National Register Listing

Lost River General Store

6993 WV 259, Lost River, WV
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

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.

The West Virginia University Mountaineers football team played the first ever college football night game in 1892. The game was played under electric lights at the Mountaineer Field in Morgantown.
West Virginia random facts
Hardy County, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Tuscarora. European settlers began arriving in the early 18th century, leading to conflicts with the indigenous peoples. Eventually, treaties were signed, and the settlers established a thriving agricultural community.

During the American Revolutionary War, Hardy County played a significant role, with many of its residents joining the fight for independence. The county was located between the competing forces of the British and the Patriots, leading to several skirmishes and battles that impacted the local population. In the years following the war, the area experienced rapid growth, attracting new settlers and leading to the creation of several townships and settlements.

In the mid-19th century, Hardy County became a center for transportation and commerce with the arrival of the South Branch Valley Railroad. The railroad connected the county's agricultural products, such as timber and livestock, to major markets. This enabled the economy to diversify, and industries such as manufacturing and mining began to emerge. The railroad also brought an influx of tourism, as visitors were attracted to the natural beauty of the region, including the nearby Lost River State Park.

Throughout the 20th century, Hardy County experienced both challenges and opportunities. The county's economy fluctuated due to factors such as the decline of the railroad industry and the effects of the Great Depression. However, the county continued to adapt and thrive. Today, Hardy County is known for its strong sense of community, its vibrant cultural heritage, and its natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live and visit in West Virginia.

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

  • 1785 - Hardy County, WV is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1790 - Moorefield, the county seat of Hardy County, is founded.
  • 1794 - Hardy County becomes part of the newly-formed state of West Virginia.
  • 1860s - Hardy County experiences significant Civil War activity, with both Union and Confederate troops present in the area.
  • 1914 - The South Branch Valley Railroad is completed, providing a crucial transportation link for the county.
  • 1930s - Hardy County becomes a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreational activities.
  • 1990 - The Lost River State Park is established, adding to the county's appeal as a tourist destination.
  • 2002 - The Potomac Highlands Airport is opened in Hardy County, improving access to the region.