UPDATED: Alleghany Historical Society Issues Winter Report Covington, VA (Jan. 6, 2026) - The birth of our nation was officially recognized on July 4, 1776, and the celebration of its 250th Anniversary has been underway for more than a year. The Alleghany Historical Society is only 70 years old but it has been instrumental in the preservation of the heritage of the Alleghany Highlands. The settlement of our area began in 1746 and its citizens have been active participants in the events which have shaped our nation from that date forward. Our history is being told by the contents in the buildings pictured above. With the restoration and opening of the restored C&O Passenger Depot in 2007, the Society worked with the City of Covington to create a museum of local history. The creation of the Alleghany Highlands Industrial Heritage and Technology Discovery Center began when the Society purchased the Rooklin Nettleton Building in 2016. The restoration of that 17,000 square foot commercial building began under the direction of a retired engineer, Gordon Specht. Another retired engineer, Mike Wade, worked on the creation of exhibits and hands-on displays. The full story of the depot and Discovery Center has not been completed but it needs to be noted that the efforts of the Alleghany Historical Society were key to their development. The credit goes to a group of dedicated volunteers and the countless hours spent on securing funding from grants, organizations, and individuals. In many activities, the Society worked in cooperation and partnership with the C&O Railway Historical Society and the Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society. Throughout the Highlands, passionate individuals have contributed time and money to the numerous projects involving historic preservation; the Historic Masonic Theatre, Green Pastures Recreation Area in Longdale, the Farm at Glen Haven, the C&O Railway Heritage Center, the Oakland Church, MeneFer and the Low Moor Iron Company store, the Historic Wrightsville. Museum, Locomotive 701, the Falling Spring Falls wayside, Humpback Bridge, the Jacob Persinger House, and Milton Hall. Apologies for omitting other sites and noted examples of historic preservation.      The limited resources of the Society have dictated a new direction and emphasis on historic preservation. The City of Covington recognizes the tremendous assets of the depot and Discovery Center as economic benefits to recreation and cultural attractions. The Society has accepted an offer from the city for purchase and operation of the Discovery Center. The city will also assume responsibility for the operations at the depot. The Society will continue to provide volunteers and act as a resource in an advisory role. Our archives will continue to be located at the depot and Discovery Center.      The board and active membership of the Society is very enthusiastic about this new partnership with the city. There will be a continued need for funding to support the many initiatives and activities of the Society. The celebration of the 250th Anniversary of our country will be among those activities. Your support and active participation are encouraged and appreciated. New Board Members for 2025-2026      The current list of board members took office on July 1, 2025. The Society is excited about the leadership of these individuals. President – Cynthia Arthur Vice President – Luke Bradley Treasurer – Bill Atherholt Secretary – Marian Paxton Board Members – Linda Morrison, Mary Ann Beirne, Floyd Harrison, Bonnie Keyser, Jim Irwin, and Sydney Hepler Ex-Officio: Executive Officer - Paul Linkenhoker      Director of Development – Mike Wade Discovery Center Liaison – Angie Jones

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