Preserving the Past: Exploring the Museums Keeping WV’s History Alive
The Top of West Virginia is home to three historical, volunteer-run museums: the Brooke County Historical Museum and Culture Center, the Weirton Area Museum and Cultureal Center, and the Hancock County Museum. Each of these locations is dedicated to carefully preserving and celebrating the region’s rich history.
The Brooke County Historical Museum and Culture Center, located in the former G.C. Murphy Building in Wellsburg, was estabilshed in 1975 as the state’s first county museum. Set up as a “life museum”, the center captures moments of small-town history by showcasing furniture and artifacts from the 18th-20th centuries. There is also a large military collection featuring uniforms, ammunition, maps, and recorded stories from all branches of the military. The museum operates from April through October, welcoming visitors on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays between 1-5 p.m, with additional visits available by appointment.
In Weirton, the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center in dedicated to preserving the city’s history from its early days as Holiday’s Cove to its development alongside the Weirton Steel Company, and into the present day. Their collection boasts an extensive number of photographs and memoribilia of the community, the steel mill, and even more recent events like the filming of J.J. Abrams’ film, “Super 8”. The museum hosts several lectures and events throughout the year, including the Festival of Nations. Visitors can stop by the museum on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Hancock County Museum overlooks the Ohio River in New Cumberland, located within the Marshall House. The Victorian Lady house was constructed in 1887 and showcases exceptionally preserved pocket doors, fireplaces, etched transoms, a winding staircase, interior shutters, and additional woodwork. Later converted into the museum, the house exhibits the history of local industries including pottery, brick-making, mining, and the apple industry. This museum also has a large military exhibition displayed in John Marshall’s former bedroom. Visitors can call ahead at 304-564-4800 to make an appointment, or stop by one of the summer lecture series events open to the public.
Together, these museums offer a comprehensive look into the Northern Panhandle’s past, from it’s industrial achievements to its cultural milestones, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the area’s history.
