Visit the **Mercer County War Museum** to walk through conflicts from the Civil War to modern day, or uncover the roots of local farming at the **Agricultural Museum.** History lives here. We host events year-round, from walking tours of downtown Princeton architecture to archival workshops for genealogists.
The Mercer County Historical Society (MCHS) stands as a beacon for local history, founded on the principle that understanding the past is essential for navigating the future. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to the collection, preservation, and interpretation of materials relating to the history of Mercer County, West Virginia.
Our Core Mission
1.
Preservation: To actively collect and safeguard historical documents, artifacts, and structures unique to Mercer County.
2.
Education: To share the rich history of the county through museum exhibits, educational programs, publications, and lectures.
3.
Community Engagement: To serve as a vital resource for genealogical research, historical inquiry, and community memory.
Our History
The MCHS was officially established in **1957** by a group of dedicated citizens who recognized the urgent need to protect the region's rapidly disappearing historical records and landmarks. Over the decades, the MCHS has grown from a small archival effort into a pillar of the community, responsible for establishing and maintaining the **Mercer County War Museum** and the **Mercer County Agricultural Museum**. Our efforts have been supported entirely by the generosity of our members, volunteers, and local partners.
Leadership and Governance
The MCHS is governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors.
Mercer County is rich in history, and the Mercer County Historical Society maintains two specialized museums and two important historic sites in the Princeton area that serve as invaluable resources.
1. Mercer County War Museum
The War Museum is dedicated to honoring the sacrifice and chronicling the experiences of Mercer County residents who served in conflicts from the Civil War to modern day. Exhibits cover Civil War, Spanish-American War, World Wars I & II, and modern conflicts.
Plan Your Visit:
Address: 1500 West Main Street, Princeton, WV 24740 (Used known address from search results)
Step back in time to the era when farming and timber were the backbone of life in southern West Virginia. The museum showcases historic machinery, homestead life exhibits, and a reconstructed rural schoolhouse.
Admission: Adults: $5.00 / Children (Under 12): Free
Note: Ample free parking available on site.
3. Princeton Railroad Depot & Museum
Princeton was a key hub on the historic Virginian Railway, carrying coal and goods through the Appalachian mountains. The preserved depot building showcases the history of rail travel and the critical role the railway played in the area's economic development. The depot is a beautiful example of early 20th-century train station architecture.
Admission: Free to walk the grounds and view the exterior exhibits.
Note: Interior access is limited to special events and tour dates.
4. Todd Flat Schoolhouse (C. 1848)
The Todd Flat School, dating back to 1848, is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional one-room schoolhouse in the county. It provides a unique educational experience, showing visitors what life was like for students and teachers in 19th-century rural West Virginia.
Restoration History:
The Historical Society undertook a major restoration of the school, transforming it from a neglected, boarded-up structure back to its original appearance as a functioning educational site. The images below show this impressive transformation from before to after.
Hours: Open for Special Events & Scheduled Group Tours Only
Admission: Free (Donations Welcome)
Contact: Check the Events page for the next open house date.
Research & Collections Guidelines
The MCHS archives house thousands of unique artifacts, documents, and genealogical materials. We welcome researchers but require adherence to the following guidelines to ensure preservation.
🔍 Accessing the Archives
Scheduling & Fees
By Appointment Only: Must be scheduled one week in advance.
All visitors must sign the researcher log and present photo ID.
Only **pencils** are permitted in the research area.
**No Food, Drinks, Pens, or Backpacks** are allowed.
Personal photography of documents is generally prohibited.
📦 Donating to the Collection
Donation Process
**Initial Contact Required:** Please discuss items with the Curator before drop-off.
**Deed of Gift:** Accepted items require signing a form transferring legal ownership to MCHS.
**Focus:** We seek materials on mining, railroads, agriculture, and local organizations.
Important Legal Note
The MCHS **cannot provide appraisals or valuations** for donated items for tax purposes. Please consult an independent certified appraiser prior to donation if required.
Upcoming Events & Programs
Join us for our monthly speaker series, historic walking tours, and hands-on workshops. All events are open to the public unless otherwise noted.
Annual Civil War Lecture Series: The Battle of Cloyd's Mountain
Date: Saturday, October 20, 2026 at 6:00 PM |Location: Princeton Public Library Auditorium
Join historian Dr. Eleanor Vance as she details the final stages of the Civil War in the region. Priority seating for MCHS members.
Event Calendar
Jan 15 | 7:00 PM
MCHS Monthly Speaker Series: *Early Mercer County Industries*
When you become a member, you become an **active steward of Mercer County's irreplaceable heritage a.** Your support maintains our museums, funds research, and hosts educational programs.
Why Join the MCHS?
Free Access
Complimentary admission to both the War Museum and Agricultural Museum.
Stay Informed
Receive our exclusive newsletter detailing new acquisitions and events.
Priority Access
Priority registration and discounted tickets for our popular lectures and tours.
Voting Rights
Participate in the annual meeting and help elect board members.
Our Social Feed (Facebook Timeline)
Follow the latest news, photos from past events, and archival finds directly from our Facebook page.
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