« April June »

May
Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
29	30	1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	31	1	2

Vandalia Gathering

Click on the days with a icon to load events for that day

The popular Vandalia Gathering takes place at the state capitol every Memorial Day weekend.

Events for May 2012

• Nature’s Mountain Playground Geocache Challenge

  May 01, 2012 to May 31, 2012 — Marlinton, Pocahontas

  Nature’s Mountain Playground Geocache Challenge is a month long event May 1-31, 2012. Geocachers will explore Pocahontas County locating a series of 12 caches. Each cache will hold a clue to the final answer. By completing the entire challenge and decoding the word puzzle, the correct answer will allow you to register for a vacation package giveaway. Click here to download the rules and the geocahce form.

  The first to complete the challenge will receive a First Finder custom designed compass provided by Presidio Studios. The first 50 geocachers receive the Nature’s Mountain Playground Geocache Challenge Coin.

  The last week of April, coordinates for the 12 sites will be posted on Geocaching.com. To easily find the 12 cache coordinates, search keyword ‘Natures Mountain Playground’. When geocachers complete the challenge, present the correct word puzzle answer at the Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau office in Marlinton, WV to register for the grand prize vacation package drawing and claim your commemorative coin.

  Cachers may register for the vacation package drawing and claim coins between May 1 – 31, 2012. More information
• Every Blood-Stained Mile: The Building of the Norfolk and Western in West Virginia

  May 01, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Train and railroad enthusiasts can join other history buffs for “Every Blood-Stained Mile: The Building of the Norfolk and Western in West Virginia,“ the topic of discussion for a lecture at 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 1, in the Archives and History Library at the Culture Center, State Capitol Complex in Charleston. Historians Jack and Kay Dickinson of Huntington will deliver the free talk and the public is invited to participate in the presentation.

  Almost as soon as the Norfolk and Western (N&W) Railroad edged its way across the Virginia state line into Bluefield, N&W President Fred Kimball began to look for a midwestern outlet to expand his markets. He decided to extend his railroad to the Ohio River near Ceredo, where he could link up with another railroad that traveled to Cincinnati and Columbus. The Ohio Extension, as the additional N&W Railroad was called, ran from Elkhorn, near Bluefield, to the Ohio River.

  This was rugged territory, and law enforcement was almost nonexistent. When the railroad began construction, different ethnic groups often clashed resulting in several deaths. By September 1892 when the track opened, the Ohio Extension had cost $8 million, almost bankrupting the N&W. However, the railroad brought a new era to the region. Villages sprang up, centered around the railroad station, and towns like Kenova, Naugatuck, Welch and Williamson took hold and still exist. When Kimball realized he had made a mistake in choosing the original path along Twelvepole Creek, the N&W built the Big Sandy Line, which follows the western border of West Virginia along the Big Sandy River. Today this is the route of the Norfolk Southern through West Virginia.

  On May 1, the library will close at 5 p.m. and reopen at 5:45 p.m. for participants only. For planning purposes, participants are encouraged to register for the workshop, but advance registration is not required to attend. To register in advance, contact Robert Taylor, library manager, by e-mail at bobby.l.taylor@wv.gov or at (304) 558-0230, ext. 163. Participants interested in registering by e-mail should send their name, telephone number and the name and date of the session. For additional information, contact the Archives and History Library at (304) 558-0230.
• Davis Historical Photo Display

  May 01, 2012 to July 15, 2012 — Canaan Valley, Tucker WVHC Event

  Davis Historical Photo Display and Traveling Exhibit at Courtland Acres Assisted Living, Thomas. May 1 through July 15. For more information please contact friendsofthe500th@refugeassociation.org
• Eleventh Annual Scottish Festival & Celtic Gathering

  May 04, 2012 to May 06, 2012 — Bridgeport, Harrison

  All the events, exhibitors, and activities that you’ve come to expect plus our third exciting West Virginia Pipe Band Championship competition. The Friday night CEILIDH will again be held at Via Veneto. Saturday’s activities will include EUSPBA Sanctioned Solo Bagpipe and Drumming competitions, FUSTA Sanctioned Highland Dancing Competition, and MASA sanctioned Heavy Athletic competition in addition to the EUSPBA Sanctioned Pipe Band contest.

  • Scottish Country Dancing
  • Handbells
  • Heritage Musicians
  • Living History Presentations
  • Highland Dancing
  • Puppets
  • Children’s Activities
  • Massed Bands
  • Scottish Vendors
  • Food
  • Genealogy
  • Society and Clan representatives
  • Scottish Breed Dog Exhibit
  • Sheep and duck herding demonstrations
  • Music and Children’s Workshops
  • Spinning and Weaving Exhibit
  • Shetland Sheep, ponies and Highland Cattle

  And there’ll be stage performances during the day by headline performers, who will also appear in concert Saturday evening in the Bridgeport High School Auditorium. On Sunday, a special Scottish Heritage Church Service and Celebration takes place at First Presbyterian Church in Clarksburg caps off a weekend that is one of this area’s premier events. More information
• Downtown Charleston ArtWalk

  May 05, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  The Downtown Charleston ArtWalk will be celebrating 10 years as the Capitol City’s Premiere art event in 2012 – and this year promises to be even bigger, better and more exciting than before!

  With the addition of two special Saturday “Open House” events in 2012 you will have even more opportunities to enjoy fine art from local, regional and nationally renowned artists and experience the diverse, charming and exciting art venues in Downtown Charleston.

  Spring Fling Open House, noon – 4pm

  More information
• Voices from the Storm: Civil War Shepherdstown

  May 05, 2012 — Shepherdstown, Jefferson WVHC Event

  The Historic Shepherdstown Commission presents, “Voices from the Storm: A Museum Exhibit on Civil War Shepherdstown. The exhibit opens, Saturday, May 5. For more information please contact 304-876-0910 or info@historicshepherdstown.com
• 17th Annual North River Mills Day

  May 05, 2012 — North River Mills, Hampshire

  Each year we celebrate the by-gone days of this 1700’s village. Enjoy a relaxing day in this once-bustling, now quiet town. Usual activities include:

  • Old time or folk music jam on the porch, and people clogging.
  • Interpretive hay-less ride around the hamlet.
  • Falconer Mark Bowers may bring his hawk.
  • Historical reenactors will likely be camping and participating, including French and Indian War reenactors and the 13th Va. Infantry (Civil War). A whiskey sutler may be present— sorry no samples or sale of his wares. Rob Wolford will hopefully return as blacksmith.
  • The Kirks may bring their goats.
  • We’re hoping some steam engines may be displayed. Randy Hiett will try and bring his Model T, and Leo Staw may have his steam engines there.
  • The church ladies have refreshments (for a contribution.)
  • The adjacent quiet dirt lane is a nice place for a hike.

  North River Mills was designated a “Historical Landmark” designation. If you have old photos (people or structures of the village), we would love to scan them. Often old timers come to swap stories of North River Mills, giving the day a homecoming feel.

  Ted, (www.oldblacktruck.com) the antique tractor guru, will also host a corn crib art show.
• Spring Gas and Steam Engine Show

  May 05, 2012 to May 06, 2012 — Point Pleasant, Mason

  West Virginia State Farm Museum Spring Gas and Steam Engine Show, May 5-6. Working saw mill, historic buildings and displays, antique tractor pull on Saturday at 1pm. Country kitchen and store open. More information
• Belle Boyd, a History Alive! presentation

  May 07, 2012 — Wheeling, Ohio WVHC Event

  Belle Boyd, History Alive!, Our Lady of Peace School, Wheeling, 10 AM
• Clara Barton: a History Alive! presentation

  May 11, 2012 — Beckley, Raleigh WVHC Event

  Clara Barton, History Alive!, Raleigh County Commission on Aging, Beckley, 10:30 AM
• 7th Annual St. Albans Founder’s Day

  May 12, 2012 — St. Albans, Kanawha

  The 7th Annual St. Albans Founders Day will be on Olde Main Street Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 10 – 4 pm. Sponsored by the St. Albans Founder’s Day Committee and the St. Albans Historical Society, this event gets better each year. This year’s theme is “St. Albans and the Civil War.”

  Its purpose is to celebrate the history of St. Albans and promote the businesses on Main Street, to involve the youth in becoming aware of the fascinating story lived and told right here in our town and it is the opportunity for everyone to learn a little more about the history of the town. The Opening Parade begins at 10 am at St. Francis Catholic going on Main Steet and ending at the Loop.

  Entertainment will be: “History Alive” presenter Belle Boyd (Patty Cooper), Abraham Lincoln (George Bartley), the St. Albans School of Dance, music groups and dance demonstrations. Numerous Food and Craft Booths add to the excitement. The Albans Arts Center will be showing "Civil War in WV " throughout the day beginning at noon. The Marigold Express train gave children rides around the Loop.

  This year’s event will be focused on the Civil War in St. Albans and there will be several Civil War re-enactors. A Historic Walking Tour brochure has been prepared telling about the six pre-Civil War homes and one church still standing in town. The St. Albans Historical Society will have a booth with over 11 books for sale and will be scanning your old photos you may have of vintage building or street scenes and then returning them to you.

  There will be a free movie Friday night at 7:30 pm at the Albans Arts Center, “The Romance of Rosie Ridge” about reconstruction of the states after the Civil War.

  There is also a Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast at St. Marks Episcopal (8-noon) and Car Cruise-in nearby at the loop that day and a historical presentation at the St. Albans Library at 2 pm by Billie Joe Peyton “Men to Arms! Civil War in Charleston”.
• The Way We Worked

  May 12, 2012 to July 07, 2012 — Elkins, Randolph WVHC Event

  The final stop of the Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibit The Way We Worked is the Randolph County Community Arts Center in Elkins where it will open on May 12 with a public reception from noon to 3:00 p.m. The exhibit will remain on display through July 7.
• Robert E. Lee, a History Alive! presentation

  May 12, 2012 — Clarksburg, Harrison WVHC Event

  Robert E. Lee, History Alive!, Veterans Park, Clarksburg, 1 PM
• Migration Celebration

  May 12, 2012 — Beaver, Raleigh

  Three Rivers Avian Center organizes a day filled with outdoor activities, include birds of prey, at Little Beaver State Park. Event is May 12, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and open to the public at no charge. Contact: TRAC, 304-466-4683
• West Virginia Youth Symphony Spring Concert

  May 13, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  The West Virginia Youth Symphony will present its spring concert Sunday, May 13 at the Scottish Rite Temple in Charleston. The concert begins at 3pm and will feature the various musical ensembles of the Youth Symphony:

  • Cadet Strings, beginning level string students
  • Youth Strings, intermediate level string students through grade 12
  • Wind Ensemble, brass and woodwind sections of the Youth Orchestra
  • The full Youth Orchestra, advanced string, brass, woodwind and percussion musicians through age 22

  Tickets are $10 for adults, students free. For more information, visit the website, call (304) 561-3542, or email wvyouthsymphony@gmail.com

  The West Virginia Youth Symphony originated in 1949 when the Charleston Woman’s Club organized the Kanawha Valley Youth Orchestra. It has operated continuously since then, becoming incorporated in 1968 as the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra and changing its name in 1991 to the West Virginia Youth Symphony. While the name has changed, the goal has remained the same – to provide opportunities for young people to perform in an orchestra setting.

  The West Virginia Youth Symphony is the official youth symphony of West Virginia.
• High Performance Computing Institute

  May 14, 2012 to May 18, 2012 — Morgantown, Monongalia

  West Virginia University is reaching out to faculty and student researchers at all college and universities across the Mountain State to boost the state’s scientific capabilities by hosting a high-performance computing summer institute May 14 through 18 at the newly renovated White Hall, downtown campus.

  Topics to be covered during the event include:

  • What is high-performance computing?
  • Why should I be interested in high-performance computing?
  • Cluster computing pros and cons
  • Adapting existing code to high-performance computing
  • Problems most suited for high-performance computing techniques
  • Using Linux in a scientific environment
  • Basic introductions to FIREBALL, AMBER, GAUSSIAN, DMOL and plane wave methods
  • How can computing enhance experimental results?

  The Institute is being sponsored by WVNano, West Virginia Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, National Science Foundation 1003907 and WVU’s High-Performance Computing Group.

  For additional information, contact WVNano at (304) 293-7382 or wvnano@mail.wvu.edu.
• Stonewall Jackson: a History Alive! presentation

  May 14, 2012 — Clarksburg, Harrison WVHC Event

  Stonewall Jackson, History Alive!, Veterans Park, Clarksburg, 1:30 PM
• Belle Boyd, a History Alive! presentation

  May 15, 2012 — Hamlin, Lincoln WVHC Event

  Belle Boyd, History Alive!, Lincoln County Public Library, Hamlin, 6 PM
• 71st West Virginia Strawberry Festival

  May 16, 2012 to May 20, 2012 — Buckhannon, Upshur

  This festival was started in 1936, as a way to honor the Strawberry Growers. This gave the Strawberry Growers a place to sell their berries. As it grew, so did the events that we have at the Festival. In 1936 it was one day only, and now it’s a five day celebration. We honor the Strawberry Growers from all over the state of West Virginia and have the Strawberry Auction on Friday afternoon of Festival Week.

  Opening Ceremonies begin Wednesday at Noon. That evening brings the beautiful Coronation of the King and Queen.

  Thursday is Children’s Day. All kinds of children’s activities throughout the day at Jawbone Park, with the Junior Royalty Parade starting at 6:30. We honor our Junior Royalty Court that is selected in the Junior Royalty Pageant which is held in March of each year, along with other children’s groups. (Twirling groups, 4-H clubs, marching bands, etc.) And don’t forget Strawberry Idol at 8:00 pm.

  Friday is Fireman’s Day. More activities at Jawbone Park. Irish Road Bowling starts. Fireman’s Parade at 6:30. Street Party (from 8:00 pm – 12:00 am ) with 3 stages above the crowd and lots of entertainment on every street corner. Strawberry Idol at 8:00 pm.

  Saturday is Grand Feature Parade. Along with the Largest Parade in the State, we also have a Strawberry Run, Antique Car Parade & Show, Band Exhibition. Street Party (from 8:00 pm – 12:00 am) with 3 stages above the crowd and lots of entertainment on every street corner. Strawberry Idol Finals start at 5:30 pm.

  Sunday has a variety of events. The states biggest Draft Horse Pull along with the Miniature Horse Show. Gospel Sing at WV Wesleyan College and the Jack Barker Memorial Canoe Race down at the Wood Street Park.

  More information
• Downtown Charleston ArtWalk

  May 17, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  The Downtown Charleston ArtWalk will be celebrating 10 years as the Capitol City’s Premiere art event in 2012 – and this year promises to be even bigger, better and more exciting than before!

  With the addition of two special Saturday “Open House” events in 2012 you will have even more opportunities to enjoy fine art from local, regional and nationally renowned artists and experience the diverse, charming and exciting art venues in Downtown Charleston.

  All ArtWalks are from 5pm to 8pm except for the Special Saturday Open House events which are from Noon to 4pm.

  More information
• Art and Ecology II

  May 17, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  Art and Ecology II with photographer Erika Blumenfeld and Michael Slaven, professor of history at California University of Pennsylvania. 6 pm on Thursday, May 17 at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, Charleston. This is the fifth of a seven-session lecture-panel series that focuses on the humanities as an integrative bridge between the arts and science. Art and journalism collide in this discussion of how cultural perceptions create and affect eco-photojournalism. http://www.erikablumenfeld.com/
• Diversity Day

  May 17, 2012 to May 18, 2012 — Caretta, McDowell WVHC Event

  The Diversity Day Celebration showcases the heritage, traditions, history, clothing, customs and foods of many different countries around the world. Informational displays, cultural artifacts, a video presentation, take-home favors and speakers will also be on-hand. All activities will take place at Big Creek People in Action’s community center in Caretta, May 17 and 18. For more information call 304-875-3418.
• The C&O Railroad and the Black Industrial Worker in Southern West Virginia

  May 17, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  On May 17, 2012, Dr. Cicero M. Fain will present “Into the Crucible: The Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad and the Black Industrial Worker in Southern West Virginia, 1870-1900” at the Thursday evening lecture in the Archives and History Library in the Culture Center in Charleston. The program will begin at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

  Fain will discuss the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, which brought rail transportation to south-central West Virginia in the post-Civil War era. The C&O, which Fain considers “the second most important development in the history of the state,” led to the founding of Huntington as the railroad’s western terminus in 1870 and brought development of southern coalfields. The topics he will cover include the contribution of black labor to its construction, the rise of Huntington as an urban-industrial center, and the linkage of the New River Valley and the city to the regional and national economy.

  Cicero M. Fain III is a third-generation black Huntingtonian. He is a recipient of the Carter G. Woodson Fellowship from Marshall University and a graduate of The Ohio State University, where he received his PhD in History, with emphasis in African American, American, and Modern-African history. His dissertation, entitled, “Race, River and the Railroad: Black Huntington, West Virginia, 1871-1929,” focuses on the transition of southern rural and semi-rural black migrants to life in the embryonic urban-industrial city of Huntington, West Virginia, between 1871 and 1929. Fain is Assistant Professor of History at the College of Southern Maryland. He is the author of articles in the Journal of Appalachian Studies, Ohio Valley History, and West Virginia History: A Journal of Regional Studies.

  For planning purposes, participants are encouraged to register for the program, but advance registration is not required. To register in advance, contact Robert Taylor, library manager, at Bobby.L.Taylor@wv.gov or at (304) 558-0230, ext. 163. Participants interested in registering by e-mail should send their name, telephone number and the name and date of the session. For additional information, contact the Archives and History Library at (304) 558-0230.
• 2012 Cass Railfan Weekend

  May 18, 2012 to May 20, 2012 — Cass, Pocahontas

  Three days of mountain railroading in Cass.

  Friday, May 18: Spruce

  • Multiple locomotive runbys in Cass in the morning.
  • Freight and passenger trains to Spruce.
  • Visit the Cass shop in the evening for food, shop tours, and MSR&LHA Annual Meeting.
  • Special program by Steve Barry featuring the photography of Jim Boyd.
  • Night photo session at the water tank conducted by Steve Barry.

  Saturday, May 19: Bald Knob

  • Log train and passenger train go to Bald Knob.
  • Multiple runbys throughout the day.
  • Operations include Oats Run and the wye.
  • Evening activities: Whistle blow, tours, and night photo session at the Cass depot.

  Sunday, May 20: Whittaker Station and Camp One

  • Triple locomotive race in the morning light.
  • Trains to Whittaker with multiple photo runbys.
  • Return to Cass at 2:30 pm.

  More information
• Siege of Fort Randolph

  May 18, 2012 to May 20, 2012 — Point Pleasant, Mason

  In May of 1778, a war party of over 200 Shawnee warriors appeared at Fort Randolph. Unable to entice the men from the fort, the Indians rose from their hiding places to form a line stretching from the Ohio to the Kanawha Rivers, thus placing Fort Randolph under siege.

  Welcome Native and Euro 18th century enthusiasts to the tenth annual Siege of Fort Randolph encampment and reenactment at Krodel Park in Point Pleasant, WV. The main event features the re-enactment of Chief Cornstalk’s fateful visit to Fort Randolph in the fall of 1777, and the subsequent siege placed upon the fort in May of 1778. The drama and battle will take place on Saturday, May 19th at 2pm ONLY.

  More information
• Martin Delany, a History Alive! presentation

  May 18, 2012 — Charles Town, Jefferson WVHC Event

  Martin Delany, History Alive!, Fisherman Hall, Charles Town, 5 PM
• 5th Annual Charlie West Blues Fest

  May 18, 2012 to May 20, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Expanded to three days this year, the Charlie West Blues Fest features great national and international acts along with local blues bands, all for free at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Charleston’s new bandshell is a great rain-or-shine venue on the banks of the Kanawha River. This year headline acts include Kenny Wayne Shepherd (Saturday), Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers (Friday) and Ruthie Fister (Sunday). Vendors onsite for food and drink. More information
• Tibbs Run Reservoir Centennial Celebration

  May 19, 2012 — Morgantown, Monongalia WVHC Event

  The West Virginia Botanic Garden, Inc. (WVBG) will celebrate the centennial of the Tibbs Run Reservoir on Saturday, May 19th, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the botanic garden. This event is free and open to all. The WVBG is located at 1061 Tyrone Road in Morgantown. Tyrone Road runs between Route 7 and Route 857, west of Cheat Lake.

  The highlight of the program will be the “unveiling” of eight new signs to interpret the history of bringing clean water to Morgantown and the development of the reservoir, which served Morgantown residents from 1912 to 1969. These permanent signs will make the botanic garden an outdoor museum that interprets the remaining reservoir structures such as the main dam, diversion dam, and spillway, in addition to being a place where visitors can enjoy an old-growth forest and beautiful designed gardens.

  There will be a brief formal program at 1:30 p.m. Ralph Lemley was the long-time reservoir caretaker, and his family members will share stories about him during the program and when you visit the sign for the Lemley home at the site of the WVBG Eclectic Garden. Tim Ball, general manager of the Morgantown Utility Board, will also speak. After the program, visitors can enjoy refreshments and walk around the Reservoir Loop Trail to see the signs. This trail is .72 miles long and is accessible to those with disabilities.

  The botanic garden is open daily, free of charge, from dawn to dusk. For more information about the May 19th program and the West Virginia Botanic Garden, go to www.wvbg.org.

  This project is being presented with financial assistance from the West Virginia Humanities Council, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations do not necessarily represent those of the West Virginia Humanities Council or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
• Robert E. Lee, a History Alive! presentation

  May 19, 2012 — Lewisburg, Greenbrier WVHC Event

  Robert E. Lee, History Alive!, Greenbrier Community College, Lewisburg, 1 PM
• Cornstalk, a History Alive! presentation

  May 19, 2012 — Springfield, Hampshire WVHC Event

  Cornstalk, History Alive!, Fort Ashby Museum, Springfield, 2 & 4 PM
• Uncorked! Marshall Artists series fundraiser

  May 19, 2012 — Huntington, Cabell

  Set to run from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 19 in the lobby of the Frederick Hotel as well as the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, “Uncorked” lets folks taste their way around the world with more than 60 wines. In addition, there will be live music from Laura Evans and Company, appetizers from 21 @ The Frederick, a Wine 101 Class, an afternoon of silent and live auctions that feature trips to destinations around the world and lots of other donated items.

  Tickets are $40. There is a limited number of premium packages that include a premium tasting (from noon to 1 p.m. of wines valued at $50 or rated 90+ along with complimentary hors d’oeuvres). Those $1,000 packages include eight tickets including accommodations for two at the Pullman Plaza Hotel (Deluxe King room), dinner at Coach Bobby Pruett’s Steakhouse, Sunday brunch and two VIP parking passes for the lot adjacent to the Keith-Albee Theatre. Premium packages must be reserved in advance.

  For tickets, contact Marshall Artist Series at 304-696-3326. Tickets may also be purchased at the Keith-Albee beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 19. Reserve premium packages by calling Donna May at 304-696-3326 or email artistsseries@marshall.edu.
• Matewan Massacre Reenactment

  May 19, 2012 — Matewan, McDowell

  The Matewan Massacre Reenactment will be held on Saturday, May 19, in downtown Matewan at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more info on the reenactment, call Donna May, director, at 304-426-6512.
• Society for Appalachian Historians

  May 20, 2012 to May 22, 2012 — Morgantown, Monongalia WVHC Event

  Society for Appalachian Historians, conference, West Virginia University, Morgantown. For more information please contact Meliss.Bingman@mail.wvu.edu
• Little Lecture: Robert E. Lee in West Virginia

  May 20, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  Civil War historian and author Hunter Lesser will speak on Robert E. Lee in West Virginia. Each lecture begins at 2:00 p.m. at the MacFarland-Hubbard House. Admission is $10.00. Seating is limited, call 304-348-8500 for reservations and more information.
• West Virginia's Breeding Bird Atlas Project

  May 22, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha

  So What’s There to Sing About?: West Virginia’s Breeding Bird Atlas Project With Doug Wood, Master Naturalist Tuesday, May 22, 6 – 7 pm at Taylor Books

  West Virginia is currently in its fourth year of a five year survey of breeding birds statewide. Spearheaded by the WV Department of Natural Resources, and carried out in the field by professional biologists and amateur naturalists, this effort promises to help guide programs to benefit bird species that have suffered population declines in the past few decades. Learn how field personnel turn the lovely songs of summer avian choristers into scientific data that can benefit many species in the future.

  Join the Clay Center and Taylor Books for an evening of fun and discussion! This program takes place at Taylor Books on Capitol Street and features guest presenters covering a variety of science-related topics in an open forum format, with plenty of time for discussion and Q & A. More information
• Robert E. Lee in West Virginia

  May 22, 2012 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  Civil War historian Hunter Lesser will give a Little Lecture on May 22 titled “Robert E. Lee in West Virginia” as part of the Humanities Council’s ongoing sesquicentennial programming. Admission is $10 and includes a reception after the program at the MacFarland-Hubbard House in Charleston. Please contact the council at 304-346-8500 if you would like to attend.
• Three Rivers Festival

  May 23, 2012 to May 26, 2012 — Fairmont, Marion

  Festivities begin on Wednesday, May 23th when the Carnival opens at 6:00 pm. However, the Festival officially opens on Thursday, May 24th with the start of the Grande Feature Parade followed by the Opening Ceremonies at Palatine Park in Downtown Fairmont. Following this are three days of fun-filled activities for the whole family. Please come and enjoy the live entertainment, carnival, parade, fantastic food and a gigantic fireworks display to finish it all off.

  More information
• Brown v. Board of Education and Integration in Shepherdstown

  May 24, 2012 — Shepherdstown, Jefferson WVHC Event

  Historic Shepherdstown Commission and Museum presents, “Historic Shepherdstown SQ 250 Speaker Series.” Brown v. Board of Education and Integration in Shepherdstown, lecture and panel discussion, Asbury United Methodist Church, Shepherdstown, 7 PM. Prof. Hannah Geffert as emcee of panel including Bishop Charles Hunter (on growing up in Shepherdstown and impact of integration); Evelyn Taylor (on Shepherdstown churches); Jim Taylor (on integration of Shepherd College); and Margaret Grantham. Music by the Ambassadors. For more information please contact vthomas2@frontiernet.net
• Webster County Woodchopping Festival

  May 24, 2012 to May 27, 2012 — Webster Springs, Webster

  Each Memorial Day weekend, the Southern U.S. World Championship Woodchopper title is won at the annual Webster County Woodchopping Festival in Webster Springs, WV. The festival has grown out of a long timbering heritage from which has come some of the finest woodchoppers and lumbermen in the world. The choppers come from as near as the scenic mountains of Webster County and as far away as Australia and New Zealand to compete. Visit the website.
• River City Festival of the Arts

  May 25, 2012 to May 27, 2012 — Rowlesburg, Preston

  Memorial Day Weekend -May 25, 26, 27, 2012 – focus on classical, jazz, Appalachian, folk, and choral music along with theater and other artistic genre. More information
• Babe Ruth, a History Alive! presentation

  May 26, 2012 — Rowlesburg, Preston WVHC Event

  Babe Ruth, History Alive!, Szilagy Center, Rowlesburg, 10:45 AM
• Eyes on China: the Living Legacy of the Arts in Chinese Culture

  May 26, 2012 — Sutton, Braxton WVHC Event

  Dr. Sally dhruva Stephenson, Associate Professor at Frostburg State University will present a lecture-demonstration entitled “Eyes on China:the Living Legacy of the Arts in Chinese Culture” at the Landmark Studio for the Arts in Sutton. She will show how China’s modern culture embraces the ancient Chinese fine arts including poetry, painting, calligraphy, sculpture and more, as well as carrying on the folk art traditions such as shadow puppetry, weaving and embroidery. May 26 at 7pm. For more information contact Olga Gioulis at 304-756-0171 or email olgagioulis@yahoo.com
• American Impressionism: Paintings from the Permanent Collection

  May 26, 2012 to April 07, 2013 — Huntington, Cabell

  May 26 – April 7, 2013 at Huntington Museum of Art. More information.

  The first group exhibit of works by the French Impressionists took place in Paris, France, in 1874. Ironically, few of the American artists who later became known as American Impressionists took much notice of these exhibits while studying art in Paris. It seems hard to believe that this now famous group of artists which includes Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassatt, Berthe Morisot, Alfred Sisley, Camille Pissarro and Gustave Caillebotte exhibited together only eight times, until 1886, but their painting style had a marked influence on artists around the world – and on the history of art.

  The permanent collection of the Huntington Museum of Art holds a treasure trove of American Impressionist paintings. This exhibition will present these important and popular works painted by many of the best-known American impressionists including Childe Hassam, J. Alden Weir, Willard L. Metcalf, John H. Twachtman, Frank Benson, Edward Willis Redfield, W. Elmer Schofield, Arthur Meltzer, and many others.
• Eighth Annual Julia Pierpont Day

  May 26, 2012 — Fairmont, Marion

  Pierpont Community College, The Fairmont Landmarks Committee, Woodlawn Cemetery and the Marion County Historical Society is sponsoring

  The Eighth Annual Julia Pierpont Day on May 26, 2012

  Julia Pierpont Day is proclaimed by City of Fairmont, The County of Marion, and the State of West Virginia. Julia Pierpont, wife of Francis H. Pierpont (Gov. of Restored Virginia from 1861-1868 and the “Father of West Virginia”) is considered by many historians as being responsible of Decoration Day now known as Memorial Day. Following the Civil War when the Pierponts were residing in the Governor’s Mansion in Richmond Virginia, Julia felt the graves of the Union Soldiers in Hollywood, Va. needed to be cleaned up, decorated and honored, which she and a small group proceeded to do.

  Starting at 8:30 with breakfast (cost $10.00) at the Pierpont Community College at Veterans’ Square, there will be a program with guest speakers and heritage music by Wha-ke-we-nn. At 10:30 there will be a procession to Woodlawn Cemetery for the remembrance of all veterans by the Marion County Military Veterans Council and the West Virginia Re-enactors with music by Wha-ke-we-nn. There will be a graveyard cleaning and the setting of Civil War Markers.

  Reservations for the Breakfast that is being catered by Aladdin must be made by May 20th. Checks can be mailed to MCHS, P.O. Box 1636, Fairmont, WV 26555-1636 or by stopping by the Museum.

  The Museum will be open that day from 10-2. For additional information contact the Marion County Historical Society, Inc. and Museum Adams Street, Fairmont, WV, 26554. Telephone: 304.367.5398. E-mail: marionhistorical@yahoo.com Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.
• Garden Party at Cafe Cimino

  May 27, 2012 — Sutton, Braxton

  West Virginia Music Hall of Fame will have a fundraiser with an afternoon of West Virginia music at Cafe Cimino in Sutton. The Hall of Fame’s Traveling Museum will be on hand, and attendees will be among the first to learn of the inductees planned for 2013. Featured performers include Larry Groce, The Carpenter Ants, Blue Million, Julie Adams, Bob Shank and Joe Jung.

  Sunday, May 27, 3-6pm at Cafe Cimino. Tickets are $60 each or $100 per couple and are tax-deductible. All proceeds benefit the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame. Cafe Cimino is offering a 10% discount on rooms for an overnight stay. Call 304-342-4412 or email wvmhof@gmail.com for more information.
• 50th Annual Calhoun County Wood Festival

  May 29, 2012 to June 02, 2012 — Grantsville, Calhoun

  Coronation of the Woodchuck Royalty, concerts, kids’ shows, 5K Walk/Run, antique show, cornhole tournament and more. May 29-June 2 in Granstville. More information
• Lecture: Exploring the Dark Zone: Archaeological Investigations at Mammoth Cave

  May 31, 2012 — Moundsville, Marshall

  Exploring the Dark Zone: Archaeological Investigations at Mammoth Cave

  Patrick D. Trader (Principal Investigator, Gray & Pape, Inc.)

  Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave is one of America’s natural wonders and the longest cave system in the world. Free of Charge & Open to the Public. 7pm May 31 at Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex.