides an in-depth and educational look into the industries that have sustained life in the Smoky Mountains for generations. It showcases the people who call the mountains their home, as well as the natural beauty of the region. The show educates viewers about the history and cultural significance of the Appalachian Mountains, as well as the challenges faced by contemporary mountain people. The show highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness required to make a living in such a rugged landscape, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

Smoky Mountain Money is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between September 17, 2014 and on National Geographic