Prominent Early Figures of Pocahontas County

 

The sources offer a glimpse into the lives of numerous individuals who played a role in the early history of Pocahontas County, West Virginia. These accounts often highlight their contributions to settling the land, their roles in local governance, and their involvement in various industries. While the sources don't explicitly rank individuals by prominence, they do offer clues that help us identify some of the most influential figures.

Here are some of the figures who appear to have been particularly prominent in the early history of Pocahontas County, based on the information provided in the sources:

John McNeel is identified as the first to permanently occupy the Little Levels. He is described as a devout Methodist who, along with his wife, is credited with laying the foundation for the Methodist Church in the region. The sources suggest that his influence on religious life in the Levels was significant and enduring.

 
Moses Moore was an early settler on Knapps Creek, known at the time as Ewing's Creek. He is described as a hunter and scout, and his family became deeply intertwined with the history of Pocahontas County. The sources detail the marriages and accomplishments of his descendants, suggesting his family played a significant role in the county's development.

 
Colonel John Baxter was a key figure in the establishment of Pocahontas County. He was instrumental in securing its formation from parts of Bath, Pendleton, and Randolph counties. He served as a Justice of the Peace, administered oaths of office, and was nominated as the first Colonel of the 127th Regiment of the Virginia militia. The sources also mention that John Bradshaw, a prominent early resident, offered enticing inducements that led to Huntersville being chosen as the county seat, despite a committee's recommendation for a location near Baxter's residence.
 

John Bradshaw was an early settler of Huntersville and played a significant role in the town's development. He was a member of the first court and is credited with advocating for the name "Huntersville" in honor of the hunters who frequented the area. His residence later became the site of the "Lightner House." The sources also mention that his inducements led to Huntersville becoming the county seat.
 

Josiah Beard served as the first Clerk of Pocahontas County and was a prominent figure in the county's early legal and administrative affairs. He was known for his intellect, strong will, and gentle demeanor. His wife, Rachel Cameron Poage, was the daughter of Major William Poage, another notable figure in the county's history.
Major William Poage settled in the Little Levels, at the location later occupied by Charles W. Beard. He was a Presbyterian ruling elder and is considered the founder of the Oak Grove Church. He and his sons, who were also elders, played a significant role in fostering religious life in the region, hosting meetings even during times when the pulpit was vacant. The sources credit the family with contributing to a revival movement that had a widespread impact on Presbyterian congregations throughout Virginia.

 
Jacob Warwick was the father of Nancy Gatewood, who became the wife of William Poage, Jr., son of Major William Poage. This marriage further connects the Warwick family to the Poage family and highlights their influence in the Little Levels community.

 
Captain William Young resided on Stony Creek and is described as a well-respected surveyor. He held the office of surveyor for many years, likely due to his skills and reputation. His dedication to education is evident in his pursuit of learning from various teachers, including acquiring surveying knowledge from John McNulty.

These individuals, along with many others mentioned in the sources, shaped the early development of Pocahontas County. Their contributions to settlement, governance, industry, and religious life helped establish the foundation for the county's growth and identity. The interconnectedness of these families through marriages and shared community involvement further underscores their influence on the county's early history.