This small region in the extreme northeastern tip of the state has more in common geographically and culturally with central Tennessee than with other parts of Mississippi. The hills and rocky soil allowed for only small farming operations. The development of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway that runs through the region has helped to spur new industrial development. The traditional art forms found in this region are predominantly those also found in the upland southern states like Kentucky and Tennessee. The Foothills are home to old-time string musicians, dulcimer makers and players, quilters, and others.