I Love Helvetia

I Love Helvetia

Which Helvetia? The Confederation Helvetia (Switzerland) or Helvetia, West Virginia? I love them both. I have lived in Helvetia, WV all of my life and it was hard for me to imagine any other place in the world so peaceful and beautiful until I visited Switzerland a few years ago. I was overwhelmed at the beauty of the alps and rolling valleys of that beautiful country. Some parts reminded me of my home nestled in the mountains of West Virginia. I now understand why our ancestors chose to make their new home in beautiful Randolph County, West Virginia.

Helvetia, West Virginia was founded by the Swiss in 1869. Among those first settlers
was my great-grandfather, Gottlieb Bettler. Gottlieb came to the United States from
Saanen, Switzerland(Canton Bern). Among the things that were brought form Switzerland
were several traditions. The traditions have been passed down through the generations.
Here are some pictures to show how proud I am of my Swiss ancestry.

Crystal & Shane, ages 5 & 2....... . .....Russell & me in our Swiss Tracht

Fahnenschwingen in Helvetia

My Favorite Swiss Men

The Burky Brothers have not only filled my ears with wonderful folk
music, they have also filled my heart with memories of my grandfather,
John Betler. I was 6 years old at the time of my grandfathers death. I
can barely remember his strong soft voice. Even though he is no longer
with us, his stories and kindness lives on through his grandsons, Norman
and Vernon Burky. Thanks guys, for filling grandpa's shoes.