THE HAPPY YEARS

Ashville enjoyed prosperity after the harsh and lean years of the Depression and WWII. Predominately, low-middle income, there were no social or economic divisions, all were rich in mutual respect and pride of community. As youth, the homogenic culture and ethnicity of our small-town was not recognized. The focus was on the Thursday night dances in the park, the Fourth of July celebration, and winning county sports championships. Teachers were neighbors, compassionate and dedicated to their profession. There was a sense of freedom, but is something was wrong or not to expectations, parents would know about it immediately. An attitude of optimism prevailed, unaware that Ashville, like many rural communities, was not realizing the growth of the metropolitan and industrial areas, and that for the younger generation the future was not likely to be in Ashville. Later in life we understood the blessings and meaning of small-town values, the unique shared experiences, and lasting friendships from growing up in Ashville.