Kelley School Project

The Kelley School was originally built as a two-room schoolhouse in 1924. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations from a schoolhouse to a private dwelling to a public store. Fortunately, throughout its years of transformation, many of the early school features were preserved.

Time, weather and neglect have contributed to the deterioration of the small school building. The National Park Service is hoping to restore the building and develop it into the only property on the Parkway with a historic educational theme.

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway presented the National Park Service with the funds to start the repair and rehabilitation of the Kelley School. With help from members and corporations, the tin roof was water-sealed and the chimney stabilized.

Donations to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway will continue to help in the restoration of this historic site of early Appalachian education.

We are currently waiting for the results of the National Park Service's plan for the Kelley School before we take further action. If you would like to help organize a reunion of all those connected with the Kelley School's past, we would love to hear from you!