Educated at Linsly and Chauncey Hall in Boston, followed by tutoring at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Franzheim became one of most well known and prolific architects of Wheeling's "golden age." He often partnered with Charles Bates, Frederick Faris, and Millard Giesey. Portrayed by Art Musicaro

Identified as a "lady of leisure" in her death record, Tryphena and her English-born husband Thomas Hornbrook had a town home in Wheeling and a country estate that is now Wheeling Park. Thomas was Surveyor of the Port of Wheeling during the Civil War. In that role he served as storekeeper of Union munitions in the Custom House. Portrayed by Judi Hendrickson

This grandson of Thomas Sweeney, maker of the famous Sweeney Punch Bowl, was the son of Andrew J. Sweeney, long-term mayor of Wheeling. The younger Andrew was a successful businessman and politician, serving as mayor for 3 terms and Ohio County sheriff for 5 years. Portrayed by Tom Burgoyne

The granddaughter of the owner of the Sprigg House hotel and the daughter of a successful attorney and politician, Amelia and her second husband, Dr. John Campbell, built Elm Hill, a lovely home that is now surrounded by the Wheeling Country Club golf course. Her sister and brother-in-law built the nearby predecessor of Oglebay mansion. Portrayed by Kate Quinn

This German immigrant began the manufacture of Crown Stogies in 1871. Within 15 years, the company was the largest manufacturer of cigars in the state. His motto was "work wins." Known for his humane treatment of workers, he was honored when his employees built a monument in his memory. It now stands at Heritage Port. Portrayed by Mike Hooper

The son of Stifel Calico Works founder J.L. Stifel, George established a Wheeling dry goods store that bore his name. The store was known for such luxuries as steam heat and electric lights. His legacy is the Stifel Scholarship Fund, which still rewards excellence in Ohio County Schools. His wife Emma was the daughter of brewer Peter Paul Beck. Emma Beck Stifel portrayed by Laurie Ruberg

The son of Riverside Iron Works founder J.D. Culbertson, "Ting" graduated from Princeton University and then entered the family business, National Tube Company, in Pittsburgh. As a "gentleman volunteer" he drove ambulances for the American Field Service in France in World War I. Later as a U.S. Army infantryman, he was killed during the Battle of the Argonne Forest. Sally Tingle Culbertson, mother, portrayed by Vicky Musicaro

Massachusetts native John Frissell began a medical practice in Wheeling in 1836, specializing in repairing harelips, crossed eyes, and cleft palates. He is believed to have been the first surgeon in western Virginia to use chloroform in critical operations. He and Dr. Simon Hullihen were appointed surgeons at the newly chartered Wheeling Hospital. He later was appointed medical superintendent of military prisoners held in Wheeling during the Civil War. Portrayed by Trevor Clatterbuck

This Wheeling businessman became president of the Wheeling Iron and Nail Company and, when it became part of the newly organized Wheeling Steel Company, served as a member of the board of directors. His father, businessman and politician Chester Dorman Hubbard, was active in the formation of the state during the Civil War. Portrayed by Mac McLean

When diagnosed with tuberculosis, this young lady was sent by her wealthy family for treatment at a famous TB sanitorium in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Sadly, the treatments failed, and she rests with her parents in a beautiful, Victorian mausoleum. Portrayed by Andi Sullivan

This daughter of a Union cavalryman in the Civil War married Lewis Steenrod and moved to Wheeling in 1893. While Lewis served as Sheriff of Ohio County, Blanche made a name for herself as editor of the Pot Pourri society column in the Wheeling News Register. Portrayed by Lola Miller

This Ohio native was a distant cousin of Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War during the Civil War. Following that conflict, Benjamin put his law degree and experience to good use when he and his son-in-law set up a law practice in Wheeling, taking advantage of the shortage of lawyers that occurred when many left during the war or failed to take the required oath of allegiance to the Union. Portrayed by Joe Figaretti

This English immigrant was the daughter of an iron-master and the wife of the enterprising Andrew Glass, one of the founders of the LaBelle Iron Works. She helped form the Union Ladies of LaBelle during the Civil War, providing aid and comfort to soldiers on both sides of the conflict. Her son Alexander became Chairman of the Board of Wheeling Steel. Portrayed by Jeanne Finstein

Mary Martin Handlan was the daughter of one of the contractors who built the National Road. Her husband joined his two brothers in founding an extensive provisions business - the Handlan Store. He was also involved in mining, sawmills, and real estate before joining with others in a company that found oil in the Parkersburg area. Wife Mary Martin Handlan portrayed by Gael Fincham

Andi Sullivan (as Helen Tallman) shares a conversation with Mac McLean (as Chester R. Hubbard)

Tour presenters have a brief conversation before the tour begins.

New York residents traveled to Wheeling to take part in the tour.