South Charleston to highlight the state's history

  • 2015-06-17
Two events this June will put the spotlight on West Virginia's contribution to culture.

Both will take place at the state's Culture Center, near South Charleston. They will feature performances by musicians, activities for young people, and historians. The Culture Center may wish promote both events and increase attendance through the use of flyer printing.

On June 18, John Lilly, an award-winning songwriter, editor of "Mountains of Music: West Virginia Traditional Music from Goldenseal," and contributor to a number of music encyclopaedias such as the Grove Encyclopaedia of American Music, will give a lecture on West Virginia Songs. The program will be held in the Archives and History Library at the center.

Lilly has produced six solo albums since the year 2000 and is known for being a vocalist and stylist. He's also known for his in-depth study and mastery of the styles of early country music artists such as Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers. His lecture will start at 6:00 pm and is free and open to the public.

On June 20, starting at 9:00 am, the West Virginia Division of Culture and History celebrates West Virginia Day at the Culture Center. A highlight of the day is a birthday celebration, which will start at 10:00 am. At that time, the First Lady Porcelain Doll Case in the Balcony Gallery will be unveiled.

Programming throughout the day includes a number of activities for kids in the Education Room, a talk by Carter Seaton, the author of "Hippy Homesteaders," at 11:30 am, and a cake cutting at 12:15 pm. West Virginia Day is free and open to all.