National West Virginia Day occurs annually on June 20. This day commemorates West Virginia’s status as the final state to be formed from one of the original thirteen British colonies. This day marks the beginning of a region that is home to some of the country’s largest forests, a coal mining industry, and a diverse cultural history. Yes, West Virginia has numerous assets of which its residents can be proud. On West Virginia Day, explore the state’s natural grandeur and rich history. Importantly, let your contagious enthusiasm inspire others to celebrate as well! The Allegheny, Appalachian, and Blue Ridge Mountains are three of the most well-known mountain ranges in West Virginia. The state of West Virginia produces the most coal east of the Mississippi River. The state has profound cultural ties to its indigenous ancestors and a rich cultural heritage.
The background of National West Virginia Day
Before the advent of European settlers, numerous Native Americans utilised West Virginia as a hunting ground. It contains ancient earthen mounds built by various mound-building cultures. Once Europeans arrived and settled here, the indigenous people were forced to the city’s outskirts.
In 10,500 B.C., along the main river valleys and water sources, the Paleo-Indian culture emerged as the first civilization in the area. In the year 500 B.C., the Adena culture was the dominant influence in West Virginia. The Adena Indians utilised ceremonial pipes as if they were objects of art. They were referred to as the Woodland Indians. They grew sunflowers, gourds, and squash in their round, wicker-sided, bark-sheet-roofed wigwam homes. Their neighbourhood contained farmers and cultivators. They also raised canines as companions.
The establishment of West Virginia as a state in the United States was a tumultuous one due to sectional differences. In fact, approximately 2,000 residents petitioned for the establishment of a 14th colony named ‘Westsylvania.’ If the petition had been approved by the Continental Congress, Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania would have been included in this colony.
In 1829, the Virginia Constitutional Convention convened in Richmond to discuss updating the state’s antiquated constitution. Philip Doddridge desired that western Virginians adopt a more democratic form of governance, but leaders east of the Alleghenies rejected this notion.
In 1861, the state of Virginia voted to secede from the United States during the Civil War. This effort was unsuccessful, resulting in the establishment of the Union-supporting state of West Virginia. When the American Civil War broke out, Virginia was on the verge of leaving the Union and joining the Confederacy. On April 20, 1863, however, President Abraham Lincoln made a decision that altered the course of history: he declared that West Virginia would join the United States as a separate state. In 1863, Virginia became a member of the Union. By 1864, informal celebrations of West Virginia Day were widespread, and in 1927 it was formally designated as a state holiday.
Following the establishment of the state, there was also discussion about making Wheeling the capital. In 1870, Charleston became the capital, but in 1875, the decision was reversed and Wheeling became the capital. To settle the issue once and for all, a statewide vote was held in 1877, and Charleston was chosen as the capital. West Virginia Day is celebrated annually throughout the state, including in the Charleston capital complex. In light of West Virginia’s complicated past, it is not surprising that people go all out to celebrate its founding.
International Nystagmus Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Eye Disorder
World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Sickle Cell diseases
World Sauntering Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Sauntering
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA
The state was to be named after a Native American tribe, but West Virginia was selected instead.
West Virginia is home to the oldest and largest Native American burial ground in the country.
The Punch Jones Diamond, the largest alluvial diamond in North America, was discovered in Peterstown.
The Post Office Department’s pilot programme introduced this mail service in Charles Town in 1896 to test the viability of a nationwide rural delivery system.
The earliest dime store in the United States, Berdine’s Five and Dime, is located in Harrisville, West Virginia.
NATIONAL WEST VIRGINIA DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | June 20 | Tuesday |
2024 | June 20 | Thursday |
2025 | June 20 | Friday |
2026 | June 20 | Saturday |
2027 | June 20 | Sunday |