National Register Listing

Organ Cave

WV 63, 0.5 mi of jct. US 219, Ronceverte, WV
Local significance of the site:
Entertainment/recreation; Industry

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

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.

The world's largest sycamore tree is located in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The tree is over 300 years old and stands 177 feet tall with a circumference of 28 feet.
West Virginia random facts
Greenbrier County, located in the state of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Shawnee and Cherokee nations. European settlers began arriving in the 1700s, with the first permanent settlements established in the late 1700s. The county was officially formed in 1780 and named after the Greenbrier River, which flows through the region.

During the American Civil War, Greenbrier County was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Virginia Central Railroad and its agricultural resources. The county saw a significant amount of military action, with several battles and skirmishes taking place. Greenbrier County was also the site of the Battle of Lewisburg in 1862, which resulted in a Confederate victory. The war had a lasting impact on the area, with many buildings and properties being destroyed or damaged.

After the war, Greenbrier County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The county became known for its booming timber and coal industries, which attracted new settlers and provided much-needed economic opportunities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further contributed to the county's industrial development.

Today, Greenbrier County is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and historic charm. The county is home to The Greenbrier, a world-famous luxury resort that has hosted numerous notable guests and events. Additionally, Greenbrier County offers outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The county continues to honor its roots with the preservation of historic sites and landmarks, showcasing its captivating past to visitors from near and far.

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

  • 1778: Greenbrier County established in the state of Virginia
  • 1780: James Graham becomes the first settler in the county
  • 1782: Attack by Native Americans on Fort Donnally
  • 1796: Lewisburg established as the county seat
  • 1831: Greenbrier College for Women founded
  • 1822: Completion of the James River and Kanawha Turnpike, improving transportation
  • 1858: Greenbrier Military Academy opens
  • 1861: American Civil War begins, Greenbrier County largely supports the Confederacy
  • 1864: Union forces burn down Lewisburg during the Civil War
  • 1872: Completion of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway through the county
  • 1921: Construction of the Greenbrier Resort begins
  • 1962: The Greenbrier becomes a government relocation facility
  • 1986: Greenbrier Historical Society established