A remarkable journey of rediscovery and preservation has brought to life the forgotten musical treasures of Ella "Mamaw" Hanshaw, a talented performer whose artistry spanned both secular and sacred realms. This endeavor began over a decade ago when Kelly Kerney and her husband Ethan Bullard stumbled upon a radio melody that evoked memories of Hanshaw's unique sound. The couple embarked on an ambitious project to salvage deteriorating cassette tapes from the 1970s and '80s, ultimately culminating in the release of “Ella Hanshaw’s Black Book.”

The process of rescuing Hanshaw's music was no small feat, requiring meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication. With approximately 100 recordings initially identified, the pair narrowed them down to 54 tapes containing 34 hours of music. Each evening for more than a year, they listened intently, documented every nuance, and transferred the fragile tapes to digital format. Their efforts uncovered not only Hanshaw's faith-inspired hymns but also her earlier country ballads, showcasing her versatility as a songwriter. Despite technical challenges such as missing notes and abrupt endings, the couple crafted an index that highlighted the best representations of each song.

The legacy of Ella Hanshaw transcends mere nostalgia; it embodies the power of preserving cultural heritage and honoring one's roots. Her music, once thought lost, now resonates with audiences through collaborations with audio experts and independent labels like Spinster Sounds. What started as a personal tribute evolved into a broader celebration of Appalachian folklore, drawing admiration from musicians and folklorists alike. Hanshaw's story serves as a testament to the enduring impact of sincere artistic expression, reminding us all of the importance of cherishing our shared histories and ensuring they are passed on to future generations.