Highlights from the Ludlow Porch Show, September 3, 1990 - Audio Archive

Exploring the Humor and Charm of Southern Sayings: Highlights from the Ludlow Porch Show, September 3, 1990

On September 3, 1990, WSB Radio in Atlanta featured a delightful episode of the Ludlow Porch Show, where the essence of Southern humor and colorful expressions took center stage. The show, renowned for its light-hearted, yet deeply rooted cultural conversations, invited listeners to share some of the most beloved and quirky phrases that make Southern language so unique. Below is this partial show, archived by My Box of Tapes.

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Timeless Southern Expressions

The show was full of rich, humorous Southern expressions that callers eagerly shared. Here are just a few of the colorful sayings that were called in during the broadcast:

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• "Tarnation"
  A classic exclamation used to express frustration or disbelief.

• "Thunderation"
  Another playful substitute for more intense expletives, often used in moments of irritation.

• "I’ve been on a three-day drunk — yesterday, today, and tomorrow."
  A funny and exaggerated way of describing an extended bender, shared by Bob from a personal story about his father.

• "He ain’t no bigger than a washing soap."
  A humorous way of saying someone is small, shared by Frank, a caller from West Virginia.

• "About a half bubble off."
  An Appalachian expression used to describe someone who’s a bit off or mentally absent.

• "Same old pile of crap, just with a different swarm of flies."
  A cheeky way of criticizing the political landscape, specifically the Carter administration, delivered by Frank.

• "Well, you still got the same old cat?"
  A witty and calm comeback by a neighborhood kid who ran away but returned home hungry, choosing to pretend nothing happened.

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A Bit of Appalachia: Regional Humor

The Southern expressions shared that day came from various regions, but many had a distinctly Appalachian flair. For example, phrases like "about a half bubble off" and "he ain't no bigger than a washing soap" reflected the humor and regional variations found in the mountain communities. These sayings were not only funny but also rich in cultural context, showcasing how language is uniquely shaped by geography and history.

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The Power of Southern Language

The Ludlow Porch Show on that September day wasn’t just about humor; it was about the unique ways in which language reflects culture. From expressions like "tarnation" to witty critiques of daily life, Southern sayings reveal the region’s deep roots in storytelling, where humor is an essential part of navigating life’s challenges.

Listeners were treated to a series of anecdotes, each one showcasing a different aspect of Southern charm, from the colorful expressions to the laughter-filled moments of everyday life. Whether describing frustration, childhood antics, or a dash of political humor, these sayings embodied the warmth, wit, and creativity that have long been a hallmark of the South.

Nundawao: Birthplace of the Seneca Nation

Nundawao: Birthplace of the Seneca Nation

The Finger Lakes region of New York is not only a place of natural beauty but it is also of deep historical and cultural significance. For the Seneca people, this region is home to their origins. The origin story of Nundawao, tells the story of their emergence and connection to the land.

Origins at South Hill

According to Seneca oral tradition, their ancestors first appeared at a site known as Nundawao, located at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake. The Seneca refer to themselves as Onödowága', meaning "Great Hill People," a reference to this sacred place.

South Hill, the believed location of Nundawao, provided an ideal environment for early Seneca settlements. Rich in forests, freshwater, and fertile soil, the region allowed the Seneca to develop a sustainable way of life. Adjacent to South Hill is Bare Hill, known as Genundowa to the Seneca, a site that remains culturally significant. Rising approximately 865 feet above Canandaigua Lake, Bare Hill is linked to Seneca ceremonies and myths, further cementing the region's importance in their history.

The Emergence Story

The legend recounts that the earth opened at Kanandague, allowing the first Seneca people to step into the world. This act of creation laid the foundation for their identity, shaping their spiritual and cultural values.

Over time, the Seneca people flourished, establishing villages and governance structures that contributed to the formation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy—a powerful alliance that played a significant role in shaping North American history.

Jogah

A unique aspect of the Nundawao legend involves the Jogah, or "Drum Dancers," who are said to inhabit the region. Described as benevolent but mischievous, these spiritual beings acted as guardians of nature, guiding hunters and protecting sacred lands.

Oral traditions warn that disrespecting the land could provoke the Jogah, leading to misfortune. This reinforces a central tenet of Seneca beliefs—that humans must live in balance with nature.

Preserving Seneca Heritage

Despite centuries of displacement and challenges, the Seneca Nation continues to honor its heritage. Today, efforts to preserve and share Seneca culture are visible through educational programs and historical sites.

One of the most significant is the Ganondagan State Historic Site in Victor, NY. This site includes a full-scale replica of a 17th-century Seneca longhouse, a museum detailing Haudenosaunee history, and miles of trails that traverse historic Seneca lands.

In addition to preservation efforts, the Seneca Nation actively engages in cultural revitalization. Language programs, traditional ceremonies, and legal efforts to reclaim ancestral lands are all part of an ongoing movement to keep their history alive.

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Watch: Nundawao and the Coming of the Senecas

A pageant of Nundawao embracing the master legend of the Canandaigua Hills was produced by the Nundawaga Society at the Sycamore grove at the northern end of West River Road, between Middlesex and Naples.  The pageant was based on Arthur Caswell Parker's book and directed by William Gordon Dustan.
 The pageant was held from 1954 to 1958.

You can get the e-book or print version of Seneca Myths and Folk Tales by Arthur C. Parker Here

Explore and Learn More

For those interested in exploring the roots of the Seneca people, the Finger Lakes region offers numerous sites of historical importance. Walking the land where the Seneca trace their origins can provide a deeper understanding of their enduring legacy.

How You Can Learn More and Support The Preservation of their history:

Visit Ganondagan State Historic Site to experience Seneca history firsthand.

Support preservation efforts through membership donations or volunteer work.

Share the story of Nundawao to help keep this cultural heritage alive.