Fort New Salem
| Fort New Salem | |
|---|---|
  Location of Fort New Salem in West Virginia | |
| Location | Salem, West Virginia, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 39°17′22″N 80°33′56″W / 39.28944°N 80.56556°W |
| Built | 1792 |
| Governing body | Salem University |
Fort New Salem is a frontier settlement of nineteenth century log structures located in Salem, Harrison County, West Virginia, United States, adjacent to Salem International University. Fort New Salem is a living history outdoor museum interpreting the history, crafts and lifestyles of the area. Historically, among the numerous seasonal activities held at the fort is "The Spirit of Christmas in the Mountains". This nationally recognized event is a joyous celebration of the traditional folk-ways found in observance of Christmas in West Virginia.[1] Work on this village of over 18 relocated log structures began in 1971. The Fort opened to the public in 1974, as a part of Salem College (now known as Salem International University). The site is approximately eight acres, now owned by the Fort New Salem Foundation, Inc.[2] [3]
Ownership
Salem College
Salem International University spearheaded the creation of Fort New Salem in 1971. They embarked on a mission to preserve and showcase the 19th-century Appalachian way of life. To achieve this, the university meticulously acquired and relocated 18 historic log structures, each representing a vital element of the past. Through dedication and resourcefulness, Salem transformed a vision into a vibrant living history museum, offering a unique window into the region's fascinating past. First opened to the public in 1974.
Fort New Salem Foundation
For decades, Fort New Salem thrived under the care of Salem International University, who painstakingly assembled the living history museum from 1971 onwards. However, by the 2000s, the university encountered financial challenges and sought the long-term preservation of their beloved creation. Recognizing the site's historical significance and educational potential, the Fort New Salem Foundation, Inc. stepped forward in 2005. Through their dedication and resourcefulness, they secured funding and acquired ownership, ensuring the museum's future and guaranteeing continued public access to this captivating glimpse into Appalachia's past. Now, under the foundation's stewardship, Fort New Salem continues to evolve, with ongoing restorations and expansions promising an even richer experience for generations to come.
External links
References
- ^ Fort Tours | Fort New Salem
- ^ Fort New Salem
- ^ "Fort New Salem - The West Virginia Museum Diretory". Archived from the original on August 4, 2007. Retrieved 2008-12-19.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
 | This West Virginia museum-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |