In 1948, amid a growing polio outbreak, city residents contributed what they could to the Asheville Orthopedic Home, a local health center that cared for the region’s infected children.
Author: Thomas Calder
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Safety measures tighten as the city combats the 1948 polio outbreak
In July 1948, as the number of polio cases and related deaths increased in Asheville, the city’s health department began enacting orders to limit social gatherings. Initial ordinances were directed at Asheville’s youth. But by month’s end, the entire city was subjected to new mandates.
Private colleges and universities plan amid uncertainties
This past spring, COVID-19 required schools to shift from in-person to online classes. Come fall, private colleges and universities are eager to reopen their campuses. For many of these institutions, the financial consequences of remaining closed could be dire.
Religious leaders, public officials come together on Church Street
“We stand in prayer and solidarity against all forms of lawlessness and violence, whether it’s the lawlessness and violence of rioters and looters or the police officers who engage in police brutality such as that recently committed against a black man named George Floyd in Minneapolis,” Dr. John H. Grant, pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, told a crowd of roughly 250 people.
Turning 21 in quarantine
Turning 21 is a milestone. And for many, the celebration is often a raucous event. But for one Brevard College student, her big day was spent in quarantine on the school’s campus.
Local doula offers virtual guidance during pandemic
When Buncombe County’s stay home, stay safe mandate went into effect, doulas were deemed nonessential. The classification was a hard pill to swallow for business owner Chama Woydak, who has nevertheless found ways to remain connected with her expecting mothers and partners during the pandemic.
City health officials respond to the 1948 polio outbreak
In June 1948, four Buncombe County residents were diagnosed with polio. At the time, there was a growing concern about a possible statewide epidemic. Worried parents bombarded Asheville’s health officials with phone calls, convinced that these local experts were underreporting the true number of cases in the city.
The life of a funeral director during COVID-19
COVID-related deaths in Buncombe County are low, but dying remains a part of daily life. Scott Groce, funeral director at Groce Funeral Home & Cremation Service, discusses the unique challenges of memorial services during the pandemic.
Asheville Archives: Death during the 1918 influenza and its lasting toll
“I think the Asheville I knew died for me when Ben died,” author Thomas Wolfe wrote in a 1929 letter. Wolfe’s older brother Ben perished on Oct. 19, 1918, from complications resulting from influenza.
Nonprofits consider new fundraising techniques during COVID-19
With social distancing practices and limited crowd sizes likely the new normal for the foreseeable future, local nonprofits are reconsidering how they go about connecting with their supporters.
Asheville Archives: City confronts the latest influenza outbreak, 1920
As 1920 began, so too did the city’s latest bout of influenza. An initial six cases quickly skyrocketed to 232. Once again, the city was confronted by a highly contagious virus that needed to be curtailed.
Therapy in the time of COVID-19
Clinical social worker Carol Young Wood has shifted most of her therapy sessions online; however, she still meets with a handful of clients in-person. The impacts of COVID-19 dominate most of the conversations.
Local resident documents COVID-19
Local resident Nicora Gangi is on a mission to photograph the impact of COVID-19 on the city’s urban landscape and residents.
Local author Marvin J. Wolf examines soldiers’ lives after Vietnam
In his latest book, “They Were Soldiers: The Sacrifices and Contributions of Our Vietnam Veterans,” local author Marvin J. Wolf interviews 48 Vietnam veterans, including Oliver Stone and Colin Powell, about their lives after the war.
Asheville Archives: What residents learned in the immediate aftermath of the 1918 influenza
“I have no desire to frighten Asheville or to create any unnecessary alarm,” declared Dr. Carl V. Reynolds on Sept. 6, 1919. “But I do feel that the public should get a warning of the danger of failing to take steps to prevent a return of influenza here.”
COVID-19 inspires creative instruction
Local artist Cleaster Cotton confronts COVID-19 on the canvas.
Warren Wilson College plans virtual commencement ceremony
Press release from Warren Wilson College: Traditionally, when seniors graduate from Warren Wilson College, they receive an Eastern Hemlock sapling. The tree represents a new beginning. Just as each graduate leaves the College to go, lay down roots, and grow, the graduate is encouraged to plant this tree away from campus to represent their mark […]
Coloring for the win
Inspired by Xpress’ recent back cover coloring page provided by Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co., the group organized a coloring contest. Thirty participants, both children and adults, submitted their works. We’ve got the winners.
Asheville Archives: Residents resist the city’s 1919 influenza safety measures
In January 1919, Buncombe County reported 141 new cases of the influenza over a 72-hour period. In response, Dr. Carl V. Reynolds, the city health officer, announced a new ban on social and fraternal gatherings. Displeased residents spoke out against the latest safety measures.
The Rev. L.C. Ray adjusts to online sermons during COVID-19
With 49 years experience as a pastor, the Rev. L.C. Ray adjusts to life as an online preacher during COVID-19.
Local archivists urge residents to help document COVID-19
Recognizing the historic significance of COVID-19, local archivists discuss ways to record the moment for future generations. They also offer guidance for those looking to better organize their family documents during the “stay home, stay safe” mandate.