History

Land Acquired for Original Barn Site

"The land where the White Oak 1838 barn would later stand was purchased, setting the stage for its future construction."

The White Oak 1838 Barn is Built

"Crafted with meticulous care, the hand-hewn White Oak 1838 barn was erected, a testament to the craftsmanship of its time."

First House Built on Tyrone Road Land

"In Morgantown, West Virginia, the first house was built on the land that would one day become the home of White Oak 1838."

A Local Author and historian is born

"William Fichtner, future owner of the Tyrone Road land and local author, is born."

July 1945 - Bill Fitner enlists in the Navy 

Bill Fitner enlists in the Navy and serves in Japan for 13 months. Sending 287 love letters home to his "girl", Etta.

Bill was discharged from the Navy

Bill was discharged from the Navy August 12, 1946 and went on to court Etta. Bill gifted Etta this beautiful jewelry box during their 3 year courtship.

Etta and Bill Married on June 4th, 1949

"Etta and Bill begin their journey together, eventually raising three children, John, Mark, and Jane, on the land that is now White Oak 1838."

William Buys Homestead Land

"William Fichtner purchases the homestead land on Tyrone Road, where White Oak 1838 now resides. Bill and his wife Etta had three children who they raised on this land.

A Pastor's Calling

"Bill Fichtner begins his service as a pastor at the local Methodist church, and begins to perform wedding ceremonies."

Attending Mark's Wedding

"The Fichtner family gathers to celebrate Mark's wedding."

"My Side of the River" Published

"William Fichtner publishes his book, 'My Side of the River,' sharing his stories and reflections on life in the region. He is interviewed by Malinda Reinke from the Dominion Post, recounting his experience through the Great Depression and WWII."

CINDY and Dave Discover the White Oak Barn

"Cynthia and Dave discover the historic White Oak barn in Ohio, sparking their vision for a unique event venue. After visiting the barn in early April, 2024, they took the plunge, purchasing the barn and starting plans to relocate it."

Land Purchased on Tyrone Road

"In May of 2024, Cynthia and Dave purchase the land on Tyrone Road from the Jane Fichter family, bringing the barn's story to its new home."

Barn Transported and Re-erected

"The historic barn is transported and meticulously re-erected on Tyrone Road, steeped in the history of both the barn and the land."

The Project Kicks Off!

"The project to transform the barn into White Oak 1838 commences and continues into 2025

White Oak 1838 Opens

White Oak 1838 opens its doors, welcoming guests to experience its unique blend of history and elegance.