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Friday, December 29, 2023

Dunkards who settled in the Cranberry River valley of present-day Pocahontas County

dunkards on the cranberry river. Image 1 of 4

Dunkards who settled in the Cranberry River valley of present-day Pocahontas County, West Virginia, around 1800. This is a fascinating topic with a rich history waiting to be explored.

Here's what I can tell you about their fate:

Arrival and Establishment:

  • The Dunkards, also known as the Church of the Brethren, arrived in the Cranberry River valley around 1800, seeking religious freedom and fertile land for farming.
  • They established several communities, including Mill Run, Big Run, and Little Beaver Creek.
  • Their simple lifestyle emphasized communal living, pacifism, and self-sufficiency.

Challenges and Adaptations:

  • The early years were challenging, with harsh winters and difficult terrain.
  • However, the Dunkards were resourceful and adapted to their new environment.
  • They cleared land for farming, built mills and log cabins, and developed a sustainable agrarian lifestyle.
  • They also played a vital role in shaping the early history of Pocahontas County, contributing to the development of schools, churches, and local infrastructure.

Legacy and Transformation:

  • Over time, the Dunkard communities evolved and assimilated into the broader American culture.
  • Today, their descendants still live in the Cranberry River valley, but their way of life has changed significantly.
  • Many former Dunkard farms have been converted to vacation rentals or working cattle ranches.
  • However, the legacy of the Dunkards lives on in the historic buildings, cemeteries, and traditions that remain.

Further Exploration:

If you'd like to learn more about the Dunkards of the Cranberry River valley, here are some suggestions:

  • Visit the Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum in Marlinton, West Virginia, which houses exhibits on the Dunkards and other early settlers.
  • Explore the Cranberry River State Forest, which encompasses much of the former Dunkard territory and offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.
  • Read books about the history of the Dunkards in West Virginia, such as "The Dunkards of Pocahontas County" by J.M. McWhorter or "Cranberry River" by John N. Frail.

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