Folk Schools have been operating in Scandinavia since the middle of the 19th century. Folk schools developed in during a period of economic and political changes in Europe. The aim of these schools was to give people an opportunity to develop new skills as their agricultural opportunities dwindled and moved to the cities.

In the United States folk schools developed during the Great Depression. These schools not only helped folks to develop skills and meaningful work, but served as a means of documenting and preserving traditional culture.

The Blue Stone Folk School follows this tradition of teaching and preserving traditional arts and culture in Noblesville, Indiana. Noblesville, like many midwestern communities, long served as a focus of traditional cultural activity. With the rapid expansion of Indianapolis and Hamilton County and rapid development the traditions of the region are threatened.

It is our hope that the Blue Stone Folk School will refocus the community on these traditions as well as learn about the heritage of our changing population.

The Blue Stone Folk School is developing as you explore this website. We are currently developing programs, seeking funding, exploring spaces for instruction and laying the groundwork to apply for not-for-profit status.

We are going through all of the processes of a young program: looking for class space and equipment, recruiting teachers and performers, taking care of our legal and financial obligations. It's great fun and a real challenge.

There are many more questions than answers at this point. If you have a question or an interest contact us. We'd love to talk.