Sweet stories from Shaconage Homestead
Welcome to our journal, where we share the passion, purpose, and practices behind Shaconage Honey. Our journey from full-time RVers to rooted homesteaders, inspired by the 'Heroes to Hives' program, has led us to the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Here, sustainable beekeeping and a love for nature guide us. Join us as we explore hive inspections, homestead projects, seasonal harvests, and the sweet rewards of slowing down. We're glad you're here to discover our story.
The spirit of Shaconage
Our home, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, carries the name 'Shaconage' — a Cherokee word meaning 'place of the blue smoke.' This name honors the rich Cherokee heritage of the land, inspired by the uniquely shaped trees on our property, historically used as trail markers. Here, sustainable beekeeping thrives, producing exquisite Shaconage Honey from the diverse flora of these ancient mountains.
Connecting with our community
We love sharing our journey with everyone who visits. Our blog is for both locals and vacationers exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. After reading our posts, we hope you'll feel connected to our passion for bees and homesteading, and inspired by the beekeeping, self-sufficiency, and simple life we embrace. Take a piece of the Smokies home with you – we invite you to buy our honey and taste the natural goodness we cultivate.
Our unique pollinator paradise
Beyond our product gardens and orchard, we've dedicated significant effort to planting extensive pollinator flora. This vibrant paradise attracts hundreds of butterflies and a wide variety of migrating birds, creating a thriving ecosystem right here on our homestead. This commitment to supporting local wildlife and biodiversity is a special part of our homesteading journey that you won't find anywhere else.