Projects
The Old Brick Church
This former Baptist church in Union, of the Jeffersonian Classical Revival style, dates from 1845 and is one of Monroe County's premier landmarks. Its magnificent interior has been in largely original condition, but severe roof and structural damage from a storm in April 2006 have placed it at grave risk. Provided that we can match the funds offered, a grant from the National Park Service and West Virginia Division of Culture and History will help to repair the structure's upper portion and prevent deterioration until further restoration is feasible.
We have a brochure (PDF, 376kB) giving further information about this historic treasure and our campaign to save it.
The Second Creek District
Several of our members are participating in the project by Friends of The Second Creek to propose the watershed as a historic district. Results of the effort include documentation of the many water-powered mills which were built from about 1790, inventories of extant structures including historic homes and other buildings, collection of oral histories from long-time residents of the area, and creation of a One-Room School Museum.
Recently Completed Projects
- Our Omnibus, one of only four of its kind still in existence, has been lent for exhibit in the eastern end of Monroe County at Sweet Springs. It had been in storage for years and displays a wonderful state of preservation.
- In an effort to boost the attactiveness of Ames Clair Hall for the performing arts, community members helped us obtain a high-quality piano and construct a new stage. Further enhancements are still needed to fully enjoy the superb acoustics of this historic building.
- The Owen Neel House, dating from the early days of pioneer settlement, was generously donated by the Hansbarger family. With help from a grant by the West Virginia Division of Highways, it has been relocated to our museum complex, restored, and now accompanies the Clark-Wiseman house in presenting exhibits of pioneer life.
Ongoing Projects
- Our primary ongoing activity is the operation of the museum during the summer months. Please help us by remembering that this occurs through 100% volunteer effort, and all contributions of time are gratefully accepted.
- Dr. Jay Banks has led preparation of short radio programs on "Tidbits of History" for broadcast on WHFI (FM 106.7).
- Museum Inventory
- Maintenance of historic buildings is a complex and never-ending task. Volunteer time and monetary contributions are both needed.
- Although we do not have any active genealogy projects, we have launched an expanded genealogy section of this website, to assist with sharing of information about Monroe County families.
Requested Projects
- Further enhancements to Ames Clair Hall would improve the building's attractiveness for community events. These include both amenities for performers (dressing room) and spectators (improvement in seating comfort).