Southern Appalachian Digital Collections

Western Carolina University (20) View all

Ashcraft boys

  • wcu_highlights-2051.jpg
  • This undated photograph showing the Ashcraft boys is part of the William E. Bird Collection. On the back of the photograph is written “Ashcraft boys – friends of John Bird” who was William Ernest Bird’s brother. William Ernest Bird (1890-1975) was born in the Qualla community of Jackson County, NC. Bird served Western Carolina University in various capacities during his long career. Bird’s roles at WCU included head of the English Department, Dean of Men, Acting President, and President. In 1963, he published The History of Western Carolina College: The Progress of an Idea. He was married to Myrtle Wells (1891-1983).