Lynn Wells Rumley facts for kids

Lynn Wells Rumley is a historian and politician known for her work in Cooleemee, North Carolina. She is famous for helping to save and share the history of textile mills in that town.

Early Life and Activism

Before moving to Cooleemee, Lynn Wells Rumley was involved in important social changes. In the 1960s, she was a civil rights activist in Atlanta, Georgia. Civil rights activists work to make sure all people have equal rights. She was part of groups like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). She also joined the Southern Student Organizing Committee (SSOC). Later, she became a leader in Students for a Democratic Society. This group worked for social change and youth involvement. She was also part of the Revolutionary Youth Movement. These groups aimed to make society fairer for everyone.

Preserving History in Cooleemee

Lynn Wells Rumley dedicated many years to preserving local history. From 1989 to 2017, she was the director of the Cooleemee Historical Association. This group also ran the Textile Heritage Center. Her job was to protect and share the story of Cooleemee's textile mills. These mills were a very important part of the town's past. She helped people learn about the lives of mill workers and the history of the industry.

Serving as Mayor

Besides her work in history, Rumley also served as the mayor of Cooleemee. She was mayor from 1998 until 2021. As mayor, she helped lead the town and make decisions for its residents. During her time as mayor, some of her policies and actions led to disagreements. There were times when her approach to traditional values caused controversy among some residents.