The Yesterday & Today of Helvetia
Switzerland in the early 19th century was hit with extremely harsh winters, failing harvests, and an exponential growth of unemployment. Emigration became the solution to these conditions, causing a large number of Swiss to travel to the United States. A Swiss agent in New York offered a tract of land to a group of Verein members who wished to farm their own property in early 1869. In the same year, the tiny town of Helvetia, WV was founded, nestled in the hills of the Mountain State. Named after the old word for Switzerland, the new settlers celebrated the New Year with German and Swiss songs and dances. By 1880, the number of immigrants in the area totaled 407. With their dedication to succeed and close-knit community, the people of Helvetia found a home among the hills.
Descendants of the original settlers still remain in Helvetia today, but the overall population has dwindled over the years. According to the 2020 census, only 38 people remain. Despite the small number, the culture and pride of Helvetia lives on strong in those who call Helvetia home.
For the spring semester of my senior year at WVU, I took an immigration history course. This fulfilled my very last history credit to fulfill my minor. This class proved to be a whirlwind of information and revealed a lot about our country’s history in accepting immigrants and in immigration policy. For my final project, I chose to focus on the small village of Helvetia. I reached out to Caroline Delaney (a Helvetia native who happens to work at The Joe) for help. To my relief, she was completely down and offered to take me on a day trip to her hometown to see her family and show me around. As my trip companion, Caden had to come along. The morning of we stopped at the Joe for fuel (per usual) and Jodi happened to be chilling at the bar! Soon enough, the four of us set out for the 1.5 hour drive.
Not long after, we found ourselves pulling down a dirt road scattered with dandelions and freshly bloomed flowers. I had no idea what I was in for—and let me tell you—it exceeded every expectation. Caroline’s aunt, Sandy, welcomed us into her home with warm smiles and hugs. This is a photo of the Burky (Bürki) home. Sandy was happy to answer any question I had. I can definitely say I’ll be coming back soon to visit. Her home is truly a pure work of art. Swiss/German knick knacks and memorabilia can be found at every corner, showing just how proud the family is of their culture and heritage. With a whopping 18 rooms to explore, I couldn’t get enough photos.
Beautiful family-made quilts could be found throughout the guest rooms.
We couldn’t help ourselves—had to get some shots of us in this insane space.
Before I knew it, Sandy revealed an array of traditional Swiss clothing and even pulled out an authentic alphorn! She suggested we take it out on the windy hillside to play. Words cannot describe what a surreal experience it was.
The hills were about to be alive with the sound of music…
Began to realize how the original immigrants could feel the familiar Swiss mountains amidst the Appalachian air.
Caroline was a trooper and donned her traditional garb for the day. You can’t deny it—its badass.
If the Swiss tunic fits, wear it.
Our trusty tour guide, Max. He was a very enthusiastic companion throughout the day.
Quick break to recreate “American Gothic.” I call this “Helvetia Gothic.”
Roof exploration.
Caroline’s favorite part of the home.
Next stop, the town of Helvetia.
Mirror selfie to commemorate the day. I can’t thank Caroline and her family enough for helping me with this project and letting me into their world. Big shoutout to Caden and Jodi for coming along and making the day a great memory. If you’ve never visited Helvetia, I recommend you hop in your car ASAP!
