Historical Markers in
Cabell County, West Virginia

B&O Railroad Depot / Heritage Village Barboursville Barboursville Engagement Battle of Barboursville Battle of Guyandotte Cabell County Cavalcade Carter Godwin Woodson Chesapeake & Ohio 1308 Elk River Coal & Lumber Company #10 Steam Locomotive First Cabell County Court House General Jenkins Granville Parker Guyandotte Harshbarger Corner Historic Carroll House Huntington Huntington Mine Rescue Car James River Company John Hunt Oley John S. Witcher Lavinia Norman, Founder Madie Carroll House Marshall Memorial Marshall Memorial Boulevard Marshall University Marshall University Mud River Covered Bridge Nancy Cartmill Gardens Old Toll House One Room School Museum Raid on Guyandotte / Burning of Guyandotte Salt Rock The Bryan Family The Virginia State Road Union Baptist Church War Between the States Generals / Spring Hill Cemetery War of 1812 Memorial Welcome to West Virginia West Virginia Colored Children's Home Woody Williams Bridge “Diamond Teeth” Mary McClain
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.
West Virginia random facts
Cabell County, located in the western part of West Virginia, has a rich and varied history dating back to its establishment in 1809. Named after William H. Cabell, the Governor of Virginia at the time, the county was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee.

In the early 19th century, Cabell County witnessed a surge in industrial development, primarily due to the construction of the James River and Kanawha Turnpike. This turnpike, connecting the Ohio River with the eastern part of Virginia, allowed for the transportation of goods and resources, leading to increased settlement and economic growth in the region.

During the Civil War, Cabell County played a significant role, with its strategic location making it a sought-after territory for both Union and Confederate forces. The county experienced several battles and skirmishes, causing immense destruction and loss of life. The town of Guyandotte, located in Cabell County, was even burned by Confederate forces in 1861.

Throughout the 20th century, Cabell County continued to evolve and thrive. The county saw advancements in infrastructure and transportation, including the construction of interstates and highways. Education also became a focus, with the establishment of Marshall University in 1837, which has since become an integral part of the county's identity. Today, Cabell County remains a vibrant community with a blend of urban and rural areas, offering a diverse range of cultural and recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors alike.

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

  • 1809: Cabell County was established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1823: The county seat was established in Barboursville.
  • 1861-1865: Cabell County was involved in the American Civil War.
  • 1871: The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway was completed through the county.
  • 1887: Huntington was incorporated as a city within Cabell County.
  • 1896: Marshall College (now Marshall University) was founded in Huntington.
  • 1970: The Marshall University football team suffered a devastating plane crash, killing 75 people.
  • 2008: The Huntington city limits expanded to include previously unincorporated areas of the county.