The history of Stamping Creek, West Virginia

 

The history of Stamping Creek, West Virginia, is closely tied to the surrounding area, which has been inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years. The creek is located in Pocahontas County, which is part of the traditional territory of the Tutelo people. The Tutelo were a Siouan-speaking people who lived in the region until the early 18th century, when they were forced to migrate south by Iroquois pressure.

In the mid-18th century, European settlers began to arrive in the Pocahontas County area. The first recorded settler in Stamping Creek was a man named John McCoy, who arrived in 1763. McCoy built a cabin near the creek and began farming the land.

Other settlers soon followed McCoy, and Stamping Creek became a small but thriving community. The settlers built homes and businesses, and they also established a school and a church. In the early 19th century, Stamping Creek became a popular destination for lumberjacks and other loggers. The surrounding forests were abundant in timber, and the creek provided a convenient way to transport the logs to market.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Stamping Creek and the surrounding area. The county was divided in its loyalties, and many residents fought on both sides of the conflict. After the war, the community began to rebuild. However, the population of Stamping Creek declined in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as many people moved to larger cities in search of work.

In the mid-20th century, Stamping Creek became a popular destination for tourists. The creek is known for its trout fishing and its scenic beauty. Today, Stamping Creek is a small but vibrant community with a rich history.

The following are some notable events in the history of Stamping Creek:

• 1763: John McCoy becomes the first recorded settler in Stamping Creek.
• 1780s: The Stamping Creek community is established, with homes, businesses, a school, and a church.
• Early 19th century: Stamping Creek becomes a popular destination for lumberjacks and other loggers.
• 1861-1865: The Civil War divides the Stamping Creek community, with many residents fighting on both sides of the conflict.
• Late 19th and early 20th centuries: The population of Stamping Creek declines as many people move to larger cities in search of work.
• Mid-20th century: Stamping Creek becomes a popular destination for tourists.
• Today: Stamping Creek is a small but vibrant community with a rich history.