National Register Listing

Smithland Farm

a.k.a. McCausland, General John, Memorial Farm

US 35 bet. Lower Nine Mile Rd. and Lower Five Mile Rd., Henderson, WV
Local significance of the building:
Agriculture; Architecture; Education

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

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 State Penitentiary in Moundsville, West Virginia, operated from 1866 to 1995, and was known for its harsh conditions and numerous executions. The prison is now a tourist attraction and offers tours of the facility.
West Virginia random facts
Mason County, West Virginia, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Mound Builders. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and the region quickly became a center for trade and commerce due to its proximity to the Ohio River.

The county was officially established in 1804 and named after George Mason, a prominent Founding Father. During the 19th century, Mason County experienced significant growth and played a vital role in the development of the region. The construction of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the expansion of the Ohio River transportation system further stimulated economic activity in the area.

Mason County was deeply affected by the American Civil War, as it was located on the border between the Union and Confederate states. The county saw both Union and Confederate troops pass through its boundaries, resulting in skirmishes and raids. Notably, the Battle of Buffington Island, one of the few Civil War battles fought in the state, occurred in Mason County in 1863.

In the 20th century, Mason County continued to evolve, embracing industrialization and modernization. The discovery of oil and natural gas reserves led to the establishment of various petroleum-related industries. In recent years, the county has focused on diversifying its economy, with sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and healthcare gaining importance. Today, Mason County is cherished for its natural beauty, rich heritage, and strong community spirit.

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

  • 1774 - Daniel Boone explores the area
  • 1804 - Mason County is established
  • 1809 - First permanent settlement, Point Pleasant, is founded
  • 1830 - Completion of the Kanawha River locks and dam
  • 1846 - The Battle of Point Pleasant Civil War battle takes place
  • 1863 - West Virginia becomes a state, and Mason County is part of it
  • 1901 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway reaches Mason County
  • 1967 - The Silver Bridge, connecting Mason County and Gallia County, Ohio, collapses
  • 2003 - The Point Pleasant River Museum is established