Talk With History: Discover Your History Road Trip

History of the Hatfields and McCoys

Apr 22, 2024

Delve into the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, sparked by a pig dispute post-Civil War. Meet real Hatfield descendants, explore historical backgrounds, and witness the feud's violent escalation. Reflect on its legacy, reconciliation efforts, and cultural impact.

49:58

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The feud between the Hatfields and McCoys originated from a pig dispute, escalating into deadly violence.

After the execution of Cotton Top, the families reached a truce, emphasizing the power of reconciliation.

Deep dives

The Beginning of the Feud: Hatfields and McCoys

The feud between the Hatfields and McCoys began with a disagreement over a pig, sparking a series of deadly events. Asa McCoy, a Union soldier, was captured and killed by a member of the Hatfield clan, leading to escalating tensions between the families. The feud started to intensify when a stolen pig brought accusations and disputes, fueling the flames of hatred and revenge.

Intro

2min

Exploring the History of the Hatfield-McCoy Feud

17min

The Pig Trial and Uncle Anderson's Fairness

5min

Escalating Feud and Tragic Events

13min

The Peak of the Feud and Tragic Consequences

7min

The End of the Hatfields and McCoys Feud

5min

Reflections on the Hatfield-McCoy Feud

2min

Protect History Now with American Battlefield Trust

This podcast episode, hosted by Scott and his historian wife, Jen, takes a deep dive into the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, an emblematic saga of conflict between two families post-Civil War.

We begin by invoking the atmosphere of tension in the air, referencing notable figures such as Devil Anse Hatfield and Randolph McCoy, and suggesting a dispute over a pig as the feud's catalyst. The episode details our journey to Pikeville, Kentucky. We share experiences from our travels, including an encounter with a Hatfield descendant, and offer insights into the historical context of the feud, its escalation from minor disputes to violent encounters, and its significance in American folklore.

The episode also touches on the portrayal of the feud in media, with mentions of a Miniseries starring Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton, and concludes with reflections on the feud's legacy, including efforts towards reconciliation and its continued cultural impact.

🚕 Google Maps to Pikeville Tourism Center

📍 Randall McCoy house and well

📍 Hog Trial Cabin

🎥 Video from Hatfield and McCoy locations

0:00 Hatfields McCoys

00:10 Intro

01:36 Talk With History: Introduction

02:10 Exploring Hatfield & McCoy Country

02:38 The Visitor Center: Starting Point for Exploration

04:23 Famous Faces from Pikeville: Chris Stapleton and More

06:49 Meeting a real-life Hatfield

08:18 Background of the Hatfield and McCoy Feud