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Arthurdale, West Virginia
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Arthurdale was established in 1933 as the first New Deal community, intended to provide a model for self-sufficient living during the Great Depression.
Eleanor Roosevelt played a significant role in advocating for the establishment of Arthurdale, reflecting her commitment to social welfare and community development.
The project aimed to provide economic relief and a better quality of life for impoverished coal miners and their families by offering them homes and land to farm.
The Arthurdale project initially constructed 165 homesteads, each equipped with modern amenities for the time, such as indoor plumbing and electricity.
Arthurdale's community school was one of the first in the nation to integrate progressive education techniques, emphasizing hands-on learning and community involvement.
Yes, Arthurdale remains a living community, with many of the original homesteads still occupied by descendants of the first settlers.
The museum offers insights into the history of the New Deal community, showcasing original homesteads, artifacts, and educational exhibits about life in Arthurdale during the 1930s.
Yes, the community included small industries such as a furniture factory and a craft shop, aimed at providing employment and economic stability to its residents.
The homes in Arthurdale were built in a simple, functional style known as 'American Colonial Revival,' reflecting the practical needs and aesthetic preferences of the era.
