BY KYLE LOVERN

They say America is a melting pot when it comes to the early settlers that migrated to the United States from Europe.

The popular syndicated television show “Outlander” has brought renewed interest to one’s ancestry. If many of you were to take a DNA ancestry test, it is very likely that a large percentage of your bloodline came from Ireland or Scotland.

One of the most popular early pioneers, Daniel Boone, had Scot-Irish ancestry.

The Scots-Irish made a distinct contribution to Appalachian culture. This came in various forms, including influencing the region’s culture in music, religion, farming, language and more.

Bluegrass and Mountain music using instruments like the mandolin and fiddle and the lyrics and storytelling of the songs are one way that still is influenced today. Many early folk songs came over from Europe, and those written after the migration had strong Celtic influences.

The art of Appalachian quilts is another tradition traced back to Scots-Irish culture.

Another, which has been a stereotype of the region, is the fine art of making moonshine or corn whiskey.