Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex

Opens

The West Virginia Archaeology Center

May 12, 2008

An estimated crowd of more than 100 gathered to celebrate the opening of the new $3.1 million research center of the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex. West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin III was present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony along with Kay Goodwin, Cabinet Secretary of Education and the Arts, Randall Reid-Smith, Commissioner of Culture and History, Susan Pierce, Director of the State Historic Preservation Office, Senator Jeffery Kessler, Delegates Orphy Klempa and Jack Yost, Marshall County Superintendent Fred Renzella and many local and county officials.

The John Marshall High School Monarch Choir, under the direction of Ms. Reva Icard performed at a reception following the ceremony.

Highlights of the opening included a congratulatory letter from Senator Robert C. Byrd. Congratulations were also sent by Senator Larry Edgell, Delegates Scott Varner and Kenneth Tucker.

Governor Manchin addresses the assembled visitors.	The Governor meets with the John Marshall Monarch Choir
Visitors listen to Governor Manchin’s speech	Archaeologist Scott Speedy speaks with Harry Heckman, member of the West Virginia Archeological Society
View of Conservation Lab from Observation Room
Conservation Lab