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Other Local Places of Interest…


Entering Preston County, West Virginia. Sign refers to Arthurdale Project.  John Vachon, May 1939.  Library of Congress.

AURORA AREA HISTORY CENTER

A full sized replica of an 1850s General Store and exhibits related to the history of the Union District of Preston County.  Located on Route 50 in Aurora.

CATHEDRAL STATE PARK

Home to an ancient hemlock forest. Trees 90 feet tall and 21 feet in circumference form the park’s dramatic “cloisters”. An old-growth mixed forest with Eastern Hemlock being the dominant species.  Located on Route 50 in Aurora.

CRANESVILLE SWAMP PRESERVE

An astonishing boreal bog harboring plants and birds that usually occur much farther north. 1,650 acres protected by The Nature Conservancy. Boardwalk. Located on the Maryland/WV border. Follow wildlife signs in Terra Alta.

FAIRFAX STONE

One of oldest markers in the US. Marks boundary between Maryland and West Virginia, and is a state park. Located 2 miles off US 219, 4 miles north of Thomas.

GREATER MORGANTOWN AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

The primary resource for visitors to the “Scenic Mountain Home of West Virginia University” features information on the area’s heritage, arts & culture, outdoor recreation, lodging, dining, and shopping.

GREATEST GENERATION SOCIETY EXHIBIT & MUSEUM

The exhibit has scenes from U.S., British, German and Russian soldiers.  The home front (1940s living room) is also depicted and will be completed with a Rosie the Riviter reading letters from her soldier at the front.  A WAAC/Red Cross display with several uniforms, a wall of honor with photos of our veterans, and other artifacts will capture your imagination.

HISTORY HOUSE MUSEUM

Operated by the Preston County Historical Society and housed in the former 1892 Terra Alta Bank, the museum features railroad artifacts, old photos, maps, firearms, Indian artifacts, Civil War memorabilia and other items of historical interest for the Terra Alta area.

HOVATTER’S WILDLIFE ZOO

The wildest place on earth! Over 100 animals. Have your picture taken with exotic baby animals when available.  Located between Reedsville and Kingwood.

KINGWOOD

Only 8 miles east of Arthurdale is Kingwood, the county seat of Preston County.  Visitors can visit the historic James McGrew House or visit another old-fashioned Esso Station.  Enjoy the Buckwheat Festival the last weekend in September every year.

MARION COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

TUNNELTON RAILROAD DEPOT

Operated by the Tunnelton Historical Society, this depot was constructed during the period of 1912 through 1913.  Open by appointment only.  Located on Route 72.

ROWLESBURG

Located just 40 minutes across Preston County from Arthurdale, this community offers interesting things to do for the outdoor recreationalist as well as history buffs.  Enjoy the Civil War Battle site of Cannon Hill or a  World War II reenactment the last weekend in June.

VIRGINIA IRON FURNACE

A cut-stone blast furnace, standing roughly 30 feet high with a square base of 34 feet.  Constructed in 1854, it was the second blast furnace in Preston County, but remained in operation from 1854 to 1880, well past other industrial sites in nearby counties.  The Furnace is on the National Register and is open year round.  Located on Route 26, 3 miles north of Albright.

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