10 Oldest Cities in West Virginia

City	Founding Year	County	Population (2020)	Key Historical Event	Notable Landmark
Charleston	1794	Kanawha	48,864	Battle of Charleston (1862)	West Virginia State Capitol
Charles Town	1786	Jefferson	6,534	John Brown’s Raid (1859)	Jefferson County Courthouse
Buckhannon	1816	Upshur	5,639	Civil War Skirmishes	West Virginia Wesleyan College
Wheeling	1769	Ohio	27,062	Wheeling Conventions (1861-62)	West Virginia Independence Hall
Petersburg	1745	Grant	2,251	Civil War Battles	Grant County Courthouse
Shepherdstown	1762	Jefferson	1,734	Battle of Shepherdstown (1862)	Shepherd University
Romney	1762	Hampshire	1,848	Romney Expedition (1862)	Indian Mound Cemetery
Harpers Ferry	1763	Jefferson	285	John Brown’s Raid (1859)	Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Martinsburg	1778	Berkeley	17,454	B&O Railroad Arrival (1840s)	Martinsburg Roundhouse
Lewisburg	1782	Greenbrier	3,830	Battle of Lewisburg (1862)	Greenbrier County Courthouse

10 Oldest Cities In West Virginia

1. Charleston

What is the historical significance and founding year of Charleston?

Charleston, the capital and largest city of West Virginia, was officially established in 1794 by the Virginia General Assembly. The city’s history dates back to the 18th century when Thomas Bullitt was deeded land near the Elk River in 1773. The first permanent settlement, Fort Lee, was built in 1787 by Colonel George Clendenin and his company of Virginia Rangers.

What are the key historical landmarks in Charleston?

Charleston boasts several historical landmarks, including the West Virginia State Capitol, with its stunning 293-foot gold dome, and the Governor’s Mansion. Other notable sites include the Charleston Historic Districts, such as the Downtown Historic District and the East End Historic District, which feature a variety of historic buildings and structures.

How has Charleston evolved?

Charleston has evolved from a small settlement into a bustling city. Initially, industries like salt and natural gas were central to its economy. Over time, coal mining became significant, followed by trade, utilities, government, medicine, and education. The city has also seen substantial development in infrastructure and cultural amenities, making it a vibrant hub in West Virginia.

2. Charles Town

What is the founding and early history of Charles Town?

Charles Town was established in 1786 by Charles Washington, the youngest brother of President George Washington. The Virginia General Assembly officially incorporated the town in January 1787. Charles Washington laid out the streets and donated land for public buildings, ensuring the town’s development.

What role did Charles Town play in American history?

Charles Town is historically significant for its association with the Washington family and its role in the Civil War. It was the site of the trial and execution of abolitionist John Brown in 1859, an event that heightened tensions leading up to the Civil War. The town also witnessed significant military actions during the war.

Who are some notable historical figures from Charles Town?

Notable figures include Charles Washington, the town’s founder, and John Brown, whose raid on Harpers Ferry and subsequent trial in Charles Town are pivotal moments in American history. Additionally, several members of the Washington family, including Samuel Washington, have historical ties to the town.

3. Buckhannon

When was Buckhannon established and who were the early settlers?

Buckhannon was established in 1816 and named after Buckongahelas, a Delaware Indian chief. The early settlers were primarily of Scotch-Irish descent, and they played a significant role in the town’s development, focusing on agriculture and trade.

What are some historical events and milestones in Buckhannon?

Buckhannon has a rich history marked by events such as the establishment of West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1890. The town also played a role during the Civil War, with several skirmishes occurring in the area. The Strawberry Festival, an annual event since 1936, celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage.

How are historical sites preserved in Buckhannon?

Buckhannon takes pride in preserving its historical sites, including the historic district and several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Efforts are made to maintain the architectural integrity and historical significance of these sites, ensuring they remain a part of the town’s heritage.

4. Wheeling

What is the founding and development history of Wheeling?

Wheeling was founded in 1769 and became a significant settlement due to its strategic location along the Ohio River. It was officially incorporated in 1836. The city’s development was spurred by its role as a transportation hub, with the National Road and later the railroad contributing to its growth.

Why was Wheeling important during the Civil War?

Wheeling played a crucial role during the Civil War as the site of the Wheeling Conventions, which led to the creation of the state of West Virginia. It served as the state’s first capital and was a center of Union support. The city also hosted several military units and saw significant wartime activity.

What are some historic districts and architectural highlights in Wheeling?

Wheeling is home to several historic districts, including the Wheeling National Heritage Area, which showcases Victorian architecture and industrial heritage. Notable buildings include the West Virginia Independence Hall and the Centre Market, both of which reflect the city’s rich history.

5. Petersburg

What are the origins and early history of Petersburg?

Petersburg was established in the mid-18th century and named after Jacob Peterson, an early settler. The town grew as a center for trade and agriculture, benefiting from its location along the South Branch Potomac River.

What key historical events took place in Petersburg?

Petersburg has a history marked by its involvement in the Civil War, with several battles and skirmishes occurring in the area. The town also played a role in the development of the region’s agricultural and industrial sectors.

How is the cultural heritage of Petersburg preserved?

Petersburg preserves its cultural heritage through various historical sites and landmarks, including the Hermitage Inn and the Petersburg Historic District. Efforts are made to maintain these sites and educate the public about the town’s rich history.

6. Shepherdstown

What is the founding and historical background of Shepherdstown?

Shepherdstown, founded in 1762, is one of the oldest towns in West Virginia. It was originally named Mecklenburg and later renamed in honor of Thomas Shepherd, who laid out the town. The town’s early history is closely tied to its location along the Potomac River.

What role did Shepherdstown play in regional history?

Shepherdstown played a significant role in regional history, particularly during the Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Shepherdstown in 1862, which followed the Battle of Antietam. The town also served as a center for trade and education, with Shepherd University being a notable institution.

What are some historic buildings and sites in Shepherdstown?

Shepherdstown is home to numerous historic buildings and sites, including the Shepherdstown Historic District, which features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. Notable landmarks include the Entler Hotel and the Rumsey Monument.

7. Romney

When was Romney established and what is its historical context?

Romney, established in 1762, is the oldest town in West Virginia. It was originally part of Virginia and played a significant role in the early settlement of the region. The town’s history is marked by its strategic location and involvement in various historical events.

What significant historical events occurred in Romney?

Romney has a rich history that includes its role in the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the Civil War. The town changed hands multiple times during the Civil War, reflecting its strategic importance. Romney is also home to the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, established in 1870.

How are historical landmarks preserved in Romney?

Romney preserves its historical landmarks through various efforts, including the maintenance of the Romney Historic District and other significant sites. The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage ensures that its historical significance is recognized and celebrated.

8. Harpers Ferry

What is the founding and early development history of Harpers Ferry?

Harpers Ferry was established in 1763 by Robert Harper, who recognized the strategic importance of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The town grew as a transportation and industrial hub, particularly with the establishment of the Harpers Ferry Armory in 1799.

Why is Harpers Ferry historically significant in American history?

Harpers Ferry is historically significant for its role in John Brown’s raid in 1859, an event that heightened tensions leading to the Civil War. The town was also a key strategic location during the war, changing hands multiple times between Union and Confederate forces.

What are the key historical sites in Harpers Ferry and their importance?

Harpers Ferry is home to several key historical sites, including John Brown’s Fort, the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, and the Storer College campus. These sites reflect the town’s rich history and its role in significant national events.

9. Martinsburg

What is the founding and early history of Martinsburg?

Martinsburg was founded in 1778 by General Adam Stephen and named after Colonel Thomas Bryan Martin. The town grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the Potomac River and its role as a transportation hub.

What role did Martinsburg play in transportation and industry?

Martinsburg played a crucial role in transportation and industry, particularly with the arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 1840s. The town became a center for manufacturing and trade, contributing significantly to the region’s economic development.

What are some historical landmarks in Martinsburg and their stories?

Martinsburg is home to several historical landmarks, including the Martinsburg Roundhouse, the Belle Boyd House, and the Adam Stephen House. These sites reflect the town’s rich history and its contributions to transportation, industry, and the Civil War.

10. Lewisburg

What is the founding and historical significance of Lewisburg?

Lewisburg was established in 1782 and named after Andrew Lewis, a prominent figure in the American Revolution. The town’s early history is marked by its role as a center for trade and government in the region.

What are some key historical events and figures associated with Lewisburg?

Lewisburg has a rich history that includes its involvement in the Civil War, with the Battle of Lewisburg occurring in 1862. Notable figures associated with the town include General Andrew Lewis and other prominent settlers who contributed to its development.

How are the historical architecture and sites preserved in Lewisburg?

Lewisburg preserves its historical architecture and sites through various efforts, including the maintenance of the Lewisburg Historic District. The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage ensures that its historical significance is recognized and celebrated. In conclusion, the oldest cities in West Virginia each have unique histories and contributions to the state’s heritage.

From Charleston’s role as the state capital to Harpers Ferry’s significance in American history, these cities offer a rich tapestry of historical events, landmarks, and cultural heritage.