The small rural community of Cherryville, North Carolina was examined to determine the relationship between its cultural background and its decision making processes. Specific objectives were to: (1) identify and record insights into the culture of the community; (2) include and preserve an accurate record of the cultural practices and beliefs; (3) interrelate the culture and tradition with the preservation of the local high school; (4) document some of the unique traditional community practices and colloquialisms; (5) present the community's position relative to the school system and its unified effort to support and preserve the local high school; (6) formally research the culture of a small community; (7) identify and infer strengths to be found in opposition to school consolidation; and (8) provide useful information for other small communities. Personal interviews, observations, historical research, tape recordings, and photographs were employed to describe and define the community's cultural beliefs and practices. It was concluded that the fundamental and basic life style of a given community is of great significance to those involved in the decision making process and that only through consideration and understanding of the peculiarities of individual communities can worthwhile decisions be made in the best interest of all mankind. (Author/JC)