I remember seeing barns along the highway in the 1950’s proclaiming “See Rock City”, “See 7 States” and so on.  In the days of 2 lane highways it was always a game between Jerry and I to spot the Rock City barns, or “Burma Shave” signs or Jack Rabbit Ranch mile markers.  These minor events broke up the monotony of the trip for restless young boys in the days before books on tape or backseat DVD players.

My dad was a pedal to the metal driver on long trips and side trips to any of the attractions on the signs were not an option but I dreamed of stopping and seeing some of the wonders along the highway.

Yesterday, Mary & I decided to take a trip to Rock City to see the “New Brinkley Brothers” play in the summer music series there.  As we drove South along Highway 11, we actually saw a Rock City barn that actually made me remember the road trips of long ago.

I watched the Binkley Brothers perform on the stage with the 2500 foot drop into Chattanooga as a backdrop.  We watched the entire 4 hour concert from the shady comfort of the dining deck and consumed a fair amount of the locally brewed “7 States Pilsner” to keep the warm temperature in check.

We walked the Enchanted Trail as it wandered through the amazing rock formations, gardens and nature displays but the real reason for visiting today was the music.

Matt played many tunes on the banjo in the “Clawhammer” or “Old Time” style that I am learning.  The video below shows him playing “Shady Grove” a classic mountain tune.

Of course, Mary found her unique Rock City bench and had to try it out for comfort.  And in the end, we can now say,”