Story perspectives

VDare's Influence Wanes Amid Community Division in West Virginia

4/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michael Edison Hayden's book Strange People on the Hill examines VDare's impact on Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.
The arrival of VDare's founders Peter Brimelow and Lydia Brimelow sparked division among residents and heightened tensions linked to the pandemic and social movements.
Hayden details his mental health struggles while covering the far-right movement.
VDare's influence has waned; a lawsuit alleging misuse of non-profit funds raises questions about its future.

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Story summary

Michael Edison Hayden's book Strange People on the Hill examines VDare's impact on Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.
The arrival of VDare's founders Peter Brimelow and Lydia Brimelow sparked division among residents and heightened tensions linked to the pandemic and social movements.
Hayden details his mental health struggles while covering the far-right movement.
VDare's influence has waned; a lawsuit alleging misuse of non-profit funds raises questions about its future.