Historical Marker

McDowell in the Civil War

Historical marker location:
Welch, West Virginia
( Marker is on Coal Heritage Highway (U.S. 52) 1.1 miles west of Riverside Drive (West Virginia Route 103), on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 2017

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

The world's first federal prison exclusively for women was established in Alderson, West Virginia, in 1927.
West Virginia random facts
McDowell County, located in the southern part of West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to Native American tribes who first inhabited the region. In the 1700s, European settlers began arriving in the area, attracted by the region's abundant natural resources, including coal, timber, and fertile land. However, it was not until the 19th century, with the expansion of the coal mining industry, that McDowell County experienced significant growth and development.

The coal mining boom in the late 1800s and early 1900s brought an influx of immigrants to McDowell County, including Italians, Hungarians, and African-Americans, who sought employment in the mines. This diverse population contributed to the cultural richness and unique heritage of the area. However, the working conditions in the mines were harsh, and labor disputes were not uncommon, leading to several violent conflicts, most notably the Battle of Matewan in 1920.

Despite the challenges, the coal mining industry continued to be a major economic force in McDowell County throughout the 20th century. The county thrived during World War II, as the demand for coal increased. However, in the latter half of the century, the industry faced a decline due to competition, mechanization, and increased environmental regulations. Many mines closed, leading to a significant loss of jobs and a decline in population.

Today, McDowell County still faces economic challenges, with high poverty rates and limited job opportunities. However, efforts are being made to diversify and revitalize the local economy, including the promotion of tourism and the development of educational and healthcare sectors. McDowell County's history, although marked by struggles, is a testament to the resilience and strength of its people, who continue to work towards a brighter future.

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

  • 1858 - McDowell County is established as a county in the state of Virginia.
  • 1882 - The Norfolk and Western Railway reaches McDowell County, spurring coal mining activities in the region.
  • 1900 - McDowell County is the largest coal-producing county in West Virginia and one of the leading coal producers in the United States.
  • 1921 - The Battle of Blair Mountain takes place in McDowell County, marking one of the largest labor uprisings in U.S. history.
  • 1951 - Welch becomes the county seat of McDowell County.
  • 1960s and 1970s - The coal industry in McDowell County declines, leading to population loss and economic challenges.
  • 1980s - Efforts to diversify the economy in McDowell County begin, focusing on tourism and small-scale industries.
  • 2012 - President Barack Obama visits McDowell County, highlighting the county's struggles and the need for revitalization efforts.
  • Present - McDowell County continues to face economic challenges but is making efforts to rebuild and create new opportunities for its residents.