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The West Virginia State Penitentiary in Moundsville, West Virginia, operated from 1866 to 1995, and was known for its harsh conditions and numerous executions. The prison is now a tourist attraction and offers tours of the facility.
About Monongalia County
Monongalia County Timeline
Monongalia County, located in north-central West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Monongahela and Shawnee, until European settlers arrived in the 18th century. In 1776, Monongalia County was established as the first county in what is now West Virginia.
During the American Revolutionary War, Monongalia County played a significant role as a frontier outpost. Fort Burris, built in Morgantown, provided protection from Native American attacks and served as a staging ground for expeditions against British troops and their Native American allies.
In the early 19th century, Monongalia County experienced rapid growth with the development of transportation infrastructure, particularly the construction of the Northwestern Turnpike (now U.S. Route 50) and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. These developments spurred economic growth, attracting settlers and businesses to the region.
The county's economy shifted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the decline of agriculture as mining and manufacturing industries emerged. Coal mining became a major industry, attracting immigrants from Europe and African Americans from the South. Monongalia County also saw growth in manufacturing, particularly glass making, which elevated the region's economy and positioned Morgantown as a hub for education and research.
Today, Monongalia County is home to West Virginia University, one of the state's largest institutions of higher education. The county continues to experience economic growth, driven by the university, healthcare, and technology sectors. With its historical significance and thriving present, Monongalia County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of West Virginia's landscape.
During the American Revolutionary War, Monongalia County played a significant role as a frontier outpost. Fort Burris, built in Morgantown, provided protection from Native American attacks and served as a staging ground for expeditions against British troops and their Native American allies.
In the early 19th century, Monongalia County experienced rapid growth with the development of transportation infrastructure, particularly the construction of the Northwestern Turnpike (now U.S. Route 50) and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. These developments spurred economic growth, attracting settlers and businesses to the region.
The county's economy shifted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the decline of agriculture as mining and manufacturing industries emerged. Coal mining became a major industry, attracting immigrants from Europe and African Americans from the South. Monongalia County also saw growth in manufacturing, particularly glass making, which elevated the region's economy and positioned Morgantown as a hub for education and research.
Today, Monongalia County is home to West Virginia University, one of the state's largest institutions of higher education. The county continues to experience economic growth, driven by the university, healthcare, and technology sectors. With its historical significance and thriving present, Monongalia County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of West Virginia's landscape.
Monongalia County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Monongalia County, West Virginia.
Here is a brief timeline of the history of Monongalia County, WV:- 1776: Monongalia County is established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly.
- 1784: Morgantown, the county seat, is established and named after Colonel Zackquill Morgan.
- 1796: The University of Pittsburgh is founded as the Pittsburgh Academy, and later becomes a renowned educational institution.
- 1800: The Northwestern Turnpike is completed, improving transportation and trade in the region.
- 1861: West Virginia secedes from Virginia and becomes its own state during the American Civil War.
- 1914: The West Virginia University is established in Morgantown, becoming a major educational center.
- 1975: The Interstate 68 highway is completed, connecting Morgantown with other major cities.
- 2003: The Monongahela River Locks & Dam Number 3, a significant waterway infrastructure, is completed.
- 2020: Monongalia County celebrates its 244th year since establishment.