Area Entertainment: Society of Ozark Hillcrofters hold meeting

The Ozark Hillcrofters held their meeting this past week in Harold's Hall at The Shepherd of the Hills. We would like to extend a big 'Thank You' to Jeff Johnson and the kind staff at Shepherd. 

The "special guest," Vance Randolph portrayed by Cline Herren from Diggins, MO, was interviewed by Hayden Head. The setting took you back to 1951. Vance spoke about the topics of his many books that he has penned. He told some stories of his adventures in and around the vast wilderness of the Ozarks.

Hayden Head interviews author Vance Randolph, as portrayed by Cline Herren. (Photo by Luanna Fullerton)

After the interview the audience was able to participate in asking questions. Something notable was Randolph's quote: "Redder than a turkey’s rump in Pokeberry Time!" You can still find Vance Randolph's books at libraries and online. His humor was saucy for the time!

The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters was organized in the 1930s by a group of notable Ozarkers—Otto Rayburn, Vance Randolph and Mary Elizabeth Mahnkey, with the goal of preserving Ozarks culture, folklore, history and conservation. The nonprofit organization still pushes these interests when they were re-founded just a few years ago.

The Society is proud to partner with the Ozark Mountain Music Association. The Society proudly provides scholarships to young musicians to attend music camps hosted by the OMMA Foundation. Other past projects are also supported, such as the recent Pinetop School renovation and many other projects. 

The upcoming annual event will be the Ozarks Books and Collectibles Bazaar on October 25, at Bonniebrook Home & Museum located at 485 Rose O'Neill Rd., Walnut Shade, MO. This event is free and open to the public. 

President Hayden Head stated, "We encourage anyone to join the Hillcrofters. If you love the Ozarks, preservation of the Ozarks history and everything it represents, then come join us!" 

For more information on The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters, visit the website at

societyofozarkianhillcrofters.com. At this site, you will find the motto, membership applications, past information and all upcoming events. Other social media includes Facebook and Instagram.