Blair Mtn. Preservation Update

Since I last updated you on the Blair Mountain nomination for national historical status, weve had some very good news. At their semi-annual meeting on Feb. 22, the WV Archives and History Commission voted unanimously to resubmit the expanded nomination package to the National Park Service (NPS).

This resubmission includes archaeological information from numerous sites within the nomination boundary. Our superheroes are Barbara Rasmussen of the Preservation Alliance of WV, who prepared the extensive nomination documents; Dr. Harvard Ayers of Appalachian State University; and Kenny King, a local activist and amateur historian.

Harvard and Kenny pursued the archaeological digs through heat, humidity and poison ivy last summer. During the 2008 legislative session, the House of Delegates passed HJR 40, a resolution in support of the designation of this historic site.

The Historic Preservation Office has put the nomination package together and submitted it to the NPS. NPS will have a 60-day review period. We are optimistic. Stay tuned, or see www.friendsofblairmountain.org.