Puckett Cabin

Born in 1837, “Aunt” Orelena Hawks Puckett lived here during the latter part of her 102 years. A bride at 16, she and her husband first farmed below nearby Groundhog Mountain. Past age 50, she began a long career of midwifery and assisted at the births of more than 1000 babies, delivering the last in 1939, the year she died. It was said she never lost a child or mother through her own fault, though none of her own 24 children lived beyond infancy. Regardless of weather, she went wherever and whenever called, sometimes on horseback and often walking, bringing assurance and kindness to those she visited. Beginning her practice around 1890, she charged one dollar, and when times were good, six dollars, often accepting food or other goods instead of money and generously sharing what she had with neighbors and others in need. She is remembered in this area for her witty, cheerful personality and for her unselfish and skillful work as a midwife.

Virginia · United States