Open house date set for Sunday, Sept. 4
By Sarah Richardson
The ongoing restoration work to the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion, affectionately known as “The Blue,” continues this month with a dramatic roof removal.
The pavilion, which is located roughly nine miles north of Alderson, currently sits alone in a cow field. It was originally a part of an expansive resort that was constructed around 1838, but during the Civil War all but the pavilion was burned to the ground. Restoration efforts began, and The Blue was placed on the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia’s Endangered Properties List, and was later purchased by the Greenbrier Historical Society.
On Aug. 8, Schleiff Construction began Stage 4 of this expansive project by erecting scaffolding in preparation to remove the roof, raise the columns, put on a new roof, install a new floor that will mimic the original, add a new grate to the spring box, and stucco the columns. By August 10, the roof was cut into pieces and removed entirely.
The Historical Society is asking for the public to please not visit the site as it’s an active construction zone. However, they have scheduled an open house date where everyone can come out and see what’s been done so far.
“The Friends of the Blue Committee of the Greenbrier Historical Society is hosting an open house at the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion on Sunday, Sept. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m.,” states their event page. “Everyone is welcome to stop by for a short while, take photos, hear a brief update, and ask questions. Parking is somewhat limited so please come and go. This is an opportunity for people who love and support the Blue restoration project to take photos of the Blue without the roof although there will still be lots of scaffolding. Please respect the safety markers. Donations appreciated.”
Checks can also be mailed to GHS, Friends of the Blue, 814 Washington Street West, Lewisburg, WV 24901. Call 304-645-3398 for more information or find them on Facebook at “Blue Sulphur Springs.”
