'Transylvania Memories' Captures Oral History

Transylvania Memories, published in 2011, captured the stories of some of Transylvania County’s older residents through oral interviews. Peggy Hansen recorded their memories of growing up in the 1920s, local life during the Depression and into the 1940s and then compiled it into a book. Each chapter offers a unique perspective of growing up in what they all agree was a simpler time.

L.C. Betsill's father, Victor came to Brevard to at
Transylvania Tanning in the early 1920s.  He opened his own
barbershop, pictured here, on Carver St. in 1924.

L.C. Betsill shared his experiences growing up in the African-American community of Rosenwald. When asked about segregation of schools and businesses Betsill stated, “People accepted a lot of things because it had always been that way, but that didn’t mean they was satisfied.” He went on to talk of the respect children had for their elders, the strong work ethic and the sense of community.  These were common themes throughout the memories.

Jeraldine “Jerri” Raxter Paxton stated, “Children were more responsible back then. You were expected to do things the right way.  That was the only way.  You did what you were expected to do.  The older kids would teach the younger kids their manners.” Paxton told of the many chores she and her siblings had but also of the fun and games.

Employees at Silversteen's Transylvania Tanning located on the south side of Brevard.

Dalice Gravley Powell agrees regarding people’s work ethic and strong family bonds. Her family, like Betsill’s, came from South Carolina for the jobs Silversteen’s timber and tanning industries offered. Even during the Depression her father had a job and the family all worked on the farm to put food on the table.

The people interviewed included those who grew up in the towns of Brevard and Rosman, as well as those from the rural areas around Balsam Grove, Cedar Mountain, Cherryfield, Dunn’s Rock, Lake Toxaway, Middlefork, Old Toxaway, Pisgah Forest, Rosenwald and Silversteen. Regardless of where they were raised though, all spoke with pride of the community they called “Home.”

Many of those interviewed for Transylvania Memories have since passed away and are reminders of the importance of capturing the stories of loved one now. The book is available to be checked out at the Transylvania County Library.

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.