Testimonials

"The exhibit masterfully illustrates how Western North Carolina served as a cornerstone of the American camping movement, shaping the social and economic fabric of our community for over a century."

– Tom Rosenberg, Former President/CEO of the American Camp Association

"What a fantastic job...of capturing the spirit and essence of the soul (good and critical aspects) of camp life in Western North Carolina...The artistic display, the variety of artifacts, the opportunity for engagement, the invitation to reflect...it just has everything!"

– Dr. Gwynn Powell, Retired Professor of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Former American Camp Association Accreditation Visitor

"It clearly took hard work and, as an aspiring historian, really inspired me."

– Sonia Messick, Student visitor to the exhibi

"Audiences are encouraged to engage with an important, but relatively unknown history that has long shaped western North Carolina."

– Jessie Swigger, Director of Public History, Western Carolina University

"Once inside the Cabin, visitors are immersed in the material culture of summer camp in the region. A wooden canoe hangs from the ceiling, uniforms from local camps are displayed behind glass and on mannequins, a mock campfire surrounded by wooden benches, and sheet music with lyrics from popular camp songs are just a few examples of how the exhibit immerses the visitor in the summer camp experience using artifacts."

– Jessie Swigger, Director of Public History, Western Carolina University

"Much effort and research obviously went into the exhibit, and it brought back a flood of wonderful memories from long ago."

– John Holman

"Well done Cashier Historical Society! Your team was able to take an industry that connects so many to the WNC region and spark deep introspection and inspiration..."

– Dr. Gwynn Powell, Retired Professor of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Former American Camp Association Accreditation Visitor

"[The] exhibit is amazing. From the videos to the collections of memorabilia, it is so cleverly presented. A masterpiece...Took me right back to days at Kanuga and High Rocks. Could almost smell my cabin!"

– Bette Hines

"[A] dedication to blending rigorous research with dynamic, visual storytelling has set a new standard for small museum excellence."

– Tom Rosenberg, Former President/CEO of the American Camp Association