While not one of the original 13 colonies, the state of West Virginia certainly boasts a rich and extensive history. Some of the most distinctive resident attractions here can even be traced back to prehistoric times. Also, given how it was once part of the Commonwealth of Virginia, several notable sites and settlements here actually predate the nation’s founding.
One of the most charming aspects of West Virginia’s historic locales is that many of the state’s oldest towns are still thriving today. For this Flashback Friday Feature, I’m highlighting 16 of those unique towns, their various claims to fame, and what they offer for today’s visitors.
Petersburg
Named for its founder, Jacob Peterson, the town of Petersburg was established in 1745. The region pioneered merchandising in the area with its signature store. It’s also renowned for a natural wonder—the Smoke Hole Canyon, caused by the flow of the Potomac River and spanning an impressive 20 miles. Other historic callouts of a more manmade nature include the Manor, Grant County Courthouse, Rohrbaugh Cabin, and Hermitage Motor Inn.
Romney
Although not officially founded until 1762, Romney was already a known settlement by at least 1725. Early inhabitants of the area included traders of French origin. The name of the town comes from an already-existing English port town in Kent. One of Romney’s main attractions is a school for the blind and deaf.
Shepherdstown
Formerly known as “Mecklenburg ,” Shepherdstown was officially established in 1762 along with Romney. Its location along the Potomac made it ideal for transportation and trade. Other major bragging points throughout the town include six natural springs, the historic Opera House (built 1910), and the acclaimed Bavarian Inn.
Harpers Ferry
While inhabitants settled here as early as 1747, Harpers Ferry wasn’t formally established until 1763. Its most famous claim to fame will forever be tied to John Brown’s historic rd back in 1859, in which the abolitionist and a group of others descended on the town’s federal armory. Its most geographic callout is its location at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers.
Berkeley Springs
Formerly known as Bath, after a town in England, Berkley Springs was established in 1776 during the Revolutionary era. George Washington himself was a particularly fond fan of the iconic mineral springs the town is most renowned for.
Moorefield
Founded in 1777, Moorefield is perhaps most famous for its significance in location in the South Branch Valley and how that benefited various battles and outcomes during both the French and Indian War and the American Civil War. It is primarily famous today for agriculture and commerce and even serves as the county seat of Hardy County.
Martinsburg
While founded earlier by General Adam Stephen in 1778, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Martinsburg achieved its status as a notable railroad town. It would also go on to be a powerful site of Unionist support during the Civil War. Visitors today can visit many unique callouts throughout the town’s historic districts, including the preserved Adam Stephen House.
Lewisburg
Settlers have been at this location since the 1750s, although the town wasn’t officially incorporated until 1782. Throughout its tenure, it’s earned a reputation as a cultural and educational center and is even home to Carnegie Hall and the Greenbrier Valley Theatre.
Clarksburg
Incorporated in 1785, Clarksburg once served an important role in Virginia state transportation history. Eventually becoming home to the Baltimore & Ohio Railway, Clarksburg later gained fame for being the birthplace of General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson.
Morgantown
Also established in 1785, Morgantown’s ultimate claim to fame has always been forever linked to West Virginia University. Geographic acclaim includes its location on the Monongahela River, which helped to establish the town’s success.
Charles Town
Founded in 1780 by George Washington’s brother Charles, namesake Charles Town boasts several claims to fame. The Jefferson County Courthouse was built here in 1801. It even served as the location for abolitionist John Brown’s trial and execution in 1859. Other historic markers to check out include the New Opera House, Market House, Post Office, and Sheetz House, which were built in 1797.
Wellsburg
Named for Charles Wells, Wellsburg was founded in 1791. It would go on to establish itself as a noted port town on the Ohio River and become a hub for commerce and industry throughout the 19th century. It played an especially significant role in regional transportation and the glass manufacturing industry.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant is undeniably most infamous as being home to the legendary Mothman of myth, but the rich surrounding regional history behind the town can be traced back to as far as the 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant during the Revolutionary years. As a town, however, the site wasn’t formally incorporated until 1794.
Wheeling
Settlement throughout the area comprising Wheeling was abundant as far back as 1769, although it wasn’t incorporated until 1795. It also served as the capital of the Restored Government of Virginia during the Civil War as well as the first capital of West Virginia when it became its own state.
Charleston
Now the current state capital, Charleston stands out as the largest city in all of West Virginia. Formerly known as “Charlestown,” the name was changed to avoid confusion with the aforementioned Charles Town. The city was originally deeded to Thomas Bullit, a military officer who inherited the land from his brother Cuthbert Bullit. It was founded in 1788 but not officially incorporated until 1794. The town is home to Kanawha State Forest, the University of Charleston, the Juliet Art Museum, the Clay Center for Arts and Sciences, and the West Virginia State Museum, among other featured attractions.
Buckhannon
Situated by Buckhannon River and at the foothills of the Allegheny Range, Buckhannon saw settlers in the area as early as 1764, although it wasn’t established until 1816. Among the early pioneering settlers were the Pringle Brothers, John and Samuel Pringle. The men were both serving as soldiers for the English army during the French and Indian War. As the story goes, the two brothers abandoned their posts in Fort Pitt, venturing south through the Buckhannon River, taking refuge in the hollow stump of a sycamore tree no less! Buckhannon’s other famed callout for modern visitors is the big-name Annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival held every May.
These are only 16 of the most historic towns throughout West Virginia. Several other towns, old and new alike, now grace the great state with numerous callouts, claims to fame, and timeless attractions that encourage visitors of all ages and interests.