‘Castle In The Coalfields’: Itmann Company Store sold to Texas investor

ITMANN, W.Va. (WVNS) — A Texas investor purchased the historic Itmann Company Store complex in southern West Virginia and is planning to restore and develop it.

According to a release from Foxfire Reality, Gary Drabek, an investor from the Houston area, closed on the property in Beckley on Wednesday, Aug. 7. Drabek has reportedly been meeting with potential partners to work on the historic structure’s restoration. The release stated that he plans to work with local and state tourism officials to make it the Mountain State’s next tourism spot.

“It’s already one of the chief tourist attractions in the region, so we’ll build on that foundation,” Drabek said.

The Itmann Company story was completed in 1923 before it was commissioned by industrialist I.T. Mann to help the residents of the remote coal mining town of Itmann. In the late 20th century, the landmark became irreparable while mining employment decreased.

David Sibray, a preservation consultant and agent for Foxfire Realty, said he is looking forward to working on the restoration with Drabek.

“This isn’t Mr. Drabek’s first restoration project, which bodes well as the landmark requires extensive repair,” said Sibray.

Sibray and fellow Foxfire agent Randy S. Burdette touched on Drabek’s community-first approach to this restoration project. Drabek plans to focus on the region’s rich history, outdoor recreation and ATV tourism, all while taking feedback from the community.

“West Virginians are among the most friendly people I’ve ever met. The building brought me here, but the people convinced me to stay,” said Drabek.

The release said that this is not Drabek’s first purchase in southern West Virginia and that he plans to continue investment throughout the region.

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