ABOUT THE ONE THIN DIME MUSEUM (OTDM) - Where we promise you will see something you’ve never seen before and will never forget.
Located on the first floor of The Ramsey, the OTDM is the only museum located within the city limits of Bluefield, WV. While many terrific museums exist nearby, most focus on the important industries that shaped the region. The OTDM focuses on the people of Bluefield and surrounding areas. The coal and railroad industries that spurred the growth of Bluefield attracted a diverse workforce and the OTDM strives to be inclusive of everyone. The museum is designed to appeal to visitors of all ages. Children have an opportunity to learn by touching and feeling many exhibits.
ABOUT GARY BOWLING’S HOUSE OF ART (GBHA) - Where a community of artists create an inclusive environment supporting each other and enriching our community.
With a strong focus on upcycling discarded materials, artists associated with Gary Bowling’s House of Art create unique pieces in multiple disciplines. Two and three-dimensional creations fill the gallery, halls, and studios. You are likely to stumble across flying dinosaurs, an Egyptian Queen, a steam punk organ, whimsical creatures and much more throughout the house of art. The gallery space is used for rotating exhibits featuring the art of resident and non-resident artists. Immersive exhibits exist on many landings resulting in exceptional visitor experiences. GBHA’s annual “Haunted Tour” attracts over a thousand visitors each Halloween season.
ABOUT THE RAMSEY SCHOOL - Where art and history intermingle.
Established in 1885, The Ramsey was the first official school in Bluefield. Due to population growth attributed to expansion of the coal and railroad industries, The Ramsey has been reborn four times. The current structure, completed in 1926, was dubbed “The Pride of Bluefield” and was often referred to as “The Cultural Center” of Bluefield. Appearances in the school auditorium included seven U.S. presidents, Will Rogers, John D. Rockefeller I, Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, Commodore Vanderbilt, and the world-famous Vienna Boys Choir. The building has been recognized by Ripley’s Believe It or Not for having seven floors with exits to the outside on each level. The restoration of The Ramsey is a work in progress as artists and historians work to make The Ramsey a destination worthy of its history.
