From Wyoming Street to the World

The Jack Caffrey Arts & Cultural Center, located at 143 Wyoming Street in Welch, stands quietly along the street, its history written into the brick and mortar. Over the years, this building has served many purposes for the people of McDowell County—first as a post office, then as the Ashworth DeSoto Car Dealership, and later as a NAPA Auto Parts store. Today, it serves once again as a place for the community to gather.

The Center opened its doors in 2019, made possible through the vision of Reba Honaker, former mayor of Welch, who believed McDowell County deserved a space dedicated to the arts, culture, and shared experiences. It was named in honor of Jack Caffrey, one of Welch’s most respected and influential leaders. As chief engineer for U.S. Steel, Caffrey worked to improve life and opportunity in the county, helped bring a federal prison to McDowell County, and played an important role in establishing the McDowell Public Library program.

From the outside, the Caffrey Center is easy to miss, marked only by a simple sign above the door. Step inside, though, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the story of Coal Country—artifacts from McDowell County, educational memorabilia, and everyday items once found in coal camp homes. For many visitors, these pieces stir memories of family, hard work, and a way of life that shaped the mountains.

The Center has welcomed visitors from across the United States and from places as far away as France, Costa Rica, Germany, the Netherlands, South Wales, and Guatemala, all drawn by the history and hospitality found inside its walls.

Those walls have held more than artifacts. They’ve echoed with music, laughter, and conversation, hosting concerts, weddings, parties, meetings, and community events. In 2022, the Center was proud to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibition Crossroads, further connecting McDowell County’s story to the nation’s larger narrative.

The Center is home to McDowell County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, and Historical Society.

The Jack Caffrey Arts & Cultural Center is open Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.and Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Those wishing to host an event or learn more are encouraged to call (304) 436-5392.