Hi Kinderfolk,

Don't know if it has any connection with an actual place in the area, but Black Mountain, N.C. has a Sourwood Festival every year.

I was surprised to see in Stewie's post that sourwood is defined as "chestnut or other bark used in tanning leather." In western N.C. that is a beautiful tree specifically called a sourwood. In the fall it turns an incredible shade of red — truly like fire — and has long, cascading golden seed pods. It's conical shape makes it look like a bright red Christmas tree. It has to be my favourite tree in the whole world.

Next time I'm down there I'll poke around and see if one of the mountains in the area is called "Sourwood."

cheers,

david