Mahalla Collins Mullins (1824-1898)

• from Tennesee ladies with a checkered past 2007

Mahala Mullins is touted as the “most famous Melungeon.” Because of this, it is hard to separate truth from fiction when sifting through the many stories about her life.

It is said that she had 20 children, four of whom died in infancy. This abundance of offspring helped to run the family business.

Mullins served the Hancock County community — quite literally — by supplying moonshine to those who could make it up the rocky path to her cabin. The family specialty was apple and peach brandy.

Mullins was rumored to be anywhere from 400-600 pounds. Though the police knew of her activities, none could bring her to justice. “Catchable, but not fetchable” is the phrase used by one deputy to describe Mullins.

Another fantastic story surrounding this entrepreneurial woman concerns her death. It has been said that when she died at the ripe age of 74, she had to be taken out by way of a hole made by the removal of her chimney.

Mahala Collins Mullins photo courtesy of the Vardy Community Historical Society.

Links

• Find A Grave Memorial# 39642771