The Greenbrier resort is an iconic landmark in the history of the United States. It was built in 1778 at the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The resort has been visited by countless U.S. presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries over the years, including former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who often visited and played golf at the resort. During the Cold War, the United States government constructed an underground bunker beneath the resort to be used as an emergency shelter for the President and Congress in the event of a nuclear attack. The bunker was kept secret for over three decades and was not revealed until 1992. The Greenbrier resort has also served as a military hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. It has been a popular destination for summer vacations since the 1930s. It is one of the country's last remaining grand resorts of its kind, and it stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of the United States.
Walking the grounds and grand ballrooms stirs imagery of an era long ago yet that still remains.
This week I am spending a few days here as a part of the West Virginia Principals Leaders Conference. Here to share the benefits of esports with the school leaders of West Virginia. We opened the event in the Bunker, where the US Congress was to be housed during a nuclear attack.
Sitting in the auditorium is both eerie and exciting, knowing the history that never happened. As you walk the halls, they are lined with pictures of historically significant people and their families who spent time at the Greenbrier during its rich history. A morning run took me around the property and by one of the legendary golf courses still attracting thousands to the mountainous location.
One has to pause at times and take in both the natural beauty surrounding you and the historical significance of a location like the Greenbrier on American History and wonder what conversations took place both on the golf courses and the dining halls over the years.
My new job has already taken me to many new locations in the last few months, and I have been to states that I previously have not visited, yet the best part of the new job is still the people met and the friendships built.
On each trip, I bring back stories of incredible educators impacting students' lives every day.
School leaders who are devoted and excited to find new and innovative ways to change lives.
One could say that the Greenbrier is still facilitating history as the school leaders of West Virginia gather this week to grow in their service to the kids in their communities.
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