Watt Center News

At the monthly meeting for the organization this past Wednesday evening, members voted to move forward with contracts with local contractors Fitzpatrick Painting and David Earle Builds to paint the entire wooden trim, windows and doors at the historic Watt office building. The work will also include rehabilitation of the window frames as needed.

Earlier in the week, Watt representatives attended the Barnesville Village Council meeting where council members agreed to pay one-half of the cost. While the Watt Center for History and Arts has a long-term lease on the building, the property is owned by the village.

Work that will also include power washing the exterior of the structure is expected to get underway in April.

During the meeting dates were set for the annual student art show. Students will tour their artwork on Thursday and Friday April 24-25. The display will also be open to the public Sunday afternoon, April 27. 

Save the date:  The following week on Thursday, May 1, the center will host Barnesville native and textile expert Terry Tickhill Terrell for an evening program focusing on the history of the famous Stifel Calico Works, that was located North Wheeling. 

In other news, Mary Sidwell reported on the recent Belmont County Museums meeting. Upcoming events include a Senior Expo at The Highlands on March 25 and the Belmont County Heritage (Rubberneck) tour that will take place along historic US Route 40 on Saturday, April 26.

Left over books from the annual pumpkin festival book sale were donated and delivered to the library at the Belmont Correctional Center.

A “Little Library” style display featuring county and regional tourist sites will be placed at the front of the center soon. The display box will be provided by the county tourism office.   

Watt Center volunteers meet the second Wednesday each month at the Watt Office building at 6:00. New members are always welcome!