Wyoming County Historical Museum

The museums research center is named in honor of Paul Ray Blankenship who passed away on September 30, 2010. Paul was an educator, Wyoming County historian, genealogist, author of several books on the county, and the first president of the Wyoming County Historical Museum.

His many contributions include helping organize the Oceana High School Alumni Association where he served as president, he was president of the OHS Hall of Fame, and a charter member of the Captain Ralph Stewart Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. In 1976 he received the Distinguished West Virginian Award from Governor Arch Moore for his work on the state bi-centennial celebration. In 2000 he received the West Virginia History Hero Award for his work in preserving Wyoming County history.

Many of the books, family histories, notes and photos in our research collection belonged to Paul Ray and were donated to the museum by his family upon his passing. Paul’s many contributions to preserving Wyoming County history will be missed.

The Research Center is open during the Wyoming County Historical Museum’s regular hours which are Tuesday (10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) and Saturday (12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) or any time by appointment. For an appointment call Jim Cook (304) 682-5096 or Epp Cline (304) 682-6596 and they will be happy to help you.