Vacation Bible School: A Summer Tradition Of Gathering Of Children In Transylvania

The first Summer Bible School in the U.S., held in 1894, consisted of daily classes in Bible instruction for children.  By the 1920s the concept was popular with churches across America.  The first printed curriculum for Vacation Bible School was developed in 1923.  These early programs relied on Bible study and storytelling and typically operated for several weeks.

Vacation Bible School children and teachers at the Second Baptist Church
on King St. in Brevard, 1950.

The first Summer Bible School held in Transylvania County operated from June 7 through July 2, 1926.  Children, ages 6 to 18, attended from 8:30-11:30. Wayne A. Monroe was the Supt. of the Summer Bible School.  Classes met at the Baptist and Presbyterian churches.  Children from the Episcopal and Methodist churches, as well as those visiting from out of town, were also encouraged to attend. 

The first day 90 children were present. The final enrollment number was 131. There was no cost to families but donations were asked for to cover the final cost of $382.

A group of Vacation bible School children from the First Baptist Church
parade through downtown Brevard wearing crowns.

Classes at the Baptist Church were under the leadership of Rev. Wallace Hartsell. The teachers were Miss Emma Hartsell, Miss Pauline Sitton, Mrs. Wayne A. Monroe, Miss Alexander and Miss Eva Rice.  Miss Christine Snelson and Mr. J.A. Glazener served as substitutes.  Mrs. V.A. Crawford directed and taught at the Presbyterian Church. The other instructors were Mrs. Charles Verner, Miss Nellie Rambo and Miss Jennie Lee Chandler, with Miss Mytrle Barnett and Miss Kimzey as substitutes.

Commencement exercises were held on Friday evening, July 2, at both churches. Scripture recitations and Bible related questions, along with Gospel songs were all part of the celebrations.  A picnic and activity day for all of the children was held on Saturday, July 3 at Lake Sega.  The children voted to hold Bible School again the following year.

Children enjoy a lunch break during Vacation Bible School at the Little River
Baptist Church, 1957.

Summer or Vacation Bible School, also known as VBS, remained popular throughout the 20^th century as it evolved by incorporating additional activities, such as arts and crafts, live music, skits, dramatic presentations, and recreation. Over time Bible School schedules also changed to accommodate families. Today they are typically one-week sessions, often during evening hours.

Photographs and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina Room, Transylvania County Library. Visit the NC Room during regular library hours (Monday-Friday) to learn more about our history and see additional photographs. For more information, comments, or suggestions contact Marcy at marcy.thompson@transylvaniacounty.org or 828-884-1820.