HistoriCorps and the Monongahela National Forest are seeking volunteers of all skill levels to help rehabilitate the historic Blue Bend Recreation Area picnic pavilion, with week-long volunteer opportunities running from Sept. 22 through Oct. 18. Those interested in volunteering can visit www.historicorps.org to register for the project and learn more about other HistoriCorps volunteer opportunities.
HistoriCorps is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to engaging volunteer workforces to preserve historic places and provide free mentorship in the preservation trades. HistoriCorps is returning to Blue Bend Recreation Area after volunteers and Appalachian Conservation Corps members completed over 1,000 hours of labor on the structures in 2023.
The Blue Bend Pavilion was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1936-1938, alongside over 20 camping sites complete with tent pads, picnic tables, and parking areas. The recreation area also includes an elaborate system of retaining walls and stabilized creek banks, two-stoned paved beaches, and a water retention reservoir for recreational swimming. In 1994 the Blue Bend Recreation Area, historically known as the “Blue Bend Forest Camp,” was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The campsite is beloved within its local community and beyond. This year, HistoriCorps will rehabilitate the cedar shake roof of the larger pavilion and complete log repairs and replacements as needed.
More volunteers are still needed to ensure the success of this project. HistoriCorps welcomes but does not require any experience in the trades; mentorship and all necessary tools are provided. Volunteer sessions are scheduled Sunday evening through Friday morning, and volunteers can expect all meals to be provided by expert field staff. Participants will have access to camping accommodations for tents, truck campers, campervans, and small trailers.
Project Details:
Location: Outside of White Sulphur Springs
Tasks: Roof demolition and replacement with cedar shakes. Log repairs and replacements as needed.
Dates:
Session 1: Sept. 22-27
Session 2: Sept. 29 – Oct. 4
Session 3: Oct. 6 – Oct. 11
Session 4: Oct. 13-18
For more information or to register for a volunteer session, visit www.historicorps.org, or contact us at info@historicorps.org.