Arthurdale
History of Arthurdale
Arthurdale, known as Eleanor Roosevelt’s “Little Village” was the nation’s first New Deal homestead project, championed by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Originally known as the Reedsville Project, it was changed to Arthurdale after Richard Arthur, from whom the land was purchased. Created in 1933 through President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal legislation, the project relocated poor West Virginia families and gave them a new chance at life.
First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was a major force behind the project. She often visited to dine, dance, and chat with the homesteaders. She even handed out diplomas at many of the Arthurdale High School’s graduations.
The first homesteaders arrived in 1934 and were given property ranging from two to five acres. Designed by the federal government as a way to help families during the Great Depression, 165 homes were constructed with modern amenities like electricity, indoor plumbing, and a refrigerator, which were not commonly available throughout the country at the time.
The New Deal Homestead Museum is a multi-building museum comprises a forge filled with original tools, an Esso service station reminiscent of a bygone era, the historic Center Hall, the original federal government administration building, and a fully restored Arthurdale homestead. The museum Craft Shop specializes in handmade items created by WV artisans! Today, the area’s population is approximately 780.
Arthurdale Today: What Makes Us Unique
Arthurdale Heritage
This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation of historic Arthurdale and manages the five community buildings that entail the New Deal Homestead Museum. The New Deal Festival is always the second Saturday in July. Visit https://NewDealFestival.org
Fairfax Pond-Rehe Wildlife Management Area
This Wildlife Management Area managed by the West Virginia DNR covers more than 600 acres of mixed hardwood forest, open field and diverse wetland throughout the rolling valley. The landscape offers premium hunting and fishing opportunities.
West Preston School
The West Preston School offers a live streaming channel with all the latest news and unique activities happening there.
Preston Community Arts Center
The Preston Community Arts Center moved to the Arthurdale Heritage Center in 2021. Programs include Homeschool Art Classes, Kids Art Club and “Sip and Paint” events.