SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Diane Wasson is not the only person who calls South Charleston “home” — so does her entire family.
“Our roots are deep in this city,” she said.
Wasson went to South Charleston High School. Her mother, father and daughter are also Black Eagle graduates.
She went to college in Illinois. Wasson and her husband had the opportunity to move to Nashville, Tennessee for his job, but they decided to stay in South Charleston instead.
“We chose to stay here because I still believe with all my hear this is one of the best places to raise children and now I have grandsons that live in South Charleston,” Wasson said.
Wasson was one of several city residents wearing orange Wednesday to represent the city’s colors during South Charleston’s 100th birthday celebration. Cake was served next to the Mound. City officials also sealed a 100 year time capsule.
Mayor Frank Mullens said the anniversary marks a time for residents to remember the past and to look ahead to the future.
“I’m a big proponent of moving forward, so our future is bright and it’s a good time to get that out and let everyone know we’re in good positions,” he said.
Big changes are coming to the city over the next few years, Mullens said.
“A lot of construction, which is a good thing,” he said. “A lot of new shopping centers and a lot of new highways. We are excited.”
Mullens said the city, founded in 1917, has had its ups and downs in the past century. The city has been able to diversify its economy without relying heavily on the chemical industry like it once used to, but Mullens said the mission of improving the quality of life in town has always remained the same.
Wasson said South Charleston’s “small town feel” and the city’s people are what makes her enjoy living there.
“We like our city services, we like our policeman. Good people. Best little library — best kept secret ever,” she said. “We feel safe here.”
There are other activities linked to South Charleston’s centennial over the next several months.