newsletter 4-15

Repeating a scene that has undoubtedly occurred several times since its construction in 1836, a horse drawn hearse has once again visited the famous estate known as Henderson Hall; it was again for a member of the Henderson family that the hearse was called.
Michael Rolston was a great, great grandson of George Washington Henderson, the builder of what is now one of Wood County’s and West Virginia’s foremost treasures.

Still housing many of the original furnishings, the historic home is a virtual museum of 19th century plantation life. Helped by local docents and groups, Michael managed to have the home open on special occasions and tour groups. His failing health however, prohibited it being open for the 2007 Christmas season.

Michael Rolston now lies in repose beside his mother in the Henderson Cemetery situated on a small, wooded knoll, not far from the famous mansion.
On another small, wooded knoll, about the same distance from the mansion is another “burying ground.” Though quite small and not taken care of, the only legible stone reads: .

Born in 1933 and raised in Parkersburg, Michael was a member of the 1951 graduating class of PHS. His work as a graphic designer took him to New York City where he remained until the mid 1980’s,when he returned to Williamstown as owner and “savior” of Henderson Hall.
In 1957, the home and an adjoining 65 acres were listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Henderson Hall Historic District.

Over the past several years, Dave McKain, director of the Oil and Gas Museum, and a life-long friend to Rolston, had worked with him to create the publicity that a treasure such as Henderson Hall deserves.
Though McKain’s plans for Henderson Hall are not complete, he has stated that he will carry on the work of Michael Rolston, assuring that the public will continue to have the opportunity to step back in time as they pass through the door of Henderson Hall.
It is hopeful that the historical home can be open on weekends. To do this will require several docents. If you would like to apply as a docent or to offer other assistance in support of this important part of our past, please call the Oil and Gas Museum at 485-5446.

Your editor apologizes for the poor quality of the “Mystery Photo” that appeared in the last issue of H&P; it is not surprising that we had no response.
Having had the opportunity to see the original photo, Jeff Little thought that it may have been taken in front of the old Silk Mill in Vienna. Another possibility was alongside the Viscose plant in South Parkersburg.
Or next issue will having another, better image of a “mystery photo”. We’ll appreciate your help in determing where, and perhaps the occasion that these old photographs were taken.