Last month, the Upshur County Historical Society opened the doors to the History Center Museum, marking the launch of its Summer 2025 Exhibit.
“Stories Told and Retold” is now open to the public, and it’s a display of a variety of photographs and memorabilia from well-known names like Fred Brooks that delves into depictions of the weaving structures of coverlets, appreciation of textile pieces such as quilts, and so much more. While browsing, visitors can gain a historical perspective on life in Upshur County through monumental chapters in time.
“We try to tell a story, and this year’s exhibit is themed ‘Stories Told and Retold,’” said Noel Tenney of the UCHS.
The story told within this exhibit is one that Upshur County residents and visitors should take a moment to listen to. A local volunteer will welcome guests to the exhibit and provide background information about the articles on display, sharing stories of the past and hopes for the future of Upshur County. Often, guests express a unique connection to the area and even the artifacts within the exhibit’s four walls.
“I think, as a community museum, one of the most interesting things is seeing how people respond to the exhibit,” said Rachel Hellwarth, Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area AmeriCorps member serving as the Collections Coordinator at the Upshur County Historical Society. “I’ve learned a lot of stories from the region while speaking with visitors. It brings back a memory, or they have a connection to the artifact.”
Hellwarth’s area of expertise is unique and intriguing – textiles and coverlets.
“When I first started this project [at the UCHS Summer Exhibit], I thought of weaving as a dying craft or something that is fading away and has a risk of becoming obsolete,” Hellwarth told My Buckhannon. “The more I studied it, I found the tools used are still traditional. However, in modern times, the motivations to weave or quilt have shifted from a necessity to an art.”
Guests are encouraged to experience this one-of-a-kind exhibit at the History Center Museum located at 81 West Main Street in Buckhannon. The exhibit welcomes visitors on Sunday afternoons from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit’s conclusion is on Sunday, September 28. This exhibit is free to enjoy for history buffs of all ages.
Local families, history enthusiasts, and collectors have generously donated artifacts to this exhibit over time. From the smallest trinkets to monetary donations from the community in support of the historical society’s operations, this showcase is a labor of love and appreciation for the place we call home, Buckhannon.
Monetary donations to the Historical Society and its Summer Exhibit are not expected but are greatly appreciated as they wish to continue using this space for local, historic preservation for many years to come. Reading materials, such as the Upshur County Historical Society Newsletter and Journal, are also available for purchase within the museum.
Guests can learn more about Upshur County history by scheduling an appointment to visit the Document Repository — 29 West Main Street, across from the Upshur County Courthouse — by email at info@upshurcountyhistoricalsociety.com. Visit the historical society website to learn more about recent publications, research opportunities and more.
