Get into the holiday spirit by touring a historic home.
This story was originally published in the Winter 2015 issue of WV Living.
It was updated in December 2021.
Bramwell Christmas Tour
Bramwell
This home tour in Bramwell, which once touted more millionaires per capita than any other town in the United States, occurs on the second Saturday in December starting at 5 p.m., and it is truly special. Each tour begins at the Bramwell Presbyterian Church, patterned after a Welsh cathedral, where visitors may purchase tickets for $15 (cash or check) while admiring the church’s breathtaking architecture. Take the time to appreciate the locally quarried bluestone that imparts an unusual aesthetic—coal dust provides the stone’s blue coloring. Visitors are free to meander in and out of the homes and buildings included on the tour and are greeted by residents dressed in period clothes. Because many of the homes are private residences, the lineup is always evolving, guaranteeing that even if you’ve seen it once, you’ve certainly not seen it all. bramwellwv.com
Henderson Hall Plantation
Williamstown
Henderson Hall Plantation will host its Christmas Evening on December 4. The majestic mansion will be beautifully decorated for the holidays, and Christmas music will be played on the 1875 piano, which has been in the possession of four generations of Hendersons. Cost for the Christmas Evening is $15 per person. Food will be served as the live music plays, guests able to walk freely throughout the home and hear stories from docents. Only 100 tickets are available. hendersonhallwv.com
South Charleston’s Annual Christmas Historic Homes Tour
South Charleston
Another popular event is the South Charleston’s Annual Christmas Historic Homes Tour on December 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. The tours begin at the St. Albans Historical Society building at 404 Fourth Avenue and will move through several historical homes and buildings. Visitors can opt for the shuttle or drive themselves. Tickets are $10. Refreshments will be available. stalbanshistory.com/homes-tours.html
The Adam Stephen House
Martinsburg
Enjoy a Colonial Christmas at the home of Adam Stephen, the founder of Martinsburg. This house, located at 309 East John Street, is restored to the 1780–1790 period and is decorated with live evergreens, wreaths, fruit, and candlelight. Enjoy holiday music and light refreshments on December 5-6 and December 11–12 from 4 to 8 p.m. @generaladamstephenhouse on Facebook
Adaland Mansion
Philippi
With unique, individually decorated trees throughout Adaland, built in 1872, you’re sure to walk away with lots of ideas and holiday cheer. Visitors will find garlands, poinsettias, velvet bows, twinkling lights, Santas, Christmas balls, and other special decorations. On Saturday, December 4, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. guests may walk through the house with no admission charge. adaland.org
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