August 28, 2026 - History buffs, mark your calendars for Saturday, because a groundbreaking in Rainelle, West Virginia might pique your interest.

Two buildings will soon converge in Rainelle, a project three years in the making.

The Meriluco building on the state fairgrounds and the former sales office of the Meadow River Lumber Company will meet its final standing place and see a second life as a museum.

The groundbreaking takes place on August 29 at 2 p.m., located at 1016 Main Street in Rainelle, where the former King Coal Hotel stood.(WVVA)

By Megan Bailey

“The hidden history of Western Greenbrier County is very important in how it helped to develop not only our county and our state, but also the United States. It was helpful during the war efforts and World War II, and all of that era needs to be acknowledged and honored,” explained Neal.

The first phase is to build foundations for these structures before moving the buildings from their previous locations to the museum site. After that, Neal said the plan is to add a coal car as part of the final fixture.

In this construction phase, though, local students may lend a hand to history.

“This initiative is to work with the Greenbrier West [High School] building and construction program, and other programs in the school that will help us to see this site come to fruition,” Neal continued.

“We’re hoping that they will be learning with the contractor as they build the foundation and get ready to put these into place.”

The Meadow River Valley Museum may bring a revenue uptick, but above all will educate locals and visitors alike on the people that helped to build a region and a nation.

The groundbreaking takes place on August 29 at 2 p.m., located at 1016 Main Street in Rainelle, where the former King Coal Hotel stood.

Neal told WVVA there will be schematic drawings of the museum available to view.