Local author and Times-News columnist Terry Ruscin will present his “School Days”
program at the Historic Johnson Farm at noon on Wed., Jan. 16.
The fully-illustrated program on the history of Henderson County schools includes
one- and two-room schoolhouses, subscription and “old-field” schools, early textbooks,
and rules for teachers and students. Early black schools and the county’s more
renowned teachers count among the topics and images.
The program covers consolidation, desegregation, superintendents, and the local
schools designed by prominent architect, Erle G. Stillwell.
The dozens of early schools illustrated take in Adam’s Run, Dry Hill, Union Hill, the
Port of Rugby School, the School for Little Folks, and Episcopal mission schools. Mills
River Academy counts among the earliest institutions, as do Judson College, Fassifern
School for Girls, Blue Ridge School for Boys, the Fruitland Institute, and the Rosenwald
School at East Flat Rock.
Ruscin’s many books include “Hidden History of Henderson County,” “Glimpses of
Henderson County,” “A History of Transportation in Western North Carolina,”
“Hendersonville & Flat Rock: An Intimate Tour,” and his latest, “Images of America:
Henderson County.” He also writes the monthly history column, “Beyond the Banks,” for
the Hendersonville Times-News. Ruscin is a member of the Henderson County Historic
Resources Commission. He will have copies of his books available for sale and
autographing after the program.
Light refreshments will be served. Cost of admission: $5.00.
The Historic Johnson Farm is located at 3346 Haywood Road in Hendersonville. For
more information, call (828) 891-6585.