Cow Wars in Marlinton

 

1896:

• The "cow war" in Marlinton continues.
• William Jennings Bryan, a prominent figure in the national Democratic party, visits Marlinton for a political rally.
• The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad extension from Spruce to Marlinton is completed, leading to significant growth for the town.

1897:

• A large auction is held in Huntersville, WV.
• The Durbin Tannery is established in Durbin, WV, quickly becoming the largest independent tanning company in the United States.

1898:

• The Spanish-American War breaks out, impacting daily life in Marlinton.
• A grand picnic and dance are planned for the Fourth of July at Harmon Sharp's Grove in Marlinton.

1899:

• The "cow war" in Marlinton is still ongoing.
• The Pocahontas Times newspaper publishes a detailed article about the history of the town of Marlinton.
• The Pocahontas Times newspaper publishes an article about a forest fire in the area.

1902:

• The Pocahontas Times newspaper publishes a special edition commemorating the life of Septimus Hall, a prominent citizen who recently passed away. The edition details much of the history of the area, including the early settlers and development.

1906:

• The Lewisburg Seminary and Conservatory of Music advertises its programs.

1908:

• Jacob Cooper, a clothing store in Marlinton, advertises a winter clearance sale.

1909:

• Paul Golden, a store in Marlinton, advertises its selection of shoes.
• The Bank of Marlinton publishes its financial report.
• A church lawn party is held, with various games and activities organized by the community.

1910:

• Royal Baking Powder advertises its product, highlighting its popularity around the world.

1913-1914:

• The Pocahontas Times newspaper publishes articles and advertisements related to various local events, businesses, and people in Marlinton and surrounding areas.

1915-1916:

• The Pocahontas Times newspaper continues to publish articles about local events and people, providing insights into daily life in Pocahontas County during this time.

1929:

• Paul H. Price, a geologist, conducts research on the geology of Pocahontas County, taking photographs of various geological formations, including those on Howard Barlow's farm in Huntersville.

1950:

• The Pocahontas Producers Cooperative Association, Inc. advertises an upcoming sale of livestock.
• A drive-in theater called "Drive-In Bartow" is operating in the area.

1964:

• The Democratic Party primary election is held, with a long list of candidates vying for various local and state positions.
• The Alpine and Durbin Theaters are showing movies, including "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" and "To Catch a Thief".

1966:

• The Pocahontas Times newspaper publishes a series of articles on the history of logging and timbering in the area.
• Marlinton welcomes a new doctor to the community.

1967:

• Marlinton High School celebrates its 50th anniversary.

1968:

• The Pocahontas Times newspaper continues its series of articles on the history of logging in the area, focusing on the pioneer era.

1969:

• The graduating class of Marlinton High School publishes their "Last Will and Testament", humorously bequeathing their belongings and skills to remaining students.

Cast of Characters

Note: This list only includes individuals who were mentioned in more than one source or who played a significant role in the events described.

John T. McGraw (1858-1917): Prominent lawyer, judge, and entrepreneur who played a key role in the development of Pocahontas County. He established the town of Marlinton and served as the first president of the Bank of Marlinton.

• Key Events: Purchased land and founded Marlinton, served as legal counsel for various businesses and individuals, presided over court cases, represented Pocahontas County in the West Virginia Legislature.

Septimus Hall (1837-1902): Prominent citizen and entrepreneur involved in various industries including lumber, real estate, and banking.

• Key Events: Early settler of Marlinton, established businesses, owned and operated lumber mills, served as a director of the Bank of Marlinton.

Paul H. Price (1898-1973): Geologist who conducted extensive research on the geology of Pocahontas County.

• Key Events: Authored publications on the geology of the region, took numerous photographs documenting geological formations, contributed to the understanding of the region's natural resources.

Howard Barlow: Resident of Huntersville, owner of land with unique geological formations.

• Key Events: His farm was the site of geological study and photography by Paul H. Price.

Other Notable Individuals:

• J. E. Buckley: Early resident and merchant in Marlinton, operated a general store and later a furniture store.
• Harmon Sharp: Resident of Marlinton, owned a grove that was used for community events.
• William Jennings Bryan: Prominent national figure in the Democratic party, visited Marlinton in 1896 for a political rally.
• A. B. Brooks: State Forester who authored reports on the forests and lumber industry of Pocahontas County.
• R. C. Tucker: Assistant Geologist who worked with A. B. Brooks and updated reports on the region's topography and lumber resources.

Businesses and Organizations:

• The Pocahontas Times: Local newspaper in Marlinton that chronicled local events, businesses, and people.
• The Bank of Marlinton: One of the first banks established in Marlinton, serving the financial needs of the community.
• Durbin Tannery (Howes Leather Company): Leather tanning company located in Durbin, WV, known for its size and success.

This detailed timeline and cast of characters provide a glimpse into the history of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting key events, prominent figures, and the growth of the region.