Seneca Rocks, cloaked in a late morning mist, is one of West Virginia's most prominent landmarks. This huge outcropping, a 900 foot razorback ridge, just begs to be climbed. Over 375 major routes to the top have been mapped, varying from easy (5.0) to the difficult (5.12). Between the north and south peaks, the large open notch once contained a large, isolated spire, known as the Gendarme. A climbers challenge, the spire had finally given way to gravity, part of a continuous cycle of mountain evolution.
   This Potomac Highlands rock formation, adjacent to Seneca Creek, is made up of a tough white-gray Tuscarora quartzite composition that has endured the harsh environment for millions of years. Thought to have been laid down in the Silurian Period, the grey Tuscarora rock has endured periods of upheaval and constant erosion. This popular rock mass is visible from West Virginia's Route 28, and from the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center nearby.
   The Discovery Center also acquaints its visitors with Appalachian living history. Interpretive programs present traditional techniques of local craftspersons and artisans. Special events include Civil War reenactments, blacksmithing, flint knapping and frontier living. The 1839 Jacob Sites home (inset) offers insight into 19th century Appalachian living.
   The American frontier became a most effective architectural melting pot. The basic home design began as a German blockbau (log home). Halls and parlors were typically English additions. This southern style home, with its porches, exterior chimney and summer kitchen was influenced by the French. The stick-built, clapboard sided home shows significant advances in lumber mill products and inexpensive transportation. Exterior renovations to the Sites Homestead were completed in May of 1990.

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