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 lunchroom at 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.
Famous artist Blind Alfred Reed
Jazz drummer Butch Miles
Philanthropist Ken Allman
Dr. Ella Atkins, who progressed from Hinton High School to MIT, is currently working as an aerospace professor at Virginia Tech.

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

Seniors from Summers County Comprehensive High School have signed up with the United States Armed Forces.

"If we lack these elements, we're essentially losing touch with our local heritage. Social media is contributing to this loss, which is why we aimed to foster an understanding of local history among the students and kids in this area," explained Farley.

Next year, the Historical Society aims to expand further by including additional names – as plans are underway to introduce a new gallery dedicated to notable state and local individuals.

Farley stated to 59News that they aim to recognize Summers County’s deep-rooted heritage and simultaneously encourage 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 motivating upcoming generations in Summers County.

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