May is National Historic Preservation Month, a time to celebrate and honor the nation’s heritage through historic places. To showcase the importance of historic preservation, we’re sharing some of our favorite videos featuring preservation projects happening right here in Wheeling, WV. These videos highlight the efforts of individuals and organizations who are protecting and restoring Wheeling’s historic buildings. From revitalized neighborhoods to iconic buildings, take a look at these inspiring examples of how Wheeling is preserving its past for future generations.
Waterfront Hall
Waterfront Hall will be the newest addition to Water Street in Downtown Wheeling. Located inside the former Berry Supply Building, developer Dan Milleson sought to create a dynamic space offering food, drinks, music, and more.
READ MORE: Behind the Scenes at Waterfront Hall, Wheeing’s Newest Waterfront Development
Mugshots
109 Main St. had been vacant for over 10 years. That all changed in 2019 when Gabe Hayes acquired and began development on the building. 1109 Main St. is now the home of Wheeling’s own, Mugshots Coffe Shop, owned and operated by Grant Coleman.
Fort Henry Club
When the doors first opened at the Fort Henry Club on December 23, 1890, it was the definition of luxury. Today, the team at McKinley Architecture and Engineering is working to preserve the building and once again make it a showpiece that the community can enjoy for years to come.
Wheeling-Pitt Building
1134 Market Street, originally known as the Schmulbach Building, was once considered West Virginia’s largest office building when it was completed in 1907. Since then, it has become more commonly known as the Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel building, whose offices occupied this 12-story, 144,000-square-foot building from the 1940s through 2013. The building is currently being redeveloped by Coon Restoration into a 128-unit apartment complex – The Historic Wheeling-Pitt Lofts.
The 1400 Block
When the video below was first created, it was a plea to help get these four buildings in front of the right potential developers who could restore and put them back into use. Today, the buildings have been stabilized and the teams at Desmone Architects and real estate developer Tipping Point have begun construction. Once completed, the renovated 1400 Market Block will breathe new life into Market Street, offering a vibrant mix of tenants that will contribute to the area’s revitalization and provide a much-needed boost to Wheeling’s downtown community.
READ MORE: Renderings Unveiled for the Revitalized 1400 Market Block
It’s incredible that not only are these preservation projects happening, but all of the videos above are concentrated in Wheeling’s Downtown Historic District. While each project is in different phases, it’s incredible to imagine what Downtown Wheeling will look like in the next 5 years and the positive impact it will have on our community.
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• Wheeling Heritage Media creates a variety of multimedia experiences in order to tell Wheeling’s story, both past and present. Through videos, podcasts, photos, and more, they create content and provide digital access to help more people feel connected and engaged with this vibrant, growing community