Dunkards of Pocahontas County

 Dunkards of Pocahontas County! Here are some additional details that you might find interesting:

• Historical context: The Dunkards, also known as the Church of the Brethren, arrived in the Cranberry River valley around 1800. This was a time of great religious and political upheaval in the United States, with many groups seeking refuge from persecution and a chance to practice their faith freely. The Dunkards' pacifist beliefs and commitment to communal living made them a unique and fascinating community in the early West Virginia landscape.

• Challenges and adaptations: The Dunkards faced many challenges in their new home. The Cranberry River valley was a harsh and unforgiving environment, with long winters, steep terrain, and limited access to resources. However, the Dunkards were a resourceful and resilient people. They cleared land for farming, built mills and log cabins, and developed a sustainable way of life based on agriculture and self-sufficiency.

• Religious life: The Dunkards' religious beliefs played a central role in their community life. They practiced a simple and unadorned form of Christianity, with an emphasis on pacifism, communal living, and mutual aid. Their worship services were held in plain meetinghouses, and they believed in living a life of service to God and their fellow man.

• Legacy and impact: The Dunkards left a lasting legacy on the Cranberry River valley and Pocahontas County. Their hard work and dedication helped to shape the region's early history, and their communities played a vital role in the development of schools, churches, and local infrastructure. Today, their descendants still live in the area, and their story continues to inspire those who are interested in the history of West Virginia and the unique religious communities that helped to define the state.