What is Appalachian Disturbance?

September 2, 2024
View of Appalachian mountains

Appalachian Disturbance is a brand new apparel company focused on promoting Appalachia. 

Located in the heart of Appalachia, our company offers unique T-shirts designed to be more than just clothing. With every purchase, you get a shirt that not only features artwork inspired by Appalachia but also tells a story of the mountains we call home.

Kicking off our company debut is our 2024 Logo Series. Yes, even our logo has its own story showcasing Appalachia itself!

 

Appalachia and Appalachians

Depending on who you ask, you may get different answers to “Where is Appalachia?” Don’t believe us?—visit Mapping Appalachia: A Digital Collection to see different maps of Appalachia over the years. One commonly used boundary comes from the Appalachian Regional Commission (described below). 

View of Appalachian mountains

Appalachia is recognized as a 206,000 square mile region surrounding the Appalachian mountains. Here you’ll find scenic valleys to majestic ridges, quiet towns to vibrant cities, rugged trails to historic roads, and more.

Did you know that eight tribal communities and 423 counties contained in 13 states form this region? 

Map of Appalachian counties and Appalachian counties near recognized tribal entities based on the Appalachian Regional Commission definition of Appalachia

Who are Appalachians? Much like trying to define Appalachia, the answer to this question depends on who you ask. Not everyone who lives here identifies as Appalachian. And what’s more, stigma sometimes keeps folks from proclaiming it. Maybe you've even heard of some stereotypes. But, we hope you’re Appalachian proud and ready to challenge stereotypes and misconception!

Right now, 26 million people live across the Appalachian region. Inventors, innovators, and many others - with their own careers and crafts - call Appalachia home. 

Here at Appalachian Disturbance, we too proudly call Appalachia home.

Be an Appalachian Disturbance

How did Appalachian Disturbance begin? The three of us—Angie,  Bryce, and Emily—all met through work. Initially, we worked together on projects dedicated to improving the lives of West Virginians, but organizational changes eventually took us in different directions. To continue to work together, we decided to combine our talents on a project that was meaningful to us—and one that we hope will make a difference in Appalachia! Out of this collaboration, Appalachian Disturbance was launched.

At Appalachian Disturbance, our mission is to showcase the Appalachian region worldwide through unique product creations, each with its own story to tell. With every endeavor, we strive to share the region's remarkable stories, hidden treasures, and awe-inspiring discoveries, all while challenging stereotypes and misconceptions.

You may be asking—how can I help? To get started, join us in our mission but also, if you’re from Appalachia, share your own remarkable story—in other words, be an Appalachian Disturbance! Also, check out the important work done by others focused on the region and get involved. 

Appalachian mountain view with the text: Be an Appalachian Disturbance! Join us in our mission but also, if you're from Appalachia, share your own remarkable story