Ray Hicks
Encyclopedia
Ray Hicks was a renowned Appalachian storyteller, who lived his entire life on Beech Mountain, North Carolina
. He was particularly known for the telling of Jack Tales
.
In 1983 he was made a National Heritage Fellow
.
Beech Mountain, North Carolina
For the geographical feature, see Beech MountainBeech Mountain is the highest town east of the Rocky Mountains, located in both Avery and Watauga counties in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The population was 310 at the 2000 census...
. He was particularly known for the telling of Jack Tales
Jack tales
A collection of English folk tales centering around a character usually named "Jack," Jack tales are also popular in Appalachian folklore.The Jack in these tales is usually a weak character, sometimes a foolish one, but generally a kindly one...
.
In 1983 he was made a National Heritage Fellow
National Heritage Fellowship
The National Heritage Fellowship is a lifetime honor presented to master folk and traditional artists by the National Endowment for the Arts. Similar to Japan's Living National Treasure award, the Fellowship is the United States' highest honor in the folk and traditional arts...
.