Old Main, school building located in Summersville, West Virginia
Old Main is a large stone building at the center of Bethany College campus in West Virginia and serves as the institution's symbolic heart. Its solid walls, tall windows, and strong architecture reflect the construction methods of its era, designed to serve many generations of students and faculty.
The building was established in the early 1800s when Alexander Campbell founded Bethany College to combine education with religious training. Over the following decades, it evolved into a symbol of learning and community values in West Virginia.
Old Main serves as the heart of Bethany College gatherings, where students and alumni connect through shared traditions and ceremonies throughout the year. The building's presence reinforces the community's identity and pride in its educational heritage.
Old Main sits at the heart of Bethany College campus and is easily accessible whether you arrive by car or on foot, with nearby parking available. The broad front steps and stone construction allow for good access, and visitors can explore the architectural details from outside the building.
The campus transforms with each season in distinct ways: spring brings blooming flowers, summer makes the stone walls glow in warm light, fall covers the ground with colorful leaves, and winter sometimes blankets it in snow. These seasonal changes make each visit a fresh experience and show how Old Main remains woven into the natural landscape.
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