188 Buzzy St, Oak Hill, WV 25901 (MLS# 25-1204)

Property Attributes: Historic

Amenities: Equestrian

Neighborhood: Adjacent to Park

Flooring: Hardwood

Countertops Kitchen: Solid Surface

Countertops Bath: Solid Surface

Air Conditioning: None

Heating: Radiant Heat

Exterior Material: Brick

Foundation: Block; Concrete

Roofing: Shingles

Views: Mountain; Pastoral View; Sunrise / Eastern; Valley

Property Overview " ±6000 SF historic structure, originally built as a coal company store " Currently configured as a private residence and home church facility " Multiple large rooms with high ceilings, original hardwoods, and vintage architectural details " Flexible layout suitable for residential uses, plus more with zoning approval " Private country setting with open views, mature trees, and neighboring pastureland " Horses grazing on the adjacent farm add to the serene, rural atmosphere " Ample parking and open acreage for expansion, events, or agricultural use Historical Significance Constructed during the height of West Virginia's coal boom, the Summerlee Company Store served as the economic and social hub for miners and families of the New River Coal Company. These stores were more than retail centersthey were lifelines for entire communities, offering goods, postal services, and gathering spaces. Summerlee, once known as Parral, was a bustling coal camp, and this building remains one of the few surviving structures from that era. The store's architecture reflects the early 20th-century industrial vernacular, with solid construction, generous proportions, and enduring craftsmanship. Its preservation offers a rare chance to steward a landmark that shaped the lives of generations in the New River coalfields Location & Surroundings " Summerlee, WV: A quiet, unincorporated community just minutes from Oak Hill, offering privacy and proximity " Oak Hill, WV: A vibrant small city with schools, healthcare, shopping, and dininghome to the Boy Scouts of America Summit Bechtel Reserve " New River Gorge National Park & Preserve: Less than 10 minutes away, this national treasure offers: " World-class rock climbing, whitewater rafting, hiking, and scenic overlooks " Historic mining towns, rail lines, and interpretive trails " The iconic New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch spans in the world " Fayette County: Rich in coal heritage, outdoor recreation, and community pridean ideal setting for legacy-minded living or investment. Amenities & Potential Uses " Residential: Spacious enough for multi-generational living, artist retreat, or homestead " Ministry/Church Facility: Currently used for worship and outreach; ideal for faith-based missions or community gatherings " Commercial or Mixed Use: With proper zoning, could serve as: " Boutique retail or antique store " Café, gallery, or event venue " Museum or interpretive center honoring coal history " Agricultural or Equine Potential: Flat acreage suitable for gardens, livestock, or horse paddocks Access & Infrastructure " Easy access to US Route 19 and WV Route 16 " Close to Beckley, Fayetteville, and Charleston " Utilities available or nearby (buyer to verify) " High-speed internet potential for remote work at home Historical Timeline: New River Coal Company Store | Summerlee, WV Pre-1900s: The Rise of the New River Coalfields " Late 1800s: The New River Gorge region becomes a focal point for coal mining due to its rich seams and proximity to rail lines. " 1890s: The Chesapeake & Ohio Railway expands through Fayette County, enabling large-scale coal transport and settlement growth. Early 1900s: Establishment of Summerlee (formerly Parral) " 1905-1910: The town of Parral is renamed Summerlee as the New River Coal Company formalizes operations. " Circa 1910: Construction of the Summerlee Company Store beginsdesigned to serve miners and families with goods, supplies, and payroll services. " The store becomes a central hub for commerce, communication, and community life in the coal camp. 1910s-1940s: Peak Coal Camp Era " The Company Store operates as a multi-purpose facility: " Retail center for food, clothing, and household goods " Pay station for miners, often issuing scrip " Social gathering point for families, especially during holidays and community events " Summerlee thrives as a company town, with housing, schools, and churches built nearby. 1950s-1970s: Decline of Company Towns " Mechanization and industry shifts lead to reduced coal employment. " Many company stores close or are repurposed; some are demolished. " The Summerlee store survives, transitioning through various uses and ownerships.