The Pocahontas Times from 1909-1910 and 1915-1916 offer a glimpse into the political landscape

 

Prohibition:

• The debate over statewide prohibition was a major issue in West Virginia during this period. The sources reflect strong opinions on both sides of the issue.
• One article from January 1909 discusses the fight for a statewide prohibition amendment in the state legislature. While acknowledging the strength of the prohibition movement in Pocahontas County, the author expressed understanding for those who held differing views and recognized the contentious nature of the issue.
• Another article from May 1909 criticizes opponents of statewide prohibition for their arguments and tactics, suggesting that they misled honest voters about the potential impact of the measure.
• The success of prohibition in West Virginia is evident in a May 1916 article. It observes that Governor Henry D. Hatfield had done "wonders in the way of sobriety enforced on a sovereign state" through his strong enforcement of prohibition laws.

Political Corruption and Reform:

• Concerns about political corruption and the influence of special interests are present in the sources.
• A series of articles published in 1909 detail allegations of bribery and corruption surrounding a legislative vote on an amendment related to the liquor industry. The articles highlight testimony given to a legislative committee investigating these claims, with witnesses alleging large sums of money were exchanged to influence the outcome of the vote.
• An article from May 1909 criticizes the lack of transparency and accountability in the handling of the state's debt to Virginia. The author argues that the public was being kept in the dark about the details of the debt settlement and that this lack of information allowed for potential corruption and manipulation by politicians and special interests.
• In 1915, an article laments the use of “political prayer meetings,” arguing that such events were driven by religious and political fanaticism, fostered division and hatred, and ultimately undermined both the church and the state.

Political Parties and Elections:

• The sources cover various local and state elections, providing insights into the dynamics of the two major parties – the Democrats and the Republicans – and the emergence of the Progressive Party.
• In a 1909 article reporting on a local election in Marlinton, the presence of only one ticket suggests a lack of political competition at the local level.
• Articles from 1915 and 1916 discuss the upcoming gubernatorial and senatorial races in West Virginia, analyzing potential candidates and their chances of success. Several names are mentioned as potential contenders for governor on the Republican side, including Judge Ira Robinson, John Sherman Darst, and A. B. White.
• The impact of Theodore Roosevelt's Progressive Party on the Republican Party is evident in articles from 1915 and 1916. An article from September 1915 describes the removal of William Seymour Edwards as the national committeeman for the Republican Party in West Virginia due to his support for Roosevelt's "Bull Moose" movement. Virgil Highland was appointed to replace him. An article from January 1916 suggests that the Republican Party was seeking to distance itself from Roosevelt and his more radical policies in hopes of regaining power in the 1916 election.
• A 1916 article highlights the importance of newspapers in shaping public opinion and influencing the outcome of elections. It suggests that candidates who effectively utilize publicity and media coverage have a better chance of winning nominations and elections.

National Politics:

• The sources also address national political events, particularly those related to President Woodrow Wilson's administration and the ongoing war in Europe.
• One article from 1915 discusses President Wilson’s handling of diplomatic relations with Germany during the war. The author contends that Wilson's firm stance in defending American interests was the right course of action and would have been adopted by any president regardless of party affiliation.
• An article from 1915 criticizes Theodore Roosevelt’s outspoken calls for American intervention in the war. The author argues that such rhetoric, particularly coming from an older man who would not be fighting in the war himself, was irresponsible and could needlessly endanger young men by fostering a war-mongering spirit.
• An article from January 1916 discusses the upcoming presidential election and speculates on the potential Democratic nominee. The author expresses confidence that Wilson will be re-elected but acknowledges the possibility of a Republican victory if the party unites behind a strong candidate.

Other Political Developments:

• An article from November 1915 reports on a special election to determine the location of the Pocahontas County courthouse, highlighting the significance of such decisions in local politics.
• A December 1915 article details a controversy surrounding the dismissal of the assistant postmaster in Fairmont and the subsequent resignation of several employees. The incident sparked accusations of political motivations and raised questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the civil service system.
• A January 1916 article discusses the role of the State Bar Association in shaping political discussions and influencing the upcoming presidential election. The author suggests that the association's annual meeting serves as a platform for politicians to network, strategize, and assess public sentiment ahead of the election.
• A January 1916 article analyzes the political ambitions of E. L. Long, the long-serving treasurer of West Virginia, who sought the office of auditor but faced unexpected competition from John Sherman Darst, who initially campaigned for governor. The author uses this situation to illustrate the unpredictable and often cutthroat nature of political maneuvering.

The Pocahontas Times offers a valuable historical record of the political events and social attitudes of this rural West Virginia county during a period of significant change and upheaval at both the state and national levels. The articles reflect the hopes, anxieties, and political battles of a community grappling with issues like prohibition, political corruption, and the role of America in a world at war.