West Virginia has a long and rich history, and preserving it takes dedication, passion, and countless hours of hard work. Every year, the West Virginia History Hero Awards honor individuals who go above and beyond to keep our state’s stories alive. This year, three outstanding Wheeling residents are among those being recognized during West Virginia History Day at the Legislature on March 12, 2025, at the Culture Center in Charleston.
Wheeling’s 2025 History Heroes
Ron Scott Jr History Hero Nominee
Sharon David has dedicated her time to preserving and restoring Wheeling’s historic cemeteries. As a leader in the Orphaned Cemeteries Project, she has engaged nearly 100 volunteers who have contributed over 1,300 hours to cleaning and documenting historic tombstones. Her efforts also helped secure funding for restoring veteran grave markers, ensuring these sites remain protected for future generations.
Susan Haddad has been a driving force in historic preservation in Wheeling. As a founding member of the Victorian Old Town Association, she played a key role in organizing house tours that raised funds for neighborhood beautification projects. She has also restored multiple historic properties, including her own 1839 home and an 1869 commercial building in the Center Market Historic District. Her commitment to preserving Wheeling’s architectural heritage has earned her recognition from both the Friends of Wheeling and the City of Wheeling.
Ronald Scott Jr. has worked tirelessly to bring awareness to the impact of the Civil War on local history and culture. He spearheaded the Ohio Valley’s annual Juneteenth celebration a year before it was recognized as a national holiday. His work includes rewriting a historic speech on African Americans in Wheeling from a modern perspective, which was featured in an exhibit at the Ohio County Public Library. Through his efforts, he continues to educate and inspire the community.
Honoring Their Contributions
The West Virginia History Hero Awards recognize individuals who make a lasting impact through research, preservation, and education. The ceremony is part of West Virginia History Day at the Legislature, an annual event featuring historical exhibits and presentations at the State Capitol.
The dedication of these individuals ensures that Wheeling’s history remains preserved and accessible for future generations. Their hard work reminds us of the importance of honoring our past while continuing to engage and educate our communities.
Congratulations to all the 2025 West Virginia History Heroes!
