Thomas, Yesterday and Today
Historical marker location:
154 Appalachian Highway, Thomas, West Virginia
( Marker is on Appalachian Highway (West Virginia Route 32), in the median.)
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Thomas, West Virginia
More history nearby
Historic Thomas and the Coketon Industrial Complex / News Flash!
HISTORICAL MARKER
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Exploring the Coketon Industrial Site / West Virginia Coal
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The Story of a River / Life in a Coal Mining Town
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"All that Humanity Could Desire
"
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Thomas, West Virginia Mine Disaster Memorial
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About Tucker County
Tucker County Timeline
Tucker County, West Virginia, is located in the northeastern part of the state and was established in 1856. Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Seneca, Shawnee, and Delaware tribes. These tribes used the region's resources for hunting, fishing, and farming.
In the 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area, attracted by the rich natural resources and fertile land. The first permanent settler in what is now Tucker County was Henry Fansler in 1774. Over the years, more settlers arrived and established small communities, primarily focused on agriculture and logging.
The county's economy began to shift in the late 19th century with the arrival of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway, which opened the area up for coal mining and timber industries. These industries brought an influx of people to the region and led to the development of more towns and communities.
Throughout the 20th century, Tucker County continued to rely on its natural resources for its economy, with mining, logging, and later tourism becoming the main sources of income. Today, Tucker County is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and small-town charm. The county is home to parts of the Monongahela National Forest, Blackwater Falls State Park, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
In the 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area, attracted by the rich natural resources and fertile land. The first permanent settler in what is now Tucker County was Henry Fansler in 1774. Over the years, more settlers arrived and established small communities, primarily focused on agriculture and logging.
The county's economy began to shift in the late 19th century with the arrival of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway, which opened the area up for coal mining and timber industries. These industries brought an influx of people to the region and led to the development of more towns and communities.
Throughout the 20th century, Tucker County continued to rely on its natural resources for its economy, with mining, logging, and later tourism becoming the main sources of income. Today, Tucker County is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and small-town charm. The county is home to parts of the Monongahela National Forest, Blackwater Falls State Park, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
Tucker County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Tucker County, West Virginia.
- 1800 - Tucker County, WV was formed from a part of Randolph County.
- 1831 - The first land survey was conducted in the area.
- 1851 - St. George Tucker County Seat was established.
- 1871 - The United Methodist Church was built in Thomas.
- 1881 - The first telephone lines were installed in Tucker County.
- 1892 - The West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railway was completed, connecting Tucker County to the national railroad network.
- 1921 - The Tucker County Airport was established.
- 1935 - Canaan Valley State Park was established as the first state park in West Virginia.
- 1959 - Timberline Four Seasons Resort opened, offering skiing and other winter sports.
- 1980 - The Dolly Sods Wilderness Area was designated as part of the Monongahela National Forest.