High Country Poet Laureate
Hilda Downer: 2025 - 2027
I have been writing poetry since before I learned how to write. I could remember the tunes, but not the lyrics, of hymns sung at Silver Chapel Church in Bandana, Mitchell County. I had to make up my own words so I could sing at home.
My first book of poetry was released by Red Clay Press in 1978 when I was 20, still a student majoring in Biology at Appalachian State University. Though my careers have been teaching and psychiatric nursing, poetry has been a constant in my life. I hold an MA in English and an MFA in Poetry.
For the past two years in my poetry class at the Western Watauga Senior Citizens Center, it has been fulfilling to see people in their 80’s begin to write and grow in the craft. My aim is to also empower young people with the skills and resources to write, share work, and know poetry is there for them. As the mother of a professional musician and of a professional landscape artist, I believe all the arts are inseparable, and that we need more opportunity for all arts to come together.
“I endorse her for the position of HCPL with unbridled enthusiasm, confidence and joy. I’ve known her and her fine work and work ethic for well over a quarter of a century and I do not think the High Country could name a more dedicated, talented, and hard-working inaugural poet laureate. She is the perfect choice and will prove that again and again as she brings the good news about poetry to all she comes in contact with in our beloved region and beyond.
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Publications
“Hilda’s breadth and depth of knowledge in the realm of poetry and the written word is amazing.
Hilda has received awards and accolades at the local and state level for her work over the years and has taught English at the college level and poetry workshops to share her talents with others.
Here at the library, she has consistently been involved in any poetry programs, open mics and talks we have had here. If poetry is involved, she is present and is a go-to trusted person for all things poetry-related.
There is no better choice to lead the way with this new initiative to promote poetry in our communities. She will serve as a wonderful role model, inspiration and mentor for future poets.”
Forthcoming Chapbook: Seeds of Gems and Metals. Porkbelly Press, 2026.
Poetry Anthology, Editor: Had I a Dove: Appalachian Poets on the Helene Flood. Hickory, NC: Redhawk Publications, 2025.
Book of Poetry: Wiley’s Last Resort. Hickory, NC: Redhawk Publications, 2022.
Book of Poetry: When Light Waits For Us. Charlotte: Main Street Rag Publishing Co., 2021.
Book of Poetry: Sky Under the Roof. Huron, OH: Bottom Dog Press: 2013.
Book of Poetry: Bandana Creek. Charlotte: Red Clay Press, 1979. (Publisher deceased)
Upcoming Events / Appearances
Past Events / Appearances
1-Year Helene Anniversary Anthology Reading & Workshop
Jones House Cultural Center, Boone, NC
September 27, 2025
Had I a Dove Reading
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Marion, NC
October 4, 2025
Southern Appalachian Writers Cooperative Annual Workshop
Highlander, TN
October 10-12, 2025
Poetry Reading for Retired Teachers
Deerfield Methodist Church, Boone, NC
October 16, 2025
Poetry Reading for First Faith and Hope for Behavioral Health
First Presbyterian Church, Boone, NC
October 21, 2025
Had I a Dove Reading w/ 8 Contributors of the Anthology
Suppernong, Greensboro, NC
November 1, 2025
Poetry Hoot Reading
Down Home w/ Johnson City Collective, Johnson City, TN
November 6
Book Launch of Had I a Dove
Huzzah Books & Parallel Brewing Co, Boone, NC
November 8, 2025
Zoom NC Poetry Society Open Mic
Online
November 11, 2025
Get in Touch with Hilda
Whether you have a question, an idea, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out!