ITMANN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The iconic Itmann Company Store complex, known as the “Castle in the Coalfields,” has been sold to Gary Drabek, a Texas investor.
Drabek plans to collaborate with state and local officials to transform the historic site into a major tourism center.
Drabek, from Houston, Texas, finalized the purchase today in Beckley.
He has been in discussions with potential partners for months to guide the restoration of the nearly century-old building.
“It’s already one of the chief tourist attractions in the region, so we’ll build on that foundation,” Drabek stated.
The Itmann Company Store, completed in 1923, was commissioned by industrialist I.T. Mann to serve the residents of the mining town named after him.
The structure, renowned for its elaborate design, fell into disrepair in the late 20th century as mining jobs declined.
David Sibray, a preservation consultant and agent for Foxfire Realty, which managed the sale, expressed optimism about Drabek’s involvement.
“This isn’t Mr. Drabek’s first restoration project, which bodes well as the landmark requires extensive repair,” Sibray said.
Sibray and fellow Foxfire agent Randy S. Burdette recognized Drabek’s community-centered approach as crucial to the project’s success.
Drabek emphasized that local opinions would play a leading role in the development, which will leverage the area’s history and growing ATV tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.
Drabek has also recently acquired other properties in southern West Virginia and plans to continue investing in the region.
“West Virginians are among the most friendly people I’ve ever met,” he said. “The building brought me here, but the people convinced me to stay.”
