Arthurdale, WV

Arthurdale holds a unique place in West Virginia history as the nation's first New Deal homestead community, established in the 1930s with personal backing from First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Built on farmland in Preston County to give struggling coal-mining families a fresh start, the neighborhood was planned from scratch with sturdy homes, small acreage plots for farming, schools, and central workshops. Today, that intentional design gives Arthurdale a distinct, spread-out rural character with vintage architecture, quiet country lanes, and plenty of yard space that sets it apart from typical Appalachian hollows.

ATTRBethDempsey5 / CC BY-SA 4.0

Living here offers a peaceful, close-knit rural lifestyle while keeping you within an easy drive of Reedsville, Kingwood, and the broader amenities of Morgantown. The original town center remains a focal point through Arthurdale Heritage, which maintains historic buildings, hosts craft workshops, and brings neighbors together for events like the annual New Deal Festival. For homebuyers looking for affordable acreage, authentic historic charm, and scenic Preston County countryside, Arthurdale delivers a quiet setting steeped in American heritage.