Helvetia, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Helvetia
|
|
|---|---|
|
Census-designated place (CDP)
|
|
 Helvetia
Location in West Virginia
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Randolph |
| Settled | 1869 |
| Area | |
| • Total | 1.815 sq mi (4.70 km2) |
| • Land | 1.815 sq mi (4.70 km2) |
| • Water | 0 sq mi (0 km2) |
| Elevation | 2,280 ft (690 m) |
| Population
(2020)
|
|
| • Total | 38 |
| • Density | 20.94/sq mi (8.08/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 2586824 |
Helvetia is a small community in Randolph County, West Virginia, United States. It is known as a census-designated place (CDP). This means it's a special area identified by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes.
In 2020, about 38 people lived in Helvetia. This unique place was settled by Swiss immigrants starting in 1869. Today, Helvetia is famous for keeping Swiss traditions alive. You can find Swiss food and folkways here, making it a special cultural spot.
Contents
Exploring Helvetia's Past
After the American Civil War ended, a group of Swiss and German-speaking immigrants formed a club called the Grütliverein in Brooklyn, New York. They all agreed to move to a new part of the country together when the time was right.
One member, named Isler, explored the mountains of eastern West Virginia. He told the group about how rich the land was. So, six men from the club traveled from Brooklyn by train in October 1869. They arrived in Clarksburg and then walked over the mountains.
They found land for sale on October 20, 1869. The area was very wild and covered in thick forests. However, the land was very cheap. The land agents in Clarksburg also offered help if the group encouraged more people to settle there. After hearing this report, the club members decided to move to West Virginia.
The settlers could buy their own pieces of land because it was so affordable. A large area of about 100 acres (40 hectares) was set aside in the center of the community. This land was divided into smaller lots and sold to skilled workers. This encouraged craftsmen to move to the new settlement.
By early 1871, 32 people lived in Helvetia. A new person arrived that year, C.E. Lutz, who became the local land agent. He wrote advertisements in English and German newspapers across the country. These ads praised the new settlement and encouraged more people to come.
New settlers came from different parts of the United States and Canada. Some even came directly from Switzerland. The community grew with farmers and herdsmen, but also many skilled workers. These included stonemasons, carpenters, painters, and even watchmakers and cheese makers. There were also musicians, teachers, ministers, and doctors.
By 1874, the community's population had grown to 308 people. In 1875, a band and a helpful group called the Swiss Health Support Association were formed.
In the late 1960s, two women, Eleanor Mailloux and Delores Baggerly, worked to bring tourists to Helvetia. They wanted to show off the town's Swiss heritage. They opened the Hütte restaurant and created a community cookbook called Oppis Guet's vo Helvetia. They also started the yearly Fasnacht celebration. Helvetia's Fasnacht mixes Swiss traditions like Fasnacht and Sechseläuten.
Because of its special history, the Helvetia Village Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This means it's a protected historical site.
Exciting Events and Festivals
Helvetia hosts many fun events and festivals throughout the year. These celebrations often highlight the town's Swiss heritage and local traditions.
- Fasnacht: This lively festival takes place on the last Saturday before Lent. It's a unique blend of Swiss traditions.
- West Virginia Maple Syrup Festival: Held on the third weekend in March, this festival celebrates the sweet taste of local maple syrup.
- Helvetia Ramp Supper: Enjoy a special meal on the last Saturday in April, featuring ramps, a wild onion popular in the region.
- Follow Your Bliss Festival: This event happens the weekend after Father's Day. It's a time for community fun and enjoyment.
- Swiss National Holiday: Celebrated on the Saturday closest to August 1, this day honors Switzerland's independence.
- Helvetia Community Fair: Join the fair on the second full weekend in September for local crafts, food, and entertainment.
- Thanksgiving Dinner: The community gathers for a special Thanksgiving meal on the Fourth Thursday in November.
- Feast of Saint Nicholas Day: This celebration takes place on the Saturday closest to December 5, marking a traditional holiday.
Notable People from Helvetia
Helvetia has been home to several talented individuals.
- Jack Gibbons: A well-known pianist and composer.
- Jonathan Lacocque: A film producer, director, and editor.
- Clara Lehmann: A film producer, writer, and director.
See also
In Spanish: Helvetia (Virginia Occidental) para niños
