Preserving the Past West Virginia ’ s National Heritage Areas
MEGAN BEVINS
Photo by Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area .
Photo by Wheeling Heritage .
From monumental mountains to coal mining towns , West Virginia is covered in rich history . Taking a walk through the Mountain State is like traveling back in time , whether it ’ s gazing at the natural landscape dating back millions of years or strolling down streets that once hosted an attempted uprising or famous speech .
Ensuring the state ’ s history is preserved and shared are National Heritage Areas ( NHAs )— large , lived-in landscapes that hold nationwide importance . There are 62 designated NHAs across the country , with four located fully or partially in West Virginia .
Gaining an NHA designation helps sites better provide education on the history and significance of the land , improve the quality of life for its citizens and provide funding for economic developments . NHAs bring national recognition , helping promote tourism and conservation efforts .
West Virginia ’ s four NHAs are the Appalachian Forest NHA ( AFNHA ), National Coal Heritage Area ( NCHA ), Journey Through Hallowed Ground NHA ( JTHG ) and Wheeling National Heritage Area ( WNHA ).
NHA designations require years of dedication , support from local communities and extensive collaboration with
Photo by Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area .
the National Park Service ( NPS ). For the AFNHA , it took more than 20 years to achieve a designation . The process began at West Virginia University in 2001 with a forestrycentered trail project , and the official designation was granted in 2019 , though the AFNHA management plan wasn ’ t approved by the NPS until 2023 .
The AFNHA tells the story of how human culture and the natural world in Central Appalachia intersect . The region has a deep cultural heritage , and the ancient mountains of the Appalachian Forest are some of the most biodiverse in North America . The land ’ s timber has also been used in notable historical contexts such as the construction of the Wright Brothers ’ planes .
“ Our local residents know what makes their communities special , and having our NHA designation means we have national legislation to prove it and help frame it ,” says Ben Duvall-Irwin , communications manager for the AFNHA . “ We can help tell our unique , authentic story .”
In 2023 , the AFNHA awarded $ 200,000 in grants to area
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