Bill Adler

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Stonewall Jackson Dam Removal

Description

This series consists of original recordings of audio interviews resulting from Michael Kline's work during 1984 - 1985 documenting the experience of Lewis County, West Virginia residents forced to leave their homes by the construction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Stonewall Jackson Flood Control Dam. Thirty-five recorded interviews with residents, planners, politicians and lawmen were drawn upon to create an audio documentary, "We're Here To Take You Out," which explored the impact and collateral, human costs of such projects on rural life, arts, and values.

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Interviewer
Date of Interview
11-12-1984
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting 

Audio
Biographical Sketch

Bill Adler was born in Weston, West Virginia. He served in the Radio Intelligence Division of the Army Security Agency in Germany from 1945 to 1946.  Adler returned home to manage his father's retail store. In February 1953, Adler co-founded the Weston Television Cable Corp. alongside two partners. This venture marked the beginning of his influential role in providing television reception to the residents of Lewis County, West Virginia. Over the years, Adler's become a part owner of cable systems in various cities, including Charleston, Summersville, Gassaway, and Sutton in West Virginia, as well as Covington and Clifton Forge in Virginia. Adler was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International.  He served on the Stonewall Jackson Hospital Board of Directors, the District Advisory Committee for United Bank, and the Stonewall Jackson Lake Advisory Committee, where he advocated for the preservation and responsible management of natural resources.

Scope and Content Note 
The interview with Bill Adler delves into the contentious issue surrounding the construction of a dam, focusing on the forced removal of a resident, Barbara Hevner, from her property. The conversation provides detailed insights into the property acquisition process, the timeline of events leading to the forced removal, and the interactions between the authorities and the affected resident. Additionally, Adler's account sheds light on the broader context of the dam project, including the status of property acquisition, the impact on the local community, and the challenges faced during the construction phase. The interview captures Adler's perspective on the controversy, offering valuable information about the complexities and implications of the dam project, particularly in relation to the forced displacement of residents.


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