National Register Listing

Armstrong House

315 North St., Ripley, WV
Local significance of the building:
Exploration/settlement; Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

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.

exploration settlementT architecture social history houses residential buildings
The Mothman, a legendary creature said to inhabit the area around Point Pleasant, West Virginia, gained national attention in the 1960s. The creature is described as a large, winged humanoid with glowing red eyes.
West Virginia random facts
Jackson County, West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Shawnee, Wyandot, and Mingo people. European settlement began in the late 18th century when the area was included in the Northwestern Territory. In 1800, Jackson County was officially established and named in honor of President Andrew Jackson.

Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development. The construction of transportation infrastructure, such as the Northwestern Turnpike and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, played a vital role in fostering economic growth and attracting settlers. The county became known for its fertile farmland, coal mining, and timber resources. It also became a popular destination for riverboat travel along the Ohio River.

During the American Civil War, Jackson County was deeply divided. Like many border regions, it experienced conflicts between pro-Union and pro-Confederate factions. The county was the site of various skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Ripley in 1863. Following the war, the county gradually recovered, and agriculture, coal mining, and manufacturing industries played key roles in its post-war economy.

In the 20th century, Jackson County continued to develop. The completion of the Ravenswood Aluminum Corporation plant in the 1950s brought industrial growth to the region, bolstering employment opportunities. The county also witnessed the construction of major highways, such as Interstate 77, further enhancing transportation infrastructure. Today, Jackson County is a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Its historical sites, natural beauty, and close-knit communities make it a unique destination in West Virginia.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jackson County, West Virginia.

  • 1796: Jackson County was established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1831: Ripley was established as the county seat of Jackson County.
  • 1856: Ravenswood was founded and became an important industrial center.
  • 1861-1865: Jackson County residents actively participated in the American Civil War.
  • 1871: The Ohio River Railroad reached Ravenswood, stimulating economic growth.
  • 1898: Ripley and Ravenswood were connected by the Ohio and Kanawha Turnpike.
  • 1913: The Ravenswood Aluminum Corporation was established, becoming a major employer.
  • 1967: Ravenswood was chosen as the site for the West Virginia Centennial Celebration.
  • 1993: The Ravenswood Bridge was completed, enhancing transportation in the region.
  • 2008: The West Virginia film industry began to grow in Jackson County.
  • 2010: Ravenswood celebrated its bicentennial.
  • 2016: Jackson County celebrated its bicentennial.