Has anyone ever heard about the Melungeon race of people living in the Appalachian mountains of Virginia, Tennessee, and NC?

Supposedly, they are a group of people of "mixed race"- Native American, European, and possibly African American. One theory is that a group of Portuguese people were left on the Atlantic coast in the late 1500's and they ended up in the mountains of NC, VA, and TN. Then they lived together with Native Americans. There are a lot of different theories.

I'm particularly interested because I am from an area of Virginia that the leading researcher on the topic, Dr. Kennedy, says Melungeons live. My mom, grandma, and my great-grandma have typical Melungeon characteristics- really dark skin, high cheek bones along with European characteristics.

I think this is an example that proves the natural order of human relationships is NOT to exist seperately based on "race".

So, have any of you heard about this before?
If not, what do you think of "Melungeons"? Do you think they are a group of people to be proud of?

I think that all races, cultures and ethnicities are something to be proud of. I may not agree with the beliefs and customs but they are something to be celebrated because they have stood the test of time.

No, I have never heard of the Melungens. I would love to find out more.

I just recently found out my great -great grandmother was a full blooded Black Foot Indian. What I find so amazing is that a distant cousin told me. My grandmother who just recently died, never once mentioned her race to me. In fact my own mother did not know until I told her of her great grandmother race. Looking back I know see that was a hush hush topic. My grandmother, though a wonderful woman, probably thought that was a shame to have "Indian Blood" in her. Personally, I think its great. I have always been fascinated with Native Americans.

If there is a hidden race of Melungens, then again we will probably find the older generation covering up their roots.