November 20, 2025

The History Of The Pocahontas County Opera House 

With ornate pressed-metal ceiling panels, American chestnut accents wrapping around the balcony and light pouring through tall decorative-etched windows, the Pocahontas County Opera House is more than a performing arts center. Music and movement still fill the air, blending the past with the performances of today. This cherished space offers a glimpse into our mountain heritage and continues to preserve the arts for years to come.

The Early Years 

At the turn of the 20th century, the arrival of the railroad sparked a boom in the local timber industry. Marlinton became the hub of this new growth, transforming what had once been an isolated mountain community.

J.G. Tilton, a lumber businessman and publisher of the Marlinton Messenger, was among those shaping the town’s future. In 1907, he built a small theater known as The Grand, which showcased vaudeville acts, dramatic productions and moving picture shows. As Marlinton’s entertainment scene expanded, Tilton set out to create something larger.

In 1910, he built the Opera House on the corner of Third Avenue. The building’s design was ahead of its time, using railroad steel to reinforce its concrete walls and featuring intricate woodwork throughout.

But the curtain fell sooner than expected. Financial troubles forced Tilton to sell the building in 1914, and over the years, it served a variety of purposes, from lumber storage to a car dealership.

A Return To The Stage

True to Pocahontas County’s spirit, the community came together to bring the Opera House back to life. The Pocahontas County Historic Landmarks Commission purchased the building in 1991, and with local support and donations, began a full restoration.

When work began, the structure was abandoned and without a stage. By 1999, after years of care and dedication, the Opera House reopened as a 250-seat performance venue and community gathering place. Since then, it’s hosted yearly performances and countless local events.

A Landmark Of The Arts 

The Opera House’s impact extends beyond the county line. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 24, 2000, and is featured on the West Virginia Historic Theatre Trail, a statewide tour of 32 historic venues.

Today, the Pocahontas County Opera House Foundation, formed in 1998, manages the space and its programs. The foundation curates an annual performance series featuring local and international musicians, theater productions, square dances and more. It also hosts community events like open jam sessions and family movie nights, keeping the arts accessible for everyone.

Theater performance inside The Opera House with actors in costume performing on a wooden stage floor in front of a seated audience

Attend A Show

Upcoming events in the 2025-2026 season include:

Experience And Support The Arts

Pocahontas County is steeped in history, and here, the past lives on. The Opera House is a living piece of our story. Visit the Pocahontas County Opera House website to learn more about its history, upcoming performances and ways to get involved.