The Beginnings and Rebirth of Helvetia: The Swiss in West Virginia

Sarah Hartle* and William Gorby, Department of History, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505

Field (Broad Category): History (Human Engagement) 

Student’s Major: History 

The small town of Helvetia, West Virginia was built on roots of Swiss immigrants whose traditions still prevail today, but are those traditions purely Swiss or something more? How does the commercialization of local customs affect traditional values? To address this topic, I investigated historical records, oral histories, and geographic and economic data to find out what had initially threatened the town’s economy and to find out how it bounced back in the 1960s. The data points to the rebirth of the town as a hub of Appalachian-Swiss culture in the form of regional tourism. Festivals and other celebrations with their individual components highlight markers of their Swiss tradition. Even today these events are still alive and well, although older members of the community shy away due to concerns about the watering down of the town’s traditions. The battle between keeping the town’s heritage intact for the residents, versus the draws of tourism, is still an ongoing process for Helvetia. 

Funding: Not funded 

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: WVU's Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP) & accompanying HONR 297-level course N/A