Five New National Icons Join Summers County's Inspiration Gallery

HINTON, WV (WVNS) – The Summers County Historical Society has added five new members to their Inspiration Gallery, situated near the lunch area at the Summers County Comprehensive High School.

The Inspiration Gallery presently comprises people from across Summers County who have achieved significant accomplishments on both national and international stages.

Robert "Cotty" Farley serves as the chairperson of this gallery's committee.

This year’s inductees include:

• Christopher Payne, who served as a politician, minister, and journalist — established two African American newspapers in West Virginia.
• Famed artist Blind Alfred Reed
• Jazz drummer Butch Miles
• Philanthropist Ken Allman
• Dr. Ella Atkins, who progressed from Hinton High School all the way toMIT, currently holds the position of aerospace professor at Virginia Tech.

Robert "Cotty" Farley serves as the chairperson of this gallery's committee.

Seniors from Summers County Comprehensive High School sign up for service in the United States Armed Forces.

"If we lack these elements, we're essentially erasing our local heritage. Social media is partly responsible for this disappearance. This is why we aimed to foster an understanding of local history among the students and young people nearby," stated Farley.

The Historical Society aims to expand further next year by adding a new section dedicated to notable state and local individuals.

Farley stated to 59News that they are using this as an opportunity to recognize Summers County’s extensive heritage, simultaneously encouraging people to return to the area.

Farley mentioned that Professor Dr. Atkins could make it to their ceremony this year and expressed enthusiasm about undertaking initiatives aimed at inspiring upcoming generations in Summers County.

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