Methodist minister, Hiram Frakes, founded Henderson Settlement School (first called Partin Settlement School) in an isolated area of southern Bell County, Kentucky in 1925. Local residents donated land and various church interests contributed funds to soon make possible substantial school, dormitory, and boarding facilities. With improvement of roads and public school services after World War II, Henderson Settlement shifted its focus to the care of dependent children. During the 1950s, a day care center and used clothing store were established to help unemployed coal miners. After a new county elementary school was built in 1970, the Settlement provided funding for specialized teachers in such areas as language arts and guidance counseling. Other community betterment efforts have included the establishment of a volunteer fire department, primary care clinic, crafts marketing outlet, and lending library. As of 2003, the Settlement continues its focus on services in the area of child care, community education, agricultural development, and housing improvement.
From the description of Henderson Settlement Records 1925-1984. (Berea College). WorldCat record id: 52037674
