Arts & Cultural Programs

Designing year-round living history programs, Black History Month research symposia, Juneteenth commemorations, and the annual Appalachian Roots Festival to bring public memory, music, and creative expression into community life. .  

Innovative Community Solutions uses public art, living history, traditional music, and seasonal gatherings to translate historical research into vibrant community experiences. Rather than viewing history as static, our programs engage residents of all ages as active participants in honoring regional heritage, confronting incomplete narratives, and celebrating collective culture.

Through partnerships with school districts, state humanities agencies, regional artists, and local cultural hosts, our events create accessible, intergenerational spaces that connect local roots to a broader regional audience.

Core Program Anchors:

• Appalachian Roots Festival: Producing a signature three-day annual festival in Harpers Ferry combining living history, Black string-band traditions, foodways storytelling, and outdoor recreation

• Black History Month & Research Symposia: Hosting annual public research sharing and memory programs to share primary source discoveries directly with the community.

• Juneteenth & Commemorative Support: Partnering with regional caretakers and civic organizations to host public unveilings, site markers, and community commemorations across historic sites.

• Youth STEAM Music Heritage Labs: Bringing hands-on recorder instruction, music history, and recording technology into local classrooms.