Around & About the Clarksburg History Museum

The Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library has served the community for more than a century, beginning in 1903 when Clarksburg women organized to establish the city’s first public reading room. Supported by volunteers and a one dollar subscription, the library grew through strong early leadership and a deep belief in access to knowledge.In 1932, the library moved into the Waldomore, transforming the former home into a beloved public space. In the 1970s, Clarksburg expanded that vision with a modern addition designed by world renowned architect Marcel Breuer, completed in 1975.Today, the library remains a vibrant community hub, offering programming, technology access, and thousands of monthly checkouts — a lasting legacy of the women and visionaries who built it.

In this heartfelt interview, Rosalyn Queen shares the rich flavors, traditions, and stories that shaped her life as an Italian-American in Clarksburg, West Virginia. A community leader, author, and the longtime voice behind The Grapevine newspaper column, Rosalyn reflects on her childhood in East View, the strong bonds of her neighborhood, and the powerful story of her father’s immigration and military service. She talks about her cookbook Arrivederci, a collection of recipes and customs meant to preserve the legacy of Italian culture for future generations.Rosalyn brings the past to life as she recounts baking bread in outdoor ovens, canning peppers in the basement, and preparing the traditional seven fishes for Christmas Eve (for the Feast of the Seven Fishes). She also shares how she discovered her true family name and her emotional pilgrimage to Italy. Her stories highlight not only her love of food and family, but also the resilience of the Italian-American community in the face of discrimination. Through laughter, tears, and unforgettable food memories—from dandelion greens to mushroom hunts—Rosalyn invites us into a world where history lives through tradition, and love is served at every meal. This is a conversation full of heart, heritage, and the magic of remembering. Cover art is an original painting by Raffaella "Folly" Basile, a Clarksburg native who has paintings hanging throughout the United States. Seen in the background of the cover art, the artist depicts Clarksburg's Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Host Martha Jett explores the history and cultural preservation of Helvetia, West Virginia, a Swiss settlement founded in 1869. Anna Chandler shares insights into the town’s origins, traditions like Fasnacht and the Feast of Saint Nicholas, and efforts to document and maintain its historical archives. The discussion also highlights Helvetia’s early industries, the resilience of its community, and the importance of preserving its unique Swiss-Appalachian heritage.

Discover the fascinating history of streetcars and Clarksburg’s vibrant past as Bob Taylor recounts personal stories, community connections, and nostalgic memories of West Virginia’s evolution. A heartfelt dive into transportation, local culture, and historical preservation.

Rise to Fame and Iconic RolesWest Virginia Native David Selby discusses his rise to fame, from his beginnings on the humble production of Honey in the Rock to highlighting his time on the Gothic soap opera Dark Shadows as Quentin Collins, a character beloved for his mysterious presence and iconic sideburns. He fondly recalled working with Joan Bennett and other cast members, as well as the passionate fanbase that emerged. His career evolved further with roles in series like Falcon Crest. Selby and also is known for his work as President Abraham Lincoln as well as appearing on numerous television shows. Selby was inducted into the West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2007.

Fort New Salem is an eight-acre reconstructed 19th-century Appalachian settlement located in Salem, West Virginia. Featuring 17 log structures authentically relocated and restored, the site preserves the history, crafts, and traditions of Western Virginia's frontier communities. Initially developed in the early 1970s, the village opened to the public in 1974 and is now managed by the Fort New Salem Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the educational, cultural, and historical heritage of the region.The site hosts seasonal events that immerse visitors in the rich traditions of Appalachia, including the nationally recognized “Spirit of Christmas in the Mountains,” which celebrates traditional holiday customs. Guests can also explore Appalachian folklore during "Myths of the Mountains" or participate in workshops to learn skills such as basket weaving and candle making. Through these experiences, Fort New Salem offers a unique and engaging glimpse into the past, ensuring that the legacy of the region continues to inspire future generations.

Lew Dobbins spent more than 47 years in radio and television broadcasting in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Lew reminisces about his career in country music, his experiences meeting with music celebrities like Dolly Parton, George Jones, and Tammy Wynette. In 2008, Lew was inducted into the West Virginia Broadcasters Hall of Fame and in 2017 he compiled his memories into his memoir Lew Dobbins: Behind the Microphone

Clarksburg resident Peter Taylor, retired Lt. Col., author, and historian shares stories from his years in Vietnam and tells the details about his recent Civil War title,The Most Hated Man in Clarksburg. Most Hated Man tells the intriguing story of Captain Charles Leib, Assistant Quartermaster General, who established the town’s military garrison in 1861.

Faith Dixon, coordinator for Clarksburg's VFW Post 573, shares history and stories related to the founding and continued operation of the post, including a special story of Lucinda Rose and the legend of the Spanish cannon.

It is hard to believe that Sam Folio's broad music career which has spanned nearly 7 decades, started humbly in a small grade school classroom when he learned to play the ukulele. Martha walks down memory lane with Sam, recounting his early years in a bustling Clarksburg, his experiences meeting world famous musicians and composers, and some other fun stories not even related to music.

Tom Felt, curator and archivist at the Museum of American Glass in West Virginia, talks about the mission of the museum to preserve the diverse and rich history of the heritage of glass as a historical object and the lives of the glass worker who built the industry.

Dr. Robert Anderson, noted West Virginia historian and author shares the history of the sometimes forgotten work of the Civilian Conservation Corps. He discusses the impact of the work on our local, state, and national park system as well as stories from his growing up days in West Virginia.

Reminisce with Martha Jett and a long-time Clarksburg resident Mr. Tom Maditz as they recall his time growing up on the family farm in Mt. Clare, West Virginia, school days in downtown Clarksburg and his work at Wilson Bakery and Eagle Convex Glass.

The charming community of Johnstown, located just a few miles south of Clarksburg, West Virginia has a long and fascinating story all its own. Our host Martha Jett sat down with two of Johnstown’s citizens who also serve as historians and museum curators - John Chapman and Bill Suan - to talk about many points of interest that Johnstown history holds. Listen in on this candid conversation regarding all things Johnstown - from the interesting name changes for the town (from McPherson’s Crossing to Johntown to Johnstown), to the history of the Methodist Church and the very important role the town played in rescuing one of Clarksburg’s most prominent citizens from a Civil War prison camp.

Greeks entered West Virginia in significant numbers around the turn of the 20th century. in the first decade of the 20th century, around 300 Greeks settled in Clarksburg, in Harrison County, to work at the Phillips Sheet and Tin Plate Company, known as the ‘‘Tin-plate’’ factory, owned by Weirton Steel. Host Martha Jett records a conversation with Maria Alex from St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox church to record history of immigration to Clarksburg.

Turtle on a Post Farm is a family-owned/generationally-owned farm in Harrison County West Virginia and is working hard to bring farming back to life; not only do they sell plant starts and fresh produce, but they’re growing something brand new to the county - hops for microbrewing.

Daniel Davisson played a significant role in the early development of Clarksburg, West Virginia (then known as Clarksburg, Virginia). He and his wife Prudence established a log cabin on Elk Creek in what would later be recognized as downtown Clarksburg in 1773. Davisson secured recognition for his 400-acre land claim in 1781 and later hosted the Harrison County Court on his land, leading to the establishment of county buildings. Davisson's involvement in community affairs was extensive, from overseeing construction projects like mills to serving on committees and even holding a commission as a Captain in The Virginia militia by 1788. His contributions were foundational to Clarksburg's early governance and development.

Host Martha Jett interviews Mr. Joe Gonzalez, a former chief of the Clarksburg Fire Department and a historian in his own right. Learn about tales of the past of CFD and other stories related to the history of our brave first responders.

On location at the Anna Jarvis museum in Grafton, West Virginia, host Martha Jett talks with the keeper of the Anna Jarvis House and Museum and records the story of this history-making woman who worked with politicians, friends, and family to establish our beloved holiday - Mother's Day. Guest: Olive Ricketts, founder of the Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum in Grafton, West Virginiaajhouse26354@yahoo.com or visit https://www.visitmountaineercountry.com/business/anna-jarvis-museum/Host: Martha JettProduction: Beth GainMusic: West Virginia Mountain Melody performed by Steve Peters