On March 13, 2025, the Hardy County Tour and Craft Association hosted its annual dinner acknowledging the sponsors, volunteers, and homeowners who contributed to the success of its annual 2024 Heritage Weekend event. The dinner was catered by Grillin’ Time BBQ and Catering and was held in the Family Life Center of Duffey Memorial Methodist Church.
Kriston Strickler, executive director of the association, welcomed everyone to the dinner and acknowledged the volunteers, homeowners, sponsors and board members who make the festival possible each year. Pastor Mark Flynn gave the blessing over the meal.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2025 tile house selection. This year the association has chosen Hardy County 4 H camp’s, Dodd Hall, located at Camp Pinnacle.
Several events are being planned to be held at the camp which is located outside of Wardensville, WV.
Four grants totaling $14,774.96 were presented, with funds coming from the proceeds of last year’s Heritage Weekend. The four recipients were Highland Star Quilters, McClanahan’s Battery, Traditions and Technology and the Hardy County Public Library.
The civil war skirmishes with reenactors from the North and South returned to last year’s festival with a civil war living encampment and battles held at the Moorefield Town Park along with a skirmish along Main Street. Stories of the South Branch Valley was a musical event that was new to the festival this year. Ben Townsend and Don Pownell took to the stage to bring together history, storytelling and music.
The music of Clarence Tross was highlighted and the tribute was even more meaningful in that Clarence’s daughter was able to attend the event held at McCoy’s Theater. Several new events are being planned for next year’s festival.
Heritage Weekend is the only full county festival held in West Virginia. The festival strives to preserve the unique history of Hardy County. Volunteers for events and homeowners who would like to showcase their historic homes are encouraged to contact the association’s Facebook page, website or a board member. Current board members include Peggi Wright, Elaine Davis, Janet Rose, Jean Flanagan, Shayna Helmick and Connie Sherman.
