National Register Listing in Clay County, West Virginia
West Virginia is the only state in the United States to be created as a result of the Civil War. In 1861, Virginia seceded from the Union, but many residents in the western part of the state opposed secession and eventually formed their own state, which was admitted to the Union in 1863.
About Clay County
Clay County Timeline
Clay County, located in the state of West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mound Builders, who left behind numerous earthen mounds. When Europeans arrived in the 18th century, the region became part of the Virginia Colony and was primarily used for hunting and trapping.
In the early 19th century, the county saw an influx of settlers, many of whom were drawn by the rich natural resources found in the area. Clay County was officially established in 1858, named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman. The discovery of natural gas in the late 1800s sparked an economic boom, attracting industries such as glass manufacturing.
The Civil War had a significant impact on Clay County, as it was located on the border between the Union and Confederate states. The county saw multiple skirmishes and military actions throughout the war. After the war, the region experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery, with agriculture and timber industries becoming major sources of income.
In the 20th century, Clay County faced the challenges of the Great Depression and subsequent economic downturns. However, the county persevered and continued to rely on its natural resources, including coal, timber, and natural gas. Today, Clay County remains a rural area known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and strong sense of community.
In the early 19th century, the county saw an influx of settlers, many of whom were drawn by the rich natural resources found in the area. Clay County was officially established in 1858, named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman. The discovery of natural gas in the late 1800s sparked an economic boom, attracting industries such as glass manufacturing.
The Civil War had a significant impact on Clay County, as it was located on the border between the Union and Confederate states. The county saw multiple skirmishes and military actions throughout the war. After the war, the region experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery, with agriculture and timber industries becoming major sources of income.
In the 20th century, Clay County faced the challenges of the Great Depression and subsequent economic downturns. However, the county persevered and continued to rely on its natural resources, including coal, timber, and natural gas. Today, Clay County remains a rural area known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and strong sense of community.
Clay County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Clay County, West Virginia.
- 1831 - Clay County is established by the Virginia General Assembly
- 1858 - First courthouse in Clay County is built in the town of Clay
- 1861-1865 - Clay County residents fight in the American Civil War
- 1904 - Oil and natural gas are discovered in Clay County, leading to economic growth
- 1921 - Construction begins on the B.F. Goodrich chemical plant in the town of Bomont
- 1922 - The Elk River Coal and Lumber Company is established, boosting the local economy
- 1968 - Clay County High School is established
- 1974 - The Clay County Courthouse is destroyed by fire
- 1990 - The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences is opened in Charleston
- 2016 - The 100th anniversary of the B.F. Goodrich chemical plant in Bomont is celebrated