Preston County History Day

Celebrate West Virginia’s 159th birthday a day early by learning more about our history and who and what came before us in Preston County.

On June 19, Preston County History Day will be observed at Arthurdale Heritage, open 10 AM–3 PM; the Aurora Area Historical Society Museum, 1 PM–4 PM; the McGrew House in Kingwood, 1 PM-3 PM; the Szilagyi Center museums in Rowlesburg from 1 PM– 4 PM; the History House Museum in Terra Alta, 1-4 PM; and the Tunnelton Train Depot from 1 PM–3 PM.

Learn why the groundbreaking efforts of the nation’s first New Deal subsistence homestead project at Arthurdale were made. Eleanor Roosevelt, America’s first lady, was involved from the very first days in creating the prototype settlement. Her annual visits to pass out diplomas at the high school commencements were important occasions.

Appreciate why Aurora, one of the first areas settled in the county, was once a summer resort town for wealthy city residents coming to “take the mountain air.” It was a stylish place in the late Victorian era.

Understand the unique legacy of Kingwood businessman, James C. McGrew, who also helped West Virginia to become our nation’s 35th state. Learn how Persis McGrew, his wife, also enhanced Preston County life in the mid-and late-1800s.

The Szilagyi Center in Rowlesburg has multiple museums which give visitors extensive connections to World War II’s challenges and its servicemen, Preston County’s own high school sports heroes, and railroad bridges.

The History House’s exhibits on antique weapons and armor, cameras, musical instruments, farm and carpentry tools will give young and old an opportunity to learn about life as it was lived many generations ago.

The Tunnelton Train Depot museum explains railroad life and commerce that continued late into the 20th Century. The 1913 brick depot was used by the B&O Railroad, and there are two historic tunnels nearby.
Also, there are three outdoor Civil War Trail sites near Aurora and Rowlesburg.

These county sites will be open the third Sunday of each month through October 16.

Please find the addresses to each location below:

Arthurdale Heritage, Inc.
18 Q Rd, Arthurdale, WV 26520

Aurora Area Historical Society
23904 George Washington Highway, Aurora

McGrew House
111 E. Main St., Kingwood

Szilagyi Center
20 Buffalo St., Rowlesburg

Tunnelton Train Depot
67 Boswell St., Tunnelton

Preston County
Preston County, WV, USA