History of Barbour County, West Virginia
Barbour County, West Virginia, is a region rich in history and scenic beauty, located in the north-central part of the state. Established in 1843, the county was named after Philip Pendleton Barbour, a Virginia congressman and associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Barbour County is renowned for its historical significance during the Civil War, as well as its early settlement and agricultural economy. The county’s natural resources and cultural heritage also play an integral role in its identity. From the town of Philippi, the site of the first land battle of the Civil War, to the picturesque landscapes, Barbour County remains a place of historical importance.
Origins and Early History
Native American Inhabitants
Before the arrival of European settlers, the area now known as Barbour County was inhabited by several Native American tribes. The Shawnee, Mingo, and Seneca tribes, among others, lived in the region. These groups hunted, fished, and farmed in the lush valleys of the Allegheny Mountains. Their presence in the region predates European exploration by thousands of years, and they played a key role in shaping the early history of West Virginia.
The land around Barbour County was particularly important due to its access to rivers, fertile soil, and forests. Native tribes utilized these natural resources to create a thriving society that engaged in trade and cultural exchange with other tribes across the Ohio Valley.
European Exploration and Settlement
In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, European settlers, primarily from Virginia, began to encroach on the lands of the Native American tribes. The arrival of settlers and the establishment of forts and trading posts brought significant changes to the region. By the mid-1700s, settlers had moved into what is now Barbour County, drawn by the fertile land and access to the Monongahela River.
The area was originally part of the larger Western Virginia frontier, which was a contested region between colonial Virginia and Pennsylvania during the colonial era. Tensions over land rights and jurisdiction were common, and the settlers faced challenges in establishing permanent communities.
Formation of Barbour County
Creation and Early Years
Barbour County was officially established on December 3, 1843, from parts of Harrison and Randolph counties. It was named in honor of Philip Pendleton Barbour, a prominent figure in American law and politics who served as a U.S. Congressman and later an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
The early economy of Barbour County was primarily agricultural, with settlers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The fertile soil and mild climate made it an ideal location for farming. In the 19th century, the county also saw the growth of small industries, including ironworks, timber mills, and gristmills, which utilized the region’s natural resources.
During this time, the county’s economy and infrastructure were greatly influenced by transportation developments, such as the construction of railroads and roads, which helped connect the region with larger commercial centers. These improvements opened up new opportunities for trade, and Barbour County’s economy grew as a result.
The Civil War and the Battle of Philippi
Barbour County played a significant role during the American Civil War, primarily due to its strategic location and the Battle of Philippi, which took place on June 3, 1861. This battle is considered the first land battle of the Civil War, though it was more of a skirmish than a large-scale engagement.
The battle occurred near the town of Philippi, where Union forces, commanded by Brigadier General Benjamin Franklin Kelley, confronted Confederate forces under the command of Colonel Edward Johnson. Though the battle itself was small and relatively bloodless, it had significant implications for the war, as it boosted Union morale and provided the North with a foothold in western Virginia.
The Battle of Philippi is remembered as the beginning of the conflict in the Western theater, and it set the stage for the formation of the state of West Virginia, which was created in 1863 when it separated from Virginia.
Key Historical Events
The Creation of West Virginia
During the Civil War, the region of western Virginia, including Barbour County, was staunchly pro-Union. As Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861, many of the western counties opposed secession. These counties formed their own government and sought to join the Union as a separate state. This movement culminated in the creation of the state of West Virginia in 1863.
The process was contentious, and Barbour County was one of the counties that participated in the formation of the new state. The creation of West Virginia was a turning point in both the Civil War and the state’s history. The area that had been part of Virginia now became a crucial part of the Union effort, and it also helped define the economic and political future of the region.
Post-Civil War and Industrialization
After the Civil War, Barbour County, like many other parts of West Virginia, began a process of recovery and reconstruction. The county’s economy transitioned from an agricultural base to a more industrial one. Logging, coal mining, and railroads became important components of the local economy. The completion of the railroads allowed for easier transportation of goods and coal, which helped fuel industrial growth.
In the late 19th century, the coal industry grew rapidly, attracting workers from around the country. Mining towns and communities sprang up throughout Barbour County, and the population grew. However, the rapid industrialization brought with it challenges, including labor unrest, unsafe working conditions, and environmental degradation.
Historical Sites in Barbour County
1. Philippi Covered Bridge
Overview: The Philippi Covered Bridge, constructed in 1852, is one of the oldest and most iconic covered bridges in the United States. It played a significant role in the Battle of Philippi and is a symbol of the area’s history. The bridge is still in use today and stands as a reminder of the past.
Location: Philippi, West Virginia
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Free parking is available at the site, with ample space for visitors.
2. Philippi Battlefield
Overview: The Philippi Battlefield, where the first land battle of the Civil War occurred, is now a historical site with markers and interpretive panels. Visitors can learn about the battle’s significance and its role in the larger context of the Civil War.
Location: Philippi, West Virginia
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Free parking is available at the battlefield site, with space for large groups and buses.
3. Barbour County Historical Museum
Overview: The Barbour County Historical Museum in Philippi offers visitors a comprehensive look at the county’s history, from its Native American inhabitants to its role in the Civil War and industrialization. The museum houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that showcase the region’s evolution.
Location: Philippi, West Virginia
Ticket Price: $3 for adults, $1 for children (as of 2023)
Parking Information: Free parking is available at the museum.
4. Audra State Park
Overview: Audra State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located near Philippi, the park is home to the historic Lumberjack Trail, which interprets the area’s history of logging and timber industries. The park also features hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnicking areas, providing a glimpse into the county’s natural beauty and past.
Location: Philippi, West Virginia
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Free parking is available at the park’s entrances and visitor areas.
Geography and Climate
Barbour County is located in the north-central part of West Virginia, surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and rivers. The county is part of the Monongahela River watershed, with several creeks and streams running through the area. The region’s fertile land makes it ideal for farming, and its natural resources have supported a variety of industries, including timber, coal, and agriculture.
The climate in Barbour County is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with snowfall common from December through February. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and colorful foliage, making the county a popular destination for outdoor activities and tourism.
County Facts
- Year Founded: 1843
- County Seat: Philippi
- Population: Approximately 16,000 (2020 census)
- Population Density: 59 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Philippi, Belington, Montrose
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 250, U.S. Highway 119
- Adjacent Counties: Taylor County, Barbour County, Randolph County, Upshur County, and Preston County
Barbour County, West Virginia, offers a rich history that blends the cultural heritage of Native American tribes, the impact of European settlement, the significance of the Civil War, and the rise of industry in the 19th century. Its historical landmarks, natural beauty, and small-town charm continue to attract visitors and residents alike. From the Battle of Philippi to the creation of West Virginia, Barbour County’s past is woven into the fabric of the American story, making it a fascinating region to explore and appreciate.
