2025-2026 — Winter Archives | Appalachian Voices

Creating New Appalachian Monuments

By Dan Radmacher | January 15, 2026 |

Members of the Raising the Shade project team during fall 2025. Photo courtesy of MAAV

Monuments Across Appalachian Virginia is a three-year project that is seeking to expand “the idea of what a monument can be.” It features nine monuments that explore different forms and a variety of the region’s stories. The monuments take a variety of forms: traditional statues, a children’s book, an album and a music festival, a quilt and more.

Coal Labor History Sets Stage for Community

By Rance Garrison | January 15, 2026 |

Conceptual art of the Pound Labor Monument, which is currently under construction. Conceptual design by Dana Jo Cooley

Residents and local leaders in Pound, Virginia, have been working hard to bring new life to the town’s historic downtown. Last year, Pound received funding from Monuments Across Appalachian Virginia to create a labor-oriented monument downtown.

Saving 5 Miles on the Gauley River

By Abby Hassler | December 23, 2025 |

Overhead view of the Gauley River and adjacent land that the Arc of Appalachia hopes to conserve. Photo courtesy of Arc of Appalachia

Arc of Appalachia, an Ohio-based nonprofit, launched a campaign to purchase and protect 1,336 acres in Nicholas County, West Virginia. The property includes 5 miles along the Gauley River and 1 mile of Big Beaver Creek.

‘Extinction is Forever’

By Abby Hassler | December 22, 2025 |

painting of smooth purple coneflower, Northern long-eared bat, Guyandotte River crayfish, Roanoke logperch, and yellow lance mussel

Conservationists are concerned about the Trump administration’s attacks on the Endangered Species Act. From the Eastern hellbender to the Carolina northern flying squirrel, many of Appalachia’s most beloved creatures and plants could be at increased risk.

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