The Folk School was founded in 1925, a collaboration of two progressive educators and an Appalachian community. Olive Dame Campbell, Marguerite Butler and the people of Brasstown created a unique institution that seeks to bring out the best in people.

As in the beginning, the Folk School seeks to bring people toward two kinds of development: inner growth as creative, thoughful individuals, and social development as tolerant, caring members of a community. Throughout its history, the Folk School has worked toward these goals through performing arts, agriculture and crafts rooted in the traditions of Southern Appalachia and other cultures of the world.

Lifestyles and relationships to tradition have changed since 1925. Rural life, no longer isolated, is part of a global life that is increasingly interdependent. The individual expression and social interaction that are encouraged through music, crafts, nature studies, gardening, cooking and dance are still meaningful to people today, regardless of where they live. Materials, tools, and motivations for these traditional arts have changed, but the satisfaction of developing skills in a noncompetitive, supportive environment are useful correctives to the hard-driven, often dehumanizing regimentation of much of today's world.

Against the backdrop of the world's most ancient mountains is a special kind of place . . . A place where history lives . . . where tradition lingers . . . where people come together to discover their creative spirit.

That special place is the John C. Campbell Folk School. Nestled on 380 acres in a rolling valley, the Folk School offers visitors a chance to experience a special blend of history, art and natural beauty.

Journey through time in our History Center, where 20th Century Appalachia is on display. From the old bench where the world-famous Brasstown Carvers began, to the original photographs of world-renown photographer Doris Ulmann, you'll discover the rich heritage that has made the Folk School an historical landmark.

Or, browse through our Craft Shop, featuring the juried work of over 300 local and regional artists. A founding member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, our shop is a destination in itself.

And, while you're here, meander down our woodland trails and visit our studios where people just like you are creating their own works of art and discovering their spirit in the heart of Appalachia.