Putnam County, West Virginia

Putnam County, West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware tribes. European settlement in the region began in the late 1700s, as pioneers moved westward to establish communities.

In the early 1800s, the Kanawha River played a vital role in the development of Putnam County. The construction of the James River and Kanawha Turnpike and later the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad brought increased trade and transportation opportunities to the region, leading to the establishment of towns and communities such as Winfield and Buffalo.

During the American Civil War, Putnam County was significantly impacted. Several battles and skirmishes took place in the area, including the Battle of Scary Creek and the Battle of Hurricane Bridge. The region was caught between Union and Confederate forces, and many civilians suffered from the consequences of war.

In the post-war years, Putnam County experienced growth and prosperity. Agriculture became a significant industry, with farmers cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, wheat, and apples. The coal industry also played a vital role in the county's economy, with the opening of mines and the construction of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad leading to increased coal production and transportation.

Throughout the 20th century, Putnam County continued to evolve and expand. The growth of industries and the creation of highways, such as Interstate 64, brought further development to the area. Today, Putnam County is a vibrant and thriving community, offering a mix of urban and rural landscapes, a strong economy, and a rich historical heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Putnam County, West Virginia:

  • 1785 - Putnam County is formed from parts of Kanawha and Mason Counties.
  • 1818 - The first settlers begin to arrive in the county, primarily from Virginia and Kentucky.
  • 1848 - The county's first courthouse is constructed in Buffalo, which becomes the county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Putnam County experiences significant disruption and hardship during the American Civil War.
  • 1869 - The county seat is moved from Buffalo to Winfield.
  • 1890 - The first railroad, the Kanawha and Michigan Railroad, is completed in the county.
  • 1903 - The town of Hurricane is incorporated.
  • 1948 - The Ohio River Bridge, connecting Putnam County to Ohio, is completed.
  • 1963 - The construction of Interstate 64 begins, which later passes through the county.
  • 1985 - The town of Teays Valley is established.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Putnam County, West Virginia.