Certainly! In Virgil A. Lewis's essay on the Indian names of West Virginia, the section titled "The Meaning of the Word 'West Virginia'" delves into the origin and interpretation of the state's name.
Literal Meaning:
On the surface, "West Virginia" is a straightforward combination of cardinal directions: "west" indicating its location relative to the original Virginia, and "Virginia" itself derived from "Virginea," the Latin name for Queen Elizabeth I, who granted the land charter in 1584.
Indigenous Perspective:
However, Lewis argues that a deeper understanding lies in the indigenous interpretations of the region's waterways and landmarks. He cites several possibilities:
- "Kanawha": This prominent river's name likely stemmed from the Kanawha tribe, meaning "river of winding waters" or "snake river."
- "Monongahela": This river's name, meaning "falling water" or "place of much water," could have influenced the designation.
- "Allegheny": This
mountain range's name, possibly derived from the Lenape word
"wellikhanna" meaning "beautiful river," might have resonated with early
settlers.
Lewis emphasizes that these indigenous interpretations offer a more evocative and culturally significant understanding of the land than the purely directional label "West Virginia."
Beyond the Label:
Ultimately, Lewis suggests that the name "West Virginia" serves as a reminder of the complex history and diverse influences that have shaped the state. It's not just a geographical marker, but a tapestry woven from European colonists, Native American tribes, and the land itself.
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