News

The Twelfth Night Costume Ball Returns, Hosted by the Wheeling Heritage Foundation

WHEELING, W.Va. – Dec. 9, 2024 –The Wheeling Heritage Foundation invites the public to a unique community celebration, the Twelfth Night Costume Ball, set for Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Ballroom at Wheeling Park’s White Palace, 1801 National Road, Wheeling, W.Va.

Inspired by the Twelfth Night celebrations of the Medieval and Tudor periods, the event revives a tradition that marked the end of the Christmas season with dancing, feasting, and merriment. The theme is “Wheeling’s Heritage,” offering attendees the opportunity to celebrate the city’s rich history, with proceeds benefiting Wheeling Heritage’s revitalization efforts.

The evening will feature live music by The Mojo Kings, along with dinner, drinks, and dancing. Guests are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite local historical figure or in attire from a specific time period. While costumes add to the fun, they are not required.

“In 2019, the first Twelfth Night Ball was the kickoff event for the Wheeling 250-year celebration. It was a sold-out event that many folks have asked us to bring back,” said Jay Frey, chairman of the Wheeling Heritage Foundation. “This event is a great fit with our mission and promises to be a fun way to start the new year while raising funds for Wheeling Heritage.”

“I can’t think of a better way to have a good time and support the Wheeling Heritage Foundation,” adds Scott Schenerlein, executive director of Wheeling Heritage. “When you think about what your donations have done, a great example for this year is the oversight of the Wheeling Gateway Visitor and Heritage Center. The beautiful view you now enjoy was supported by your gifts. This is a great opportunity for you to help further revitalization in your community.”

Proceeds from the event will support the Wheeling Heritage Annual Appeal, which funds initiatives to preserve Wheeling’s history, promote its arts and culture, and support small business development.

By attending, you’ll contribute to efforts such as:

Historic Preservation: Revitalizing properties and supporting restoration projects, including Mt. Wood Cemetery and the SMART Centre.
Arts & Culture: Creating public art installations, hosting artist workshops, and showcasing exhibitions like the Wheeling Island Memorial Flood Wall.
Small Business Development: Supporting entrepreneurs through programs like Show of Hands and CO.STARTERS.
Grants & Investments: Advancing local initiatives such as West Liberty University’s 48-Hour Film Festival, Ohio County Schools’ History of Wheeling, the Warwood Farmers Market, and the Wheeling Gateway Visitors and Heritage Center.

Tickets for the Twelfth Night Costume Ball are available now. Sponsorship opportunities are also open for those who want to make a larger impact on the community.

For more information or to RSVP, visit https://wheelingnationalheritage-bloom.kindful.com/e/twelfth-night-costume-ball. To explore sponsorship opportunities, visit https://wheelingnationalheritage-bloom.kindful.com/e/twelfth-night-costume-ball-sponsorship. Contact Amy Karrasch at Wheeling Heritage by email at akarrasch@wheelingheritage.org or by phone at (304) 232-3087.

Join us for a night of history and celebration that helps shape Wheeling’s future!

About Wheeling Heritage:
Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

Wheeling Heritage Now Accepting Applications for Next Show of Hands Event

WHEELING, W.Va. – Dec. 2, 2024 – Wheeling Heritage is excited to announce that applications are open for the upcoming Show of Hands event, which provides entrepreneurs and community members with the chance to secure funding for their ideas. The event will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling.

Aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and community members with projects that can enhance the Wheeling area are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, and can be submitted at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

Show of Hands, sponsored by Orrick, is a unique crowdfunding event where community members rally to support innovative ideas that can positively impact the Wheeling community. Since its inception, Show of Hands has contributed $143,864 in funding to support local businesses and community projects in Wheeling.

“Show of Hands is more than just an opportunity to secure funding—it’s a platform that celebrates the creativity, determination, and innovation of our community,” said Riley Carpenter, director of heritage programming at Wheeling Heritage. “Hosting the final event of 2024 was an inspiring experience, and I’m thrilled to begin a new season for 2025. It’s not only about the chance to win but also about the exposure, the connections made, and the opportunity to share your vision with others who are equally passionate about enhancing Wheeling. I can’t wait to see the ideas and entrepreneurs that will take the stage this year!”

How Show of Hands Works:

Submit Your Proposal: Applications are due by Dec. 16. A selection committee will review submissions and choose four finalists.
Present Your Idea: The finalists will pitch their ideas to a live audience on Jan. 29. Each presentation will last four minutes, followed by a short Q&A session.
Vote for Your Favorite: Attendees contribute a $5 donation at the door, which adds to the winner’s prize pool. After hearing all pitches, the audience votes for their favorite project.
Celebrate Success: The project with the most votes wins the prize money, typically totaling around $4,500, funded through sponsorships and donations.

Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your vision into reality and make a meaningful impact in Wheeling.

For more information or to apply, visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

Wheeling Island Memorial Flood Wall Restoration Complete

WHEELING, W.Va. – Nov. 21, 2024 – The restoration of the Wheeling Island Memorial Flood Wall is now complete, marking a significant preservation of local history. The project was a collaborative effort between the City of Wheeling and Wheeling Heritage, with generous support from various community contributors.

Angelina Stone and Marble played a key role in the project, cleaning and repointing the brickwork to restore its original integrity. Dirk Bauer and DJ Eddy of IUPAT DC 53 also volunteered their time, painting the base with supplies donated by PPG Paints.

Artist Mindi Yarbrough contributed to the restoration by adding script and historical markers to the Virginia Street section. This aspect of the project was sponsored by the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission and Jessica Barclay.

Located at the intersection of Virginia and South Penn streets, the restored memorial ensures the preservation of an important piece of Wheeling’s history for future generations.

For more information, please contact Wheeling Heritage at (304) 232-3087 or email info@wheelingheritage.org.

Handmade Holiday: 60+ Local Artisans at the Wheeling Artisan Center

WHEELING, W.Va. – November 19, 2024, Wheeling Heritage will host its much-anticipated Handmade Holiday event, showcasing the works of over 60 talented local artisans. The event will take place Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Wheeling Artisan Center. All three floors of the center will be transformed into a festive marketplace, offering unique, handcrafted gifts just in time for the holiday season.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore three floors of diverse offerings, including pottery, artwork, jewelry, candles, books, home decor, and more. This annual event highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of artisans from across the region, making it the perfect opportunity to shop small and support local businesses.

Meet the Vendors:
The event will feature an impressive lineup of local artisans such as:
16th Street Clay Company, A Frayed Knot, Alan Fitzpatrick Jewelry and Books, Apartment Two Art, Art by Jamuna, Art by Janet Lynn, B. Woven, Bejeweled Trees, Bellaroses Boutique, Burn. – Hand Poured Soy, Card Art by Jes, Cat’s Paw Art Studio, Charmed Creations, Colleen’s Crafty Creations LLC, CrapBagBananaHammock, Deylight Photography, Echo Valley Pottery, Er. + Ryal, Fat Cat Press Studio, Fuzzy Whale Paper Co, Georgia Tambasis: Funky Ceramics, Goat and Soy, LLC, Golden Rose Creations, Gospel Pearls, House of Hume, Jericho Road Collective, Jimagination, Logan Schmitt Illustration, Lone Stone Designs, Lynn Allan Designs, Mel’s Alternative Images, Midge’s Kitchen, Mooncloudkat, Morning Light Studio, Mountain State Craftsman, Mycro Forest, Kerryn Carney Tea Towels, Nonni says SEW, Papa Faith, Peaceniks Creations, Pressed Oil of Gladness, Rachel Dennison Art, Ready Aim Fire Ceramics Studio LLC, RōDōWV Art, Runway Farm, Rust Belt Stained Glass Works, Savannah Schroll Guz Studios, Sea Salt and Cedar, Spore Print Press, Stone Cottage Apothecary, Sunshines Stained Glass, Susanne Williams Art, Tacet Coffee Cart, The Blended Homestead, The Cookie Culprit, The Pretty Pickle, The Queen of Arts~Curiosities by Adrienne, The Weeping Willow Farm, To Crafting And Beyond, Wanderland Creations, Wild Fringe Leatherworks, Wild+Wanderful, Witty Voyager, Yardscape LLC, and Yellow Sky Designs.

“Handmade Holiday has become a cornerstone event for our community each December,” said Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage. “It’s not just about shopping; it’s about connecting with the artists and makers who get to showcase their talents at this amazing event. The community looks forward to doing some holiday shopping and meeting new friends, and catching up with old ones!”

Admission is free, and all are welcome to enjoy this festive shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just want to celebrate the season, Handmade Holiday offers something special for everyone.

For more details about the event, visit https://wheelingheritage.org/handmade-holiday/ or follow Wheeling Heritage on Facebook.

Wheeling Heritage Invites You to Paint Your Pup!

WHEELING, W.Va. – Oct. 10, 2024 – Wheeling Heritage invites dog lovers and art enthusiasts to join the Paint Your Pup workshop on Sunday, January 12. Participants can choose from a morning session, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., or an afternoon session, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Both sessions will be held at the Wheeling Artisan Center.

Upon signing up, you will submit a photo of your pup, which will be replicated onto a 16×20 canvas. An artist will guide you through the process of painting your pet’s portrait, with no prior painting experience required. All materials will be provided, and each session is limited to 30 participants. This workshop promises a fun afternoon out with family and friends, making it a perfect Christmas gift for pet lovers.

After the paintings are completed, Wheeling Heritage will photograph each canvas for reproduction onto banners that will be displayed in a public art installation at the Fitzsimmons Family Dog Parks. The banners will be unveiled during the next FidoFest event, scheduled for Saturday, May 17, at Garden Park in Warwood.

“Do you have a family member or friend that just adores their pooch? This is such a fun event for artists of any skill level or age (preferably 10 years and up) to come together and create something really special,” said Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage. “With experience gifts becoming more and more popular, it really is a unique opportunity here in Wheeling.”

Spots for Paint Your Pup are limited, so be sure to register today! Additionally, we will have a vendor booth at Handmade Holiday on Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wheeling Artisan Center.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, January 12
Session Times: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Session 1), 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. (Session 2)
Location: Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main Street, Wheeling, W.Va.

Registration Information:

Cost: $75 per portrait
Registration Link: org/paint-your-pup

For more information, visit wheelingheritage.org/paint-your-pup or email info@wheelingheritage.org.

Wheeling Heritage Partnership Grant Application is Now Open Through Oct. 31

WHEELING, W.Va. – October 8, 2024 – Wheeling Heritage is now accepting applications for its partnership grant program through Oct. 31. The nonprofit organization offers these grants to support projects that align with its mission of revitalizing Wheeling through historic preservation, community development, and the arts.

Partnership grants are reviewed quarterly by an ad-hoc committee that evaluates each application to ensure the proposed project aligns with the program’s goals. Grants of up to $1,000 are available, funding up to 75% of direct project costs.

Wheeling Heritage offers five types of partnership grants in the following categories:

Education & Interpretation Grant: Funds projects that support the heritage area, interpret its historic significance, and provide long-term community benefits.
Small Business Development Grant: Available to organizations or small businesses for projects that contribute to Wheeling’s economic vitality.
Artist Grant: Supports projects such as supplies, recordings, studio time, exhibits, performances, and attendance at workshops or seminars.
Recreation Grant: Funds projects or programs that enhance recreation within the heritage area, with priority given to projects along the trail system.
Fairs & Festivals Grant: Supports events within the heritage area that advance Wheeling’s culture and history, from community-based celebrations to large-scale events.

Applicants may provide their matching share in dollars or through in-kind services. Individuals, community groups, local institutions, public entities, and private enterprises are eligible to apply. Nonprofit status is not required, but applicants must demonstrate the capacity to manage and account for funds responsibly.

For more information or to apply, visit wheelingheritage.org/grants. Applicants with questions are encouraged to contact Riley Carpenter, Director of Programming, at rcarpenter@wheelingheritage.org.

2025 Grant Schedule:

Open Jan. 6 – Close Jan. 31 | Award Month: February
Open April 2 – Close April 30 | Award Month: May
Open July 2 – Close July 31 | Award Month: August

Replacement Placard Installed to Honor Walter Reuther at Wheeling Heritage Port

WHEELING, W.Va. – Sept. 17, 2024 – A replacement placard commemorating labor leader Walter Reuther has been installed at the Wheeling Heritage Port. Reuther, a former president of the United Auto Workers (UAW), is remembered for his tireless advocacy on behalf of working men and women. The installation serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he made on the labor movement.

“We are a very proud and grateful union to have had a president like Walter Reuther to lead us,” said Mark Dowell, UAW Region 8 CAP/RW Representative. “We hope this placard shows our gratitude and thanks to Walter Reuther and his family for the sacrifices they made and the moral high ground they stood upon for our great union.”

Walter Reuther, who passed away 54 years ago, remains a beacon of inspiration for labor rights. His famous words, “There is a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box, and what the union fights for and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls,” still resonate today. The memorial serves as a reminder to all that voting is vital in protecting workers’ rights and well-being.

The interpretive signage, installed by Wheeling Heritage with funding from the United Auto Workers (UAW), highlights Reuther’s contributions and emphasizes the importance of civic engagement in advancing and preserving labor rights.

Would you like to help preserve local history and contribute to the revitalization of Wheeling’s story? Wheeling Heritage offers opportunities to sponsor the restoration of Historical & Neighborhood Interpretive signs throughout the area. To learn more about this initiative, contact Wheeling Heritage at (304) 232-3087 or email info@wheelingheritage.org.

About Wheeling Heritage:

Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

About UAW:
The United Auto Workers (UAW) is one of the largest and most diverse unions in North America, representing workers in industries ranging from auto manufacturing to higher education. The UAW is committed to advancing workers’ rights and ensuring fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions for its members.

Artist Mindi Yarbrough to Restore Wheeling Island Memorial Flood Wall Markers

WHEELING, W.Va. – Sept. 13, 2024 – The City of Wheeling and Wheeling Heritage are proud to announce that artist Mindi Yarbrough will begin restoring the flood markers on the Wheeling Island Memorial Flood Wall. This project, made possible with funding from the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission and Jessica Barclay, aims to preserve this significant historical record, located at the intersection of Virginia and South Penn streets.

“We are very excited to complete this important project. Mindi does phenomenal work, and we are very lucky that we were able to schedule her. Many thanks to Councilman Ben Seidler and the residents of the Island for their patience as we work to finish this treasured piece of art and history.” states Scott Schenerlein, Executive Director of Wheeling Heritage.

This spring, restoration of the memorial began with substantial work by Angelina Stone and Marble, who cleaned and repointed the brickwork, and IUPAT DC 53 volunteers, who painted the base with supplies donated by PPG Paints. These contributions have set the stage for Yarbrough’s work, which will further enhance and maintain the memorial’s integrity.

For more information, please contact Wheeling Heritage at (304) 232-3087 or email info@wheelingheritage.org.

Entrepreneurs Wanted: CO.STARTERS Program in Wheeling Now Accepting Applications

WHEELING, W.Va. – Sept. 11, 2024 – Wheeling Heritage and The Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED) are now accepting applications for the next cohort of CO.STARTERS, a dynamic program designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The program provides the insights, relationships, and tools needed to transform business ideas into actionable plans.

Interested individuals can apply at redp.org/costarters. The program will be held for ten weeks on Monday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Wheeling Artisan Center, beginning Monday, Oct. 7. Applications are due by Sept. 23. The participation fee is $200, which includes materials, with payment plans available upon request.

“We’ve seen tremendous success with this program in the past and I am excited to be able to offer it again. The graduates from this program have the tools necessary to turn their dream into reality. We also strive for this program to serve as a resource for existing business owners who feel stuck. No matter how long you’ve been in business, sometimes it’s important to step back and take some time to work on your business, rather than in your business,” said Valerie Piko, Program Development Manager at RED.

Riley Carpenter, Director of Programming at Wheeling Heritage, added, “We are so lucky to have a program like CO-STARTERS in our area! I was fortunate enough to participate in the program myself, and I can truly say it was a game-changer for me during 2020, especially navigating the challenges of COVID. As someone with no formal background in finance or business planning, the program broke down the complexities of entrepreneurship and helped me understand the crucial financial aspects that are often tricky for beginners. Now, as the Director of Programming at Wheeling Heritage, I’m proud to be helping oversee a program that equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need for success.”

CO.STARTERS draws on the expertise of experienced entrepreneurs and startup veterans from around the world to guide creative small-business owners through practical, streamlined business modeling methods. Instead of developing a traditional, detailed business plan, participants are encouraged to build and test small models early on. This approach allows them to gather real-time customer feedback, refine their ideas to meet market needs, and avoid building businesses on flawed assumptions. The program also provides participants with a supportive community to help them along the way.

To date, more than 80 entrepreneurs have completed CO.STARTERS in Wheeling, each at different stages of their business journey. Most participants had no prior business training or experience.

RED and Wheeling Heritage will continue accepting applications through Sept. 23 or until 12 participants are enrolled. For more information and to apply, visit redp.org/costarters.

About Wheeling Heritage:

About The Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED):
Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED) is a private, nonprofit development corporation that serves Ohio, Marshall and Wetzel Counties in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, with emphasis on creating jobs and stimulating the local economy through assisting with local business expansion, recruiting new business investment, and encouraging small business development through entrepreneurial activity. RED was established as Ohio Valley Industrial Corporation in 1926 and incorporated as OVIBDC in 1961.

Final Show of Hands Event of 2024 Season Set for September 25

WHEELING, W.Va. – September 4, 2024– The final Show of Hands event for 2024 will take place on Wednesday, September 25, at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling. Sponsored by Orrick, Show of Hands is a crowdfunding initiative that empowers local entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses. This event will be the third and final of the season, marking the end of the program’s 10-year anniversary.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Show of Hands with this final event of the season,” said Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage. “This program has been instrumental in supporting local entrepreneurs, and we’re excited to see how these finalists will use the funding to grow their businesses and contribute to the Wheeling community.”

Show of Hands provides local entrepreneurs with the opportunity to receive financial support raised through event sponsorships and donations collected during the event. The finalists for this season’s final Show of Hands event are:

Flying Spoon, Donn McCombs: Flying Spoon combines food, fitness, and social activities in Wheeling, offering a lunch menu, fresh juices, yoga classes, and community events. They seek funding to expand their menu and improve facilities.
Wheeling Noods Ramen Bar, Travis McBride: Wheeling Noods Ramen Bar is a custom ramen restaurant and bar, bringing unique and flavorful noodle dishes to the Wheeling community. They plan to use the funds to install a frying system, add coolers, and create outdoor seating.
Savvy Sellebrations, Chrissy Heckman: Savvy Sellebrations specializes in renting event decorations, providing everything from tablecloths to lanterns for any occasion. Funding would help them purchase additional tables, chairs, and a trailer, as well as develop a website.
Midge’s Kitchen, Melissa Rebholz: Midge’s Kitchen offers weekly meal pickups, catering services, and a seasonal hot dog cart, all made with local and healthy ingredients. They need funding to buy refrigeration units to extend pickup hours and offer more grab-and-go items.

For the past decade, Show of Hands has empowered local businesses, and this final event of the 2024 season will celebrate Wheeling’s entrepreneurial spirit. Attendees will have the chance to support these innovative businesses. For more information about the event or to learn how to support these local businesses, please visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands/.