The Heartbreaking Tragedy of Eustace Conway from *Mountain Men

Eustace Conway has long been admired as a symbol of resilience and self-reliance, living a life deeply connected to nature in the rugged American wilderness.

Best known for his role in the History Channel’s *Mountain Men*, Conway’s story is one of survival, simplicity, and a steadfast commitment to living off the land. However, beyond the cameras and the mythos of his lifestyle lies a tale of personal tragedy, loss, and challenges that have tested even his indomitable spirit.

Born in South Carolina, Eustace left home at the age of 17 to live in the woods, where he began crafting a life that would later become legendary.

He hiked the Appalachian Trail, rode horseback across the country, and eventually founded Turtle Island Preserve—a 1,000-acre stretch of land in North Carolina dedicated to teaching primitive living skills. For decades, Conway lived according to his ideals, growing his own food, building shelters by hand, and teaching others to reconnect with nature.

This commitment to a simpler way of life brought Conway to the forefront of reality television with *Mountain Men*, which first aired in 2012. The show introduced viewers to his daily routines: chopping firewood, harvesting food, and preparing for harsh winters. Yet, the exposure also brought unforeseen challenges. Turtle Island Preserve faced scrutiny from local officials over building codes and safety standards, leading to legal battles that threatened the very existence of the preserve.

Despite these struggles, Conway persevered, supported by his close friend and collaborator Preston Roberts. Preston was more than just a partner in Conway’s vision—he was a teacher, craftsman, and a beloved figure at Turtle Island.

Together, they worked tirelessly to maintain the preserve and its mission, inspiring countless individuals to embrace the old ways of living.

However, tragedy struck in 2017 when Preston passed away unexpectedly. Diagnosed with an inoperable liver tumor, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leaving Conway and the Turtle Island community reeling from the loss.

Preston’s death marked a profound turning point for Conway, who described the void left by his friend as a “chasm.” For Conway, the loss was not just personal—it was a blow to the spirit of Turtle Island itself.

Through it all, Conway has remained steadfast in his mission, though the challenges continue to mount. The legal battles over Turtle Island’s future, the pressures of modernity creeping into his way of life, and the absence of his closest ally have tested his resilience. Yet, Conway’s story is one of survival—not just in the wilderness, but against the forces that threaten his vision of a simpler, more connected existence.

Today, Turtle Island Preserve stands as a testament to Conway’s unwavering dedication. Visitors continue to learn from his teachings, inspired by his ability to live off the land and his commitment to preserving the old ways.

While the future remains uncertain, Eustace Conway’s legacy as a mountain man and a steward of nature endures, reminding us of the strength found in simplicity and the profound connection between humanity and the earth.