I didn't grow up in "rural" NY, but I didnt grow up in NYC or anywhere near it. But just a few miles from my home was "farm country". One of my college roommates grew up on a cattle farm in Darien NY. Man, loved when he went home to help with the slaughter. Would bring back a bunch of meat for us. Great stuff.
I dont raise and kill my own pigs, though I wouldn't have a problem doing it if I had the ability and knowledge. I buy my pigs already dressed. Had never even heard of a Pig Pickin before I moved here. Loved 'em and taught myself. Whenever relatives from NY come down to visit I insist that we have one at my house.
A point on which we agree.