Ansted Culture & Heritage Museum is a unique place located in the heart of Ansted, West Virginia. Situated in a lovely small town surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, the museum preserves the history and culture of Appalachia. From coal mining to moonshining, the museum showcases the fascinating lives of generations of local residents.
The museum building itself is a piece of history. Built in 1927, it was the first school for African American children in Fayette County and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. As you enter the museum, you are immediately immersed in the rich culture and history of Ansted. From its unique exhibits to its vast archive of photographs, documents, and artifacts, there is something for everyone to explore.
The exhibits at the museum are engaging and informative. Learn about everyday life in Appalachia with Fayette County’s “Sampling of Life” exhibit. Explore its dizzying array of artifacts, ranging from everyday objects to unusual ones like moonshine stills and cast iron kettles. The “African American History” exhibit features rare documents and photographs that tell the story of African Americans in the area going back centuries.
The museum also offers interactive activities and workshops so visitors can experience a bit of Appalachian culture. For example, they can spend an afternoon learning how to make homemade moonshine from an experienced moonshiner or attend one of the museum's many lectures and demonstrations on Appalachian history and culture. Other activities include salt-rising bread baking classes taught by experienced bakers, basket weaving classes instructed by master weavers, and classes on spinning yarn using historic equipment.
The Ansted Culture & Heritage Museum is a place where visitors can connect with Appalachian culture and learn about its unique history and stories. Explore rare artifacts, engage in interactive activities, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings and take it all in. Come visit us today at 110 Main St., Ansted, WV 25812 and get a taste of Appalachia’s storied past. Visit us today to immerse yourself into Appalachia's history and culture!