It is amazing how different all the dialects are just in the US. Wonder how confusing it is to visitors!!!

I replied directly to and thanked the gentleman who posted the answer that won my bet. For anyone else that is interested in the outcome--The "firkin" really was a beer barrel of sorts. The meaning has been spread to other types of containers by southwest Virginia natives but basically can be traced back to the origination described in the posting.

I really appreciate all your responses and help!! You never know when I may need it again. From my chair, you really don't come to appreciate the regional differences in the US by visiting as much as you do when you move. Some days I almost feel as if I have moved to another country. It was good to hear that the same applies in Finland!