About Around & About the Clarksburg History Museum
Around & About the Clarksburg History Museum is an oral history project brought to life through a podcast. Hosted by Martha Jett, a Clarksburg, West Virginia and Harrison County historian, every episode features a topic related to history from our Jewel of the Hills (Clarksburg). Since history is rarely isolated, some stories reach beyond the county seat and into the county; some stories will feature events from our surrounding counties.
Hosted by Martha Jett
Marketing by Beth Gain
West Virginia Mountain Melody performed by Steve Peters
Editing by J. Joseph
All content is protected by copyright by Clarksburg History Museum, Martha Jett, Beth Gain, J. Joseph, and Steve Peters
Author and historian M.A. Kleen discusses the Civil War in Upshur County and north central West Virginia. Drawing from his research published in Ohio Valley History, Kleen explores Clarksburg’s strategic importance, Union activity in Buckhannon, the Battle of Rich Mountain, and stories preserved in Marcia Phillips’ wartime diary.
31 Jul 2026
Reminisces with Joe Gonzalez
oe Gonzalez: No Drums, No Bugles, Clarksburg Railroad History and Astronomy
Joe Gonzalez returns to the Clarksburg History Museum podcast for a second interview. This time, he shares memories of working with Clarksburg filmmaker Clyde Ware on No Drums, No Bugles, which was filmed on Maxwell Ridge in Doddridge County and starred a young Martin Sheen.
Joe also discusses the important role of the B&O Railroad in Clarksburg’s growth. He remembers steam engines, passenger trains, freight yards, railroad workers and the transition to diesel. He shares childhood stories from the Montpelier neighborhood and recalls the tragic 1967 passenger train derailment near Toll Gate.
The conversation concludes with Joe’s lifelong interest in astronomy. He discusses the Central Appalachian Astronomy Club, the Good Hope Observatory and the club’s partnership with the Green Bank Observatory.
17 Jun 2026
Mack Samples & The Music
Champion fiddler, author, teacher, and square dance caller Mac Samples joins the Clarksburg History Museum for a conversation about preserving West Virginia's rich musical heritage. Mac shares memories of growing up on a small farm, learning music from family members, and witnessing the transition from traditional Appalachian music to the rise of rock and roll.
The conversation explores the history of old-time fiddling, square dancing, banjo styles, and the important role live music played in rural communities. Mac also reflects on the Samples Brothers, performing across West Virginia, writing novels inspired by Appalachian life, and why preserving local traditions and stories remains as important as ever.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 16 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
9
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
60
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