For students at Atkinson Elementary School, history wasnāt read in a textbook this week, it was tasted, touched, sung, and danced. Heritage Day, the schoolās long-standing tradition at Camp Pinnacle, once again transformed the outdoors into a living classroom where mountain culture came alive.
More than 300 students and staff members spent the day moving from station to station, each one offering a glimpse into the rich traditions of Henderson County. Laughter echoed during sack races, music filled the air with dulcimer tunes and bagpipes, and the smell of fresh biscuits and churned butter reminded students that heritage has flavor.
Heritage Day continues today thanks to the leadership of Atkinson teachers Cathey Gilbert and Makayla Luther, who orchestrated the event with months of planning and preparation. Their dedication builds on the vision of retired Atkinson teachers Harriet Dorsey Sterling and Kathy McCusker, along with former principal and retired HCPS superintendent Bo Caldwell, who first established Heritage Day in 1995. After being held biennially until 2006, the tradition was revived in 2017 under Ms. Gilbertās leadership and has flourished ever since.
More than 30 presenters shared their expertise through hands-on activities celebrating mountain heritage, including square dancing, apple cider pressing, corn husk doll making, dulcimer music, storytelling, quilting, beekeeping, sack races, soap making, butter churning, archery, Sandburg stories, bagpipes, Revolutionary and Civil War history, pottery, blacksmithing, and more. Students also enjoyed special performances by Hightop Mountain Harmony and the Bailey Mountain Cloggers. Support from Camp Pinnacle, local organizations, and a grant from the Henderson County Education Foundation helped make the day possible.
Atkinson Principal Mark Page praised the collaboration. āHeritage Day is a celebration of both history and community. Our students leave with a deeper appreciation for where they live, and thatās a gift our volunteers and partners give so generously.ā
For Atkinson Elementary, Heritage Day remains a highlight of the school yearānot just as a tradition, but as an unforgettable, hands-on journey into the roots of mountain life.
