Is this event suitable for children?

Yes, all ages are welcome, though the content is best appreciated by older children and adults interested in history and music.

Where exactly is the event held?

The event takes place in Arthurdale, West Virginia, at a local community venue; check with the organizers for specific meeting points.

Can I purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, booking ahead is recommended since seating is limited and the event is popular.

Are there any COVID-19 precautions currently in place?

Policies may vary; it's best to check directly with the event organizers for up-to-date safety guidelines.

Is photography allowed during performances?

Photography policies vary; generally, avoid flash photography to respect performers and other attendees.

Are refreshments provided?

No refreshments are typically provided, but local dining options are available nearby in Arthurdale and Morgantown.

Unearthing the Soul of Southern West Virginia's Coalfield Folk Music | Guided Tour | History Tour

Set in the small town of Arthurdale, West Virginia, "Folk Music of the Southern Coalfields" offers a rare window into the rich musical heritage that shaped the southern Appalachian coal mining communities from the 1920s through the 1940s. This unique evening experience invites visitors to step back in time and hear the raw, heartfelt sounds that echoed through the coalfields as miners and their families forged a cultural identity deeply tied to their rugged landscape and difficult livelihoods. Arthurdale itself holds a special place in West Virginia history as the site of one of the first New Deal planned communities, designed to offer better living conditions for coal miners during the Great Depression. It now serves as a doorway to explore local traditions, and this folk music program represents one of its most engaging cultural among offerings. Guided by Chris Haddox, a seasoned folklorist and musician, the event features live performances that bring to life evocative songs drawn from the coalfield region. These are not just performances but storytelling moments that connect listeners to miners’ struggles, hopes, and celebrations, sung in styles preserved through decades. Haddox also shares fascinating insights into early folk music collectors who traveled Appalachia to record and archive these songs, preserving voices that might otherwise have been lost. Augmenting the music, the presentation incorporates vintage photos, films, and tales from Haddox’s extensive fieldwork tracking down descendants of coalfield musicians, adding a rich human dimension to the historical and cultural narrative. This blend of education and entertainment creates an immersive experience that captures the spirit of a region too often defined solely by its industrial past. Although the program is primarily an indoor event, it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Appalachian history, ethnomusicology, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric woven through West Virginia’s mountains. Arthurdale’s intimate setting and the personal approach of the presenter make this a standout activity in a region best known for outdoor adventure, showing that its heritage is as compelling as its landscapes. Whether you’re a folk music aficionado, history buff, or a traveler eager to connect with local culture beyond the hiking trails, this program is a memorable evening that enriches your visit to southern West Virginia.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels as this is a seated listening event with minimal physical activity required.

Wildlife

White-tailed deer
Eastern box turtle

History

Arthurdale was one of the first New Deal communities established in 1934, designed to improve the lives of coal miners during the Great Depression.

Conservation

The area benefits from local efforts to preserve Appalachian heritage sites and promote sustainable tourism that respects the natural environment.

Arthurdale Heritage, Inc. preserves and shares the cultural history of Arthurdale, West Virginia through public programs, hands-on workshops, and community events. The organization hosts a range of experiences that connect visitors and residents with Appalachian traditions, including weaving, relief printing, herbalism, creative writing, folk music, and historical lectures. Programs include classroom-style workshops such as Tiny Tapestry: Weaving for Beginners and Mug Rug Weaving, which teach basic loom techniques and let participants take home finished pieces. Art-focused offerings include a Relief Printing Workshop led by Meish Claus and Ekphrastic Writing: A Creative Writing Workshop with Jessie Van Eerden, both designed for practical skill development and artistic exploration. Music and storytelling are central to the calendar with events like Folk Music of the Southern Coalfields featuring Chris Haddox, and an outdoor theatrical performance of Shakespeare’s MACBETH by the Rusted Mechanicals troupe. Educational talks and literary programming further highlight local history and practice. Making History with Christina Fisanick guides researchers and writers in using primary sources for family history and narrative work. Taste of Arthurdale presents historical perspectives on food in Appalachia, led by historian Katharine Donnelly. The Poetics of Gratitude workshop and Herbal Mixer build community through shared creative and practical activities. Arthurdale Heritage, Inc. programs are delivered by named instructors and guest presenters and take place in Arthurdale, West Virginia. The organization focuses on accessible, place-based learning and cultural preservation, offering scheduled workshops and events that invite participation from local communities and visitors alike. Program details and schedules are posted regularly.

Base locationArthurdale, West Virginia

Tours offered25+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace