Where We Live: History, Nature and Culture Speaker Series

Where We Live: History, Nature and Culture Speaker Series is a free monthly speaker series held at Cowee School Arts and Heritage Center.

51 Cowee School Drive, Franklin, NC

Cowee Valley Gems–Layered in History

The presentation reveals how Cowee Valley served as a Native American political and religious gathering site for hundreds of years until the forced removal of the Cherokee. Through historical and scientific photos, the audience will follow the removal of the Native Americans, the influx of white settlers, and eventually, the mining companies that explored the valley, searching for the mother lode of rubies and sapphires. Today, Cowee Valley remains a major gem mining area balancing tourism with environmental concerns. The gems that are found in the region will also be discussed.

The speaker, Dr. Susan Ray has been a lifelong educator who continues to share knowledge with audiences. She taught high school for twenty years, and was awarded a fellowship to establish a Master’s program in Education for nurses in Malawi. Susan returned to the U S and transitioned to school administration, went on to St. John’s University in Queens NY to receive her Doctor of Education degree, and continued her career as a school principal, adjunct professor, and guest lecturer. She retired to Franklin and began volunteering for the Gem & Mineral Society four years ago and is now in her second year as the Society president.