Current projects
Margaret's Pleasure Garden
Margaret's Pleasure Garden is located behind the mansion. Although we do not know the exact boundaries of the garden, a smaller plot has been set aside for flowers, a gazebo and pathways to and from the mansion. Our hope is to raise funds to at least start the project and begin work on the small plot to enhance the area behind the mansion. The Blennerhassett Historical Foundation has already planted boxwood bushes to outline the garden area. Test plots of various flowers will be planted determine the best vegetation for the garden.
Maple Shade Preservation
Maple Shade, the home of Aaron Waldo Putnam and his wife, Charlotte Loring Putnam, was built in 1802. The home was originally constructed in the settlement of Belpre on a low bluff overlooking the Ohio River and a large island that would soon be named for their close friends, Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. In 1986 Maple Shade was barged to the island and moved to its current location. From 1999 to 2008 the house was stabilized and restored. Now, after being open to the public for over a dozen years, Maple Shade is in need of further preservation to ensure that visitors can continue to step inside Blennerhassett Island's second most famous home.
Blennerhassett Historical Foundation
137 Juliana Street
Parkersburg, WV 26105
304.420.4800
137 Juliana Street
Parkersburg, WV 26105
304.420.4800