Town of Watoga in Pocahontas County

 

Examining the Town of Watoga in Pocahontas County

The sources highlight various aspects of Watoga, a town in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, primarily focusing on its natural setting and historical events related to the surrounding areas. Here's a summary of the key points:

• Early Settlers: Source mentions a 100-acre grant issued to Adam Arbogast in 1811, recorded in the Pendleton Grant Book. This grant suggests early settlement in the upper Greenbrier region shortly after the Revolutionary War, around 1784 or 1785. The first settlers included John Yeager, Abram Burner, John Slavin, Adam Arbogast, and William Houchin.

• Location and Natural Setting: The sources place Watoga within Pocahontas County, which is situated entirely within the Allegheny Mountains. The main trunk line of the Allegheny Mountains forms the eastern boundary of the county, with its western side characterized by highlands and valleys. The climate of Pocahontas County is described as mountainous, with cold winters and hot, relatively few hot, summers. Watoga is situated near the Greenbrier River. The sources frequently mention the Greenbrier River as a defining feature of the county's landscape and a significant transportation route.

• Watoga State Park: Source mentions an earthen dam at Watoga State Park that collapsed and drained a six-acre lake. The conservation department planned to rebuild the dam. Source provides further details about Watoga State Park, describing it as the larger of the State Parks. It was a popular destination for vacation outings due to its mountain setting, offering activities such as boating and cycling. Source notes that Watoga State Park is located south of Watoga, on the east side of Greenbrier River.

• Watoga as a Benchmark Location: The sources list various benchmarks for surveying and elevation measurements located in and around Watoga. These benchmarks indicate the town's presence on maps and its importance as a reference point. For instance, benchmarks are mentioned near the railroad tracks, suggesting that Watoga was situated along a railroad line.

Drawing Connections and Insights:

• Watoga's Role in Pocahontas County: The sources, while primarily focusing on natural features, indirectly suggest Watoga's role as a significant location within the broader context of Pocahontas County. Its mention in land grants, the presence of a state park, and its use as a benchmark location point to its prominence and historical significance.

• Shifting Landscape: The collapse of the dam at Watoga State Park highlights the dynamic nature of the landscape and the impact of human interventions on the natural environment.

• Tourism and Recreation: The development of Watoga State Park indicates a growing recognition of the area's scenic beauty and its potential for tourism and recreation.

To gain a deeper understanding of Watoga's specific history, including its founding, development, and social life, additional research beyond the provided sources is recommended. Local historical societies, town archives, and genealogical resources could provide valuable insights into the human stories that shaped the town's identity.