Lewis County, West Virginia

Lewis County, West Virginia has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Moneton nations. European settlers began to explore the region in the mid-1700s, and Lewis County was officially established in 1816.

The county was named after Colonel Charles Lewis, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War. In the early years, Lewis County was primarily an agricultural community, with farming and logging as the main industries. The small town of Weston, which became the county seat, grew rapidly due to its location along the Northwestern Turnpike.

One of the most significant events in Lewis County's history occurred during the Civil War. Weston was the site of the Weston Insane Asylum, which was the second-largest mental institution in the United States at the time. During the war, the asylum was used as a military prison by both Union and Confederate forces. The infamous raid led by William "Grumble" Jones in 1863 resulted in the escape of over 700 Confederate prisoners.

In the 20th century, Lewis County experienced economic growth with the discovery of natural gas and oil in the region. The extraction of these resources brought new industries and job opportunities to the area. Today, Lewis County remains a close-knit community with a blend of rural charm and modern amenities, attracting visitors with its picturesque scenery and historical landmarks, such as the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, which is now a popular tourist attraction.
Brief timeline of the history of Lewis County, West Virginia:

  • 1771: Lewis County was established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1774: The first permanent settler, John Jackson, arrived in the area.
  • 1805: Weston, the county seat, was established.
  • 1811: The first courthouse was built in Weston.
  • 1861-1865: Lewis County experienced significant involvement in the American Civil War.
  • 1863: Weston became the site of the infamous "Weston Lunatic Asylum" (later known as Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum).
  • 1936-1942: Stonewall Jackson Dam and Stonewall Jackson Lake were constructed.
  • 1964: The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum ceased operations.
  • 2005: The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum was opened for tours and events.

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

Audiobooks about the history of West Virginia.