Arranged by the seasons, the 336-page hardcover book features Southern Appalachian cooking as well as cuisine from other parts of the world—especially those that have helped to shape the history of the school. Folk School regulars will recognize dining hall favorites, Fall Festival fare, Appalachian classics, and treats made for holidays and special events.
Nanette Davidson, cookbook author and former Folk School Resident Artist in Cooking, meticulously collected and curated over 200 recipes including some of the most memorable recipes served family-style in the school’s Dining Hall over the decades.
“Preparing great food together and sharing meals builds community. Our dining opportunities have grown considerably over the years. These recipes are as diverse as the occasions, celebrations, and ceremonies that have inspired them.”—Nanette Davidson
In addition to over 200 recipes, the book also includes:
A history of the Folk School with fascinating high-quality images from the school’s archives
- Foreword by Jerry Jackson (Folk School Director, 2017–Present)
- Introduction by Jan Davidson (Folk School Director 1991–2016 and husband of Nanette).
- Preface by Nanette Davidson
- Gorgeous photographs of food, community, and life at the Folk School by Keather Gougler (photographer and Folk School Marketing Director) enrich the beauty of the book by visually telling a story.
- Handmade illustrations by former Folk School Host, Sara Boggs, bring a sweet charm and old-time feeling to the book’s layout.
- The cover features a watercolor painting of the iconic Folk School landscape by Folk School instructor Suzanne DesLauriers
Between the beautiful photography, illustrations, stories, and the delectable recipes, you’ll be tempted to come to Brasstown for a visit. We hope you will! In the meantime, cook up a taste of John C. Campbell Folk School at home and share it with friends and family.
Purchase The Folk School Cookbook: A Collection of Seasonal Favorites from John C. Campbell Folk School in our online Craft Shop.
Since mid summer I have ordered a Fold School Cookbook for a friend a month; I think it helps JCC and my friends love it. i use it all the time. Tonight we had the Minestrone Soup and i’m taking the Date Nut Tort to friends tomorrow. It’s fun to remember scenes from the campus as I enjoy the fabulous food. It’s all good!!!
And, I live in Oregon, traveled with 2 friends to FS and love my connection to that part of our country.
Hi Nan,
That’s so lovely to hear – sounds yummy! It’s so amazing to hear that you and your friends love joining us here across the country in Brasstown. Thank you so much for supporting the Folk School. We hope to see you back soon!
I just received the cookbook as a birthday gift from my sister-in-law. My mother, Ruth Hawkins, was one of the original carvers, known for her angel ornaments carved from holly wood. I remember when I was young coming with her to bring her carving to the Folk School, and upon entering Keith House the most wonderful mouth-watering smells wafting up from the kitchen. I’m enjoying looking at the pictures as much as I look forward to trying the recipes!
Mary-thank you for the comment! So glad you’re enjoying the cookbook. Ruth was an amazing carver!
I miss you and all your members. Please stay healthy and well. The cookbook is a wonderful idea. I do hope we are all able to gather as a wonderful, creative group soon.
Bought a copy on a recent visit to the school, what a gem! So full of amazing recipes !
My grandmother used to come here. I believe she taught a few painting classes but wouldn’t doubt she taught cooking as well. She was the best cook I’ve ever known. Her name is Inez Dockery.
I bought my copy today (and several more for Christmas gifts). It is wonderful. I cannot wait to try some of the soups, and main dishes, and biscuits, and………desserts!!!!
Susan-thank you!
Only been to the Folk School once a couple of years ago but my wife and I both remember how great the food was. We don’t cook much but definitely will be making some of the recipes from this cookbook. And got copies for several of our friends who like to cook.
If it has the recipe for those chocolate cookies served in the dining hall, that cookbook is in my shopping cart!
I peeled and chopped and washed dishes in the kitchen summers in the late 50s when Alice Tipton was the cook. Wonderful memories and I can’t wait for this cookbook. Pat (Smith) Jeremiah
How do I order the cookbook?
Nancy-follow this link for details about purchasing the cookbook: https://blog.folkschool.org/2018/08/31/the-folk-school-cookbook-is-here-2/
I don’t even like to cook. But I’m getting one for the pictures and the wonderful memories. I may even try a recipe or two.
Just ordered one for my husband (learned to cook at the school) and one for friends that usually attend the folk school with us.
You have Tipper Pressley to thank for my order!!
Can’t wait for mine to get here!