On Saturday, October 1, the Museum of Appalachia presented its second Heroes of Southern Appalachia award ceremony, held on the Museum grounds.

Joseph E. Johnson and James M. Hart are this year’s honorees.

Each Heroes of Southern Appalachia award is presented to a person of Southern Appalachian heritage, who embodies the spirit of the region with characteristics of perseverance, fortitude, self-reliance, and service. The accomplishments of each recipient have brought greater awareness and understanding of Appalachian culture.