The resurrection of long-lost American chestnut trees. The comeback of country music icon Randy Travis after a devastating stroke. The controversial Southern accents of a certain Durham family from a certain hit TV series on HBO Max. A literal shark falling from the sky. Here’s a look back at the dozen stories that captured your interest in 2025.
A Round of Disc Golf Takes a Wild Turn
A Myrtle Beach resident gets his own nature show moment. Read more.
For the First Time in Years, You Can Walk Among Wild Chestnut Trees
“When you visit these places, you’re experiencing a monumental step in the restoration of a historic landscape that had basically vanished from the earth.” Read more.
Randy Travis’s Triumphant Comeback
Twelve years after suffering a devastating stroke, the legendary country musician is back on tour. G&G caught up with him and his wife, Mary, to discuss making music with the help of AI and the healing power of horses. Read more.
Fact-Checking the Truth Behind a Southern Snake-ism
Does the smell of cucumber really indicate a copperhead is nearby? Read more.
Remembering the Gentle Giant Who Kept Jimmy Buffett Safe
Equal parts bodyguard and friend, Charleston Miles became an irreplaceable member of the late singer’s inner circle. Read more.
Using Persimmon Seeds to Predict the Weather Is a Sweet Southern Folk Tradition
A North Carolina gardener shares what kind of winter we can expect according to the fruit—plus her grandmother’s persimmon pudding recipe. Read more.
The Accents on The White Lotus Are Really Not That Bad
The drawls are receiving a lot of flak across the internet, but a North Carolina linguist argues they’re actually pretty accurate. Read more.
A Two-Ingredient Old-Fashioned
A South Carolina bar gives the classic cocktail a European twist. Read more.
This Newly Reopened General Store in South Carolina Is Worth a Stop Along Highway 17
The Wood Brothers store welcomes road-trippers with hot coffee, Southern treasures, rare decoys, and the swankiest bathrooms for miles. Read more.
A Conservation Success Story on Former Mining Lands
After a multi-decade restoration effort, elk now roam Kentucky, Tennessee, and the Virginias—and fall is the best time to spot them. Read more.
Savannah Gets a Stunning New Hotel and “Living Room” in Municipal Grand
Sip cocktails and soak up a change of scenery at an all-day lobby bar in the historic downtown. Read more.
Rescued from Ruin: See a Remarkable Tennessee Farmhouse Transformation
This 1800s country home was destined for the dump until one family and a dedicated design team poured their hearts into protecting it. Read more.
