Southern Appalachian Digital Collections

Western Carolina University (20) View all

John C. Campbell Folk School, no. 19 (May 1936)

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Item
  • John C. Campbell Folk School published a series of newsletters from 1926 to 1950. Written like a letter from the school's director, the newsletter is a source of information about the classes and activities at the Folk School and their impact on the surrounding community. In this issue, flood damage affected the Folk School's crops and community farmland is described. In an effort to better educate people on land use, the Folk School hosted speakers from the Forest Service, TVA, and other government agencies to lead discussions on soil erosion and fire prevention. Marguerite Butler Bidstrup taught a course on transportation, developing civilizations, and geographic and climatic conditions. During winter months when farm work is less pressing, more attention can be given to craft work, especially weaving, carving, and blacksmithing. Singing games are also more popular at this time; Frank Smith, the extension worker for recreation, takes singing games to near-by communities to help build a sense of community and cooperation. John Jacob Niles, a singer, composer, and collector of folk songs, comes to the Folk School and creates an interest and pride in students' heritage. Folk singing is held at the school at least once a week.
Object
  • John C. Campbell Folk School published a series of newsletters from 1926 to 1950. Written like a letter from the school's director, the newsletter is a source of information about the classes and activities at the Folk School and their impact on the surrounding community. In this issue, flood damage affected the Folk School's crops and community farmland is described. In an effort to better educate people on land use, the Folk School hosted speakers from the Forest Service, TVA, and other government agencies to lead discussions on soil erosion and fire prevention. Marguerite Butler Bidstrup taught a course on transportation, developing civilizations, and geographic and climatic conditions. During winter months when farm work is less pressing, more attention can be given to craft work, especially weaving, carving, and blacksmithing. Singing games are also more popular at this time; Frank Smith, the extension worker for recreation, takes singing games to near-by communities to help build a sense of community and cooperation. John Jacob Niles, a singer, composer, and collector of folk songs, comes to the Folk School and creates an interest and pride in students' heritage. Folk singing is held at the school at least once a week.