Historic Civil War Hospital to Be Revamped for Economic Development Offices in Parkersburg

Wood County Economic Development (WCED) has announced plans to revitalize the former Civil War hospital on Avery Street in Parkersburg for its new headquarters, marking a significant step towards preserving historical heritage while promoting local economic growth.

According to WCED Executive Director Lindsey Piersol, the organization acquired the property in June from 4Vision LLC with federal earmark funds allocated for 2022/2023, originally intended for industrial redevelopment on Depot Street.

Recognizing the infeasibility of the initial plans, WCED sought approval from Congress to redirect the funds for the redevelopment of Downtown Parkersburg, a move that was successfully sanctioned.

Located at 402 Avery Street, the historic building, also known as the Henry Logan House, holds a distinguished past as one of five United States Army hospitals during the Civil War era, operating from 1863 to 1865.

Furthermore, the Greater Parkersburg Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Historic Guide to Wood County notes that the building is the sole surviving hospital out of the five, adding to its historical significance.

Plans for the renovation include refurbishing the exterior with a new roof, windows, doors, and a fresh coat of paint, while preserving the building’s original aesthetic charm.

Internally, the structure will undergo modernization to accommodate WCED and Downtown PKB, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing downtown Parkersburg’s commercial landscape, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting tourism.

Before commencing renovations, WCED must adhere to regulatory procedures, including a phase I environmental study and collaboration with the State Historic Preservation Office, in accordance with the funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Despite the procedural hurdles, Piersol remains optimistic about the timeline, aiming for potential occupancy within a year, with continuous updates on the project shared via social media platforms to involve the community in the restoration process.

The local reception towards the initiative has been positive, with residents expressing excitement about the preservation efforts and the adaptive reuse of the historic landmark in Parkersburg.