BECKLEY, W.Va. — A project several months in the making has finally come to reality.
The City of Beckley purchased the Historic Black Knight, formerly known as Black Knight Country Club, in March. The nearly 90 year-old property, most recently owned by Gov. Jim Justice, closed its doors in December of 2017 due to a steady decline in membership.
After the Beckley Common Council decided to make the purchase, a name change was proposed and approved. Beckley Events Director Jill Moorefield told MetroNews affiliate WJLS that those involved with the project want everyone to feel welcome.
“Anybody in the community can come, tourists can visit. There is a great event space and ballroom if anybody is wanting to book for a wedding or reunion or meeting. We’re just really excited.”
The property also includes a nine-hole golf course, a swimming pool and tennis courts. New to the facility is Chilson’s Grill featuring an assortment of entrees, steaks, burgers, sandwiches and desserts. It also has a full bar. The eatery was named after the founder and vice-president of Raleigh Coal and Coke Company Col. Ernest Chilson.
Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold helped cut the ribbon during a ceremony led by the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce Thursday evening. Also in attendance were members of the Beckley Common Council, a representative from U.S. Senator Joe Manchin’s office and several local business owners.
“It’s a little bit emotional to tell you the truth,” said Rappold. “When I look around at the people who assembled this team that were able to put this together and to bring it to where we are today…It’s just amazing. We have a tremendous team here.”
Rappold told WJLS during a May interview that several private events had already been reserved with more in the works. He feels confident the new leadership at Black Knight as well as the city’s public works department will continue to take the facility toward the right direction.
“We’re just really, really lucky to have the people on board who are forward-thinking and want to see good things for Beckley,” said Rappold. “So we’re excited and we’re just so thankful that so many great people did turn out.”
The Historic Black Knight will be open everyday except Mondays. For reservation information call 304-253-7321.