#folkschool

Many people know Burritt On the Mountain for having gone on a field trip as a kid or attending a wedding or a Friday night concert. But did you know that lifelong learning at Burritt’s Folk School is a vibrant and growing part of the offering and just a few steps from Downtown Huntsville?

We asked Folk School Manager Megan Carter all about the various offerings at the Burritt Folk School. And were thrilled to hear about what she had to share...

When people hear the word “folklife” or “folklore” they often think of something old or from the past that doesn’t apply to them. But what it really means is “a living tradition passed along from generation to generation.” Everyone and every group has folklore associated with them whether they realize it or not; This could be a song your mother used to sing to you that you now sing to your child, a story told over time, or beliefs or even objects handed down to you. Our lives are rich in history and traditions. 

As the world of technology grows, we have more machines to do things for us, and many art forms are beginning to decline or disappear. However, in today’s society the rising interest in sustainability and the growing popularity of do-it-yourself we find that people are once again looking to learn a new craft or trade and return to their roots.

The Burritt Folk School was created in 2017 to allow students the opportunity to explore a wide variety of topics that they might not be able to learn anywhere else. With professional instructors, classes ranging from 2-15 hours all set with the breathtaking backdrop of Burritt on the Mountain - students won’t be disappointed! 

Here are Megan’s top 5 picks for things you can learn at the Burritt Folk School:

1. Metal Working: From Blacksmithing to Tinsmithing, this category is one of our most popular and nowhere else in town will you find offerings like these! Spend a day learning how to make everything from yard art, coat racks, grilling tools, and lanterns, just to name a few.

2. Fiber Arts: Have you ever wanted to learn how to spin your own yarn? What about create a beautiful quilt or discover how to dye your own wool? Our fiber arts workshop offer a wide variety in topics such as spinning, dyeing, quilting, needlepoint, felt making and more.

3. Glass: Explore the wonderful world of glass. Create a beautiful stepping stone or stained glass window decoration. Design your own fused glass piece of art. Learn to cut, solder, and more. There is a wide variety of glass workshop offerings.

4. Jewelry Making: Sterling silver and learning to wire wrap are just two of the many types of jewelry workshops you can find at the Burritt Folk School. You can create your own, one-of-a-kind accessories that will have everyone talking.

5. Leather Working: Another unique offering you won’t find offered many other places is leather working. Keep your eyes out for one of our upcoming workshops where you can learn to design, cut, mold, and make everything from a luggage tag to a purse, wallet or satchel.

There are 40 topics to choose from throughout the year - which means something for everyone. This Fall will bring a whole range of new classes and offerings in our new pottery studio. Visit the website to see a complete list of classes and information. We hope to see you on the mountain soon to 

Learn. Do. Experience!