History

The Rich History of Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School, located in the picturesque Appalachian mountains of Rabun County, Georgia, has a storied history that dates back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1903, the school emerged from the merging of two separate institutions with a shared vision of providing quality education to the region’s isolated communities.

Early Beginnings

The journey began with the establishment of the Rabun Gap Industrial School in 1905 by Andrew Jackson Ritchie and his wife, Addie Corn Ritchie. Their mission was to educate the isolated people of Rabun County. In 1917, Ritchie introduced the innovative “Farm Family Plan,” allowing entire families to work their way through school, integrating education with practical, hands-on agricultural work.

Meanwhile, in neighboring White County, the Nacoochee Institute was founded in 1903 by Reverend Joel Wade and Reverend John Knox Coit. This institution served as both a boarding and public school, aimed at providing comprehensive education to the local youth.

The Great Merger

In 1926, both schools faced devastating fires that destroyed their main buildings. This disaster led to a pivotal decision in 1927: the two schools merged to form Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. The newly combined school was established on the site of the Rabun Gap Industrial School, creating a larger, more robust educational institution. The merger was chartered, and under the continued leadership of Dr. Ritchie, the school began to acquire more land, construct larger facilities, and develop new educational programs.

Growth and Development

The school entered into a covenant with the Presbyterian Church in 1927, a partnership that remains strong today. Throughout the following decades, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School evolved, becoming one of America’s premier independent boarding and day schools. The school serves a diverse student body from across the United States and around the world, offering education from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School has a long-standing commitment to making education accessible regardless of financial means. Over 75% of students receive financial aid, continuing Dr. Ritchie’s mission of providing high-quality education to all.

Notable Achievements

The school’s history is rich with notable achievements. In the 1930s, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School offered a junior college program. It is also known as the original home of the famous Foxfire Book series, a collection of books detailing Appalachian culture and traditions, which began as a student project. Additionally, the school has received support from prominent philanthropists such as the Rockefellers, Carnegies, and Woodruffs.

A Modern Institution with Deep Roots

Today, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School sits on a sprawling 1,400-acre campus in the Appalachian mountains. The school continues to prepare young people for college and life beyond, emphasizing leadership and service. Its motto, “Work, Study, Worship,” encapsulates the holistic approach to education that has defined Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School for over a century.

Conclusion

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School’s rich history is a testament to its enduring mission and the vision of its founders. From its humble beginnings as two separate schools to its current status as a leading independent institution, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School remains dedicated to providing access to quality education and fostering a community of learning, service, and leadership. The school’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence ensures that it continues to thrive, preparing students for success in college and beyond.