John Ehle (1925-2018) stands as a towering figure in North Carolina’s cultural and literary landscape, despite considering himself primarily a writer. His profound impact extends far beyond the realm of literature, shaping pivotal programs designed to uplift individuals and communities across the state. His multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to public service and a remarkable talent for storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on North Carolina and beyond.
Former Governor Terry Sanford aptly recognized Ehle’s unique value, stating, “If I were to write a guidebook for new governors, one of my main suggestions would be that he find a novelist and put him on his staff.” This insightful remark underscores Ehle’s creative thinking and his ability to translate vision into impactful action.
Born and raised in Asheville, John Ehle’s connection to the Appalachian Mountains was deeply rooted. As the eldest of five children, he inherited a rich storytelling tradition from his mother’s side, who hailed from four generations of mountain people. This heritage profoundly influenced his writing, imbuing it with an authentic voice and a keen understanding of human experience, particularly within the Appalachian context.
Ehle’s journey included service as a rifleman in World War II, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his perspective and deepened his empathy for the human condition. Following the war, he pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning both BA and MA degrees. His academic pursuits led him to a teaching position at UNC, where he spent a decade nurturing young minds. Even in his youth, a passion for writing was evident. His early interest in debate tournaments transitioned into a lifelong dedication to crafting narratives meant to be heard. During his time at Chapel Hill, he honed his dramatic writing skills contributing plays to NBC Radio’s American Adventure series.
John Ehle’s literary output is substantial, encompassing seventeen books – eleven works of fiction and six non-fiction titles. His fiction, deeply embedded in the North Carolina mountains he knew intimately, explored the nuances of life in Appalachia with sensitivity and realism. His non-fiction works ventured into diverse and significant subjects, tackling complex themes such as the Civil Rights struggle, the poignant history of the Cherokee Nation in “Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation”, and even delving into the worlds of French wine and cheese, and Irish whisky. Ehle’s universal appeal is evidenced by the translation of his books into numerous languages, including French, German, Swedish, Czech, Spanish, and Japanese. Critics lauded his writing style for its unvarnished portrayal of everyday life, emphasizing “not the glories of the day but the hardships,” and consistently praised his profound respect for the dignity of both his fictional and non-fictional subjects.
Beyond his literary achievements, John Ehle’s public service contributions were transformative for North Carolina. Serving on Governor Terry Sanford’s staff in the 1960s, Ehle became known as the “idea man,” playing a crucial role in establishing landmark institutions such as the North Carolina School of the Arts and the Governor’s School. His influence extended to the national level through his work with the White House Group for Domestic Affairs and the First National Council of the Humanities. Ehle’s vision and dedication were instrumental in the creation of the North Carolina Film Board, the North Carolina Institute of Outdoor Drama, the North Carolina Advancement School, and the North Carolina School of Science and Math. Further demonstrating his commitment to inclusivity and opportunity, he co-founded the Awards Committee for Education, which provided enrichment programs for gifted young African American, Native American, and white Appalachian students.
John Ehle shared his life with his wife, actress Rosemary Harris, dividing their time between Winston-Salem, Penland, and New York City. Their daughter, Jennifer Ehle, has followed in her mother’s footsteps, achieving recognition as a celebrated actress.
Ehle’s literary and public service contributions have been widely recognized through prestigious awards and accolades. He received the North Carolina Award for Literature, the Thomas Wolfe Prize, and the Lillian Smith Award for Southern Fiction. A five-time recipient of the Sir Walter Raleigh Award for Fiction, he was also honored with the Mayflower Award, the Governor’s Award for Meritorious Service, and the John Tyler Caldwell Award for the Humanities. Universities further acknowledged his achievements with honorary doctorates from UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Asheville, the North Carolina School of the Arts, and Berea College.
In an interview with Wilma Dykeman, when asked about his favorite work, John Ehle’s characteristic forward-looking perspective shone through: “The next one. That’s always the answer, isn’t it?” This encapsulates his enduring passion for creation and his unwavering commitment to the next story waiting to be told, the next challenge to be addressed. John Ehle’s legacy is one of profound literary achievement and transformative public service, forever enriching the cultural and educational fabric of North Carolina and beyond.
