Are you a history buff? Maybe you’re more of an explorer, attempting to find history and know it for where it remains?

Take some time to discover and explore Marion County, WV’s historical attractions — and its memories!

Marion County has many names: The knower of the past. The keeper of history. The lover of the lost. Marion County has attempted to preserve the history of the area, what is important, what was important, and what is just plain cool.

 

 

 

       The Telephone Museum

This great space, once the Bell Telephone Building, and is now used to preserve just what it did. On every shelf, on every table is something that was once a part of daily American life. Not only can you see the past, but Miss Helen and Miss Sue are the quintessential museum tour guides. Their information is educational as well as socially revealing. Don’t just look at the place that once was so integral to phone talk, but hear about it firsthand from Helen and Sue! Do you know the significance of Emma Nutt?

 

 

 

 

 

The Coal Museum at Coal Country Miniature Golf

What West Virginia was and still is. This museum delves into the past of our coal history— the tunnels, the tools, the traps and disasters. Don’t simply learn; try to understand. Use the digital coal miner to get a better perspective of life underground. The Coal Museum shows that mining is much more than dirt and work, but a life and a way all its own. Experience first-hand the brute strength it takes to shovel a ton of coal.  Be sure to stop by the Knights of Columbus on December 3rd from 10 am – 3 pm for the annual Coal Miner Appreciation Day & Swap Meet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Marion County Historical Society

Truly a society of history. Diverse in its collections, breathtaking in scope, the Marion County Historical Society has at least 9 collections housed at the historical site. The collections range from Coal History to War History to Black History.  Check out all the artifacts, or focus on your favorite! The museum has historical significance as it was once the sheriff’s residence.

 

 

 

 

Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center

Conveniently located on Fairmont State University’s main campus, the Frank and Jane Gabor WV Folklife Center is one of only 25 college centers like it in the nation. It houses an upstairs museum, gallery and library.  Stroll the gardens that demonstrate historical and cultural significance. Be sure to check out their  new exhibition, “From Mountain Roots….” in its Ruth Ann Musick Gallery. The exhibit includes six new works by artist Claudia Giannini and will be on view through mid-February 2017.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Prickett’s Fort

This isn’t another walk through, read it, put on headphones, and listen to the guide type of museum. This is a living history museum. (And it is just what it sounds like.) Watch and hear first-hand of the 18th century history endured, created and loved by knowledgeable living history interpreters.

Don’t forget about your ancestors!  Check out Prickett’s Fort Genealogy Library, too!

 

 

 

 

 

 

WV Country Music Hall of Fame at Sagebrush Round-Up

Combine history and music, and here you are! Not only do you have the chance to hear and see Nashville greats you also have the opportunity to hear up and coming artists during their weekly shows. But come early so you can go through the hall of fame and learn more about country greats.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marion County Genealogical Society

Located in the most historical location of the county: Marion County Public Library. The club provides a collection of family histories and more from the local area, West Virginia and surrounding states. Because you’re in such a central location, go ahead and check out the library’s history section…it never ends!

 

 

West Augusta Historical Society

Originally known as Forks of Buffalo, Mannington was first settled in the latter part of the 18th century. The West Augusta Historical Society hosts a museum that allows visitors go explore the many transitions in northern Marion County. In addition to showcasing many artifacts significant to the area, the museum features the original bed, chair, and dresser of Frances H. Pierpont, first Governor of the restored Government of Virginia after the Civil War. Many antique items including a display of mountain musical instruments are showcased, as well as Victorian and early school exhibits. Also, visit the 1800’s furnished log house and a caboose which was built in 1912. It now houses a miniature railroad museum of articles used in the operation of the area’s transportation system such as whistles, stoves, and lanterns. You can also see a 1900’s South Penn Oil Co. Gasoline Station, which was the first filling station located in Mannington next to the museum.

The museum is also a great resource regarding collection of family histories, census records, vital statistics, cemetery records, county histories and more from the local area.

 

Do we even know when it began? There’s always more to learn. Just keep on exploring!

 

What’s your favorite period in history?