Preston County History Day – September 19

Learning about Preston County life in earlier centuries on September 19 can be easy and fun.

Celebrate Preston County History Day by visiting the Aurora Area Historical Society Museum, open 1 PM–4 PM; McGrew House in Kingwood, 1 PM-3 PM; the Szilagyi Center museums in Rowlesburg from noon–4 PM; Terra Alta History House, 1 PM–4 PM; or the Tunnelton Train Depot from 1 PM–3 PM.

Did you know that Aurora was a summer getaway in the 1880s and later for big-city dwellers who felt the mountain air was safer and healthier? See photos of the town and the hotels that drew summer residents to enjoy the casinos, pools, and concert halls there.

Tour the impressive home of Kingwood businessman, James McGrew, who participated in West Virginia becoming our 35th state in 1863. See a way of life that has disappeared and other rooms full of unique early Kingwood items.

The Szilagyi Center, housed in the old school in Rowlesburg, gives you insights into the challenges our servicemen who fought in World War II faced, our county’s sports heroes over the years, and the construction of railroad bridges. Also, check out the Cannon Hill sign in the nearby park explaining the April 1863 skirmish when the Confederate army showed up.

The History House, with extensive genealogical archives of families who have lived here, also features rooms full of old furniture displays and vintage everyday living items and toys.

Tunnelton’s old train depot was a central focus of everyday life in the 20th century. Built in 1913, the B&O facility processed mail, freight and passenger traffic. See how business communication was handled long before any computers were invented.

Also, there are three outdoor Civil War Trail sites near Aurora and Rowlesburg explaining the Jones-Imboden Raid and its effect on those areas of the county.

Various Preston County Locations
Preston County, WV, USA