Explore The Cradle of Forestry
Step into the story of Tommy Hodges, a name shrouded in one of the most enduring mysteries of the Biltmore Forest School. In 1903, Tommy vanished without a trace, leaving behind questions that have captivated imaginations for over a century. His story intertwines with the Cradle of Forestry in America, a historic treasure in Pisgah National Forest. As the birthplace of modern forestry education, the Cradle invites visitors to explore its trails, historic buildings, and rich legacy while pondering the tales of the past—like Tommy’s disappearance. Discover how this iconic site blends mystery, history, and the beauty of nature into an unforgettable experience.
Photo Courtesy of FIND Outdoors
Let’s hear a little about you, Tommy.
I’m Tommy Hodges, and if you’ve heard my name before, you probably know it’s tied to one of the biggest mysteries ever to come out of Biltmore Forest School. You see, back in October of 1903, I vanished without a trace, and no one’s been able to figure out what happened to me since.
I was just a regular student, full of curiosity, generosity, eager to lend a helping hand and always entertaining folks by telling stories. That crisp fall morning started like any other, full of wonder and I decided to take a walk along the familiar trails near the campus. Little did I know that this ordinary stroll would turn into something that would baffle everyone and become a part of school legend.
Now, here I am, a name in a story that’s captivated imaginations and sparked all sorts of theories. No one really knows where I went or why I never came back. But if there’s one thing I can say for sure, it’s that my disappearance has left behind a mystery that no one seems to be able to solve.
How am I speaking with you now, over a hundred years since my disappearance? Well, that’s just another piece of the mystery.
Inside the Biltmore Forest School
Tell us about The Cradle of Forestry.
The Cradle of Forestry in America is nestled in the Pink Beds Valley of Pisgah National Forest. On this site in 1898, Dr. Carl Schenck, chief forester for George Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate, founded the Biltmore Forest School, the first forestry school in America. The goal of the school was to teach responsible forest management to local men, like myself, in the timber industry, primarily as a reaction to the extensive and indiscriminate deforestation of the area in the late 19th century.
The 6,500-acre site was designated by Congress in 1968 to “preserve, develop, and make available to this and future generations the birthplace of forestry and forestry education in America.”
An Interactive Exhibit at the Cradle of Forestry
What can people do there?
At the Cradle, you can become a part of the story by exploring the past, present, and future of environmental sustainability and stewardship. Our trails offer visitors a chance to explore seven historical buildings from the time of the Biltmore Forest School (1898-1914), climb aboard and ring the bell of a 1914 Climax logging train engine, and interact with historical interpreters through programs and special events. Inside our Discovery Center, you’ll find interactive exhibits on forestry, the Biltmore Forest School, Pinchot 1893 World’s Fair Wood Slabs exhibit, Community Science interactive activities and more, a spacious theater featuring the film “First in Forestry,” and a gift shop.
Camping in the Old Style
What special events do they have coming up?
The Cradle of Forestry offers a variety of engaging events throughout the year, celebrating the history, heritage, and beauty of forestry and the great outdoors. Highlights include:
- National Public Lands Day: A special “Fee-Free Day” with free admission, opportunities to explore exhibits, and enjoy scenic trails.
- Forest Festival Day & Woodsman’s Meet: Dive into the region’s forest heritage with traditional craft displays and collegiate competitions like axe throwing and crosscut sawing.
- Camping in the Old Style: Step back in time to experience early 1900s camping methods, demonstrated by the Acorn Patrol, and learn about modern trail maintenance efforts.
- The Legend of Tommy Hodges Outdoor Drama: Immerse yourself in a captivating theatrical experience that brings the fictional story of Tommy Hodges to life along the Biltmore Campus Trail.
For more information on events and programs at the Cradle of Forestry, please visit gofindoutdoors.org.
Photo Courtesy of FIND Outdoors
Tommy, the last event is all about you, is that right?
That’s right, and it’s your chance to step into the mystery. If you want to know more about what really happened to me and the history of the Biltmore Forest School, come to The Legend of Tommy Hodges. You never know—you might just catch a glimpse of me out there. But remember, the forest holds its secrets tightly, and you might leave with more questions than you came with.
A special thank you to FIND Outdoors for putting us in touch with Tommy Hodges.
