A Nest of Singing Birds: What English folklorist Cecil Sharp called the Laurel community of Madison County, North Carolina when he traveled there to record ballads in 1916.

Sign up for news and updates!

  • Birdseye view of the Old Marshall Jail Ballad Swap, held monthly on the banks of the French Broad.

    The Old Marshall Jail Ballad Swap

    Experience a Ballad Swap

    Get Tickets
  • Heritage award winning ballad singer, storyteller, and banjo player Sheila Kay Adams.

    Our Story

    Learn about the Nest of Singing Birds

    Learn More
  • Sheila Kay Adams tells a story at the Old Marshall Jail Ballad Swap, held monthly on the banks of the French Broad River in Marshall, NC.

    Connect With Us

    Get in Touch

    Contact

Be part of the journey. Be part of the recovery.

The Old Marshall Jail Ballad Swap, the only recurring monthly ballad swap in the United States, is now on the road after Hurricane Helene floods destroyed its original home in Marshall, North Carolina. Join us to keep this cherished Appalachian tradition alive while supporting recovery efforts for Western North Carolina. Emcee Josh Copus will share updates on the rebuilding process and how you can help make a difference.

See Tour Dates