Disorderly Conduct at Hotel Pocahontas

 

Events of 1889 in Huntersville

The sources primarily focus on events surrounding a dispute between W.W. Wagoner, the proprietor of Hotel Pocahontas, and Ed Finn, a guest at the hotel. The sources also mention other local happenings, providing a glimpse into life in Huntersville during 1889. Here are 10 events from that year, as gleaned from the sources:

• Disorderly Conduct at Hotel Pocahontas: The sources describe an incident involving Ed Finn, a guest at Hotel Pocahontas, engaging in disruptive behavior. Finn had been staying at the hotel for some time and had a history of causing disturbances.

• Eviction of Ed Finn: W.W. Wagoner, the proprietor of Hotel Pocahontas, attempted to evict Ed Finn due to his unruly behavior. Finn initially refused to leave, leading to further conflict.

• Threatened Assault: The situation escalated to the point where Wagoner threatened to physically assault Finn to force him out of the hotel.

• Involvement of John B. Walker: John B. Walker, another resident of Huntersville, became involved in the altercation between Wagoner and Finn. The sources do not specify the nature of Walker's involvement, but it appears he may have tried to mediate or intervene.

• Finn's Temporary Departure: Following the threats of violence, Finn left Hotel Pocahontas and took up lodgings at a nearby boarding house run by Mrs. Schrader.

• Finn's Return to Hotel Pocahontas: After a period of time, Finn returned to Hotel Pocahontas.

• Musical Performance: A "Grand Cake Walk" was held in Huntersville, drawing a large crowd and featuring a musical performance.

• Agricultural Pursuits: The sources provide a glimpse into the agricultural activities in Huntersville, noting the cultivation of crops such as corn, wheat, and potatoes.

• Expressions of Gratitude: A group of individuals expressed their thanks to the community of Huntersville for their support and assistance during a time of need. The specific circumstances surrounding this expression of gratitude are not detailed.

• Economic Challenges: The sources hint at economic difficulties faced by some residents of Huntersville. References to poverty, unemployment, and reliance on charitable aid suggest that not all members of the community were prosperous.

It's important to note that these sources offer a limited perspective on life in Huntersville during 1889. They do not provide a comprehensive account of all events or aspects of life in the community. To gain a more complete understanding of Huntersville's history during this period, it would be necessary to consult additional sources, such as local newspapers, town records, or personal accounts from residents.

Developing Leadership at High Rocks

 

 

The sources show that the High Rocks program offers multiple opportunities for young women to develop leadership skills:

• The High Rocks program has a Junior Counselor program where high school girls interview prospective campers. The Junior Counselors also participate in board meetings and training on how to run a non-profit organization. These responsibilities provide opportunities for older girls to mentor younger participants and gain experience in organizational leadership.
• High school girls are given the chance to design, plan, and lead activities for younger students. This includes developing and leading activities in areas like drama, games, reading, storytelling, art, and singing.
• High Rocks girls also collaborate to develop curriculum for summer programs, including a full-length science curriculum covering topics like forestry, stream quality, botany, and wildlife. This allows them to take ownership of the program and contribute to its long-term success.
• Alumnae of the program return to High Rocks to participate in a variety of projects. For example, alumnae developed a local history project that included reading, exploring, and writing stories and plays about local history. This demonstrates how the program encourages ongoing engagement and leadership even after girls graduate.

The sources suggest that the High Rocks program provides a supportive and empowering environment where young women can develop a range of leadership skills through hands-on experience, mentorship, and collaboration. (AI)

"Yellow Dog" Contracts in West Virginia

 

The sources indicate that "Yellow Dog" contracts occurred in the non-union coal fields of West Virginia.

• These contracts were used to prevent the growth of unions in the coal industry in West Virginia.
• "Yellow Dog" contracts were iron-clad agreements where employees agreed to not join the United Mine Workers of America or any other labor organization.
• Employees also agreed to not "aid, encourage or approve" the formation of any such organization.
• In return, employers agreed to operate a non-union mine and not to employ any union members.
• Many coal mining companies asserted that 100 percent of their workforce had signed these contracts, which were required for both existing and prospective employees.

Purpose of "Yellow Dog" Contracts

• The non-union operators framed their use of "Yellow Dog" contracts as part of their campaign for the "open shop," but the agreements actually created a closed non-union shop.

Specific Examples

• The Pocahontas Operators' Association ordered and distributed thousands of these contracts to its member companies.
• Their use began in June 1920 following the United Mine Workers of America's successful efforts to organize workers in neighboring Mingo County.
• The Pocahontas operators were concerned that the union would gain a foothold in their area.
• Superintendents of mines held meetings with their employees, presented the contracts, and informed them that anyone who refused to sign would be dismissed.

Union Opposition

The union considered "Yellow Dog" contracts to be coercive and designed to obstruct workers from freely choosing to join a union. Additionally, the union believed that the contracts were intended to prevent the union from engaging with these workers. This was because union officials could face accusations of encouraging workers to violate their employment agreements.

Initial Development Goals in Pocahontas County

 

 Colonel McGraw's Vision: The sources point to Colonel McGraw's purchase of Marlin's Bottom, the site of present-day Marlinton, as a pivotal moment in the county's development aspirations. McGraw, recognizing the area's potential, intended to establish a town and attract a railroad, marking the first concrete instance of the county's inhabitants actively pursuing large-scale development.

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• Persistence and Realization: The sources highlight McGraw's unwavering commitment to bringing a railroad to Pocahontas County. Despite facing challenges in securing investment, McGraw's persistence eventually paid off with the construction of the Greenbrier Railroad, completed in 1901. This achievement marked a significant turning point, transforming the county's economic and social landscape.

• Rationale for Railroad Development: The sources don't explicitly state the reasons behind the county's focus on acquiring a railroad. However, based on our previous discussion about the geographical features of Pocahontas County, it's possible to infer that the desire for improved transportation played a key role.

  • Overcoming Geographic Isolation: As we discussed, the mountainous terrain presented challenges for transportation and communication, limiting access to markets and hindering economic growth. A railroad would have addressed this issue, connecting Pocahontas County to the broader regional and national economies.
  • Facilitating Resource Extraction: Our conversation also highlighted the abundance of natural resources in Pocahontas County, including timber, iron ore, and marble. A railroad would have facilitated the extraction and transportation of these resources, leading to economic expansion and job creation.

• Shift in Focus: The sources indicate that after securing a railroad, the county's attention shifted to other development priorities, including road construction, telephone lines, and banking infrastructure. These later developments further enhanced connectivity, communication, and financial stability, laying the groundwork for continued growth and modernization.

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   John T. McGraw's Role in Pocahontas County Development

  While the sources offer limited direct information about John T. McGraw, they do highlight his pivotal role in the early development of Pocahontas County, particularly his efforts to bring a railroad to the region.

• McGraw's Purchase of Marlin's Bottom: The sources identify Colonel McGraw's acquisition of Marlin's Bottom, the location of present-day Marlinton, as a crucial moment in the county's development trajectory. This purchase, likely motivated by McGraw's recognition of the area's potential, signaled the beginning of a concerted effort to transform Pocahontas County from a sparsely populated frontier region into a more connected and economically viable community.
• Vision for a Town and Railroad: McGraw's intentions for Marlin's Bottom extended beyond mere land ownership; he envisioned establishing a town and attracting a railroad to the site. This vision, representing the first clear instance of the county's inhabitants actively pursuing large-scale development, marked a departure from the primarily subsistence-based economies that had characterized earlier settlement patterns.
• Challenges in Securing Investment: The sources suggest that McGraw faced significant obstacles in realizing his ambitious plans, particularly in attracting the necessary capital to build a railroad. This difficulty highlights the challenges inherent in developing infrastructure in a remote and mountainous region like Pocahontas County. Despite these setbacks, McGraw remained determined to see his vision through.
• Persistence and Eventual Success: McGraw's unwavering commitment to bringing a railroad to Pocahontas County eventually paid off. The sources note the completion of the Greenbrier Railroad in 1901, marking a triumph of perseverance and a turning point in the county's history. This achievement opened up Pocahontas County to new economic opportunities and facilitated the extraction and transportation of its abundant natural resources.
• Transformation of the County's Landscape: The sources, while not directly attributing the transformation to McGraw, do acknowledge the significant changes that occurred in Pocahontas County following the arrival of the railroad. The shift from subsistence agriculture to more market-oriented economies, the growth of towns, and the development of new industries all reflect the impact of improved transportation infrastructure.
• McGraw's Broader Legacy: While the sources primarily focus on McGraw's role in railroad development, his purchase of Marlin's Bottom and his vision for a town likely had broader implications for Pocahontas County. His actions may have spurred other development initiatives, attracted new settlers, and contributed to the county's overall growth and modernization.

In summary, John T. McGraw emerges from the sources as a key figure in the early development of Pocahontas County. His vision, persistence, and ultimate success in bringing a railroad to the region marked a significant turning point, setting in motion a series of transformative changes that shaped the county's economic and social trajectory. While the sources offer limited details about his life and motivations, they clearly establish McGraw's crucial role in laying the groundwork for a more connected, prosperous, and modern Pocahontas County.

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Geographic Advantages for Early Settlers in Pocahontas County

 

Geographic Advantages for Early Settlers in Pocahontas County

The sources consistently portray Pocahontas County as a region endowed with geographical features that attracted early settlers. These features, while presenting some challenges, ultimately provided strategic advantages for those seeking to establish a foothold in this mountainous terrain.

• Abundant Water Resources: The sources repeatedly emphasize the prevalence of rivers, creeks, and springs throughout Pocahontas County. These waterways were crucial for early settlers, providing a vital source of drinking water, supporting livestock, powering mills, and potentially facilitating transportation.

  • Greenbrier River: The sources identify the Greenbrier River as the dominant waterway, characterizing it as the "master stream" and the "birthplace of rivers." The Greenbrier's consistent flow and numerous tributaries created a network of water resources that were essential for sustaining life and driving economic activity.
  • Other Key Waterways: The sources also highlight other significant waterways, including Knapps Creek, Deer Creek, Anthony Creek, and Sitlington Creek, among others. These creeks, often originating from springs in the higher elevations, ensured a reliable and widespread distribution of water throughout the county.
  • Mills and Industry: The sources frequently mention the presence of various types of mills, including gristmills, sawmills, and flour mills, situated along these waterways. These mills harnessed the power of flowing water to process timber, grind grain, and produce flour, demonstrating the close connection between water resources and early industries.

• Fertile Valleys: While the sources emphasize the mountainous nature of Pocahontas County, they also highlight the existence of fertile valleys nestled within the rugged terrain. These valleys provided prime agricultural land for early settlers, offering a place to cultivate crops, raise livestock, and establish homesteads.

  • Marlin's Bottom: The sources specifically mention "Marlin's Bottom," the area where present-day Marlinton is located, as a fertile and strategically located valley. The abundance of level land and proximity to Marlin's Run and Knapps Creek made it an attractive location for early settlement and agriculture.
  • Other Valleys: While not named explicitly, the sources describe numerous other valleys, often characterized as "V-shaped" or "narrow," that would have offered similar opportunities for farming and settlement. The presence of these pockets of fertile land amidst the mountains made Pocahontas County a viable option for those seeking agricultural opportunities.

• Protective Mountain Barriers: While mountains posed challenges for transportation and communication, the sources suggest that they also offered a degree of protection for early settlers. The surrounding mountain ranges created a natural barrier, potentially shielding settlements from harsh weather conditions and providing a sense of security.

  • Allegheny Mountains: The sources identify the Allegheny Mountains as a dominant feature, forming the eastern boundary of Pocahontas County. These mountains, while rugged and steep, likely acted as a buffer against harsh winds and storms, creating more favorable microclimates within the valleys.
  • Defense and Isolation: The sources also describe the construction of forts, such as Fort Warwick, highlighting the concerns about security in the early settlement period. The mountains, while making travel difficult, may have also provided a tactical advantage in defending against attacks, offering natural fortifications and limited access points.

• Access to Timber Resources: The sources consistently mention the abundance of timber in Pocahontas County, particularly the valuable white pine trees. This readily available timber served as a vital resource for early settlers, providing materials for construction, fuel for heating and cooking, and the potential for a lumber industry.

  • Sawmills and Lumbering: The sources describe sawmills established throughout the county, indicating that timber harvesting and processing were important economic activities. The accessibility of timber resources likely influenced early settlement patterns, with communities developing near forested areas.
  • Impact on the Landscape: The sources also acknowledge the significant impact of timbering on the landscape of Pocahontas County, noting that much of the original forest had been cut over by the early 20th century. This extensive logging transformed the environment, but also underscores the initial abundance of timber that attracted early settlers and fueled economic development.

• Strategic Location for Westward Expansion: While the sources primarily focus on the internal geography of Pocahontas County, they also hint at its broader significance as a gateway for westward expansion. The county's location on the western slopes of the Allegheny Mountains positioned it as a crucial point of passage for settlers moving into the Ohio Valley and beyond.

  • Routes and Passages: While the sources don't provide specific details about early trails or roads, they mention that Pocahontas County became an "important gateway for settlers." The existence of natural gaps and passes through the mountains would have facilitated the movement of people and goods westward.
  • Connecting East and West: Pocahontas County's location on the Virginia-West Virginia border placed it at the intersection of eastern settlements and western frontiers. This strategic positioning likely attracted settlers seeking both the familiarity of established communities and the opportunities offered by new lands.

In summary, Pocahontas County offered a unique combination of geographical features that attracted early settlers. The abundant water resources, fertile valleys, protective mountain barriers, access to timber, and strategic location for westward expansion made it a place of both opportunity and challenge. While the rugged terrain and potential for conflict with Native Americans presented obstacles, the county's natural resources and its role as a gateway to the west ultimately proved to be powerful draws for those seeking a new life on the frontier.

Conflicts Leading to the Construction of Fort Warwick

Conflicts Leading to the Construction of Fort Warwick

The sources don't explicitly state the exact cause of the initial conflict that prompted the building of Fort Warwick. However, they provide a broader historical context of Native American interactions with early European settlers in Pocahontas County, suggesting that tensions and skirmishes stemming from land encroachment and resource competition likely played a significant role.

• Native American Presence: The sources frequently highlight the presence of Native Americans in Pocahontas County prior to and during the early phases of European settlement. Descriptions of "Indian paths", "camping grounds", "furnace hollows", and accounts of raids and skirmishes indicate that indigenous populations had established a strong foothold in the region.
• Warwick Fort's Strategic Location: The location of Fort Warwick, situated between the "Mine Bank" and the "Furnace Hollow" at the forks of Deer Creek, suggests its strategic importance. This area, as described in the sources, was a significant gathering place for Native Americans, potentially holding cultural and spiritual significance.
• Exacerbated Tensions: The construction of Warwick Fort, positioned in a location central to Native American activities, likely heightened tensions and conflicts. The sources mention that Native Americans were "exasperated" by the encroaching European settlements and the loss of their traditional hunting, fishing, and camping grounds.
• Skirmishes and Defense: The sources recount numerous skirmishes between settlers and Native Americans in the vicinity of Fort Warwick. The fort's construction, with features like "port holes" and a "stockade fence", indicates that it was designed for defense against attacks, further suggesting a climate of conflict.

Inferring the Cause:

While the sources don't explicitly state the precise trigger for the conflict, the evidence suggests that the underlying cause was the increasing pressure from European settlement on Native American lands and resources.

• Competition: As settlers moved into Pocahontas County, they began claiming land, clearing forests, and establishing farms, activities that directly conflicted with the traditional lifeways of the indigenous populations. This competition over land and resources inevitably sparked tensions and led to violent confrontations.
• Fort as a Response: The construction of Fort Warwick can be interpreted as a direct response to this escalating conflict. The fort served as a refuge for settlers and a symbol of their determination to establish a permanent presence in the region, despite resistance from Native Americans.

Additional Insights from the Sources:

• Treaty with Anthony Wayne: The sources mention that a treaty was established with Native Americans by Anthony Wayne in 1795. This treaty, though not directly linked to Fort Warwick's construction, highlights the broader context of attempts to negotiate peaceful co-existence between settlers and Native Americans.
• Accounts of Raids: Several sources recount stories of Native American raids on settler homesteads, emphasizing the dangers and anxieties faced by those living on the frontier. These accounts reinforce the idea that the conflict leading to Fort Warwick's construction was part of a larger pattern of violence and unrest during this period of westward expansion.

It's important to acknowledge that without more specific historical records or accounts directly addressing the founding of Fort Warwick, the exact cause of the initial conflict remains open to interpretation. However, the sources provide a compelling framework for understanding the broader historical forces at play, suggesting that the clash between European settlement and Native American land rights was the most likely catalyst for the fort's establishment.

Significance of the Greenbank Mill and Tilt Hammer

 

Significance of the Greenbank Mill and Tilt Hammer

While the sources don't offer specific details about the old mill and tilt hammer near Greenbank, they provide valuable context to understand their historical importance within the broader setting of early industry and technology in Pocahontas County.

• Importance of Mills: The sources frequently mention various types of mills, including sawmills, gristmills, and flour mills, scattered throughout Pocahontas County. These mills were essential for processing timber, grinding grain, and producing flour, highlighting their crucial role in sustaining early settlements and driving economic activity. The old mill near Greenbank, though its specific function isn't stated, likely played a similar vital role in supporting the local community.

• Tilt Hammer Technology: The presence of a tilt hammer signals the existence of metalworking capabilities in the Greenbank area. Tilt hammers, powered by water wheels, were employed for shaping and forging iron and steel, producing items like wagon tires, horseshoes, plows, bolts, and nails. This suggests a level of technological sophistication and specialized craftsmanship present in the Greenbank community during this period.

• Connection to Agriculture and Industry: The sources emphasize that agriculture was the primary pursuit of early residents in Pocahontas County. The old mill and tilt hammer likely played a critical role in supporting agricultural activities by providing necessary tools and equipment. The tilt hammer's output could have extended beyond agricultural needs, potentially serving other industries or contributing to the construction of infrastructure.

• Location on Henry Wooddell's Land: The sources mention that the old mill and tilt hammer were situated on the land of Henry Wooddell, a resident of Greenbank. This detail is significant because it connects these early industrial operations to a specific individual, placing them within the context of local land ownership and economic activity. It raises questions about Henry Wooddell's role: Was he the owner and operator of the mill and tilt hammer? Did he lease the land to others for these purposes? Exploring the history of the Wooddell family and their land holdings could provide further insights into the mill and tilt hammer's history.

• Potential Archaeological Value: Although the old mill and tilt hammer may no longer be standing, the fact that the "pit and embankments may be seen" suggests the potential for archaeological investigation. Excavating and studying the remains of these structures could reveal valuable information about their construction, operation, and the specific types of goods produced.

The sources, though not directly focused on the Greenbank mill and tilt hammer, paint a vivid picture of early life and industry in Pocahontas County, where mills and metalworking played essential roles in shaping the community. Further research into local historical records, land deeds, and potential archaeological sites could illuminate the specific history and impact of these early industrial operations near Greenbank.

Significance of Swago Creek for Early Settlers

 

Swago Creek stands out as a significant location for early settlers in Pocahontas County due to its early settlement history, the notable Ewing family, and its connection to Native American heritage.

• Early Settlement: Swago Creek boasts one of the oldest settlements in Pocahontas County. The sources highlight that the prominent Ewing family established their homestead on Swago Creek around 1770, even before the Revolutionary War. This early settlement timeframe makes Swago Creek a focal point in understanding the initial wave of European settlement in the region.
• The Ewings of Swago: The Ewing family played a significant role in shaping the identity of Swago Creek. William Ewing, also known as "Swago Bill", was a well-known figure associated with the creek. Although he wasn't the first settler, his presence contributed to the creek's local history and folklore. It's worth noting that many waterways in Pocahontas County, like Sitlington Creek and Cartmills Creek, were named after prominent early settlers.
• Native American Connection: The name "Swago" itself reflects a strong connection to the region's Native American heritage. According to the sources, the name is believed to derive from the Oawega tribe. The word “Swago” is possibly a fusion of two Indian words: "otaega", meaning "a place of meeting", and "Sago", a traditional Indian greeting. This linguistic link suggests that Swago Creek held cultural significance for indigenous peoples, potentially serving as a gathering place or a location with spiritual value. This association with Native American history further distinguishes Swago Creek as a place of historical interest in Pocahontas County.

The sources suggest that Swago Creek wasn't merely a geographical feature but a place imbued with layers of history and cultural significance. The presence of early settlers like the Ewings, the unique origin of the name "Swago", and the creek's possible role as a Native American meeting point underscore its importance in understanding the rich and multifaceted past of Pocahontas County.

Robert Sitlington was the first permanent settler on Sitlington Creek.

 

Robert Sitlington was the first permanent settler on Sitlington Creek.

• Sitlington Creek is a major tributary of the Greenbrier River in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, with its headwaters in the Allegheny Mountains.

• The town of Dumore is located at the original homesite of Robert Sitlington.

• The naming of Sitlington Creek has an interesting backstory involving a series of family connections and land ownership:

  • The father of Jacob Warwick arrived in Augusta County, Virginia, from Williamsburg, Virginia, between 1740 and 1750.
  • Lieutenant Warwick, as he was known, was a surveyor employed by the British Crown to survey land in Augusta County and present-day Pocahontas County.
  • Lieutenant Warwick acquired and resided on a piece of property that now comprises the village of Dumore, located on Sitlington Creek.
  • He married Elizabeth Dunlap near Middlebrook, Virginia. They were among the English gentry whose families settled in Virginia after experiencing political setbacks in England.
  • Lieutenant Warwick later decided to return to England for a visit. However, he never returned and was presumed dead.
  • His wife Elizabeth remained on the Sitlington Creek property. She was subsequently granted ownership of the land through a deed.
  • Elizabeth then married Robert Sitlington.
  • Jacob Warwick, son of Lieutenant Warwick, inherited the Dumore property.
  • Jacob Warwick held Robert Sitlington, his stepfather, in high regard, and the creek was ultimately named in Robert Sitlington's honor.
  • Robert Sitlington was also a pioneer and a veteran of the Revolutionary War.

• Notably, the area around Sitlington Creek was originally known as Galfords Creek.

  • Thomas Galford, an early settler, arrived in the region around 1782 and was a taxpayer at the time.
  • Galford obtained a 154-acre land grant on Sitlington Creek in 1794, which is now owned by Wade Galford and Charley Wilfong and located east of Glade Hill on Galfords Creek.
  • A tradition passed down through Galford's descendants suggests that he traded a bear trap for his initial homestead on Galfords Creek.

This information highlights the close relationship between early settlers, family ties, and land ownership in the development of Pocahontas County. The story of Sitlington Creek exemplifies how personal connections and respect for individuals contributed to the naming of geographical features, similar to the patterns observed in the naming of Moses Spring Run and Cartmills Creek in our previous discussions.

Establishment of Edray Post Office

 

Establishment of Edray Post Office

According to the sources, the first post office in the Edray Community was established around 1850.

• The Edray post office was established before the Edray Church, which was built in 1863.
• The sources provide some interesting details about the naming of the Edray post office.
  • While searching for a suitable name for the new post office, Eliza Moore, a resident of the community and a devoted Bible reader, suggested the name "Edrei".
  • The name was slightly modified to "Edray", which became the official name of the post office and later, the community itself.

The establishment of a post office in the Edray Community around 1850 was likely a significant development for the area, as it would have facilitated communication and commerce with the wider world. This event likely played a role in the growth and development of the Edray Community during the latter half of the 19th century, much like the sawmills, churches, and schools we discussed earlier.