"Cat Hole": A Whirlpool on the Greenbrier River

 

"Cat Hole": A Whirlpool on the Greenbrier River

The "Cat Hole" was a noteworthy whirlpool located in a bend of the Greenbrier River, eight miles below Marlinton, West Virginia. It was a deep, swirling pool of water notorious among river pilots for its unpredictable currents.

The sources recount several tales associated with the Cat Hole, including:

• Tales of ordinary driftwood remaining trapped within the whirlpool for weeks.
• A pilot's story about surviving a shipwreck on an island a mile above the Cat Hole, highlighting the treacherous nature of the river in this area.
• Accounts from knowledgeable individuals familiar with the Greenbrier River, who shared tales about the Cat Hole and the challenges it posed for river navigation.

The Cat Hole's deep swirling waters and unpredictable currents seem to have captured the imagination of those familiar with it, leading to stories and anecdotes about its captivating nature.

While the sources offer fascinating insights into the "Cat Hole," they do not explain the origin of the name. It is worth noting that this is a historical account and may not reflect the current state of the Greenbrier River.