West Virginia

Wild & Wonderful

Featured

Blackwater Falls

Twenty miles of hiking trails surround one one the most photographed spots in West Virginia

Coopers Rock

Established in 1936, Coopers Rock State Forest boasts some of the most iconic views in the state

Thomas, WV

An authentic small town that embraces its love for art and creativity

Harpers Ferry

The historic town centered around abolitionist John Brown's raid of the arsenal

Oglebay Resort

Home to the best golf courses in the state and the finest dining. Oglebay Resort provides the break you need. Plus, there's a zoo too!

West Virginia University

For the sports fans, watch the Mountaineers take down opponents on the field or court

History & Facts

"The history of West Virginia stems from the 1861 Wheeling Convention, which was an assembly of northwestern Virginian Southern Unionists, who aimed to repeal the Ordinance of Secession that Virginia made during the American Civil War (1861–1865). It became one of two American states that formed during the American Civil War – the other being Nevada in 1864. It was the only state to form from another state during this time, splitting from Virginia. West Virginia was officially admitted as a U.S. state on June 20, 1863."

"The area that comprises West Virginia was originally part of the British Virginia Colony (1607–1776) and the western part of the U.S. Commonwealth of Virginia (1776-1788), and state of Virginia (1788–1863). Western Virginia became sharply divided over the issue of secession from the Union, leading to the separation from Virginia, and formalized by West Virginia's admittance to the Union as a new state in 1863. West Virginia was one of five Civil War border states."

"During the late 19th and early 20th century, West Virginia saw its population grow, due in large part to the economic job opportunities provided by the coal and logging industries. Since the mid-20th century, West Virginia has experienced population declines due in large part to its citizens leaving for opportunities elsewhere. West Virginia's history has been profoundly affected by its mountainous terrain, spectacular river valleys, and rich natural resources. These were all factors driving its state economy and the lifestyles of residents, as well as drawing visitors to the state. West Virginia's nickname is known as the "Mountain State" due to its landscape being largely covered by the Appalachian Mountains."

Date of Statehood : June 20, 1863 Capital: Charleston Size: 24,230 square miles Nickname: Mountain State Motto: Montani Semper Liberi (“Mountaineers Are Always Free”) Tree: Sugar Maple Flower: Rhododendron Bird: Cardinal

Gallery

Charleston

Seneca Rocks

The Greenbrier

Snowshoe

Berkley Springs

Mothman, Point Pleasant

Cass Scenic Railroad

Hunting Museum of Art

Monongahela National Forest

Charlestown

Seneca Caverns

Cathedral Falls