National Register Listing

Grant County Courthouse

a.k.a. Old Grant County Courthouse

Virginia Ave., Petersburg, WV
Local significance of the building:
Law; Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

law courthouses buildings
The first Mother's Day was celebrated in Grafton, West Virginia in 1908. Anna Jarvis, a resident of Grafton, held a memorial for her mother, who had died two years earlier, and campaigned for a national holiday in honor of all mothers. Mother's Day became a national holiday in 1914.
West Virginia random facts
Grant County is located in the eastern part of West Virginia. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and Delaware. In the late 1700s, European settlers began moving into the region, attracted by the rich natural resources and fertile land.

The county was officially established in 1866 and named in honor of General Ulysses S. Grant, who later became the 18th President of the United States. During the Civil War, Grant County witnessed several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Petersburg in 1864. The war had a significant impact on the county, with many farms and properties destroyed.

After the war, Grant County experienced a period of economic and industrial growth. Timber, coal, and limestone mining became significant industries in the area, contributing to its development. The completion of the South Branch Valley Railroad in the late 1800s further stimulated economic progress, allowing for easier transportation of goods.

Over the years, Grant County has faced various challenges, including the decline of the coal and timber industries. However, the county has continued to evolve and adapt. Today, it is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historic sites, attracting visitors from around the country. With its rich history and diverse landscapes, Grant County remains a fascinating destination in West Virginia.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grant County, West Virginia.

  • 1689: European explorers first documented the area now known as Grant County, WV.
  • 1752: The first permanent European settlement, Moorefield, was established.
  • 1786: Pendleton County was created, including parts of the present-day Grant County.
  • 1866: Grant County was officially established, named after General Ulysses S. Grant.
  • 1880s: The South Branch Valley Railroad was built, connecting Grant County to other parts of the region.
  • 1933: The creation of the South Branch Wildlife Management Area provided recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • 1969: The release of the film "Night of the Living Dead," partially filmed in Grant County, brought the area international recognition.
  • 1985: The Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established, preserving the area's unique ecosystem.
  • Present: Grant County continues to be a rural and scenic area, attracting visitors with its outdoor recreation, historical sites, and natural beauty.