Gladys V. Jameson, circa 1954

Gladys V. Jameson was an American music educator and arranger known for her contributions to Appalachian music and hymnody. She was a member of the faculty at Berea College in Kentucky and played a significant role in preserving and promoting the musical traditions of the Southern Appalachian region. Jameson is perhaps best known for her arrangement of the American folk hymn "Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley," which she collected in the Southern Highlands in 1932. This version has been widely included in hymnals and is recognized for its authenticity and connection to Appalachian musical heritage. In addition to her work on sacred music, Jameson contributed scholarly articles to publications such as Mountain Life and Work and the Tennessee Folklore Society Bulletin, where she discussed topics like sacred harp singing and regional hymnody. Her work has been instrumental in documenting and preserving the rich musical traditions of Appalachia. (Written with AI assistance, 2025)