We’re thrilled to share that Mountain Heritage Trail’s Historic Schoolhouse Trail is featured on the cover of the Fall 2023 issue of WV Living Magazine! Be sure to grab a copy from newsstands near you and flip to page 58 for our beautiful two-page spread.
Thank you, WV Living, for the love and support—and for helping us shine a light on our rural heritage!
It’s hard to believe it’s been three years since we first dreamed up the idea of creating local heritage trails to encourage folks—both locals and visitors—to linger a little longer on our country roads. Our very first project, the Historic Schoolhouse Trail, came to life with the generous support of the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area, the Hardy County Convention and Visitors Bureau, AmeriCorps, WVU’s Fulcrum Project, and a crew of dedicated volunteers.
Hardy County was once home to more than 125 one- and two-room schoolhouses, including five African American schools. While many are lost to time, the trail currently highlights 22 sites, with more being uncovered thanks to community stories, heirlooms, and shared memories.
Our work is ongoing, and we welcome helping hands! From photographing schoolhouses to gathering oral histories and uncovering records, this is truly a community-powered effort. (Want to get involved? Join our free StoryGathering 101 Webinar on November 11 at 1:00 PM to learn how you can help preserve these stories.)
If you’d like to support the Schoolhouse Trail with your time, talent, or treasure, drop us a note at gather@celebratefolkways.org or make a secure donation [HERE].
Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep history alive—together.