All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Fairmont State’s Folklife Center to celebrate Appalachian heritage with Dulcimer Jam

Fairmont State University’s Folklife Center will host its free Wartz ‘n All Dulcimer Jam on August 23, inviting the community to celebrate Appalachian heritage through music, hands-on opportunities, and cultural connection.

Nestled in the heart of Appalachia, West Virginia is home to a rich and distinctive culture shaped by the ancient Appalachian Mountains—some of the oldest in the world, dating back nearly 480 million years to the Ordovician Period. These mountains, older than trees themselves, have long influenced the traditions and stories of the region.

Fairmont State University’s Frank and Jane Gabor Folklife Center stands as a proud steward of this heritage, offering the community a vibrant array of events, exhibits, and workshops that honor Appalachian life.

One of its most beloved traditions is the Wartz ‘n All Dulcimer Jam, held twice annually. The next jam will take place on Saturday, August 23, beginning at 10 a.m. and wrapping up around 3 p.m. This free, public event invites everyone—from seasoned musicians to curious newcomers—to join in or simply enjoy the music. Cardboard dulcimers will be available for beginners who want to try their hand at playing.

The mountain dulcimer, a stringed folk instrument native to Appalachia, first appeared in historical records in 1826 in Pendleton County. By the late 1800s, it had become a staple of regional music.

The jam was originally held at various locations before finding its permanent home at the Folklife Center, thanks to cofounder and dulcimer enthusiast Robert Lackey. Though Lackey passed away shortly after establishing the event at Fairmont State, his legacy lives on through the continued celebration of dulcimer music.

Participants are welcome to drop in at any time throughout the day. Folklife Center Director Dr. Lydia Warren emphasizes the importance of events like this in keeping traditions alive.

“We love being a resource to the community and keeping the dulcimer tradition alive through events like this one. It’s a very casual and accessible way to watch, hear, and even try your hand at the lap dulcimer,” said Warren.

For more information, visit www.fairmontstate.edu/folklife, email Lydia.Warren@FairmontState.edu, or call 304-367-4286. The Folklife Center is located on Squibb Wilson Blvd on the campus of Fairmont State University in Fairmont, West Virginia.

Those interested in learning more about public events happening on campus can subscribe to the Falcon Flyer email newsletter to stay up to date on all things Fairmont State University. Visit www.fairmontstate.edu/newsletter to learn more and subscribe.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

A look inside Leadership Upshur: September 2025 – Session 1

My Buckhannon writer Lily Hicks reports on her first session of Leadership Upshur, a nine-month program for Upshur County residents. The group explored downtown, met community volunteers and leaders and discovered how local projects come together.

Upshur County Commission proclaims Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week

The Upshur County Commission proclaimed Sept. 17–23 as Constitution Week after members of the Elizabeth Zane Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution marked the Constitution’s 238th anniversary and presented pocket-sized constitutions.

Linda Kay Snyder

Linda Kay Snyder, 77, of Lick Run, Buckhannon, died Sept. 19, 2025; she is survived by husband Gerald, son Jamie, three grandchildren, a brother and stepfather, and funeral services are Sept. 21 at Good Hope Tabernacle.

Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board Agenda: September 25, 2025

The City of Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board will meet September 25, 2025; this article publishes the meeting agenda.

Bucs rack up 433 yards of offense but can’t slow down Tigers in 57-29 setback

Despite 433 yards and Dawson Tenney’s 347 passing (with Jacob Frye’s 215 and three TDs), Buckhannon-Upshur fell 57-29 as Elkins’ three-headed rushing attack piled up 561 yards.

West Virginia Wesleyan College announces 2025 alumni award winners

Wesleyan’s Alumni Award Winners include Doug Ritchie, Dr. Charity Metz Schuller, Jordan Godwin, Angel Wilson, Paula Lowther McGrew, Jessicah Cross and Drs. Lynn Gableman Rupp and Robert O. Rupp.

Subaru grant helps Luv 4 Animals fund October adoption push

A $4,000 Subaru Loves Pets grant will fund reduced adoption fees, spay/neuter surgeries, Lyme testing and free microchips as Luv 4 Animals aims to clear the Lewis-Upshur Animal Control Center in October with an adoption event Oct. 18.

Appalachian Mutual Aid Collective Foundation to hold annual meeting & community pizza party

The Appalachian Mutual Aid Collective Foundation will hold its free Annual Meeting and pizza party at 4 p.m. Sept. 27 at First Presbyterian Church in Buckhannon, offering a limited shuttle, Facebook Live and volunteer recruitment.

Beverly Lou Posey

Beverly Lou Posey, 65, of Buckhannon, WV, died Sept. 18, 2025; she is survived by husband Richard, two daughters, grandchildren and a brother, and was known for fishing, crocheting, gardening and making others laugh.