Literary Hall

Discovering Literary Hall: A Time Capsule of Romney’s Past

Imagine stepping back into the 19th century through the doors of Literary Hall, a brick library and museum nestled in the heart of Romney, West Virginia. This historic building, constructed between 1869 and 1870 by the Romney Literary Society, has witnessed centuries of change and transformation.

Founded in 1819 as one of the first literary organizations in present-day West Virginia, the society’s library was a beacon of knowledge during a time when books were scarce. But what happened to this precious collection? Was it lost forever? The answer is both yes and no; while the library was plundered during the American Civil War, it was rebuilt and reopened at Literary Hall in 1870.

A Building of Many Roles

After the society’s last meeting in 1886, Literary Hall took on a variety of roles. From serving as a library to housing various organizations like the Clinton Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons from 1870 to 1890, it has been a witness to many significant events in Romney’s history.

In 1973, lawyer Ralph Haines purchased Literary Hall with the intention of saving it from demolition. His vision was to restore the building as both a law office and private museum. This decision led to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, ensuring that this piece of history would not be forgotten.

Preserving History for Future Generations

The building’s architectural beauty is a testament to its rich past. With Federal and Greek Revival elements combined with Victorian details, Literary Hall stands as a time capsule of Romney’s heritage. The symmetrical design, exterior decorative moldings, and brick corbeling all contribute to the building’s unique character.

Inside, two interior side chimneys rest on a sandstone foundation, covered in standing seam tin sheeting. These features not only add to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also provide insight into its construction techniques of the era.

A Community Hub

In March 1937, Literary Hall became a community hub once again when Romney’s library was relocated there. The library expanded its hours with assistance from the National Youth Administration and the Works Progress Administration, making it a vital resource for the community.

Even after the library moved to other locations, Literary Hall continued to serve as a place of learning and cultural enrichment. Its rich history is a reminder of how important libraries are in fostering knowledge and community engagement.

A Legacy of Learning

The Romney Literary Society’s founding in 1819 marked the beginning of a legacy of learning that continues to this day. From introducing classical education at Romney Academy in 1820 to constructing a new building for the Romney Classical Institute, the society played a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape of the region.

Today, Literary Hall stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. It has weathered centuries of change, from wars to economic shifts, and continues to inspire those who visit it with its rich history and architectural beauty.

As we stand before the doors of Literary Hall, we are reminded that every brick and beam tells a story. It is a place where history comes alive, where the echoes of past conversations and debates still resonate. Will you step inside to explore this time capsule?

Discovering Literary Hall: A Time Capsule of Romney’s Past not only offers a glimpse into the rich history of West Virginia but also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of knowledge and community.