Historic landmarks and museums in West Virginia offer visitors a fascinating journey through the state’s rich Appalachian heritage, Civil War history, and cultural traditions. From exploring the preserved streets of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park to touring the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston, travelers can discover artifacts, stories, and exhibits that bring the past to life. Other must-see sites include the elegant Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, the iconic Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, and numerous local museums that celebrate coal mining, railroads, and Appalachian folk art. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, West Virginia’s historic landmarks and museums provide unforgettable insights into the people and events that shaped the Mountain State.
All it took was a spark to ignite an explosion that sent hurricane-force winds tearing through mines beneath the mountains near Montcoal in southern West Virginia. The Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster, as it came to be known, killed 29 miners and injured another two on April 5, 2010, though it would be days before … Read more
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the construction of the Big Bend Tunnel in southern West Virginia—the enterprise that legendarily took the life of folk-hero John Henry, believed by many to have been a flesh-and-blood railroad worker.According to most versions of the tale, Henry was employed to help dig the tunnel for the … Read more
When tourists arrive in Moundsville, West Virginia, they often come to see the massive Grave Creek Adena burial mound or tour the infamous West Virginia Penitentiary. Few may notice the small stone structures at the base of the mound across from the prison or know of the link between them.The small sandstone structure is almost … Read more
In advance of Saturday’s annual preservation awards banquet in Clarksburg, West Virginia, the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia today announced the winners of its 11th annual preservation awards.The banquet and ceremony are being held at the newly restored Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center in the Clarksburg National Historic District, according to Daniel Parker, executive director … Read more
The National Science Foundation has announced plans to leave open the remote Green Bank Observatory high in the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia.Formerly the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, the facility includes the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, though it may best be known for its remote location—among mountains that block radio interference from … Read more
VALLEY BEND, W.Va.—At the heart of an experimental community established during the New Deal in West Virginia, the rescued Homestead Community Center in the scenic Tygart Valley is in need of financial assistance to help repair restroom facilities.Though it remains an endangered historic property, designated as such by the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia, the … Read more
Many North Wheeling buildings are a step closer to being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and development officials have found several buildings in a new district survey that were older than they had expected.The Wheeling National Heritage Area, in Wheeling, West Virginia, is now accepting bids for a third and final phase … Read more
In the midst of a scenic valley, on the edge of a county fairground, it waits empty, looking out across broad pastures. Some say it’s eerie. Some, breath-taking. It’s the defining image for many travelers who visit rural Tyler County for the first time.State officials say it belongs on the National Register of Historic Places, … Read more
Heritage Farm Museum and Village, near Huntington, West Virginia, opens May 4 during its 23rd-annual Spring Festival, an ideal opportunity for families to explore the history of rural life in the Ohio Valley.More than 15 hewn-log structures, seven award-winning museums, an artisan center, and five log-cabin inns will open for exploration, according to Rebekah Perry, … Read more
One of the last coal camps that remain in the coalfields near Beckley, West Virginia, has been found eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, according to a spokesman for the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia.Once a mining boom-town, Helen, with a population of nearly 125 residents, was determined eligible for the … Read more
