Wheeling National Heritage Area

The Wheeling Suspension Bridge is National Historic Landmark and oldest of its kind in use.

Wheeling NHA

Quick Facts

Location:

Wheeling, WV

Significance:

As the birthplace of West Virginia and an early industrial hub along the Ohio River, Wheeling holds a unique place in American history. Its designation by Congress as a National Heritage Area provides an effective way to tell the stories of its rich cultural past and to conserve its natural and historic resources.

Designation:

National Heritage Area

MANAGED BY:

Wheeling Heritage

Wheeling National Heritage Area in West Virginia shares the city of Wheeling's rich history and works to shape its future through through historic preservation, community development, and the arts.

Wheeling National Heritage Area is managed by Wheeling Heritage. Since its inception in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) organization, Wheeling Heritage has leveraged funding and expertise to play an integral role in shaping the city’s redevelopment.

Perhaps most notable, Wheeling Heritage made key investments in the former Wheeling Stamping Co. building that became home to back-office operations of international law firm Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, a redevelopment recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Wheeling Heritage is a partner in the revitalization of the landmark Capitol Theatre, home to Jamboree USA and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra.

Wheeling Heritage built the award-winning riverfront amphitheater, Heritage Port, and developed the Artisan Center, a renovated industrial building with a three-story atrium in the heart of downtown. Wheeling Heritage also spearheaded a grassroots restoration of Mt. Wood Cemetery, West Virginia’s oldest extant cemetery. The Wheeling Heritage Trails and historic markers around the city help visitors and outdoor enthusiasts learn about the city and its notable past.

Wheeling Heritage has created and managed initiatives that help small businesses thrive and connect homeowners with resources to stay in historic homes. Their 2016 merger with Reinvent Wheeling, the city’s Main Street program, added programs that focus on business development, city planning, public art. and promotions.