Glenwood Aglow: A Festive Holiday Celebration 2025
The holiday celebration at the historic Glenwood mansion was a truly vibrant affair, filled with dazzling decorations, festive lights, and joyous musical performances. This year’s theme, “Glenwood Aglow,” was beautifully illustrated as the mansion sparkled with colorful decorations and holiday lights in every corner. The decorating efforts were led entirely by Darrell Cadle, with special touches added by Larry Tucker, resulting in every room radiating holiday cheer. Each mantle displayed unique arrangements, enhanced by vibrant lighting, and nearly every surface offered guests a delightful and festive scene to enjoy.
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The holiday atmosphere was further enriched by a series of special musical performances. Marjie Foster opened the festivities with a selection of holiday favorites on Glenwood’s square grand piano, setting a joyful tone for the event. Returning for their third holiday season, the Biehle Family Violinists captivated audiences with their skilled violin renditions. Their popularity was clear, as many visitors timed their attendance to enjoy the family’s performances. The Biehle Family also returned on Sunday, continuing to share their holiday magic.
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Sunday marked the debut of Jennifer Griffith at the grand piano, where she delighted guests by playing Christmas music from memory. Later in the afternoon, Mountain Range Jazz—a dynamic young band composed of high school students from South Charleston High School—thrilled the audience with lively jazz arrangements of holiday favorites.
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Upstairs, the Lucy Quarrier Weavers were stationed near Miss Lucy’s loom, generously sharing their knowledge and expertise in the art of weaving with curious visitors. The group included Barbara Smith, who organized her colleagues’ attendance; along with Cookie Glasser, weaver and Glenwood board member; Ben Randolph, Ellen Golden, and Chris Zinn. Each member contributed something special to the event, enriching the experience for guests.
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Following the open house weekend, Glenwood offered guests a unique opportunity to experience the mansion in a more intimate setting. Small groups toured the decorated mansion in the evenings, enjoying the festive atmosphere and holiday lights in a cozy, personal environment.
Throughout the festivities, our dedicated volunteers warmly welcomed approximately 170 visitors into a brightly lit and festive environment, ensuring everyone felt the joy of the season.
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The success of these events was made possible by the dedication of our invaluable volunteers, who gave their time and talents to engage with Glenwood visitors. Sincere thanks are extended to Mike and Dot Gioulis, James Griffith, Megan and Carter Sharp, Carol Susman, Larry Tucker, Bella Winfree, and Ian Woods. A special welcome and thank you go to new volunteers Brian Marrs and Mary Halen.
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Darrell Cadle deserves particular recognition for his extraordinary skill in decorating the mansion. He devoted countless hours to ensuring every item was perfectly placed, with many decorations personally loaned from his and Larry’s holiday collection. Kudos to Darrell for his hard work and creativity!
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Enjoy “Musical Moments” presented by:
Marjie Foster
Glenwood is happy to have Marjie Foster return to our antique grand piano for another event. True to her love of music, she has played in a country band and a classic rock band. She worked with a community volunteer theatre group, the Landmark Studio for the Arts, for 30 years. She plays for weddings, dinners, and special occasions, including several of Glenwood’s previous open houses. Visitors to the Sutton area may hear her playing at the Elk Hotel Cafe during special seasons. She teaches music in her Gassaway studio through the week.
The Biehle Siblings
Glenwood is pleased to present the Biehle Siblings as part of this year’s Holiday Open House. Hannah, Sophia, Isaiah, Victoria & Lydia currently reside with their parents in South Charleston. These gifted musicians, members of the West Virginia Youth Symphony, have enjoyed playing violin & singing for church events & retirement homes for ten years.
Steve Plantz
Glenwood is delighted to present Steve Plantz. He grew up in Whitesville, Boone County. Like many teenaged boys in 1964, he saw the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show & had to have a guitar. Now a husband, father & grandfather, he plays guitar most Sundays with the Holy Fish Praise Band at Elizabeth Memorial United Methodist Church.
The South Charleston HS Chorale Trio
These talented teens are choir students of Mr. Billy Burdette at South Charleston High School. Glenwood is fortunate to share their music with our open house visitors.