Greenbrier County, West Virginia

Alderson Alderson Baptist Academy and Junior College Alderson Memorial Bridge History Andrew & Charles Lewis March Battle of Lewisburg Battle of Lewisburg Battle of Lewisburg Battle of Tuckwiller's Hill Berea Sand Big Lime Blue Sulphur Springs Confederate Burial Ground Blue Sulphur Springs, WV Caldwell: Heritage Carnegie Hall Coal Miners Memorial Coal Miners Memorial & Heritage Park Col. John Stuart / Mathew Arbuckle Colonial Army Rendezvous Confederate Cemetery Confederate Disenfranchisement Confederate Saltpeter Works Dick Pointer Dry Creek Battle Fort Donnally / Border Heroes Fort Donnally / Border Heroes Frankford Greenbrier College / Greenbrier Hall Greenbrier County / Summers County Greenbrier County / Virginia Greenbrier County Courthouse Greenbrier County War Memorial Greenbrier Ghost Greenbrier Military School Greenbrier Military School Kate's Mountain Lewisburg Lewisburg Lewisburg Lewisburg Lewisburg Battle Lewisburg Graded School Bell Maxon Sand Meadow River Lumber Company / United Methodist Church Nicholas County / Greenbrier County Organ Cave Pontiac's War / Welsh Cemetery President's Cottage Rev. John McElhenney, D.D. Ronceverte Rupert Sam Black Church Samuel Price Shuck Memorial Baptist Church Sinking Creek Raid Tennis and the Outdoor Swimming Pool The Battle of White Sulphur The Greenbrier Clinic and Project Greek Island The Hanging of David Creigh The Lewisburg Foundation The Old White The Pavilion The Springhouse Tribute to Men of the Mountains Unknown Soldiers/ Gen. Lewis' Trace White Sulphur William Cammack Campbell "Oakhurst" Golf Club
Greenbrier County, located in the state of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Shawnee and Cherokee nations. European settlers began arriving in the 1700s, with the first permanent settlements established in the late 1700s. The county was officially formed in 1780 and named after the Greenbrier River, which flows through the region.

During the American Civil War, Greenbrier County was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Virginia Central Railroad and its agricultural resources. The county saw a significant amount of military action, with several battles and skirmishes taking place. Greenbrier County was also the site of the Battle of Lewisburg in 1862, which resulted in a Confederate victory. The war had a lasting impact on the area, with many buildings and properties being destroyed or damaged.

After the war, Greenbrier County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The county became known for its booming timber and coal industries, which attracted new settlers and provided much-needed economic opportunities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further contributed to the county's industrial development.

Today, Greenbrier County is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and historic charm. The county is home to The Greenbrier, a world-famous luxury resort that has hosted numerous notable guests and events. Additionally, Greenbrier County offers outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The county continues to honor its roots with the preservation of historic sites and landmarks, showcasing its captivating past to visitors from near and far.
Brief timeline of the history of Greenbrier County, West Virginia:

  • 1778: Greenbrier County established in the state of Virginia
  • 1780: James Graham becomes the first settler in the county
  • 1782: Attack by Native Americans on Fort Donnally
  • 1796: Lewisburg established as the county seat
  • 1831: Greenbrier College for Women founded
  • 1822: Completion of the James River and Kanawha Turnpike, improving transportation
  • 1858: Greenbrier Military Academy opens
  • 1861: American Civil War begins, Greenbrier County largely supports the Confederacy
  • 1864: Union forces burn down Lewisburg during the Civil War
  • 1872: Completion of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway through the county
  • 1921: Construction of the Greenbrier Resort begins
  • 1962: The Greenbrier becomes a government relocation facility
  • 1986: Greenbrier Historical Society established

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Greenbrier County, West Virginia.