THANKS-GIVING WALL
Fort New Salem created a program to recognize volunteerism. It is called the “Thanks-Giving” Wall.
This “Thanks-Giving” wall recognizes honorees for the various ways they have contributed to Fort New Salem. Regardless if it was leadership, volunteerism, board service, historic interpretation, in kind service or financial donation, all have exemplified humanitarianism. We are grateful for their support which had a positive impact on Fort New Salem and her mission of “Passionately Preserving Our Appalachian Heritage.
Class of 2024
Carol Schweiker – Former Director – Carol served as Director of Fort New Salem from 1998-2003. She was instrumental in developing school tours to our campus educating thousands of area children. Carol was also a visionary and as such founded the Fort New Salem Task Force as an adjunct group to assist with the mission of Fort New Salem. That task force transformed into the Fort New Salem Foundation, Inc, which since 2005 has been the owner and operator of Fort New Salem.
Helen Jones – Supporter and Former Board Member – Helen was either a volunteer historic interpreter or a guest at all our events. As an educator she enjoyed story telling During Myths of the Mountains. She was instrumental in helping us attain expert analysis of each of our cabins was incorporated int our comprehensive plan. During her life she donated items and financial support for Fort New Salem and generously contributed posthumously.
Join us on Friday, October 5 at 3 PM as we enshrine the newest members!
Class of 2023
David Cutlip – Supporter and Former Board Member – David was instrumental in attaining multiple cabins to relocate to our campus. He was a co-author of our initial 5 year comprehensive plan. He also was project manager on numerous reconstructions and restorations. David was a key fund raiser and loved the role of our store keeper.
Class of 2019
Walter Williams – Founding Board Chair – Walter led us in the process of developing our bylaws, creating our articles of incorporation and attaining our 501C3 status.
Jeffrey “Jeff” Wyne – Supporter – Jeff has spent decades at Fort New Salem as an historic interpreter and educator, spending significant time in the print shop and with paper marbling.
George “Gabby” Brooks – Supporter – Gabby has spent decades at Fort New Salem as an historic interpreter and educator. He is a fixture in our blacksmith shop.
Class of 2018
Judge John S. Kaull – Supporter and Former Board Chair – Through Judge Kaull’s leadership, the Fort New Salem Foundation was able to attain ownership of Fort New Salem from Salem International University in 2005.
Clarence “Willie” & Mary Mutschelknaus – Supporters and Current Board Member – Willie, Mary and their family have been generous supporters of Fort New Salem. Serves on the board of directors.
Class of 2017
Becky Nesbitt – Supporter and Former Board Member – Becky has spent decades at Fort New Salem as an historic interpreter and educator. She is a versatile volunteer. She is also a co-author of our initial 5 year comprehensive plan.
Linda Sigismondi – Dulcimer Festival Director – Linda has served as the director since the inception of this festival in 1989.
David Johnson – Supporter – David was an historic interpreter portraying Der Belsnickel for many years. During his life he donated to support Fort New Salem and generously contributed posthumously.
Class of 2016
John Randolph – Founder – Professor John Randolph created the concept of an outdoor living history classroom and museum for Salem College. He led the development of our campus and was its original director. John’s goal was to preserve the Appalachian heritage of our region. Starting with a concept in the late 1960’s, Fort New Salem was officially opened in 1974.