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The first electric railroad in the world was built in West Virginia in 1888. The line ran between Huntington and Guyandotte and was powered by electricity generated from a hydroelectric plant on the Ohio River.
About Morgan County
Morgan County Timeline
Morgan County, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the pre-colonial era. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, who utilized its abundant natural resources for hunting, fishing, and farming.
European settlement in Morgan County began in the mid-18th century with the arrival of German and Scotch-Irish immigrants. The area was initially part of Virginia's Frederick County before becoming part of the newly formed West Virginia in 1863 during the Civil War. The county was named after General Daniel Morgan, a renowned Revolutionary War hero.
Throughout the 19th century, the local economy of Morgan County revolved around agriculture, mainly focusing on the cultivation of corn, wheat, and livestock farming. The construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the 1830s and later the expansion of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 1840s further stimulated economic growth and transportation in the region.
In the 20th century, Morgan County experienced a shift towards tourism and recreational activities, with its natural beauty and access to the Potomac River attracting visitors from nearby urban areas. Today, the county remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic beauty of the eastern panhandle. The historical Berkeley Springs State Park, once frequented by George Washington, also draws tourists with its healing mineral waters and charming spas.
European settlement in Morgan County began in the mid-18th century with the arrival of German and Scotch-Irish immigrants. The area was initially part of Virginia's Frederick County before becoming part of the newly formed West Virginia in 1863 during the Civil War. The county was named after General Daniel Morgan, a renowned Revolutionary War hero.
Throughout the 19th century, the local economy of Morgan County revolved around agriculture, mainly focusing on the cultivation of corn, wheat, and livestock farming. The construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the 1830s and later the expansion of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 1840s further stimulated economic growth and transportation in the region.
In the 20th century, Morgan County experienced a shift towards tourism and recreational activities, with its natural beauty and access to the Potomac River attracting visitors from nearby urban areas. Today, the county remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic beauty of the eastern panhandle. The historical Berkeley Springs State Park, once frequented by George Washington, also draws tourists with its healing mineral waters and charming spas.
Morgan County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Morgan County, West Virginia.
- 1747: Morgan County is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
- 1762: The first European settlers arrive in the area.
- 1776: The area becomes part of the newly formed state of West Virginia.
- 1801: The town of Bath, later known as Berkeley Springs, becomes the county seat.
- 1863: During the Civil War, Morgan County is occupied by both Union and Confederate troops.
- 1871: The Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad reaches Berkeley Springs, boosting the local economy.
- 1929: The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county.
- 1941: The construction of Cacapon State Park begins, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- 2004: The Lost River Valley is designated as a National Natural Landmark.
- 2019: Morgan County celebrates its 272nd anniversary.