The Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast
The Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast is a heartfelt journey into the people, places, and stories that shaped Catawba County, North Carolina. Through personal memories, local history, community voices, and meaningful conversations, this podcast preserves the heritage of Catawba County for future generations. From stories of service and sacrifice to traditions, culture, and everyday life, each episode helps keep the spirit of our community alive. It is a tribute to the voices of the past, a celebration of local identity, and an invitation for listeners to better understand the history of Catawba County and the people who call it home.
Listen on:
Episodes
Thursday May 14, 2026
Thursday May 14, 2026
In this episode of the Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast, Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words, Jerry Smallbear shares his deeply personal story of being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. A native of Newton, North Carolina, Jerry reflects on basic training at Fort Bragg, leadership training at Fort Benning, and his service in Vietnam with the 52nd Infantry Regiment. He speaks candidly about fear, combat, loss, and the lifelong impact of war, including the challenges of returning home and living with chronic PTSD. Jerry’s account is a powerful and honest reminder that the effects of war do not end when a veteran comes home.
Thank you for supporting the Historical Association of Catawba County's efforts to protect our shared heritage.
Our mission is the preservation and interpretation of the stories, objects and places that document the rich heritage of Catawba County and its role in the development of the Western Piedmont of North Carolina.
As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Association is funded primarily by individual donors. National foundations, periodic grant awards, and local municipalities also contribute to the daily financial operations of the Association.
For over 80 years, the Historical Association of Catawba County has preserved the objects, stories, and places that matter most to Catawbans. We invite you to become a member of the HACC.
Thursday Apr 30, 2026
Thursday Apr 30, 2026
In this episode of the Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast, Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words, Jacob Schronce reflects on his service in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Born in Hickory, Jacob shares memories of enlisting in 1968, the shock of basic training at Fort Bragg, and the realities of serving in Vietnam with a transportation unit hauling cargo through dangerous mountain passes and ambush zones. He speaks candidly about fear, survival, friendship, and the lasting effects of war, while also offering insight into the challenges many veterans carry long after they return home. Jacob’s story is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.
Thank you for supporting the Historical Association of Catawba County's efforts to protect our shared heritage.
Our mission is the preservation and interpretation of the stories, objects and places that document the rich heritage of Catawba County and its role in the development of the Western Piedmont of North Carolina.
As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Association is funded primarily by individual donors. National foundations, periodic grant awards, and local municipalities also contribute to the daily financial operations of the Association.
For over 80 years, the Historical Association of Catawba County has preserved the objects, stories, and places that matter most to Catawbans. We invite you to become a member of the HACC.
Wednesday Apr 15, 2026
Wednesday Apr 15, 2026
In this episode of the Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast, Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words series, we hear from Bob Rowe as he reflects on his life before, during, and after military service. Bob shares memories of growing up in Catawba County, enlisting in the Marine Corps, training at Parris Island, and serving in Vietnam in aviation electronics. He also speaks about friendship, family, the challenges of war, and the lasting impact those experiences had on his life. Bob’s story offers a personal and meaningful look at service, sacrifice, and coming home.
Thank you for supporting the Historical Association of Catawba County's efforts to protect our shared heritage.
Our mission is the preservation and interpretation of the stories, objects and places that document the rich heritage of Catawba County and its role in the development of the Western Piedmont of North Carolina.
As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Association is funded primarily by individual donors. National foundations, periodic grant awards, and local municipalities also contribute to the daily financial operations of the Association.
For over 80 years, the Historical Association of Catawba County has preserved the objects, stories, and places that matter most to Catawbans. We invite you to become a member of the HACC.