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Discover the Rich History: Historical Sites and Famous Landmarks in West Virginia

West Virginia’s historic sites divide into three subjects: the Civil War that created the state, the coal that paid for it, and the conflict between the two. Harpers Ferry, Matewan and the Elkins coal district cover those in order. The Greenbrier bunker and the Green Bank telescopes are the twentieth-century additions.

West Virginia rewards a trip planned around its history rather than its scenery, though it has both. The Mountain State carries historic landmarks and sites that explain how it came to exist at all, and they run from the Ohio River Valley across to the New River Gorge.

Charleston, the state capital, holds the densest cluster of significant historic sites in West Virginia. The West Virginia State Capitol, West Virginia Independence Hall and the Governor’s Mansion are all within reach of each other. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, over in the Eastern Panhandle, is the other essential stop, and it puts history and natural beauty in the same place. The park holds several historic buildings, John Brown’s Fort and Storer College among them.

Civil War history, outdoor recreation, or somewhere you have simply not been: West Virginia covers all three. There are more historic landmarks and sites here than a single trip absorbs, so choose a region rather than trying to cross the Mountain State in a week.

Key Takeaways

• West Virginia is home to numerous historic landmarks and sites that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture.
• Charleston and Harpers Ferry are two of the most significant historic sites in West Virginia.
• Whether you’re interested in Civil War history, outdoor recreation, or simply exploring new places, West Virginia has something for everyone.

Historic Sites in Charleston

Charleston, West Virginia carries several historic sites worth the walk between them. The ones to prioritise:

West Virginia State Capitol

The West Virginia State Capitol is the building Charleston is recognised by, standing on the banks of the Kanawha River. Its dome rises higher than that of the U.S. Congress in Washington, D.C., by a margin nobody here treats as accidental. Inside are the governor’s office, the West Virginia State Museum, and the West Virginia State Senate and House of Delegates.

West Virginia State Museum

The West Virginia State Museum sits inside the West Virginia State Capitol, which makes it the efficient stop. Its artifacts, exhibits and interactive displays cover the state’s natural resources, its part in the Civil War, and the cultural heritage that came out of both.

Historic Districts

Charleston has several historic districts, and the East End Historic District is where to start. It holds historic homes including the Governor’s Mansion, built in 1925 and home to every West Virginia governor since.

U.S. Custom House

The U.S. Custom House is the other historic site in Charleston worth the detour. It was built in 1909 and served as headquarters for the U.S. Customs Service until 1966. It now houses the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services, which is a quieter afterlife than the building suggests.

The Dome

The Dome is the part of the West Virginia State Capitol you see first and from furthest away. It is finished in 23.5-karat gold leaf and visible for miles.

Charleston, West Virginia rewards a day on foot. Between the West Virginia State Capitol and the U.S. Custom House there is enough to fill it, and the buildings do more explaining than the labels.

Historic Landmarks in Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry is the town where West Virginia’s history turns. It is small, it played a disproportionate part in American history, and much of what mattered is still standing.

One of the most famous landmarks in Harpers Ferry is the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park [1]. This park is home to many historic sites, including the site of John Brown’s trial and the spot where he was hanged. John Brown was an abolitionist who led a slave revolt in Harpers Ferry in 1859. He and his followers took over the federal armory, hoping to arm slaves and start a rebellion. However, they were quickly defeated by Confederate troops.

John Brown’s Fort is the other landmark at Harpers Ferry. The small building started as a fire engine house and became the site of John Brown’s last stand. It has been moved from its original position and now sits within the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

If you’re a hiker, then you’ll be excited to know that the Appalachian Trail passes through Harpers Ferry [1]. This 2,200-mile trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Harpers Ferry is a great place to start or end your hike, and you can take a break from the trail to explore the town’s historic landmarks.

George Washington’s Bathtub is the one for presidential history, in Berkeley Springs about 30 minutes from Harpers Ferry. Washington visited in 1748 and bathed in a natural hot spring, and the site of that spring is still there to see.

Harpers Ferry works for history and for the outdoors in the same visit. Between John Brown’s Fort and the Appalachian Trail there is a full day, and the two are closer together than they sound.

Landmarks in Greenbrier

Greenbrier County holds a concentration of famous landmarks and historical sites. The ones to build a day around:

The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier is the landmark of Greenbrier County. The resort has taken guests since 1778 and hosted 26 US presidents in that time. It also sits on top of the Cold War-era underground bunker, built to house the US government in the event of a nuclear attack.

White Sulphur Springs

White Sulphur Springs sits in the heart of Greenbrier County and carries several historic sites of its own. The Old White TPC Golf Course has hosted PGA Tour events, and the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery, established in 1895, is still operating.

The Greenbrier Resort

The Greenbrier Resort has been drawing visitors for over 200 years. The Presidents’ Cottage Museum covers the resort’s history and the guests who made it, and the gardens hold over 40 different species of plants and flowers.

Underground Bunker

The Greenbrier’s underground bunker is the most unusual site in Greenbrier County. Built during the Cold War to house the US government after a nuclear attack, it stayed secret for decades beneath a working hotel. Tours run through it now, and the museum holds artifacts and memorabilia from the period.

Greenbrier County carries more history per mile than most of the state. The Greenbrier Resort, the Cold War-era underground bunker beneath it and the town of White Sulphur Springs are the three that justify the drive.

Significant Sites in Berkeley

Berkeley County, West Virginia holds a run of historical landmarks and sites that reward an unhurried day.

The Museum of the Berkeley Springs preserves the history of the town and the country around it, covering the Native American tribes who lived here and the early settlers who followed them.

George Washington’s Bathtub sits in Berkeley Springs State Park, at the spot where Washington is said to have bathed. The natural spring is still in use, and visitors can get into the warm water themselves.

Berkeley County holds several other properties and districts on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Cool Springs House, once home to Colonel Morgan Morgan, and the Campbell Mansion, built in the early 1800s.

Overall, if you’re interested in history, Berkeley County is a must-visit destination. From the Museum of the Berkeley Springs to George Washington’s Bathtub, there are plenty of significant sites to explore and learn about.

Historical Landmarks in Ohio River Valley

If you’re interested in history, the Ohio River Valley is a must-visit destination. The region is home to many historical landmarks that are important to the history of Ohio and the United States. Here are some of the most notable landmarks in the area:

• Ohio River: The Ohio River is one of the most important rivers in the United States. It flows for over 900 miles and serves as the border between Ohio and several other states. The river played a crucial role in the history of the region, serving as a transportation route for settlers and early industries.
• Wheeling Suspension Bridge: The Wheeling Suspension Bridge is a historic suspension bridge that spans the Ohio River between Wheeling, West Virginia, and Bridgeport, Ohio. It was completed in 1849 and was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. The bridge played an important role in the development of the region, allowing for easier transportation and commerce.
• Ohio State Capitol: The Ohio State Capitol is located in Columbus, Ohio, and is the seat of the Ohio government. The building was completed in 1861 and is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. It is home to many important government offices and is open to the public for tours.
• National Museum of the United States Air Force: The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located in Dayton, Ohio, and is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. It features over 360 aircraft and missiles, as well as many exhibits on the history of aviation and the Air Force.

These landmarks are just a few of the many historical sites in the Ohio River Valley. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to explore the region, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Historical Sites in Matewan

Matewan, West Virginia is the town that explains the coalfields. It played a significant role in the Coal Wars of the early 20th century, and several sites here commemorate that period in American history.

The Matewan Historic District stands on the banks of the Tug Fork River and holds buildings from the early 1900s that housed coal miners and their families. A walking tour of the district is the way to understand what company-town life actually involved.

The Battle of Matewan took place on May 19, 1920. Coal miners clashed with the Baldwin-Felts Detective Agency. Several people were killed, among them two detectives and the town’s mayor. The site is marked, and the marker sets out what happened.

The Matewan Depot Replica Museum reproduces the train depot that once stood in Matewan and served as a social center for the town. Inside are artifacts, photos and memorabilia covering the Coal Wars and this part of West Virginia’s history.

Matewan is the essential stop for anyone interested in American history of this kind. The well-preserved historic district, the commemorative markers and the museum together cover the Coal Wars and Matewan’s part in them better than any single site elsewhere.

Historic Landmarks in Morgantown

Morgantown carries both national and local history, with several landmarks close enough together to see in a morning. The ones worth your time:

West Virginia Independence Hall

West Virginia Independence Hall is a National Historic Landmark and the building the state came out of. It served as the seat of government for Virginia until secession from the Union in 1861. During the Civil War it became the temporary capital of West Virginia, until Wheeling took over permanently. It is now a museum covering the state’s history and culture.

Monongalia County Courthouse

The Monongalia County Courthouse is the other historic landmark in Morgantown. Built in 1891, it is a strong example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, and it served as the county courthouse until 1987. It now houses the Monongalia County Historical Society and Museum, with exhibits on the county’s history.

Morgantown History Museum

The Morgantown History Museum occupies the historic old post office building downtown. Its exhibits run from early settlement through the Civil War to the growth of West Virginia University, with artifacts and memorabilia from each.

WVU Downtown Campus Historic District

The WVU Downtown Campus Historic District is a National Historic Landmark covering several buildings on the West Virginia University campus in downtown Morgantown. Woodburn Hall, Martin Hall and Chitwood Hall all date from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The district is best taken as a walking tour, which is also how you pick up the university’s history.

Overall, Morgantown is a great place to explore if you’re interested in history. From West Virginia Independence Hall to the WVU Downtown Campus Historic District, there are plenty of historic landmarks to visit and learn from.

Historic Sites in Cass

Cass, West Virginia is worth the drive for the Cass Scenic Railroad alone. The line has run since the early 1900s and takes you up through the mountains, which is a better way to see them than any road offers.

The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park holds several historic buildings, including the Cass Depot, built in 1902. There are hiking trails through the park with long views over the mountains around it.

Bald Knob is the challenge, and the highest point in the park. The hike is strenuous, and the view from the top runs for miles in every direction.

Overall, Cass is a great destination for anyone who loves history and the great outdoors. Whether you’re interested in taking a ride on the historic Cass Scenic Railroad, exploring the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, or hiking to the top of Bald Knob, there’s something for everyone in Cass.

Landmarks in Bethany

Bethany is a small West Virginia town with several historical landmarks in a short radius. The ones to see:

Bethany College

Bethany College is the oldest institution of higher education in the state of West Virginia. Founded in 1840, it is known for its liberal arts programs, and the hilltop campus holds several historic buildings worth the walk. The Campbell Mansion is the one to find: added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and registered as a National Historic Landmark in 1994.

Alexander Campbell Mansion

The Alexander Campbell Mansion is the other Bethany landmark. Alexander Campbell was a prominent figure in the Restoration Movement, a Christian movement that began in the early 19th century, and the mansion, built in the 1850s, is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. The house interior tour is currently closed due to COVID-19, but the exterior is worth the walk on its own.

Other Historical Landmarks

Bethany holds more besides Bethany College and the Alexander Campbell Mansion. The Old Meeting House was built in 1820 and is among the oldest churches in West Virginia, and the Campbell Cemetery is the final resting place of Alexander Campbell and other figures of the Restoration Movement.

Overall, Bethany is a great destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. Whether you’re exploring the campus of Bethany College or admiring the Alexander Campbell Mansion, you’re sure to be impressed by the town’s rich history and beautiful landmarks.

The geography sorts the visiting for you. Charleston holds the Capitol, the state museum and the Governor’s Mansion within walking distance of each other. The Eastern Panhandle carries Harpers Ferry, Martinsburg and Berkeley Springs. Greenbrier County has the resort and the bunker underneath it. The coalfields lie further south and west, and Matewan is the town that explains all the rest of them.

Historic Landmarks in Martinsburg

Martinsburg, West Virginia carries Civil War history and railroad history in the same few streets. The landmarks that matter:

The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Roundhouse is the most notable landmark in Martinsburg. It was a hub of the railroad industry and played a significant part in the Civil War, which is what happens when a railway becomes strategic. It is now a museum covering the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and its impact on the region.

The Belle Boyd House is the other Martinsburg landmark. Belle Boyd was a Confederate spy, and her childhood home has been preserved as a museum covering her life and her role in the Civil War, which was larger than the house suggests.

The Berkeley County Historical Society Museum covers local history properly, from Native American culture through to the Civil War.

The Martinsburg Historic District holds the Apollo Civic Theatre and the Martinsburg Public Library among its buildings, and it is best walked rather than driven.

Overall, Martinsburg is a great destination for anyone interested in history and historic landmarks. From the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Roundhouse to the Belle Boyd House, there’s plenty to see and do.

Historic Sites in Grafton

If you are a history buff, Grafton is a must-see destination in West Virginia. The town is home to several historic sites that offer a glimpse into the past. Here are a few places you should check out:

• International Mother’s Day Shrine: This historic landmark is a tribute to all mothers. The shrine was constructed in 1873 and is located along Main Street in downtown Grafton. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992. You can visit the shrine to learn about the history of Mother’s Day and pay your respects to all mothers.
• Grafton National Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place of over 2,200 Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. It was established in 1867 and is one of the original 14 national cemeteries. You can visit the cemetery to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers and learn about the history of the Civil War.
• B&O Railroad Depot: The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Depot is a historic train station that was built in 1912. It served as a hub for passenger and freight trains until the 1950s. Today, the depot is a museum that showcases the history of the railroad and its impact on Grafton.
• Taylor County Courthouse: The Taylor County Courthouse is a historic building that was built in 1900. It is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can visit the courthouse to learn about the history of the town and its legal system.

Overall, Grafton is a treasure trove of historic sites that are worth exploring. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, you will find something to enjoy in this charming town.

Landmarks in Green Bank

Green Bank is where West Virginia’s history stops being about the past. This small town holds landmarks that cover both.

The Green Bank Observatory runs radio telescopes used to study the universe, and it sits inside the National Radio Quiet Zone, where radio transmissions are restricted to keep the instruments usable. Bus tours run through the site.

The Reber Radio Telescope was built in the 1930s by Grote Reber, one of the founders of radio astronomy. It stands at the Green Bank Observatory and is a National Historic Landmark.

Green Bank is also home to several other landmarks that are worth checking out. The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a popular tourist destination that is famous for its historic steam-driven locomotives and scenic train rides. The park is located in the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re interested in history, you should visit the West Virginia State Museum at the Culture Center in Charleston. The museum features exhibits on West Virginia’s history, including its role in the Civil War and its contributions to the coal industry.

Overall, Green Bank is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in science, history, or just want to take in the beautiful scenery, Green Bank has it all.

Historic Landmarks in Elkins

Elkins is a town built by coal, and its landmarks show it. The ones to see:

Elkins Coal and Coke Company Historic District

The Elkins Coal and Coke Company Historic District is the essential stop for anyone interested in the coal mining industry. It sits in the northwestern part of Elkins and takes in 138 contributing buildings, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. The former Elkins Coal and Coke Company office building is now the Elkins City Hall.

Graceland

Graceland was built in 1893 by Henry Gassaway Davis, a U.S. senator, governor of West Virginia and businessman. The Queen Anne-style mansion carries a wrap-around porch, a turret and stained glass windows, and it now belongs to Davis & Elkins College.

Other Historic Landmarks

Elkins has many other historic landmarks that are worth visiting. These include:

• The Elkins Depot Welcome Center CVB, Inc.: This historic train depot was built in 1908 and now serves as a visitor center for Elkins.
• The Randolph County Courthouse: This beautiful courthouse was built in 1902 and is still in use today.
• The former Randolph County Jail: This jail was built in 1911 and is now used as a law enforcement training center.
• The Albert Hall Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church: This church was built in 1891 and is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

Whether you’re interested in coal mining, politics, or architecture, Elkins has something for everyone. Take a trip to this historic town and explore all of the amazing landmarks it has to offer.

Historic Sites in Hillsboro

Hillsboro, West Virginia is a small town with a literary claim few places can match. The sites worth stopping for:

Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum

The Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum is the reason to come to Hillsboro. Buck was the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature, and she won the Pulitzer for “The Good Earth.” The museum occupies the house where she was born and raised, with manuscripts and photographs among the exhibits.

Pearl S. Buck Gravesite

The Pearl S. Buck gravesite is a short drive from the museum, in the Hillsboro Cemetery. It is quiet, and it is worth the detour after seeing the house.

Old Stone Church

The Old Stone Church stands in downtown Hillsboro and was built in 1796, making it among the oldest churches in West Virginia. It has served as a place of worship and a community building across that span, and the architecture repays a look.

Pearl S. Buck Commemorative Stamp

If you’re a stamp collector, you’ll want to check out the Pearl S. Buck commemorative stamp. The stamp was issued in 2010 by the United States Postal Service to honour Pearl S. Buck’s contributions to American literature. The stamp features a portrait of Pearl S. Buck and an image of the Chinese countryside, which was the setting for many of her novels.

In conclusion, Hillsboro, West Virginia, is a treasure trove of historic sites and landmarks. Whether you’re a literature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a unique travel experience, Hillsboro has something for everyone.

Historic Landmarks in Moundsville

Moundsville holds some of the most striking historical landmarks in West Virginia, and they have very little to do with each other. The three to see:

Grave Creek Mound

Grave Creek Mound is a prehistoric Adena culture burial mound, over 2,000 years old. It is the largest conical burial mound in the United States. The site is now a museum covering the Adena people and the construction of the mound itself.

West Virginia Penitentiary

The West Virginia Penitentiary is the landmark for anyone interested in the history of the American prison system. It operated for over 125 years and held some of the most notorious criminals in American history. Guided tours run through the cells and cover the prison’s history and its inmates.

Adena Culture

The Adena Culture was a pre-Columbian Native American culture that existed from 1000 BC to 200 AD, known for earthworks including the Grave Creek Mound. The Grave Creek Mound Historical Site in Moundsville is where that history is set out.

Moundsville is a city with a rich history and a wealth of historic landmarks to explore. Whether you’re interested in Native American history, the history of American prisons, or the engineering prowess of ancient cultures, Moundsville has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Moundsville today and discover the fascinating history of this incredible city.

Historic Sites in Carnifex Ferry

Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park marks a Civil War battle fought in 1861, when Union soldiers met Confederate forces here. The park sits near Summersville, West Virginia.

The Patterson House Museum occupies a historic home used as a hospital during the Civil War. The exhibits and artifacts inside cover the battle and the men who fought it.

The Carnifex Ferry Battlefield Visitor Center covers the battle through interactive exhibits and a short film explaining what happened and why it mattered.

If you’re interested in exploring the battlefield itself, there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The trails range in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. Be sure to bring your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities for great photos.

Overall, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history. Whether you’re a Civil War buff or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, this park has something for everyone.

Landmarks in New River Gorge

If you are visiting West Virginia, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve belongs on the list. The park carries natural beauty and historical landmarks in the same place. The ones to look for:

• Canyon Rim Visitor Center: The Canyon Rim Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your journey through the New River Gorge. It offers educational and historical information to over 300,000 visitors each year. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the canyon from the center’s observation deck.
• Thurmond Historic District: Thurmond is a small historic town that was once a bustling railroad town. Today, it’s a ghost town that has been preserved as a part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. You can take a walk through the town and see the old train station, the bank, and the post office.
• Grandview: Grandview is a scenic overlook that provides a panoramic view of the New River Gorge. You can take a hike down to the river or enjoy a picnic with your family while taking in the stunning views.
• Sandstone Falls: Sandstone Falls is a natural wonder that you must see when visiting the New River Gorge. The falls are 10-25 feet high and 1,500 feet wide, making it the largest waterfall on the New River. You can take a walk along the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the falls.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve sits in the Appalachian Mountains and is one of the better places to understand West Virginia’s landscape. The New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, is the landmark most people come for.

Overall, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and history. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, it’s no wonder why this park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see historical sites in West Virginia?

West Virginia carries a long list, but four stand out: the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the West Virginia State Museum and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Between them they cover several thousand years.

What are the top landmarks to visit in West Virginia?

The New River Gorge Bridge, the Greenbrier Resort, Seneca Rocks and Blackwater Falls State Park are the four landmarks most visitors build a West Virginia trip around.

What are some interesting facts about West Virginia’s famous landmarks?

The New River Gorge Bridge is the longest steel-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. The Greenbrier Resort spent decades as a top-secret government relocation facility for Congress while operating as a hotel above it. Both are true, and both are among the stranger facts about West Virginia’s famous landmarks.

What is the history behind Harpers Ferry National Historical Park?

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was the site of John Brown’s raid on the federal armory in 1859, and it held strategic importance through the American Civil War that followed. The two facts are connected, which is the point of visiting.

What are some notable physical features of West Virginia’s famous landmarks?

West Virginia’s famous landmarks earn their reputation on landscape. The New River Gorge Bridge looks out over the New River Gorge itself, Seneca Rocks draws rock climbers from well outside the state, and Blackwater Falls State Park has a waterfall running over dark-coloured rock.

What are some famous people associated with West Virginia’s historical sites?

West Virginia has produced more famous people than its size suggests. John Brown, Stonewall Jackson and Pearl S. Buck are the three most attached to the state’s historical sites.

Frequently asked questions about Historical Sites and Famous Landmarks in West Virginia

What happened at the Battle of Matewan in the West Virginia coal war?

Coal miners clashed with the Baldwin-Felts Detective Agency on May 19, 1920. Several people were killed, including two detectives and the town’s mayor. The Matewan Historic District and the Matewan Depot Replica Museum cover the Coal Wars this was part of.

Can you tour the Cold War bunker at The Greenbrier?

Yes. The underground bunker was built to house the US government in the event of nuclear attack, and it stayed secret for decades beneath a working resort. Tours run through it, and a museum holds Cold War artifacts and memorabilia.

How old is the Grave Creek Mound in Moundsville?

Over 2,000 years. It was built by the Adena culture and is the largest conical burial mound in the United States. The site now includes a museum covering the Adena people, who lived here from 1000 BC to 200 AD.

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