In the heart of Randolph County lies a quaint valley town bursting at the seams with hidden treasures and old fashioned holiday cheer for the season. The town of Beverly and its growing historic district shops welcome one and all to step back to a simpler, slower pace and explore the charming shops and attractions nestled away in this unique historic community.
"Historic Beverly Preservation & Rich Mountain Battlefield Foundation have been hosting Old Fashion Beverly Christmas since 1999," said Chelley Depp, director of the organizations. "It's hard to believe it's been 10 years. Since then, we have grown to include the historic sites, numerous specialty shops and of course our community partners, such as the Beverly Women's Club and Beverly Presbyterian Church, in the fun and festivities of the neighborhood."
The community will celebrate the open house event Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The historic district will be decorated with holiday greens and a touch of traditional attire for the season just in time for the arrival of the guest of honor-Beverly's own Victorian Santa. Santa will be stopping at the shops around town to hear the Christmas wishes of all those who still believe. Throughout the day, the Beverly Heritage Center will host activities for the kids including take-home ornaments and holiday bird feeders. Specialty shops include Cornucopia, The Goff House Antiques & Textile Studio, Beverly Books & Antiques, Yarn & Company, Blossom Village, The Lemuel Chenoweth House and the Beverly Heritage Center Gift Shop. The Randolph County Museum will be open for a special off-season sale of books on West Virginia and local history. As a special treat to visitors, all specialty shops will host special sales and door prizes to make holiday shopping a bit more fun and easier on the wallet. Refreshments will be served in most locations.
Additionally, several local vendors and crafters will be selling their wares at the Center. The Augusta Heritage Center of Davis & Elkins College will be on site with its traveling "book store" of Appalachian and West Virginia books, music and productions.
Chef Melanie Campbell of Campbell's Culinary Creations will be on site with her new line of dressings, sauces and baked goods.
Local harpist Michelle Luddy will be on hand playing traditional harp music for the season.
Visitors can kick off the morning with breakfast at Mama's Kitchen. The Beverly Presbyterian Church is hosting its annual Old Fashion Christmas Bazaar and Luncheon from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Baked and canned goods, gift baskets, Beverly building plaques and more will cover the tables for special holiday gift giving. Follow up a day of shopping with a lunch for $6 which includes homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts available for eat-in or take out to benefit the Presbyterian Women.
"HBP/RMBF is pleased to be hosting this festive event again this year. We have a lot to show off and a great opportunity to showcase our shops and attractions in what is normally our off-season," Depp said. "You'll be surprised at what we have to offer in the heart of the historic district."
