Brocks Gap Schools—Bergton, Criders, and Fulks Run

Ask An Author with Pat Turner Ritchie

Friday, June 5, 2026, 10:30 am

Join Rocktown History for an Ask an Author program with Pat Turner Ritchie, author of Brocks Gap Schools: Bergton, Criders, and Fulks Run. Through photographs, memories, and local research, Ritchie explores the one- and two-room schools that shaped generations of families in western Rockingham County and the Shenandoah Valley.

One-Room Schools of Brocks Gap

Long before school consolidation, small one- and two-room schools served the communities of Bergton, Criders, Fulks Run, and the surrounding Brocks Gap area. These schools were more than classrooms—they were gathering places that connected neighbors and shaped generations of Valley families.

During this Ask an Author program, Pat Turner Ritchie shares stories and discoveries from her newest book, Brocks Gap Schools: Bergton, Criders, and Fulks Run, a richly illustrated volume featuring hundreds of photographs and memories from former students and teachers.

Stories from Valley Classrooms

The program includes heartwarming recollections of daily life in rural schools, from long walks through mountain weather to chalk drawings that still survive on classroom blackboards decades later. Audience members will also hear about surviving school buildings and the local efforts that helped preserve their history.

Even visitors without direct ties to Brocks Gap will enjoy this glimpse into Shenandoah Valley education, community life, and rural traditions.

About the Author

Pat Turner Ritchie has published numerous books on Brocks Gap genealogy and history. Her work preserves the stories, photographs, and family connections of western Rockingham County communities for future generations.

Books will be available for purchase during the event.

Note: The new book does not include Genoa School or the current Fulks Run Elementary because they were already subjects of previous books. Bergton Elementary 1958-1988 will be the topic of next year’s book. If you are a former student at Bergton Elementary, Pat is collecting pictures and would appreciate copies of yours!