Hard-shells

Dough-faces, Hard-shells, Soft-shells, Silver-greys, and I know not what besides; all of them extremely puzzling to the stranger, but of great local significance.

The Englishwoman in America 2007

Hard-shells an 'the Presbyterians -- an' that is special Providence.

The Bishop of Cottontown A Story of the Southern Cotton Mills John Trotwood Moore

There was some laughing at this, from the other members, and after the Hard-shells had come to the front the Bishop caught the infection and went on with a sly wink at the others.

The Bishop of Cottontown A Story of the Southern Cotton Mills John Trotwood Moore

This brought out visible smiles all down the line, from the others at the Hard-shells and their custom of foot-washing.

The Bishop of Cottontown A Story of the Southern Cotton Mills John Trotwood Moore

Hunkers, Woolly-heads, Dough-faces, Hard-shells, Soft-shells, Silver - greys, and I know not what besides; all of them extremely puzzling to the stranger, but of great local significance.

The Englishwoman in America 1867

My informant locates it in the mountains of North Carolina, where the Hard-shells are quite numerous, and where they believe pretty strongly in dreams and voices.

Fisher's River (North Carolina) Scenes and Characters 1859

"The Hard-shells was the fust church I jined, as I sed.

The Bishop of Cottontown A Story of the Southern Cotton Mills John Trotwood Moore

"The first company of Christians I jined was the Hard-shells.

The Bishop of Cottontown A Story of the Southern Cotton Mills John Trotwood Moore