Marshall County / Ohio County

Marshall County, located in the northern part of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, until European settlers arrived in the 1770s. The county was officially established in 1835, named after Chief Justice John Marshall.

In the early years, Marshall County's economy relied on agriculture and farming. The discovery of oil and gas reserves in the late 19th century brought a significant economic boom to the region. Oil and gas extraction became major industries, attracting large numbers of immigrants seeking work. The population grew rapidly, and towns like Moundsville and Glen Dale flourished.

One of the most notable attractions in Marshall County is the West Virginia Penitentiary, which operated as a maximum-security prison from 1876 to 1995. The prison housed notorious criminals and witnessed numerous riots and executions. Today, it serves as a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours and haunted house events.

The history of Marshall County is also intertwined with the tragic event known as the Silver Bridge Collapse. On December 15, 1967, the Silver Bridge, a suspension bridge connecting West Virginia and Ohio, collapsed, resulting in the death of 46 people. This event led to significant changes in bridge construction and safety regulations across the country.

Overall, Marshall County's history reflects the evolution of a primarily agricultural community into an industrialized region with a focus on oil and gas extraction. Its landmarks, such as the West Virginia Penitentiary and the Silver Bridge Collapse, serve as reminders of the county's past and contribute to its unique cultural heritage.