The Hulett Carlson Smith Mansion

Nestled just outside Beckley, West Virginia, the once-grand mansion of Governor Hulett C. Smith stood as a remarkable symbol of the state’s rich history. Built in 1953, this stately residence housed one of West Virginia’s most impactful leaders. Governor Hulett C. Smith, who served as the state’s 27th governor from 1965 to 1969, left behind a legacy of reform, compassion, and progress.

Governor Smith’s tenure is remembered for his dedication to advancing workers’ rights and environmental protection in West Virginia. He introduced the state’s first minimum wage law, ensuring that thousands of working-class families could secure a living wage. Additionally, he established the first regulations against mountaintop removal mining, setting a precedent for environmental conservation in an era when industrial interests often outweighed ecological concerns.

The mansion itself, located on a sprawling property surrounded by lush forests, was more than just a home—it was a hub for political discussions and social gatherings that shaped the state’s future. From strategy meetings with lawmakers to family celebrations, its walls echoed with moments of both state and personal significance.

After Governor Smith’s passing in 2012, the mansion was left unoccupied. Over the following years, the once-pristine estate began to fall into disrepair. Neglect and vandalism took their toll, with broken windows, overgrown grounds, and graffiti marking its decline. Despite its state, the mansion remained a poignant reminder of Governor Smith’s legacy and his contributions to West Virginia.

Tragedy struck in October 2024 when a fire ravaged the historic property. Multiple fire departments from Raleigh County responded to the blaze, but the damage was extensive. Investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set, and two individuals were arrested in connection with the arson. The news that one of the suspects was a former firefighter added a bitter irony to the story.

The structural damage proved irreparable, and in December 2024, a Princeton-based company began demolishing the mansion. The teardown marked the end of an era, erasing a physical piece of West Virginia’s gubernatorial history. For many, the loss of the mansion underscored the urgent need to preserve historical landmarks before they succumb to time and neglect.