National Register Listing

Wells, William E., House

372 Virginia Terr., Newell, WV
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Industry

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2009.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture industry houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of West Virginia.
The Mothman, a legendary creature said to inhabit the area around Point Pleasant, West Virginia, gained national attention in the 1960s. The creature is described as a large, winged humanoid with glowing red eyes.
West Virginia random facts
Hancock County is located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, along the Ohio River. The area that is now Hancock County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mingo and Wyandot tribes. European settlement began in the late 18th century, and the area quickly became an important transportation hub due to its proximity to the Ohio River.

In the early 1800s, Hancock County experienced rapid growth as steamboats became a prominent mode of transportation on the Ohio River. The county was officially established in 1848 and named after John Hancock, the prominent American Revolutionary War leader. The town of New Cumberland, now the county seat, was established in 1835 and became an important center for trade and commerce.

During the Civil War, Hancock County saw divisions between supporters of the Union and the Confederacy. While many residents enlisted in the Union Army, some sympathized with the Confederacy and joined Confederate units. The county experienced occasional skirmishes and raids, but overall, it remained under Union control throughout the war.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hancock County experienced industrial growth with the establishment of several glass and pottery factories. This industrial boom brought economic prosperity to the region and led to a population increase. However, with the decline of the glass and pottery industries in the mid-20th century, the county faced economic challenges. Today, Hancock County is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors to its state parks and historic sites along the Ohio River.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hancock County, West Virginia.

  • 1769 - Hancock County was first explored by British colonists.
  • 1774 - The Treaty of Camp Charlotte was signed, opening the area to settlement.
  • 1793 - Hancock County was officially established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1828 - The town of New Manchester was founded, becoming the county seat.
  • 1850 - The completion of the Ohio River Railroad boosted the county's economy.
  • 1863 - During the American Civil War, Hancock County saw military action along the border.
  • 1881 - The construction of the Tomlinson Run Dam provided a reliable water supply.
  • 1905 - The first public high school, Weir High School, was established.
  • 1937 - The creation of Tomlinson State Park provided recreational opportunities.
  • 1966 - The county's first public library, the Mary H. Weir Public Library, was opened.
  • 1989 - The Mountaineer Racetrack and Casino opened, becoming a major attraction.