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Coal Museum Seeks Support For Critical Upgrades

 

 

October 21, 2024 - The Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation, a centerpiece of Boone County, WV’s history, is seeking financial support to maintain its museum in order to continue preserving the area’s coal heritage.


During a Boone County Commission meeting on Oct. 16, Delores Cook, a founding member of the organization, addressed the commissioners, requesting $10,000 to cover necessary repairs and improvements to the museum and the adjacent cultural building.


“We’re active. We’re not on the board to warm a seat but we’re there to make it a better place,” Cook emphasized as she introduced the board members in attendance.


The board, which includes Joey Underwood, Ronnie Justice, Jimbo Clendenin, Judy Sanders, Terry Harless and Buddy Hudson, has been actively involved in improving the museum for 25 years. Cook noted a surge in public interest in recent years, particularly among school groups and children, and underscored the museum’s role in preserving Boone County’s coal mining heritage.


Growing Interest in Coal's Legacy


The Bituminous Coal Heritage Museum has long served as an educational hub for residents and visitors interested in the history and future of coal mining. Cook described the museum as “one of the showcases in Boone County,” drawing attention to the importance of keeping the region’s coal heritage alive.


“We seem to be having more people who come to the museum and are interested in coal mining, the past and what the future’s going to be,” Cook said, expressing optimism about the museum’s growing influence.


Despite this interest, however, she emphasized that the museum is facing significant financial challenges.


“The needs are great, but the funding is scarce,” she explained, noting that the museum operates as a nonprofit and relies heavily on grants and individual donations.


Necessary Repairs and Future Plans


Cook informed the commission that several critical repairs are needed as winter approaches, including structural improvements inside and out. Cook offered to furnish the commissioners with a detailed list of repairs upon request. The board’s request for $10,000 aims to address immediate needs such as building repairs and other upkeep.


Board member Terry Harless further elaborated on the plans for the museum’s facelift, which would include exterior renovations like replacing black vinyl on the front of the building and adding a stacked stone feature. Interior updates include new flooring and better lighting.


Harless also spoke enthusiastically about the revitalization of the surrounding Main Street area. “I’m very optimistic and excited. I think our little main street is coming back,” he said, highlighting improvements like the planned pressure-washing of buildings and new businesses moving in next to the museum.


Harless also pointed out that while the museum has successfully secured grants from the Benedum Foundation and the Boone County Community Foundation, it still lacks significant revenue streams.


“We don’t charge an admission. We’re pretty active in trying to seek out grants and we’re successful in doing so,” he said, adding that donations from visitors play a crucial role in keeping the museum running.


A Lasting Tribute to Coal History


Founded in 1994, the Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation and Museum was developed by the Boone County Development Corporation. Located on Main Street in Madison, the museum showcases the history of the coal industry, which has been a central part of the county’s identity for over a century. Housed in the former Boone County Bank building, the museum has become a focal point for visitors interested in the county’s rich coal mining heritage.


With its request for funding, the Foundation hopes to continue preserving this legacy for future generations. “Our board is committed to keeping the museum alive and well. That has been our theme all along, to keep our heritage alive,” Cook said.


Commissioners requested a list of needed repairs and suggested that the group could use the allocation from the commission to leverage a larger grant from an additional funding source. Commissioner Jeff Petry also offered to speak to potential funding sources on behalf of the foundation.