Stories That Shape The Mountain State

“This Is Final Witness: West Virginia’s Newest Hardcore Band” focuses on the formation and music of the West Virginia-based hardcore band Final Witness, showcasing their origins, sound, and live energy in the local scene. Their music channels the urgency and aggression of hardcore: fast driving riffs, pounding drums, visceral vocals — reflecting their roots in a rural West Virginia town far from big city scenes, yet full of an underground DIY attitude.

ELKINS, W.Va. — A decade ago, West Virginia’s craft beer scene was still in its infancy. With just a few brewers experimenting on small scales, the industry was more of a passion project than an economic force. Today, it’s a different story. 

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Like many Appalachian traditions, folk music was born from a blend of cultures – Scots-Irish ballads, West African banjo rhythms, Native American drumming, and more. Over time, those influences merged into a sound that became distinctly Appalachian, a living record of the region’s stories and spirit.

SUMMERSVILLE, W.Va. – Rafters enjoyed one last plunge down the Gauley River as this year’s whitewater season came to a close on October 18 and 19. Their sights were set south of the Summersville Dam, where the Gauley’s world-class rapids were scheduled to recede after a final dam release.

DAVIS, W.Va. – Witches and Halloween enthusiasts gathered at the Sticks and Stones Day held Oct. 18, 2025, in Davis for ritual, fellowship, magic and some Halloween fun.