Joseph Fray interviewed by Dorothy Noble Smith, transcribed by Peggy C. Bradley

Creator:

Fray, Joseph B. (Joseph Benton), 1894-1987, Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999, and Bradley, Peggy C., 1943-

Scope and content:

Records the reminiscences of Joseph Fray, who was a member of the Chamber of Commerce in Madison County, Virginia, in the 1920s, and witness to the events that led to the founding of Camp Hoover, Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park. Describes the work of local, state and federal officials in the planning and construction of Camp Hoover, also known as Rapidan Camp, which was a rustic retreat where President and Mrs. Hoover could escape the heat and congestion of Washington, DC. Fray reflects on the impact Camp Hoover had on Madison County, both as a works project and through the numerous benefits, such as roads, schools, and even air mail delivery, that came in the wake of its construction. Discusses the impetus Camp Hoover had on the founding of Skyline Drive and ultimately, Shenandoah National Park. Includes references to the lives of the mountain people and their sources of income, such as tan bark peeling and basket weaving, and local entrepreneur, George Pollock, owner of Skyland resort. A woman identified in the transcript as Mrs. Fray also contributes to the interview.

Names:

Fray, Joseph B. (Joseph Benton), 1894-1987
Smith, Dorothy Noble, 1915-1999
Bradley, Peggy C., 1943-

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