Tamarack ? The Best of West Virginia is the first of its kind in the United States. It is a one-stop-shop where people can find fine arts, handicrafts and the regional cuisine of West Virginia. This complex includes a tastefully decorated store where you can shop for unique gifts and crafts, workshops for in-house artisans, an art gallery, a food court, theater and a conference center.

In 1989, Gaston Caperton, who was then the governor of West Virginia, helped in transforming the Tamarack concept into a reality by closing a $143 million bond with Parkways Authority.

In 1993, the name Tamarack became official. It was suggested by Linda Arnold, a Beckley local. Tamarack is also known as the American larch, a tree that is strong, beautiful and versatile.

The Tamarack community continued to grow its number to over two thousand artisans from all counties of the West Virginia state. They are also enjoying thousands of revenue and visitors every year.