LYDIA BRIMELOW: Help Us Persuade The Castle Not To Fall Down!
Communist thuggery forced us to buy a conference venue. We want to keep it a Free Speech haven.
The rockslide seen from WV Route 9. The ridged roof was built as part of the remodelling of the Berkeley Springs Castle to provide conference space after the VDARE Foundation’s purchase in 2020.
Peter Brimelow writes: VDARE.com was unconstitutionally lawfared into suspension by New York State’s rogue Attorney General Letitia James in 2024, but Lydia and I continue to be involved with the Berkeley Springs Castle. It’s now owned by a separate West Virginia foundation and entirely run by local volunteers, including Lydia, who serves as its president. It hosts many non-political community events but also continues to offer a Free Speech haven to persecuted patriots—including, one day, hopefully, resumed VDARE Conferences. However, the Castle does keep trying to fall down. This is its most serious attempt yet.
Emergency Repair Fund: Save Berkeley Springs Castle!
In August of 2024, a catastrophic rock slide tore through our hillside, collapsing part of the Berkeley Springs Castle’s driveway onto Route 9.
For months, we waited as officials at the West Virginia Department of Highways evaluated repairs. We were told initially that DOH would handle the delicate and dangerous work themselves—only to learn more recently that the project now falls to us and the quote from the DOH contractor was $330,000.
The damage is only a few yards from the Castle foundations and with each new rainstorm the chances of further damage increase.
Not only do we fear for our beloved landmark—which is on the National Registry of Historic Places—but we are also very aware of potential harm caused to travelers on the road below as boulders come loose.
With winter approaching, we have just 6 months to stabilize the slope before further damage occurs.
While we continue to pursue government aid, we’re launching this emergency fund to bridge the gap—every dollar ensures the Castle survives for future generations.
We need your help to raise $100,000 and save this historic treasure!
With gratitude,
Lydia Brimelow
PS: All donations are fully tax deductible. Any amount you can spare will help keep the Castle intact.
The retaining wall was built by the State when a road was cut through the Berkeley Springs property pre WW2. It is clearly WV’s responsibility but apparently it needs a lawsuit to persuade them. The Foundation does not have the funds for this at present.