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The Digital Blue Ridge Parkway

Oral History Interview with Jerry Burns, October 17, 2003

Transcript (9 p.) PDF
Complete Audio File (MP3 format / ca. 56 MB, 30:50) MP3
Abstract Jerry Burns, a native of Blowing Rock, talks about the impact the Blue Ridge Parkway has had on the town. Serving as the town newspaper's editor for more than three decades at the time of this interview, Burns has seen the effect the parkway has had on the town's economy. He talks about how the town is protective of the parkway because it is responsible for the tourism that drives the town's economy. On this note, Burns talks about the town's push for preservation of resources as opposed to commercial development. He also touches on the spirit of cooperation between the town and the Park Service in the way of resource sharing. Burns also details what he believes to be changes in the actions of current troopers as compared to the troopers of his youth.
Date October 17, 2003
Interviewee Burns, Jerry
Interviewee occupation Newspaper editor
Interviewee DOB Unknown
Interviewer Coyle, Philip E.
Subject Blowing Rock, N.C.
Tourism