The West Virginia Department of Tourism today announced a new era in Goldenseal history. For the first time, Goldenseal content will be available for anyone to read online at no cost. The magazine will migrate from a paid print format to a free digital version – goldenseal.wvculture.org – in an effort to increase readership and tell West Virginia’s stories to a broader audience while responsibly managing state dollars. A commemorative book with print versions of the magazine’s content will be produced each year and made available for purchase at a price that will cover production expenses.

The move will bring financial stability to a publication that loses an average of around $160,000 per year. Paid subscriptions have declined from a peak above 30,000 to fewer than 4,000 today. Rising printing and mailing costs have made it uneconomical to print and distribute such a small number of copies. The shift to digital distribution will allow Goldenseal to continue operations and reach a new audience. 

“Goldenseal is one of the state’s most prized publications, and we are excited to see it evolve into a publication that is free and accessible to all. For 51 years, the magazine has told stories of West Virginia’s people and heritage, and, as of this week, those stories – going back to its first edition published in the 1970s – are available online at no cost. This new platform also gives us the ability to add multimedia content and begin working with students around the state who are eager to contribute stories about our history and culture,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “The new site removes the paywall for readers, giving free, unlimited access to some of the Mountain State’s most prized traditions. We look forward to sharing these treasured stories with a larger audience for years to come.”

Here’s what to expect in this new era of Goldenseal:

• Free digital access to the complete archive of the past 51 years of print issues
• Searchable articles with citations to better support primary source research
• A wide range of ever-expanding content, including videos, historical audio recordings, and historic image galleries
• A web-based format that allows people who use assistive technology tools to access content
• Increased content through partnerships with West Virginia universities and schools, beginning with West Virginia University at Parkersburg and Glenville State University, featuring short-form, student-written articles that highlight the youth of Appalachia, alongside pieces from the paid contributors who have worked with Goldenseal for years 

• Ability to receive new content in your inbox through an e-newsletter, and possible inclusion on Google & Apple News in the near future

• A commemorative book, produced annually and available to purchase for those who want to keep their printed collection growing

• Current subscribers will be notified with instructions for how to request a refund

Educational Partnerships

Beginning this fall, students will begin writing short-form content to be published on the Goldenseal website.

"At WVU Parkersburg, we are committed to giving our students opportunities to create meaningful work that connects with West Virginia’s culture and communities. Partnering with Goldenseal allows our students to share their voices and perspectives while learning from experienced editors and professionals. This collaboration not only elevates their skills in writing and multimedia but also gives them the chance to see their work showcased on a statewide stage." said Olivia Reeder, Vice President of Institutional Advancement.

“The faculty of Glenville State University's Departments of Social Sciences and Languages & Literature are both thrilled to partner with Goldenseal in producing student content for publication. Our students come to Glenville from all over, bringing their stories and knowledge with them, and they are one of our best sources of cultural heritage in West Virginia and the Appalachian region at large. By publishing their work, Goldenseal will help us create a new generation of writers and readers,” said Bub Hutton, Associate Professor of History & Appalachian Studies.

This new approach bridges the gap between past and present, ensuring West Virginia’s rich history continues to be shared with future generations. The new era of Goldenseal will conserve taxpayer dollars while expanding access to the publication’s cherished stories of West Virginia’s history, culture, and people. This change ensures that Goldenseal’s important role in preserving and sharing the traditions that define life in the Mountain State will continue with greater reach and efficiency.

To visit the new website, goldenseal.wvculture.org. 

Editor's Note: Photo shows West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby.