The Homestead Project of Arthurdale

Welcome to Arthurdale, the nation’s first New Deal homestead subsistence project championed by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. The first homesteaders arrived in 1934 and each property was 2 – 5 acres in size to allow the families to raise food and livestock. Modern amenities not commonly available around the country at that time – electricity, indoor plumbing, and a refrigerator – were provided to all 165 homes constructed by the federal government as a way to help families during the Great Depression. This ground-breaking project’s public buildings have been restored by residents who appreciated this second chance at life and knew the value of preserving it. A five-building museum is now open to the public year-round to tell the special story of the First Lady’s legacy.

Visit Preston County History: Fairfax Manor

In collaboration with Preston County History Day activities, the Fairfax Manor is open this Sunday, August 20,  from 2 – 5 pm. The historic home is still a family home and the current owner, Caroline Richmond, will open the historic home for FREE tours on these days.

Built in 1818 during the inception of Preston County, many of the original fittings of the original home are preserved – 9 over 6 and 6 over 6 windows, carved fireplace mantels with center medallions, center hall layout, numerous “old house” features, and great views of the county.

The home has an interesting Arthurdale connection — long before the time of Richard Arthur and Eleanor Roosevelt, the area that became Arthurdale was a plantation owned by Col. John Fairfax family.  Fairfax had served in the Revolutionary War with George Washington and had been an overseer at Mt. Vernon before coming to this area.  Although his stone Georgian stone 2-story home and Kingwood plantation were over 10 miles away, he and his wife are buried in Arthurdale.

Don’t miss the chance to see a unique piece of local history!

The street address is 1358 N. Preston Hwy. (Rt. 26 North of Kingwood, on the right, shortly after Eckert Heating)