Greater Parkersburg CVB was featured on another FOX 28 Columbus’ Good Day Extra segment! Check out this interview with our President & CEO, Mark Lewis.
Greater Parkersburg comes alive with its historical attractions and detailed museums. History is our destinations’ bread and butter with attractions like Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, the Oil & Gas Museum, Henderson Hall, the Julia-Ann Sq Historic District and more.
Julia-Ann Sq Historic District is the largest and oldest historic district in the state of West Virginia with 126 beautiful homes from the styles of 1850 to 1910. The Greater Parkersburg Welcome Center has an in-depth walking tour guide for those interested in reading about the homes as they take a stroll through the district. A select few of the houses are open for indoor tours during Christmas time.
Henderson Hall is a house museum that contains the history of the Henderson family that spans five generations. The Hendersons kept and stored all their belongings, and the museum contains items like letters from Robert E. Lee, postcards, records and even a wedding dress from 1800.
The Oil & Gas Museum tells the story of the oil and gas industry in the Greater Parkersburg area, and how the industry powered the Industrial Revolution in America.
Ever wondered what happened to Aaron Burr after his famous duel with Alexander Hamilton? Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park tells that story along with many others. After their duel, Burr went out west and began plotting his mission to form a new nation. He met with the patriarch of the Blennerhassett family, Harman Blennerhassett, who lived in the mansion on the island, and got Harman’s support for his plan. Burr and Harman were later tried for treason and then acquitted. After that, their reputations were ruined, and Harman’s mansion was burned to the ground. Now, the island is a state park with a mansion reconstructed on its original foundation.
The Smoot Theatre is a restored 1926 vaudeville house that continues to operate today by providing live entertainment throughout the year.
Campus Martius Museum is in Marietta, OH and it tells the story of the northwest territories and the founding of them and the town of Marietta.
Learn more about our different historical attractions at greaterparkersburg.com/history-heritage/.