W. R. Trivett (1884-1966), a farmer born in Watauga County, North Carolina, was also a self-taught professional photographer who left behind over 400 glass plate negatives of “the other Appalachia.” This work carefully examines Trivett’s life and over 90 of his photographs, through which we can see the everyday reality for most people in rural Appalachia.

Ralph E. Lentz, II, author, is an instructor of history at Appalachian State University, Caldwell Community College, and Lees-McRae College. A native of Watauga County and resident of Blowing Rock, Lentz also pursues interests in painting, drawing, and other graphic arts.