The Carskadon Mansion on Radical Hill, a historic home along U.S. Route 220 in Keyser, is the former residence of Thomas R. Carskadon, an influential Mineral County farmer and political leader.
Often referred to as "Uncle Tom" by those who knew him, Carskadon was a member of the 1862-1863 Convention that framed the Constitution of West Virginia. Additionally, he served as Assistant United States Assessor, a Grant Presidential Elector in 1868, and a Hayes Elector in 1876. As a farmer, Carskadon patented items and wrote articles that gained great attention in agricultural circles throughout the United States.
In an attempt to preserve this important structure, community leaders and historians contacted Vandalia Heritage Foundation with the vision of opening a history and genealogy research center in Mineral County. Vandalia provided technical assistance, in addition to initial funding, which supplemented local fundraising efforts.
Through Vandalia's assistance, the Mineral County Historical Foundation (MCHF) took possession of the property on February 9, 2001.
Initial efforts pertained to the stabilization of the structure, including installing a temporary roof and plastic over the windows. With further assistance from Vandalia, the MCHF
funded the masonry reappointing and sealing of the bricks. Concurrently, the MCHF had electricity and security lights installed, restored the surrounding brick wall, and made water and sewage disposal available to the property.
The MCHF has sought additional sources of financial support for the Carskadon Mansion project. In 2003, the MCHF received funding from the West Virginia State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Vandalia to restore the mansion's roof. A second SHPO grant in 2004 enabled the MCHF to refurbish the windows and shutters, which was completed in Spring 2005. The MCHF continues to renovate this important structure, largely through the efforts of dedicated local volunteers.
Upon completion, the Carskadon Mansion will house the Mineral County Legacy charter site, as part of Vandalia's Legacy Program. The Mineral County Genealogical Society will continue to be instrumental in the development of the Mineral County Legacy charter site. Additionally, the building will host a number of community gatherings and events.
The restoration and adaptive re-use of the Carskadon Mansion could not be possible without the support of numerous local, state, and regional organizations and other individuals.
If you are interested in learning more about the Carskadon Mansion project, please contact:
Mineral County Historical Foundation
P.O. Box 1325
Keyser, WV 26726
http://www.mincohistfoundation.org/index.htm
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