Rollins Community Faces Unthinkable Loss After Tropical Storm Helene
In the serene town of Rollins, North Carolina, nestled along the banks of the beautiful French Broad River, a catastrophe has unfolded that has left the close-knit community grappling with heartbreak and devastation. Located just upriver from Marshall, Rollins is a place rich in history and family ties. Many families here have called this place home for generations, enjoying the scenic landscapes and the joys of river living. Unfortunately, that charm was shattered during the recent onslaught of Tropical Storm Helene.
A Scene of Forgotten Devastation
The impact of the storm has been truly staggering. While it’s easy to admire the stunning fall colors adorning the trees across the river, the reality on the ground tells a grim story. As of today, tents have sprung up along the riverbank, but these aren’t homes; they serve as shelters for volunteers who have traveled from afar to lend a helping hand to those affected. These kind souls have set up camp amid the chaos, bringing their own gear and willing hearts.
However, behind these tents lies a catastrophic scene of destruction. Four weeks post-storm, only residents of Marshall and Rollins have access to the area, and there’s a real concern that the plight of this town will fade from public memory. Local resident Sarah Scully encapsulated this fear with a heartfelt plea: “Please don’t forget us.”
Witnessing the Aftermath
For those who have not witnessed the aftermath firsthand, it’s difficult to truly understand the extent of the devastation. While photos tell only part of the story, the sounds of despair and the smell of ruin fill the air. Of the homes that once stood proudly in Rollins, only ten remain salvageable. Eight homes have already met the wrecking ball, while just one remains habitable—an impressive feat, considering that it was spared even as the river swelled by six feet.
The Heartbreaking Stories
That last standing home belongs to Gerri Thomas Allen, an 84-year-old lifelong resident. She had lovingly rebuilt her house, painstakingly laying river rocks to create a stunning basement. Gerri’s determination and hard work paid off because, remarkably, her basement was the only one that kept the river water at bay. Her daughter, Jennifer Greene, shared the family’s heartbreak over their adjacent home, which was demolished after being inundated with water. With tears in her eyes, Jennifer reflected on the memories intertwined in every wall of her childhood home: “I just wanted to keep it; I’m sentimental, but it got torn down yesterday.”
A Life Taken Too Soon
The community not only faces the loss of homes; it has also lost a cherished member. Bruce Tipton, a beloved handyman and friend, was claimed by the river. His story is a chilling reminder of the storm’s ferocity. Trapped in a tree for over six hours, his story ended in tragedy, with residents mourning the loss of someone who had helped many of them. Jennifer recounted, “We could probably go through every one of these houses and say, ‘Bruce helped us do this,’ or ‘Bruce helped us do that.’ He was just an awesome man.”
Gratitude Amidst Grief
Despite the overwhelming challenges, the people of Rollins have found comfort in their shared resilience and the support of volunteers who have come to their aid. As they work to pick up the pieces, there’s a palpable spirit of determination in the air. While the physical scars from the storm may take time to heal, the strength of this small community shines through in their willingness to help one another.
As Rollins continues to navigate this challenging time, the message is clear: “Please don’t forget us.” The road to recovery will be long, but with love, support, and time, this community can begin to rebuild what was lost.
