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HERITAGE
OF THE
Trans-Alleghany Pioneers,
Resources of Central ijjestlfcinia,
By Thomas Bruce,
Author of : "Cupid and Duty." "Historical Sketch of Roanoke."
."That Brusin' Lad O1 Graystone Lodge." "South
West Virginia and Shenandoah Valley."
COPYRIGHT SECURED.
Nichols, Killam & Maffitt,
publishers,
Baltimore, Md.
1894.
Copyrighted 1894, BY THOMAS BRUCE.
HON. JOHNSON N. CAMDEN, U. S. Senator from Parkersburg, W. Va.
PREFACE,
Heritage of the Traxs-Alleghaxy Pioneers is now before the public. In the treatment of the subject, the author has endeavored to pursue the same lines in this work, that he adopted in former publications of a like nature. It has been his â– constant effort to maintain truth and impartiality at the expense of all other considerations, whether of a personal, or financial nature. The utmost care has been used in the investigation of facts, and compilation of statistics, none of which have been taken second-hand, and all of which have been subjected to the most crucial test. Owing to intense interest in the subject- matter, the work has been leather a labor of love than otherwise, wreathed with such memorials of bright pleasure, as completely obscm-e the privations, and vexations usually and necessarily attendant upon a work of this nature. In a field that is com- paratively new, the acquisition of new realms of knowledge repays a world of care : so, in the prosecution of this work, time has been literally swallowed up in investigating nature's handi- work, marked so significantly by its epochs.
To the many good people, who reside in Central West Vir- ginia, and to the various railway systems in the sections, as well as elsewhere, the author is more than deeply indebted. In every way, have they contributed to lighten his labors, and make the work more agreeable. The acquisition of facts pure and simple is at all times a difficult task, but in the prosecution of this work, the effort was made much easier by the kindness of those who had it in their power to aid. And to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, the Monon- gahela River Railroad, and the Ohio River Railroad, and the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railroad, the author is deeply indebted for every facility possible that could aid him in his undertaking. And in the judgment that may be placed on this, his latest effort, by far from perfect, it is but natural he should trust a great deal more to the indulgence of a kind public, than to any great merit in the work itself.
The Author.
INTRODUCTION
In tracing the footsteps of the early Pioneers, who were so brave as to cross the Alleghany Mountains to settle the land for successive generations, we find them leading westward through what is now the central part of West Virginia, running east, and west. The heritage transmitted by them to their descendants is a glorious one, being rich in natural wealth beyond calculation. No State in the Union has increased more rapidly within the past ten years in material wealth than West Virginia. But, up to three or four years ago this development was confined chiefly to the northern part bordering along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the southern part bordering the Norfolk and Western, and the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroads. The reason for this may be accounted for on the ground there were no trans- portation facilities. But the advent of railway systems into Central West Virginia within the past few years has created the beginning of a material development, that is as yet in its infancy.
In writing upon this subject, we have taken the section of West Virginia, embracing the counties of Mineral, Grant, Tucker, Randolph, Pocahontas, Webster, Clay, Calhoun, Gilmer, Braxton, Upshur, Lewis, Harrison, Doddridge, Ritchie, AVirt, Roane, Wood, Jackson and Mason, which compose Central West Virginia, running east to west. This country is as yet but parti- ally developed, and is virtually unknown to the outside world. In our treatment of the subject, we have detailed its early settle- ment, and history. A careful, pains-taking account is then given of the topography, scenery, climate, and soil of the country. This is followed by an account of the various railway systems, that have developed it, and disembowelled a sufficient quantity of its riches to let us know what is in the regions — nothing more as yet. The agricultural resources are treated carefully, and statistically in every way, followed by a full and accurate de- scription of the vast mineral resources of the region. The com- mercial prosperity is then adverted to, with an impartial account of the educational facilities, and Christian privileges of the country. Full credit is given the various corporations, and individuals which have assisted in the development, and every- think tending towards any advertising carefully excluded. The author can confidently assert, that the work may justly claim the merit of having been truthfully, and impartially written.
HERITAGE OF THE TRANS-ALLEEHANY PIONEERS,
OR,
oficzouzccz o| Qcnkzal ^Wcsk ^iz^inia.
CHAPTER I.
First Adventurers of Virginia west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Col. Abraham Wood. — Expedition of Capt. Batte and Party. Governor Spottswood and his Knights. — Colonels Patton and Buchanan. — The Ingles Party. — Drapers Meadows Settlements, in Montgomery. — Pioneer Settlers in West Virginia. — Settle- ments on the Ohio River. — On the Buckhannon. and Elk Rivers. Early Pioneers on the Monongahela, West Fork, and TygarVs Valley Rivers. — Gradual Settlement of the Sections until the War of 1774.
In the year 1738, Augusta County was taken from Orange, and at that period, in addition to its present boundaries, included all of the section west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, that repre- sented the undefined claims of Virginia. Chronological records of the footsteps of the hardy adventurers who first trod the trackless wilderness west of the mountains, and into West Augusta, are scanty in the extreme. The hardships and daily toils of the early settlers to gain a scanty livelihood, added to the danger of uncertain attacks from the Indians, pre- vented the preservation of any records whatever as to their movements, lives and habits, in a permanent form ; so, meagre materials and family traditions play a leading part. Even the brief histories undertaken upon the subject are unconnected and disjointed, most of them having been written and compiled by probably some one desiring to call the attention of the coming generations to deeds of valor performed, and sufferings endured
8 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
by his ancestors. The class of men who first went into the wilds of the mountains of Virginia to find new habitations, were not of the kind caring much for historical records ; they rather pre- ferred a musket and knapsack ; and new countries to wander in for the purpose of opening up some undiscovered land. So, the future historian must grope his way, as it were, in the dark.
There has been some discussion among writers as to who was the first white man that crossed the Blue Ridge Mountains going westward. But from the best evidence we have upon the subject now, there can be but little doubt that Colonel Abraham Wood made the daring attempt. In the year 1653 he resided in Appo- mattox County, near the present site of the City of Petersburg. His object in taking such a dangerous trip, was to satisfy an adventurous, roving disposition ; to explore the country west ; and to open up a trade with the Indians. He obtained permis- sion from the Governor of Virginia, and in 1654, started on his perilous journey, from the return of which in safety, his friends very much doubted. It is to be heartily regretted that neither the names, nor number of men he took with him, were recorded, or left in any w^ay by which they might have been known. There can be no doubt of the route taken by him, for "Wood's Gap," known to be named after him, lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains, between Smith's branch of Dan River and the Little River branch of New River. So he must have first struck Little River, which he followed from the line of Virginia and North Carolina, until he reached the larger stream, now known as New River. After this, his route is unknown, and the duration of his stay uncertain. He probably went down the river some distance. (1)
What was the fate of Colonel Wood's party, or the exact result of his efforts to open a trade with the Indians, is not known, but the presumption is that the latter was unsuccssful. It is certain that the Indians were very unfriendly towards the next party crossing the Blue Ridge, for the guides refused to conduct it farther than a fixed point in the west, on the ground that certain tribes there had been unfriendly towards the whites : as Colonel Wood's companions were the only whites who had ever crossed the Blue Ridge, it must have been his party to
(1) Tradition has it that this river was at first called "Wood's River,'* but there is no historical evidence of such a fact. Following Little River until he came to its mouth, he saw the larger stream, and since it was a new river he doubtless called it "New River."
Resources of Ventral West Virginia. 9
whom the guides referred ; so, we naturally infer from this cir- cumstance that Colonel Wood's negotiations with the Indians for the purpose of establishing a trade with them were not very successful. (2)
In I6lj(j, fourteen years after Colonel Wood's adventure, Sir William Berkley was Governor of Virginia. Desiring to learn something of this new. country west of the Blue Ridge Moun- tains, he dispatched a Captain Batte, with fourteen Virginians, and fourteen Indians, to make an exploration — all of whom started from Appomattox. (3) The route pursued by them is not known, but they had not proceeded very far west of the moun- tains before the Indian guides conducting them, refused to escort them farther, on the ground that the tribes of Indians beyond had been unfriendly to a white party. That Captain Batte was upon New River, is almost certain, for on his return he mentions having followed a river westward until he reached some salt springs. As New River rises in North Carolina, and flows directly northwest, cutting its way through the Alleghany Mountains, this is more than probable the stream to which he refers. The salt springs (4) must have been those in Kanawha Valley, so we may naturally suppose he and his party were that far West. Captain Batte and party must have been impressed with the country, for on their return they made such a flattering report, that Governor Berkley announced his intention of making an expedition west, which, if carried out, would have been of great service to posterity, since his followers would have pre- served aruple records of the adventure. For almost fifty years after Captain Batte's expedition, there is no record of anyone's having penetrated west of the Blue Ridge. It remained for the eighteenth century, and one clothed in fine linen, and purple, to make a clear record of an exploration beyond the ethereal peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
In June, 1710, Governor Spottswood penetrated the Blue Ridge Mountains at "Swift Run Gap11 with a band of horsemen. From Peyton's Ford on the Rapidan he proceeded by the present site of Stanardsville, passing through the Blue Bidge by way of
(2) It is said Colonel Wood passed the Anvil Cliffs at New River, White Sulphur Springs.
(3) "Trans- Alleghany Pioneers.'" By J. P. Hale. This work is both pains- taking- and interesting-.
(4) Mr. J. P. Hale, in his admirable work, already referred to, says it was Campbell's Creek salt spring. "Trans-Alleghany Pioneers."
10 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
the Gap named above. Crossing the Shenandoah River a short distance below the spot where Shendun now rests, he pushed forward west across Shenandoah Valley until he reached a mountain. Ascending this, he obtained a view of the country beyond, which pleased him immensely. (5) On the return of his party to the east, they gave a glowing description of the weird scenery, and fertile soil. Governor Spottswood, desiring to establish settlers west of the Blue Rid^e, created the 'Trans- montaine Order, or Knights of the Golden Horse-Shoe," giving to everyone a miniature horse-shoe who expressed a desire to cross the mountains, which bore the Latin inscription : "Sic Jurat transeendere montes." But it was not for members of the Order of the "Golden Horse-Shoe*' to open up and civilize the Wild West, bul a sturdier, and hardier set of gentlemen. (6)
In 1736 Colonel James Patton obtained a patent of land, amounting to 120.000 acres, which he located in that part of Virginia, now known as Botetourt County. With him came his son-in-law Colonel John Buchanan, Mr. William Preston. Mr. John Christian. Ben. Burden and others. Colonel Patton located his lands on James River, in a lovely valley, and two towns subsequently sprang up on opposite sides of the James River,, called Buchanan and Pattonsburg, in honor of the founders, Colonels Patton and Buchanan. Both Colonel Patton and John Buchanan were members of the expedition which travelled through the western part of Virginia into Kentucky in the year 1748, when the Gap was discovered in Tennessee, which was afterwards named in honor of the Duke of Cumberland. During their explorations they passed both Caesar's Arch and Pompey's Pillar on New River, in Giles, and travelled as far as the spot
(5) Gov. Spottswood is reported as having- said : "This is God's country." (6i In 1727, John Van Matre. an Indian trader, from an old Knickerbocker family on the Hudson, penetrated what was known to the Indians as Wappato- mica Valley— now know as the South Fork of the Shenandoah Valley, and on his return home gave such a nattering description of it. that in 1730. his son. Isaac Van Matre. after seeing- the country with his brother John, obtained a patent for ±0.000 acres from Governor Gooch. Many descendants of this family still live in the Shenandoah Valley The Rev. W. C. Campbell, the eminent divine of Roanoke City, Virginia, is a descendant of this stock.
Joist Hite purchased a portion of the Van Matre patent, and in the year 1738, with his family, his sons in-law. George Bowman. Jacob Chrisman, and Paul Frothman with their families ; and Robert McKay. Robert Green. William Duff, Peter Stephens and others, came into the valley, settling around and near the spot where Winchester. Virginia, now stands, in lower Shenandoah Valley- This was the first patent of lands west of Blue Ridge Mountains.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 11
where Pembroke Station now stands, on the New River Division of the Norfolk and Western Railroad. Near this point flows the creek, named in honor of Dr. Walker, and which bears the same title to the present day. The object of this expedition was to gain some insight into the country with reference to obtaining a grant ; for on their return the "Loyal Land Company11 was organized, based on a grant of 800,000 acres, north of the lines of the Carolinas, and west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the company was incorporated June, 1749. (7)
The first location we know of in Augusta County, Virginia, was the one made by John Lewis at " Bellefonte," which stood one mile east of the spot where Staunton now stands. The way in which this section happened to become the residence of John Lewis in 1732, is one of the many peculiar ways by which new countries are settled and opened up — the pioneer being driven from the land of his nativity. John Lewis, in 1714, was a resi- dent of County Donegal, Province of Ulster, Ireland, where he owned a leasehold, dependant upon the lives of others. Sir Mungo Campbell, one of his landlords, having become involved in financial troubles, attempted to extricate himself by raising the rents paid by his tenantry in Ireland. This, Lewis refused to- submit to, and when a number of persons attempted to eject him, and fired upon his dwelling which was barricaded, he rush- ed out with a club, and killed both the Lord of the Manor and his steward. Of course, he was forced to flee for his life after this ; so, gathering a few necessaries, he wandered over many countries, landing in 1729 at Oporto, in Portugal. There he met a brother engaged in the mercantile business, who advised him to proceed to the United States, promising to send his family after him. In the winter of 1731-32 he was at Lancaster, Penn- sylvania, and in the summer of 1732 moved to "Bellfonte," lo- cated in Augusta County, where his family joined him after- wards. He was a very prominent man on the frontier, and in 1745 was made one of the Justices of Augusta. Subsequently, he was pardoned, and granted large quantities of land in the section now recognized as West Virginia. He made the survey
(7) The descendants and connections of these families— Colonel Patton's and Colonel John Buchanan's— have thrown out their branches in many direc- tions, having given both Virginia and Kentucky some of their most eminent, people, among whom may be mentioned : the Pattons, Prestons. Buchanans, Thompsons, Madisons, Breckenridges, Peytons, Bowyers. Crittendens, and others.
12 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
of land in the same county for the Greenbrier Company in 1749- 50, naming the river "Greenbrier," because he became entangled in a pateh of greenbriars near its borders. (8)
The earliest patent of lands issued in the upper part of the valley west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, was the grant made on September 6th, 1736, by Governor William Gooch. These lands were obtained by: Sir John Randolph, of Williamsburg; William Beverly, of Essex ; and John Robinson, of the County of King-and-Queen. They were located within the present boundaries of Augusta County, including the present site of Staunton, and contained 118,491 acres of the most fertile of Au- gusta's soil. The magisterial district in which Staunton is located is still called "Beverly Manor." The result of this patent being issued was a wholesome one ; settlers began to pour in from the lower part of Shenandoah Valley, causing Au- gusta to increase rapidly in population. At this time Augusta County comprised all the undefined territory of Virginia west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It continued to hold this vast area of country until 1763, when, by the treaty with France, its western boundaries were limited by the Mississippi River, and its area included the States of West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin.
While John Lewis was living in his modest house at " Bell- lonte," during the year 1736, he was visited by one Benjamin Burden, a merchant from New Jersey, and agent for Lord Fair- fax. He made frequent trips to eastern Virginia, and during •one of these was persuaded by Lewis to spend some months in hunting with him. On one of these hunts he caught, and after- terwards tamed, a young Buffalo calf, which he presented to Governor Gooch on his return to tide-water Virginia. This so pleased the highest official of Virginia, that he ordered a grant of land to be issued to Burden of 400,000 acres on the upper wa- ters of the Shenandoah and James Rivers. This embraced, when plotted off, the southern portion of Augusta, and the whole of Rockbridge. (9) This land was populated through
(8) Gen. Andrew Lewis, the hero of Point Pleasant, and his brother Charles, killed at the same place, were sons of John Lewis of Augusta. One of John Lewis' descendants married a Miss Tosh, daughter of Thomas Tosh of Roanoke County, and some of the land on which Roanoke City stands was sold by Major Andrew Lewis, and Col. Thomas Lewis, two brothers, who are lineal descend- ants of John Lewis of Augusta. This worthy gentleman had many other de- scendants of distinguished fame, who have figured publicly in various ways.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 1&
Burden's efforts, who sailed for England, and returned at once with at least one hundred families, among whom were : the McDowells, Alexanders, Moors, Telfords and Mathews. Also, the Prestons, Paxtons, Lyles, Grigsbys, Stuarts, Crawfords, Cumminses, Browns, Wallaces, Wilsons, Caruthers, Campbells, McCampbells, McCues, McKees, and McKowans. Most of these were Irish Presbyterians, of Scotch extraction ; and their descendants, having nearly the same family names, are all Presbyterians, and generally spoken of as Scotch-Irish.* They had suffered persecution, and on that account were a clan- nish set — honest, shrewd, and strongly inclined towards the confession of faith. They are by no means lenient towards- what they deem wrong-doing, unless one of their clan is the offender — in him they rarely see anything that is not right. But in nearly all things they are exemplary people, partaking strongly of the characteristics of their original leader, Benjamin Burden. (10) Some of these people pushed their way with their descendants into that section of country adjoining Augusta, and Rockbridge Counties, known as Bath, Alleghany and Craig Counties. Many went from Botetourt to the latter county, whose descendants are still living, possessing- the lands originally owned by their forefathers. As the lands in Lower and Upper Shenandoah Valley began to be populated, and the country on James River settled up, the most adventur- ous settlers commenced pushing their way — first across the "divide," between Roanoke and New River; then farther west into the section now known as West Virginia.
(9) This survey was made by Captain John McDowell, who was afterwards in 1743 killed by a party of Shawnee Indians, near the Natural Bridge in Rock- bridge County, Virginia.
♦After the fight of Bothwell Bridge in Scotland, numbers of the Scotch tied to the province of Ulster in Ireland, in order to escape imprisonment and death. They dwelt for some time there, but enactments beiDg passed by which they were prosecuted in every way imaginable, on account of their religious faith, they tied to America, at first locating in Pennsylvania. Others were brought over as kind of slaves : having bound themselves to work for such a length of time to pay for their passage across. Colonel James Patton brought many over as an agent, and they located principally in that section, now known as Augusta, Rockbridge iin.1 Botetourt Counties. On account of having been, connected with Scotland and Ireland both, they were termed Scotch-Irish, and having been drawn together through persecution and adventure, were extremely clannish.
(10) Burden's reputation for honesty was so proverbial, that to express the safety of any financial matter, the settlers said: "as good as Ben Burden's- bond."
14 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Among the settlers who came up the upper James with Colonel Patton, and settled in the section known afterwards as Botetourt, were the Drapers. In 1744, George Draper, the head of this family, in company with one Thomas Ingles, and his son William, took a trip westward. Sometime afterwards George Draper went upon a hunting expedition, and never having been heard from again, his family supposed he was killed by the Indians.* The Ingles' settled at Pattonsburg until 1748. After the return of Dr. Thomas Walker and Colonel James Patton from their western expedition in quest of land on which to locate a patent, the latter gave glowing accounts of the valley, beyond what was then known as the Alleghany Mountains, but really the floor of the valley raised, which is now crossed by the Norfolk and Western Railroad between Roanoke and Christiansburg. Led on by the many favorable reports of the soil beyond this mountain, some of the settlers in the section known now as Botetourt, determined to venture there and make permanent settlements. Thomas Ingles and his three sons, Mrs. George Draper, her son and daughter, Adam Harnian, Henry Lenard, and Janies Burke moved outward to cast their fortunes farther west. The following account of this settlement has been already given :
"They chose one of the loveliest spots imaginable for their home — that beautiful and lovely plateau of fertile land on which the site of Blacksburg is now located. Here they erected their rude huts, and residences of logs rough-hewn, naming the place. Draper's Meadows, which was at this time (1748) the only white settlement near the Alleghanies, and the one farthest west. Things went prosperously along with them, and by their enco- miums upon the fertility of the soil, splendid scenery, and balmy climate, other settlers were induced to come. William Harbison, (12) George Hoopaugh. James Cull and the Lybrooks, (13) came in, the latter settling on Sinking Creek, below the New
(11) Lewis' History of West Virginia. P. P. 65, 66, 67, 68, 69.
* "Trans-Alleghany Pioneers." By J. P. Hale. 1 12 1 Some of the descendents of William Harbison moved to Kentucky! a portion are now residing in the charming' town of Augusta, in Bracken County.
(13) The Lybrooks in Craig County, as well as Giles, and Bland, are de- scendants of these original pioneers. Some members of the family have been distinguished, notably among whom is Judge Lybrook, one of the four mem- bers of the Virginia representatives who occasioned the political downfall of General William Mahone of Petersburg, Va.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 15
River White Sulphur Springs. All were engaged steadily at work in clearing their lands, and making themselves as happy and prosperous as the state of their circumstances would per- mit. They were on the friendliest terms with the Indians, who passed and repassed the settlement without any hostile signs whatever. At times, joy and festivities enlivened the adventur- ers, for Mary, one of Mrs. Draper's daughters, had succumbed to the dictations of the Grod of love, and married William, one of Thomas Ingles' sons. With the exception of one or two small depredations made against Harman, and Hoopaugh, who lived nearer New River than the rest, there was perfect unanimity be- tween the white settlers and Indians. But this pleasant state of affairs was not to continue. On July 8th, 1755, the day before the English army was so ignominiously defeated under General Braddock. the Indians, knowing that the whites were at war with the French, and doubtless instigated by the latter, began a series of raids. They made one upon this peaceful settlement, killing, wounding or capturing every soul. Colonel Patton, (14) Casper Barries, and a child of John Draper were killed, while Mrs. John Draper, and Mrs. Cull, were severely wounded. Mrs. William Ingles (nee Draper), Mrs. John Draper, and Henry Lenard were captured prisoners. James Burke would doubtless have shared the same fate, but in 1754, he moved to that portion of the country now known as Tazwell County. (15) Mrs. Wil- liam Ingles afterwards made her escape, and returned to her family." (16)'
She lived many years after this, (17), and a number of her descendents now reside on New River in Montgomery County, near Radford, Virginia, chief among whom is Captain William Ingles, who lives on a portion of the land originally owned by Thomas Ingles, son of Mary, William's wife. (18)
(14) Colonel Patton and Casper Barries were on a visit to the settlement, having- come from Pattonsburg (now Buchanan) on the James River, wending their way westward.
(15) James Burke, first opened up, and cultivated a portion of the magni- ficent valley in Tazwell County, known as "Burke's Garden," which was named after him. Many of his descendants reside there now, and the valley is a syn- onym for the finest blue grass, and fertility of soil of any county in Virginia.
(16) "South West Virginia and Shenandoah Valley." By Thomas Bruce.
(17) Mrs. Ingles' capture, and escape from the Indians is sad and touching to the last degree. She, with her children, and another lady were conveyed down New River, thence down the Kanawha to the Ohio River, and on to the Indian camps in the Scioto Valley. During the journey she gave birth to an-
10 Heritage of the Tratis-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Prior to the year 1749, the Greenbrier Land Company employed an astute attorney to frame its charter, and in 1749-50 John Lewis was the paity instructed to survey the boundaries of this company. In 1751 the corporation was authorized to locate one hundred thousand acres of land on the waters of the Greenbrier. This country at this time was considered in the wilds of the west, for as yet no human habitation for the white man had been made within its borders, nor permanent settle- ments located. Hitherto, West Virginia had been the home of the wild beasts alone, the Indians even eschewing it as a place
other child, yet continued her march, exhibiting- a nerve and fortitude rarely seen in a womin. While on the trip, by her useful knowledge, adroit acts, and pleasant address, she won the esteem, and respect of the Indians, who proposed gaining a ransom for herself and children, the latter of whom, except her babe at her breast, were torn from her side. Possessing an observant nature, she watched the streams closely going on, and so placed them in her mind, as to remember them distinctly. Her final destination, Big Bone Lick, was reached, at last, in company with only one white woman, and her infant child. Here she- made herself very useful in making salt, and shirts for the Indians out of the checked cloth purchased from the French traders. Although some five hun- dred miles from home, she made up her mind to escape if possible, and com- municated her plans to the other woman, who being frightened at the thought, first refused, but afterwards consented. The parting from her infant, which of course she could not carry, on the first blush, might seem to savour of a want of motherly feeling, but it was to save herself from a more degraded fate (had she remained) that she took this step. With only a blanket apiece, and one suit of clothes on their backs, these females plunged into the trackless forest, turning their faces homeward to walk five hundred miles. To detail their various adventures and sufferings; their march up and down the streams; their subsistence on berries, wild fruits, aud the productions of the forest; their sore feet, and intense physical and mental suffering, would transgress our space. The companion of Mrs. Ingles threatened to kill her, and she only avoided this catastrophe by crossing to the opposite side of New River. For forty days they travelled, until worn out, and exhausted, Mrs. Ingles passed around the Anvil Cliffs at the New River, White Sulphur Springs, and came to Adam Harman's place, who hearing her cries, sought her out, and took her to his house. After resting there some days, she returned to her family, whose surprise and joy were great at seeing her. The lady accompanying Mrs. Ingles was afterwards found by Harraan, and conveyed in safety to a white settle- ment. "Trans-Alleghaney Pioneers," by J. P. Hale.
(18) Captain William Ingles, now residing near Radford, on New River, is the great grand-son of William Ingles, who married Mary Draper. He has the original MS. written by his grandfather, Thomas Ingles, about the troubles experinced by the early settlers. Very near the spot where Captain Will. Ingles lives, is the old "Ingles Ferry," across New River, Here the pioneers crossed, going westward, and the Ingles' place was quite a rendezvous for early settlers passing and repassing, east and west. Captain Ingles has sold a part of the land to a Development Company at Radford.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 17
of residence, on account of its mountainous region. But the time was approaching now, when the Caucasian was to make some of its loveliest valleys his permanent home. In 1769 Robert McClanachan, Thomas and William Renick pitched their tents in this section near Frankfort. McClanachan, who was subse- quently killed in the battle of Point Pleasant, located on the northside of Greenbrier River, near Falling Spring, afterwards selling his land to Major William Renick, by whose descendants it is still owned. (19) In the same year Thomas Williams, William McCoy and William Hughart, all located around the spot where Williamsburg now stands. Hughart's Mountain is named for one of these original settlers. In 1770, 1771 and 1772, James Jordan, John Patton, William Blake and Samuel McKin- ney came in, the latter locating on Muddy Creek, where the Clendennins were murdered, nine years previously. His first neighbor was David Keeney, after whom Keeney's Knob was named. Prior to 1773, William McClung patented a large tract of land in this section, on Meadow River, rearing his rude hut over one hundred miles from either a store or mill. On Decem- ber 20th, 1777, his son William McClung was born, the first white child who was ever saw light on Meadow River. The father was afterwards joined by his brothers, John and Edward McClung. Anthony District was settled up in 1774, the first person locating being a man named Hatfield. (20) Near the ruins of Fort Donally, and ten miles from. Lewisburg, Andrew Donally from whom the fort gets its name, settled in 1774 ; and 1775, Uriah Jenkins, Frank Ford and John McFerrin became his neighbors, followed in 1776, by William Cavendish, Alexander Ochiltree and James Burns, the two latter of whom were subsequently killed at Fort Donally. In 1778 and 1780 the settlers were increased by the arrival of Anthony Rader, James Kincaid, John Gregory, George Mollahan and Charles Hyde. From this period on, many settlers came into this section of West Virginia, and the country of which we are writing, began to show signs of human life.
(19) Major William Renick's wife was Catherine Madisun, a cousin of James Madison, who was our fourth President. After Renick's death, she married Captain William Arbuckle, and spent several years in Fort Randolph at Point Pleasant, and afterwards died on the banks of the Kanawha, at Craig farm, four miles below Buffalo. "Lewis' History of West Virginia, 521."
(20) He is the ancestor of the Hatfield race, whose subsequent fueds with the McCoys have rendered both families celebrated in this section of country, as well as the borders of Kentucky.
18 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Harrison, Lewis, Upshur, Randolph, Tucker, and the other counties comprising Northwestern Virginia, were about the last part of the territory of west Augusta to be settled. In the first place, the Alleghany Mountains presented what seemed then an impossible barrier to those living east. The dense wild, erness, narrow defiles, and uncleared valleys, were not only un- inviting as a place of residence, but afforded ample covering to the treacherous acts of the Indian, the common foe of every white settler at that time. But the spirit of adventure, and de- sire to seek new fields that pervaded many of the early pioneers, led some settlers from both the Ohio Valley and the eastern dis- trict of Augusta, to attempt a penetration of the wilds. (21) The first persons to execute so daring an undertaking were old trappers and frontiersmen, animated with a spirit for exploring new fields. David Tygart and William Files, accustomed daily to the howl of wild beasts, and the savage warfare of the wily Indian, penetrated in 1754, with their families, the uninhabited region along the banks of the east fork of the Monongahela River. After some examination of the country, spots were chosen for residences. Files located at the mouth of a creek that still bears his name, while Tygart settled some miles farther up on the river, that is called "Tygart's Valley River1' to-day in his honor. But their settlements were of short duration. The scarcity of food, coupled with the continuity of the Indians^ rendered existence so precarious, they detei-mined to retrace their footsteps. But this was not accomplished before Files' family fell from an attack made by the Redskins as they were on the eve of moving. (22) Shortly after this, Doctor Thomas Eckerly, with several brothers, immigrated from Pennsylvania. Being Dunkards, and pitching their camps near the mouth of a creek, eight or ten miles below Morgantown, the stream was
(21) During the late civil war, in this region of the country, the sentiment was greatly divided. Many counties furnished companies on each side — the Federal and Confederate. It has been a matter of surprise to some, that peo- ple living together should have been so divided in sentiment. The reason is obvious, when we regard the mode in which the country was settled. The north-western part of the State of Virginia (now a portion of West Virginia) was settled by people pouring in from three different points — north, east and west. These transmitted different views.
(22) History is silent as to the identity of William Files, or his original domi- cil. David Tygart came from east Augusta, now Rockbridge County. As both men came from the east, ahead of civilization, it is not unreasonable to con- clude that Files was from that region too.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 19
afterwards termed " Dunkard's Creek/' Although a destruct- ive war was waging at the time between the whites and Indians, these people were unmolested for two or three years, but at last their settlements were burned, and they were compelled to re- turn east. In 1758, Thomas Decker, in company with a small party, attempted a settlement on the Monongahela River, at the mouth of Decker's Creek. But in the following spring it was broken up, by the combined attacks of the Delawares and Min- goes, and a large portion of the inhabitants murdered. Cor- rectly speaking, these are the only attempts at settling North Western Virginia before the close of the French War. Although the ^capture of Fort Du Quesne, and garrisoning of Fort Pitt gave the English an ascendancy in that quarter, it did not check the hostile attitude of the Indians, consequently, a further set- tlement of this section of West Virginia was not attempted until the restoration of peace in the year 1765.
The fertile country along the Ohio River in West Virginia, as elsewhere, was a bone of contention between the English and the French. A squabble of these two nations over this particular territory caused its first settlement. Through Jesuitical priests of the Holy Catholic Church, France had become acquainted with this intermediate section, the possession of which west of the Alleghanies meant a means of uninterrupted communication between her possessions north, and those held south on the Mississippi River. To assert her claim to this country, and gain the Indians as allies, France established a number of trading posts, and to maintain and preserve her right, prepared to erect a chain of forts extending from Canada to Louisiana. England, deeming such acts on the part of France as an illegitimate usur- pation of the territory, prepared to resist it. A company was formed, called the "Ohio Company," to which the power was given to locate 600,000 acres of the land in the disputed territory. The English proceeded to have the country surveyed — located several trading posts, and the influx of people in consequence of this, caused permanent settlements along the Ohio, in West Virginia, where forts, known then as blockhouses, were erected. This was in the year 1754-55. It was about this time that the Thorntons, Spencers, Parkers, Smiths, and others located claims in Wood, Jackson and Mason Counties along the Ohio, although they were not all residents of the place at that early date. Thus, at this period, Central West Virginia lay uninhabited between
20 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
the people of Virginia, east of the Alleghany Mountains, and those on the Ohio River. The echoes of musketry and artillery, during the Braddock campaign, fell upon the wilderness of for- est in the centre unheeded. The border warfare that painted the east and west trail red with the blood of the Caucasian and Indian, left this country untouched, until the peace established between the beligerent parties, through the instrumentality of Col. Bouquet, in the year 1765. After this time, during the next ten years, settlers from the east, as well as west, and Pennsylva- nia, pushed their footsteps into this section of country of which we are now writing — the interior.
After this treaty, comparative peace and quiet reigned. It was not deemed necessary to reside at all times in forts or block houses. Being no longer compelled to cultivate their fields in common, with the tomahawk, and bow and arrow suspended over their heads, the spirit of adventure took the place of that of war, and during the continuance of this exemption from the haver- sack and musket, various settlements were nuide both on the Monongahela and Ohio Rivers. Among the soldiers garrisoned at Fort Pitt were two brothers, Samuel and John Pringle. Of adventurous dispositions, they entered the interior to find their way to the inhabited part of Virginia. They reached the far- thest western settlement, and remained there some time. Liv- ing in fear of being apprehended as deserters, they determined to retrace their footsteps, and during this latter expedition as- cended a branch of the Valley River, now known as the Buck- hannon River. In company with them was one Simpson, a fur trader. After having crossed Cheat at Horse Shoe, a quarrel arose between one of the Pringles and Simpson, that caused the latter to separate himself from the brothers. Crossing over Tygart's Valley River from the others, he proceeded westerly until he reached a stream he called "Elk River." The Pringle brothers followed up the Valley River until they came to a large fork, and proceeding up as far as Turkey's Run, took up their abode in the cavity of a large hollow tree. Here they resided for some two years, when John Pringle left to reach a trading post on the Shenandoah. On his return, he brought the news of peace between both French and Indians with the English. Then both brothers determined to return to the nearest habi- tations.
Through their accounts, settlers were induced to explore
Resources of Central West Virginia. 21
this new country. In the autumn of 1768, Sam. Pringle took several people out with him on an exploring expedition. These, pleased with the general aspect of the country returned with others in the spring, and began clearing for the purpose of rais- ing grain to carry them through the winter. John Jackson, with two sons, located at the mouth of Turkey Run, where it flows into the Buckhannon. John Hacker placed his hut higher up the Buckhannon River, where Bush's Fort was afterwards established, and Alexander, and Thomas Sleeth settled near by, on what was afterwards known as the Forenash plantation. The rest of the party were, William Hacker, Thomas and Jessie Hughes, John and William Radcliff, and John Brown. (23) Soon afterwards other emigrants arrived, taking up lands around ; John and Benjamin Cartright settled on Buckhannan River. Captain James Booth and John Thomas established themselves on Booth's Creek, near the Monongahela River. The former lived on the estate afterwards owned by the Martins — probably one of the finest landed estates in the country. Jacob Van Meter, John Swan, Thomas Hughes, and others, settled on the west side of the Monongahela River, near the mouth of Muddy Creek. The spot formerly occupied by Thomas Decker, was subsequently taken by David Morgan, whose daring deeds of prowess, and capacity for fighting, made him a conspicuous fig- ure even in those days. The town of Morgantown, named after him, stands on the ground occupied by him, and his brother pioneers. In 1769, the Zanes settled up the country around Wheeling. In 1772, the beautiful country lying on the East Fork of the Monongahela River attracted a number of settlers from Grreenbrier and other sections through accounts given of it by trappers and hunters, who had traversed it. Among the first were the names of Hadden, Connelly, Whiteman, Warwick, Nel- son, Stalnaker, Riffle and Westfall, who eagerly, with others soon took up nearly all the level plateau, some fifteen or twenty miles between the mountains. Cheat River began to be looked after. The Horse Shoe bottom was settled by Captain James Parsons, of the South Branch, and soon, Robert Cunningham, Henry Frick, John Goff, and John Minear followed. William Morgan, and Robert Butler occupied Dunkard's bottom. James Anderson, Jonas Webb, and John Powers took up lands on Elk River, as well as West Fork. In the vicinity of Clarksburg,
(23) "Chronicles of Border Warfare." By Willis.
22 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or.
Thomas Nutter, Sam. Cottrail, Sotha Hickman, Samuel Beard, Andrew Cottrail, and others pitched their tents. Daniel located where Clarksburg now stands, while Obediah Davisson, and John Nutter placed their camp on the banks of the West Fork. Settlers began to pour in now, and so rapid were the settlements in the country tributary to the Buckhannon River, and Hack- er's Creek, that sufficient food was not on hand to supply them, and but for the untiring, and successful efforts of William Low- ther, starvation might have stared them in the face, (24) Such were the principal settlements in this section prior to the war of 1774, which were few and far between.
Until the year 1774, these early settlers augumented in num- bers constantly, by others coming in, cleared the lands, and made small crops for their subsistance. As they increased in power and numbers, counties were laid off and law established. They had taken the initiatory step for gaining permanent houses for their descendants who were to inherit their land. There can be but little doubt of the fact, that from their courage and powers of endurance, these early pioneers were a sturdy, enterprising set. They first gave battle to the roaring beasts, and crawling reptiles of the forests; then stood in gallant array against the countless ranks of the savage and the barbarian; and lastly, fought by the sweat of the brow the boundless forests, the ills of nature, and the soil they had won, for a scanty livelihood. Had more of their spirit of exertion, pluck and energy been transmitted to the succeeding generations, this section would have blossomed like the rose ere now. For some years after Colonel Bouquet's treaty, peace reigned, but in 1774, it was ob- scured by the clouds of war hanging here and there over the horizon, until they gathered in one black mass, and the storm culminated at Point Pleasant on the Ohio River.
(24) William Lowther, who played such a conspicuous part in these peril- ous times left a name renowned for courage, integrity, and self-sacrifice. He was the son of Robert Lowther, and came with his father in the year 1772, to the Hecker Creek settlement. During- the war of 1774, and subsequently, he distinguished himself by his sturdy courage, and strong resistance to the bor- der raids of the Indians. He headed nearly every scouting party that went forth to attack the Indians, and left to posterity a reputation crowned with the laurels of true courage, unselfishness, and manly generosity. He was the first Justice of the Peace for West Augusta District; the first sheriff in the County of Harrison and Wood, and a member of the General Assembly.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 2:;
CHAPTER II.
War between the White Settlers and Indians. — Causes which led. to it. — Indian Raids upon the Settlers. — Difficulties between the English and French. — Treaty of 1763. — Col. Bouquet's Ex- pedition.— Sir William Johnson's Treaty of 1765. — Captain Cresap's Party. — Daniel Gfreathouse's Attack upon the In- dians.— Exasperation of the latter. — Gen. Andrew Lewis. — His Expedition. — Lord Dunmore's Movements. — Battle of Point Pleasant. — The Result of the Same. — Its Effect upon the In- dians.— The Indian Chieftain Logan. — The Murder of Cunt- stalk and others. — Increase of Emigration Westward . — The Indians move farther West. — Peace reigns.
The early settlers of the country, of whom much has been «aid, did not succeed in effecting their settlements, and making homes west of the Blue Ridge and Alleghany Mountains, with- out difficulties and warfare. When they began settling west at first, the Indians not divining wholly their object, and having their curiosity excited, viewed the newcomers at first with friendly looks, exchanging visits as well as commodities. But when their minds grasped the idea at last that it was the pur- pose of the whites to permanently hold their lands, they evinced a hostile attitude, that soon resulted in petty and harrassing raids, a kind of warfare as exasperating as it was dangerous. The Indian is, by nature, treacherous and revengeful ; his idea of war consisted in not only a secret extermination of his enemies, but their wives and children as well. Attack after attack was the result of their hostility on the settlements seriatim, but always retreating whenever the place attacked called in some neighboring block-house to assist in the defense. In this system of warfare the Indians had the whites at a decided disadvantage, for the former being of a roving disposition, and accustomed to the rugged mountain passes, rushed in suddenly upon a fort, and after committing their depredations, retreated with such rapidity that they were soon lost in the defiles of the rough, rugged hills with which the white settlers were unac >quainted. After the hostility of the Red man was aroused, the
24 Heritage of the Trans- Allegha n y Pioneers, or,
early inhabitants had to dispute inch by inch -with them over the territory the latter acquired. (1) In connection with the -white race there is a distinguishing characteristic in all their methods of -warfare in the last century. They never kill the defenceless, such as women and children, nor make unnecessary, stealthy attacks upon a peaceful household. But the superiority of the Caucasian caused itself to be felt in the struggle with the Indians, as it had done in days gone by with other races, and at last the whites remained undisputed victors of the field. While it is not possible for the historian to give recital of every small raid made by the Indians upon families as individuals, or relate every hand-to-hand combat that occurred, still it is his duty to give a patient investigation of the causes that led to the decisive action which finally determined the result. (2) And while the war between the early settlers and the Indians was decided in almost a single pitched battle, yet the minute description of the causes and results of this fight are as important as if a hundred battles had been fought, or the war waged for years.
The causes which lead to the celebrated battle of Point Pleasant may be said to be three. The disputes between the English and French over territory ; Colonel Bouquet's expedi- tion into Ohio ; and the killing of Logan's family by Captain Cresap and Daniel Grreathouse.
The dispute between the French and English originated over the conflicting claim of the two nations to tbe same territory west of the Alleghanies. By virtue of the discovery of John and Sabastian Cabot, in 1498, of the Virginia Territory, England claimed all the territory east of the Mississippi River, while France through the fact that some of her citizens had gone over the territory claimed it also. This nation further claimed that the Ohio, and Mississippi Valleys belong to it through the dis-
(1) Concerning this raiding warfare, Mr. John P. Hale in his work, "Trans- Alleghany Pioneers," on page 178, has this to say :
"After the treaty of 1763, between the English and French, the French were out of the way of settlements, but their savage allies, whom they had insti- gated and encouraged to resist the encroachment of the white settlers upon their territory, were still there to dispute every advance upon their happy hunting grounds; and, although the march of settlement continued steadily westward, every pioneer trail was a trail of blood, and every pioneer family numbered among its members victims of the tomahawk and scalping knife.''
Mr. Hale is a lineal descendant of the Ingles' of Draper's Meadows, who were raided in 1775, by the Indians, when all were killed or captured.
(2) For a graphic description of many of the atrocities committed by the Indians on individuals, the reader is referred to "Trans-Alleghany Pioneers,'' by John P. Hale, and "Lewis' History of West Virginia."
a —
Resources of Central West Virginia. 25>
covery of La Salle, Marquette and others. It seems that numer- ous Jesuitical priests from France had crossed the ocean with the object of christianizing: tho savages in America. These priests made themselves acquainted with the country from the northern lakes to the southern gulf, and from the mountains on the east to the lakes of the woods on the west, besides making maps of the country, which with Canada, they called, New France. It was these proselyting Jesuits who first descended the Mississippi River, and discovered the Ohio River. On this account it is claimed by some that France was entitled to this territory by right of discovery — a right recognized by all na- tions. (3) But England failed to acknowledge this right to France, and prepared at once to assert her claim. George II. , then the ruling Monarch of England, ordered the Governor of Virginia to issue a grant of land of 500,000 acres between, the Great Kanawha, and Monongahela River to a company. This was done in March, 1749. The company was to pay no quit- rents for ten years; to colonize within seven years at least one hundred families, and to survey at least two-fifths of their land, and at their expense to construct a garrison and fort. Christo- pher Gist was brought from North Carolina to survey these lands, and in so doing took his memorable trip into a section of country never before traversed by a white man. He made the survey, but before the required colonization of the lands could take place within the limited time; or, the charter extended,
(3) Mr. Lewis, in his "History of West Virginia," distinctly asserts that France was entitled to this territory. He writes: '
"Champlain, the founder of Quebec, was accustomed to say: 'The saving- of a soul is worth more than the conquest of an empire'; and such was the faith of the men who first bore the standard of civilization to the Mississippi Valley and the distant shores of Lake Superior. As the years sped away, these enthu- siasts laboured oni.n an effort to secure the accomplishment of their cherished object— the conversion of Canada. The raging- tempest, the rigours of an Arctic winter, hunger, the tomahawk, nor fear of death, deterred them from the pros- ecution of their self-imposed task— that of saving Canada for the church. Such were the first white men within the present limits of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri ******* They drew maps of all this region, which together with Canada was called New France, and had won there to a title based upon discovery." ********
It seems to one who is acquainted with rights accruing from discovery, that England's priority of claim over France was clearly established. Long before these missionaries ever came to America; long before they ever discovered the Ohio River or the territory, referred to by the learned author of the "History of West Virginia", England had discovered the eastern part of the territory, and planted her colony there. It was a part of the whole land, for she claimed from ocean to ocean, under her discovery, and colonization. Actual possession of part means constructive possession of the whole, and the claim of France was but an intrusion.
26 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneer*, or,
the declaration of independence put an end to the proceedings of the Ohio Company. (4) It was the avowed object of this company to form a separate government west of the Alleghanies, but that, too, was for the present frustrated. In the year 1749, England followed up her claims to this territory by ordering the Governor of Virginia to organize "The Loyal Land Company,*' with a grant of 800,000 acres of land extending northward from the Carolinas. To gain an insight into the country where this land lay, was the object of the memorable exploration of Dr. Thos. Walker, and the brave Colonel James Patton. (5) In 1751, the Greenbrier Company was organized with a grant of 100,000 acres of land west of the Alleghanies, which was surveyed and meted off by John Lewis, from Augusta County, Virginia.
These acts of ownership exercised by England, alarmed France. In the middle of 1749, she too began a practical asser- tion of her claims, by sending a company along the Kanawha, Ohio, and other rivers, to designate her boundary. This was done by means of leaden plates sunk at various points along the streams. This expedition set out from Montreal in 1749, and buried the first plate at the mouth of the Conewago ; the second was buried at the mouth of French Creek, and moving down the Ohio to "Wheeling Creek, the third was put down. The fourth was placed at Muskingum River, the present site of Marietta, Ohio. Proceeding onward, they passed Little Kan- awha, and reaching the mouth of Great Kanawha, sunk their fifth plate. (6) About August 31st, the French party passed the
(4) The Ohio Company was composed of twelve members, all of whom were residents of Virginia and Maryland, except a merchant of London, named John Hamburg. Among the members were Lawrence and Augustine Washington, George Mason, John Mercer and John Dinwiddie, the latter General Surveyor of the Colony. Colonel Cresap was from Maryland.
(5) There is no doubt of the fact that to see about these lands was the reason of Colonel Patton's expedition. He, with Dr. Walker and others, made the exploration in 1748, and on their return, in 1749, the company was organized.
(6) One of these plates was taken up in the year 1846, bs" a son of John Beale in Mason County, Kentucky. It fell into the possession of James M. Laidley a member of the General Assembly from Kanawha, and was taken by him to Richmond, Virginia, where it is now preserved in the care of the "Virginia Historical Society ," It bears the following inscription :
"In the year 1749, reign of Louis XV. King- of France, We, Celeron, com- mandant of a detachment sent by Monsieur the Marquis de La Galissouiere, Com- mandant General of New Fiance, to re establish tranquility in some Indian villages of these cantons, have buried this plate at the mouth of the river Chin- odoshichetha, the 18th of August, near the river Ohio, otherwise Beautiful River, as a monument of renewal of possession, which we have taken of said River Ohio, and of all those which fall into it, and of all the lands on both sides
Resources of Central West Virginia. 27
Great North Bend of the Ohio River, reaching the mouth of the Great Miami, where they buried their sixth and last plate, claiming then all right to the territory. The next step taken by the French, was to place themselves in a position to main- tain their claim to the territory in dispute. In 1753 they came southward from Canada, constructing a cordon of forts, from Lake Erie to the Ohio River. The first of these was placed at PresqiC Isle, now known as Erie, while another was located at Venango, called Franklin in later days, and a third between the two mentioned, Le Boeuf, now Waterbury. On learning of these proceedings, the Governor of Virginia attempted to stop them by the use of diplomacy. General George Washington, at the time but twenty-one years of age, was chosen to undertake the delicate mission of communicating with the French author- ities. Chistopher Gist, Jacob Van Braam, a French interpreter, Davidson, the Indian interpreter, William Jenkins, Henry Stew- art, Barnaby Currien and John McGuire, were his companions, and the whole party proceeded to the Ohio Valley. Venango, the most southern outpost of the French, was reached on De- cember 4th, and learning there that the French commander's headquarters were at La Boeuf, Washington pressed forward, and on reaching Le Gardeur de St. Pierre, he delivered Governor Dinwiddie's message. St. Pierre as courteously agreed to for- ward the message to the Governor General of Canada, as he firmly refused to make any concessions, saying his orders were to hold the country, which he intended doing. Washington having performed his duty, returned with his companions to Virginia. (7)
On learning of the ultimatum of the French, Virginia rose in arms to carry the point for her mother country. Capt. William Trent speedily collected a company of Virginia pioneers among the Hampshire Hills ; crossed the mountains, and in January, 1754, began the erection of a fort at the forks of the Ohio. But on the 16th of January a force of French and Indians appeared on the scene, and Coutrecour, the French commander, sent a summons to surrender. Owing to the superiority of the French
as far as the sources of said rivers; the same as were eDjoyeol, or ought to have been enjoyed, by the preceding kings of France ; and that they have maintained it by their arms and by treaties, especialiy by those of ftyswick. Utrecht, and Aix-La-Chapelle." See "Lewis' History West Virginia," page 81-82.
(7) This was the first public service performed by Washington for his State He was twenty-one years of age at that time, and held a commission in the* army as major of a regiment.
28 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
and Indian force, Captain Trent knew that resistance would be worse than useless, so he capitulated, and marched up the Monongahela, leaving the enemy in possession of the unfinished fort. This they completed ; and named it Fort Du Quesne, in honor of the Marquis de Du Quesne, then Governor General of Canada. (8) In the meanwhile, Washington collected a force near Harper's Ferry, and proceeded westward ; and hearing of the disaster at the forks of the Ohio, halted and constructed Fort Necessity. The French advanced upon this, and an en- gagement took place on the 28th of May between the vanguards of the armies, that resulted in a loss of ten to the French forces, among whom was M. La Jumonville. On the fourth day of July, the French came again with a larger force, attacking the Eng- lish, and Gen. Washington surrendered Fort Necessity, retreat- ing in discomfiture to Wills Creek. The year 1754 closed with the French in complete possession of the Ohio Valley.
But a war was inaugurated in 1755, which was to change the geography of a whole continent, and mould the future destiny of nations. Smarting under the loss sustained at the forks of the Ohio, and the capitulation of Fort Necessity, England sent troops over in the winter of 1755, under command of General Edward Braddock, who, on the 20th of February, cast anchor in Chesapeake Bay, with 1200 strong. The French, about the same time, sent a fleet across, two ships of which were captured off the coast of Newfoundland by British men-of-war, under command of Admiral Boscowan. The troops which came with General Braddock were the 44th and 48th Royal Infantry, under the respective commands of Sir Peter Halkett and Col. Thomas Dunbar. Proceeding up the Potomac from Alexandria, they passed through the counties of Jefferson, Berkley and Morgan, of West Virginia, until Fort Cumberland was reached, now Cumberland City, Maryland, where about one thousand Virgin- ians from Shenandoah Valley joined Braddock, when the whole command moved forward into the trackless wilderness, bent on the reduction of Fort Du Quesne. Soon the command was divided ; the General advanced with 1200 chosen men, leaving Col. Dunbar with the heavy artillery and baggage to follow on as rapidly as possible. As General Braddock's army pro-
(8) This fort, when recaptured by the English, was named Fort Pitt, in •honor of William Pitt, then Prime Minister of England. It was the place where, the present populous city of Pittsburg, Pa., is now located.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 29
ceeded westward, scouts carried the intelligence forward to Port Du Quesne, and Heauzeau, against Coutrecour's advice to retreat, advised his superior in command to give battle to the English ; to this effect, at the call of the French, Indian chiefs gathered together a force of 600 men of their nations, which, with 250 Frenchmen, departed from Fort Du Quesne to meet the English. On the 8th of July the English reached the Monongahela, and crossing the same the following day, formed into ranks on the level plateau, when the order was given to march forward to Fort Du Quesne, some ten miles distant. The troops were scarcely in motion, when Gordon, one of the engi- neers, saw the French and Indians bounding forward through the forest, who at once opened a deadly fire upon the English troops, that was returned by the latter with such deadly effect, that the French leader was shot dead. Dumas, second in com- mand, rallied the French, and* for three hours a destructive fire was kept up that played havoc among the English army, owing to General Braddock's deployment of his forces on the field of battle. Of the 1200 chosen men, crossing the Monongahela, sixty-seven officers, and seven hundred and fourteen privates, were either killed or wounded. When the French and Indians met Dunbar with the artillery and baggage, he was completely routed, and the straggling forces retreated to Cumberland, Maryland, from which point the remainder of the English army marched to Philadelphia and Washington. General Braddock was killed, his death being caused by his own improvident act and rash violence. (9") The campaign of 1755 left the French, through the assistance of the Indians, still in possession of the disputed territory. The news of General Braddock's defeat was the signal for the beginning of merciless raids by the Western
(9) During this fight, it seems that General Braddock deployed his forces just as if he was upon an English field of battle, rallying them again and again into platoons and columns, while the enemy took advantage of the trees and other obstructions as breastworks. The Virginia forces with Braddock, being accustomed to the same mode of warfare, took shelter also behind the trees, which raised Braddock's displeasure. In a Virginia company there were two brothers, Joseph and Thomas Fausett. The former, in defiance of Braddock's absurd command not to protect himself, got behind a tree, when Braddock rode up, and struck him down with his sword. The other brother who stood by, witnessed the transaction, and shot Braddock through the lungs. The General died in four days, and was buried near Fort Necessity ; but his remains were afterwards disinterred and carried to England and laid in Westminster Abbey.
30 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Indians upon the frontier settlers. So much for one of the causes of the war between the Indians and whites.
The Indians now waged a continual war along the borders. During 1757, 1758, 1759 and 1760 they committed depredations and murders of the most revolting kind : white men were cap- tured and scalped while peacefully pursuing their occupations ; women and children were killed in the most brutal manner, the latter being often brained against trees ; property was wantonly taken and destroyed, until in the year 1763, the settlers in self- defense appealed for help to prevent further destruction of life and property. A thousand families had been either murdered, or driven from their homes on the frontiers of Pennsylvania and Virginia; and, since the treaty of Fontainbleau, by which Canada was ceded to the English, the dissatisfied French remaining within the borders, instigated the Indians as much as possible against the English settlers. The necessity for assisting the settlers, caused an expedition to be sent out under Colonel Bouquet, who was a Switz by birth, but had served gallantly in the English army. In 1764, he marched from Phila- delphia, and with five hundred men, fought a fiercely-contested battle at Bushy Run, Pennsylvania, in which he completely routed the Indians. Augmenting his force after this to 1500 men, he proceeded by way of Fort Pitt into Ohio, and marching into the wilderness reached the forks of the Muskingum, where he concluded a treaty with the Indians, recovering some two hundred and sixty white captives, who had been taken from the frontiers of Virginia and Pennsylvania. (10) While as a tempor- ary cessation of hostilities, and as a means of recovering the white prisoners from the Indians, Colonel Bouquet's expedition, was a success, as a measure for preventing future hostilities, it was a failure. Had his force, instead of making this treaty, made fierce war upon the Indians, and given them a sound castigation, there would have been a retreat on their part such as took place at the battle of Point Pleasant — a most affective
(10) Colonel Bouquet, commanding- this expedition, was a native of Switzer- land, born in the Canton of Berne. By birth he was a soldier. He spent his early life in the Scandinavian army, afterwards serving- in that of the Dutch Republic. In 1755, the Duke of Cumberland organized a regiment destined for America, in which Colonel Bouquet entered as Lieutenant-Colonel. He served throughout the war against the French, and at the time he was ordered west by Sir Jeffrey Amherst, was stationed at Philadelphia. It is to be deplored on account of the future, that General Lewis was not put in command of this expedition.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 31
and permanent one. Colonel Bouquet returned to Fort Pitt with his army, and treaty of peace, the latter of which was totally ruptured afterwards, when the flames of war broke out again.
This treaty was kept for a number .of years, lasting until 1774, when it was torn asunder by some Indians being killed at Cap- tina and Yellow Creek. Many chroniclers of events of that time expressly assert that it was broken at first by the whites. (11) In the spring of 1774, a white man in a trading-boat was killed, some distance from Wheeling Creek. (12) This act was committed by the Indians. Early in April a party of Indians were surprised and attacked by Captain Cresap and others at the mouth of Captina Creek. (13) During the same month some Indians who lived in Logan's Camp, near the mouth of Yellow Creek, on the
(11) Lewis, in his history of "West Vh-ginia, distinctly asserts that the treaty was broken first by the whites, and enumerates what he deems the causes : the murder of several Indians near Harper's Ferry by Harpoid and his asso- ciates ; the murder of Bald Eagle, an Indian chief ; the murder of Captain Bull, an Indian chief, on Little Kanawha Eiver ; the murder of the Indians by Captain Cresap and party ; and the killing of Logan's family by the Great- houses and Bakers. Mr. Lewis assigns no cause for these murders on the part of the Indians. See " Lewis' History West Virginia, pp. 114-15-16.
Dr. Doddridge, in his history of Lord Dunmore's war, says the killing of the Indians was murder on the part of the whites ; that the latter had no right whatever to attack the Indians for taking their horses, which, as a matter of fact, was not true ; and that the action of the white settlers was unwarranted, and deserving of retaliation. "Doddridge's History of Lord Dunmore's War."
In speaking of the killing of these Indians, Lewis, in his "History of West Virginia," says on page. 114:
" Here was sufficient cause for retaliation, and it came only too soon,"
With all due deference to both Mr. Lewis and Dr. Doddridge, there is but little doubt that the origin of the affair is as represented by John P. Hale, in " Trans-Alleghany Pioneers." See note 12.
(12) Mr. John P. Hale, in his admirable work, "Trans-Alleghany Pioneers," on page 179, says :
"About this time, several murders were committed on the Upper Ohio. A white man in a trading-boat was killed by Indians some distance above Wheel- ing Creek ; within a lew days, early in April, Captain Michael Cresap and party killed two Indians, near Wheeling, in a canoe, and followed a larger party down the river to the mouth of Captina, where they were surprised in camp, and nearly all killed."
Mr. Hale proceeds further, and details other murders following of both whites and Indians. On account of the spirit of retalliation which existed between the two races ; the bad feelings harbored, one murder was sure to follow another, and as Mr. Hale relates, doubtless the list of murders that led to the war proceeded from the killing of the white man in a trading-boat, near or above Wheeling Creek, by an Indian.
(13) The Rev. John J. Jacob, Captain Cresap's biographer, states that his hero was not present at the massacre of Captina Creek. John Sappington, in
32 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
opposite side of the river from one Baker's, went across to the latter's for the purpose of purchasing rum, which was kept for sale there. In the midst of a drunken spree, an Indian and white man became involved in a difficulty, in which the Indian, who was a brother of Chieftain Logan, was killed, and a general fight ensued that resulted in the death of several Indians and whites. Among the former, both at Captina and Yellow Creek, were almost all the members of Logan's family. The result of affray led to another border warfare, and the Indians became so aggressive along the frontier — particularly along the Ohio, that the settlers deemed it necessary to call in the assistance of the Government. Tidings were carried to Lord Dunmore at Wil. liamsburg, who ordered a force to be raised under Colonel Angus McDonald's command, who was born of Scotch parentage, and resided near Winchester, in Frederick County, Virginia. This work was but a i^reliminary movement to Lord Dunmore's war that was prosecuted later on in the year. Colonel McDonald ransacked the Indian towns in Ohio, and destroyed many of their villages ; at last returning to Virginia, he brought several chiefs as hostages. (14)
Later on the Indians being bent upon a general border war- fare, the frontier settlers became alarmed, and through Cresap and Connally messengers were sent to Williamsburg, apprising Governor Dunmore of the danger. His Excellency, realizing the situation of the colonists in the west, sent for General Andrew Lewis, with whom he consulted, and mapped out the route of a campaign against the Indians. (15) They decided to raise an army of two divisions, one to be commanded by Lord Dunmore; the other by General Lewis. The latter, with the assistance of • his brother, Charles Lewis, from Augusta, who was a colonel of a regiment, raised an army from Augusta, Botetourt, and Fin- castle Counties, while Lord Dunmore's was assembled from
his affidavit made in 1800 in Madison County, Virginia, says : the Greathouses, and not Captain Cresap', killed the Indians. But a letter of Cresap's written to the Bakers, indicates guilty knowledge.
(14) As has been stated, Colonel August McDonald was of Scotch extrac- tion. He resided near Winchester, Frederick County, Virginia, on an estate early acquired by his ancestry, and which has been known locally for more than a century as: "Glengary," so called from the name of the clan to which the McDonalds belonged in the highlands of Scotland. Many of his descend- ants reside in the valley.
(15) General Andrew Lewis, son of John Lewis, of Augusta County, was then a member of the House of Burgesses for Botetourt County, Virginia,
Resources of Central West Virginia. 33
Frederick, Shenandoah and adjacent counties. All the western regions were notified of the approaching danger, and ordered to prepare themselves. About September 1st, General Lewis1 army rendezvoused at Camp Union, known now as Lewisburg, Green- brier County. It was agreed between the two generals that Lewis should go to the mouth of Kanawha River from his canip; while Lord Dunmore took the northwest route over the old Braddock trail, by way of Fort Pitt, and join the former at the mouth of the Great Kanawha. On September 11th, General Lewis broke camp, and with Captain Mathew Arbuckle, an ex- perienced frontiersman, as guide, he set out with his army of 1,100 men for his destination. After a march of some nineteen days, by way of Muddy Creek, Keeny's Knob, Rich Creek, Gau- ley, Twenty Mile, Bell Creek, and Kelly's Creek, along the In- dian trail to Kanawha, and down Kanawha to its mouth, he reached Point Pleasant on the 30th day of September after a fatiguing march. (16) He waited anxiously here for several days expecting Lord Dunmore. (17) The latter Avas to have joined him by October 2nd. Hearing nothing from him, Genl Lewis dispatched some messengers up the Ohio River to meet him, or learn what had become of him. However, before they returned, three messengers arrived at Lewis' camp on Sunday the 9th of October, with orders from Lord Dunmore to cross the river and meet him before the Indian towns in Ohio. On the morning of the 10th, General Lewis give orders for the camp to
(16) Bancroft's description of the march of the army is really beautiful. He writes:
"At that time there was not even a track over the rugged mountains, but the gallant young woodsmen who formed the advance party moved expedi- tiously with their pack-horses and droves of cattle through the home of the wolf, the deer, and the panther. After a fortnight's struggle they left behind them the last rocky masses of the hilltops, and passing between the gigantic growth of primeval forests, where, in the autumnal season the golden hue of the linden, the sugar-tree, and the hickory, contrasted with the glistening green of the laurel, the crimson of the sumac, and the shadows of the sombre hemlock, they descended where the Elk widens into a plain."
(17) Many have been the theories and speculations why Lord Dunmore should have gone directly across the Ohio River into the Indian territory with- out joining General Lewis at the mouth of the Great Kanawha, as formerly agreed upon. These speculations afterwards drifted into charges against Lord Dunmore, of planning, during this march, the destruction of the colony of Virginia, because it was resisting the encroachments of England upon its rights and liberties. From most of the disjointed, rambling writings of the time, it is clearly seen that Lord Dunmore's loyalty is attacked on the following grounds: he was an Englishman; at this time the Joint Assembly was passing measures condemning England's encroachments; that he did not join Lewis and had Cornstalk' s original plans been carried out, Lewis' army would have
34 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
be broken up, purposing to follow Lord Dunniore's orders, and move into Ohio ; but at the hour of starting, his progress was checked by an army of a thousand Indian braves, commanded by their trusted leaders : Cornstalk, Logan, Red Hawk, Blue Jacket, and Elinipsico.
It appears that the Indians were stationed on the opposite side of the river from General Lewis, waiting for him to cross, and then ambush him nearer their own homes, and out of his territory. This plan would doubtless have been executed as Cornstalk the chief laid it down, but General Lewis' delay, oc- casioned by waiting for Lord Dunmore, interferred with the plans of the Indians. The latter not having a full supply of rations to last so long, had to make a change of base ; they either had to make an attack upon Lewis, or else go and hunt for food, leaving their country at the mercy of the enemy. On the night of the 9th, they constructed a crossing of rafts, upon which they transported their army, intending to surprise Lewis early in the morning. But about daylight it seems that a party of hunters went out from Lewis' camp for game, and discovering the approaching Indians, returned just in time to give the alarm before the Indian army confronted General Lewis' in full battle- array.
It was but a short time after the two armies met before the whole scene was one of carnage and blood. Here, on the banks of the beautiful Ohio, sweeping gently down with an easy cur- rent as it drank in the waters of the Kanawha flowing from the rugged mountains; here, in this lonely valley, that stretches away on each side to the wooded hills, was fought one cf the bloodiest battles ever chronicled in history, or known among nations — the never- forgotten battle of Point Pleasant. The deadliest animosity existed between the two armies ; re- venge, hatred, and malice actuated one side, while the view of lost wives, bi*ained children, and homes destroyed, burned in
been ignominiously routed. For those reasons, John P. Hale, Mr. Lewis, Mr_ Stuart, and Dr. Campbell, all bring- the gravest charges against Lord Dun- niore's honesty, without educing a single fact to support them. The facts, and actions of Lord Dunmore are laid down in the text. That some of his actions during this campaign ai-e not explained is true; but inexplicable acts never constitute historical facts. For reasons sufficient to himself, Lord Dunmore might have deemed a course of peace the best, and gone across the Ohio with- out giving a reason: being supreme in command, it was the place of GeneraL Lewis and his army to obey orders, and not make charges, on unexplained acts, of his.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 35
the hearts of the other. There was no wavering, no falling back, no retreating, neither giving nor taking ; but a deadly affray in which the contending parties fought often hand-to-hand. Bullets whizzed, and balls did their awful work ; and when their blood waxed warm they met with the sword and tomahawk, carrying on hour after hour their destruction of human life, from which the blood flowed swiftly and freely. During the fight in the early part of the day each army attempted to flank the other, but neither succeeded. In the afternoon, General Lewis, fearing night might come over his band still engaged in the struggle, attempted a flank movement. Sending a portion of his force around, he ordered an attack upon the rear of the Indian army, which was cautiously, but expeditiously executed; the Indians believing a re-inforcement had attacked them in the rear, became demoralized, and fled from the field, as brave a lot of men as ever fought and lost^ leaving General Lewis undis- puted master of the field, with the laurel of victory upon his brow. (18)
But the laurel was not without its thorns. Many of the most prominent men, as well as officers, were cut down by the Indians. Among those killed were Colonels Charles Lewis, and John Field, Captains John Murray, R. McClannahan, Samuel Wilson, James Ward, Lieutenant Hugh Allen, Ensigns Cantiff, and Bracken, and forty-four privates. Total killed, fifty-three. The total number of wounded was eighty-seven ; killed and wounded, one hundred and forty. The destruction to life was
(18) General Andrew Lewis, the hero of Point Pleasant, whose acts and deeds of valor in defense of the early settlers endeared him to the hearts of all, is entitled to more than passing notice. He was born in Ulster, Ireland, being the son of the pioneer John Lewis, who was the first settler in Augusta. He was a man of sterling worth, decisive character, and full of loyalty. When quite young he entered the colonial army, and was rapidly promoted. He was an officer under Washington at Fort Necessity; was in the Braddoek campaign, and wounded at the battle of Monongahela. In 1756 he commanded the "Dig Sandy Expedition," and was with General Forbes at the reduction of Fort Du Quesne. He was one the commissioners to treat with the Six Nations at Fort Stanwigs, rising to the rank of brigadier-general in 1774. In 1776 he en- tered the Revolutionary War, and was in that until driven home by fever. He expired at Colonel Buford's residence, east of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in Bedford County, Virginia. He was interred on his estate known as "Dropmore," near Salem, Virginia. No stone marks his resting place, nor tells where lies the hero of Point Pleasant, and it is a stigma upon his State that one who fought and bled for his country should be without some record as to his last resting place. His descendants now residing throughout Virginia are representative people, and many have occupied prominent positions in civil matters.
36 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghau y Pioneers, or,
simply fearful, and the conflict raged from sun-rise to sun-set. Some of the foremost men of the country lost their lives, and left large families to mourn their untimely departure. Nor was the loss on the Indian side less. While none of their leaders were killed, many of their braves perished, and a lesson was taught them they never forgot — that the whites were their mas- ters. The conducting of the battle by both Logan, and Corn- stalk, exhibited rare courage, and skill in commanding, as well as urging their men. Cornstalk could be heard above the din and roar of the fight, exhorting his soldiers to deeds of valor, and both he and Logan commanded the respect and admiration of their opponents. (19) The former was murdered some three years afterwards in the fort at Point Pleasant, in a brutal man- ner. Logan became a confirmed sot, and on his return from Detroit was killed by his brother-in-law. (20)
(19) Cornstalk was a person of unusually good sense, besides having- un- daunted courage. At a meeting held of the chiefs on the evening before the battle, he advocated peace, and wanted to treat with General Lewis. But he was bitterly opposed, and is reported as having said:
"Then, if you will fight, you shall fight, and I Mill see that you do fight.T' He kept his word, for during the battle he brained one of his own men for cowardice, and exposed himself in the thickest of the fight encouraging, and forcing his men to do their duty. The death of this brave warrior casts a can*, opy of shame over the garrison established at Point Pleasant some years aftei the memorable battle there. In 1777, when the Revolutionary War was ragingv the Indians desired Cornstalk to make peace with their enemies. He came to Point Pleasant with Red Hawk, another chief. Owing to certain utterances of his, Captain Arbuckle thought proper to detain him in custody, and one day while there, his son El inipsicc visited him. During this v sit a white settler named Gilmore was killed by an Indian, and when his body vas brought to the fort, his comrades sought revenge on the brave old chief and his son. Corn- staid was exhorting Elinipsico to meet death braved, Avhen he was shot, being literally torn to pieces by the number of bullets piercing his body; Red Hawk attempted to save himself by going up the chimney, but was killed in the at- tempt, Thus passed away three brave men, bent on errands of peace, It is a blot upon the Fort that will never pass away.
(20) Thomas Jefferson is reported as having made this remark of Logan : "That he thought him the equal of any of the ancient Roman or Greek
orators."
The character of Logan, as well as that of Cornstalk, stood out promi- nently under all circumstances. Logan's oratorical powers have been rendered immortal by his celebrated speech made to Colonel Gibson, who was sent to his cabin to bring him out at the treaty of peace held by Lord Dunmore in Ohio, just after Lewis' victory, from which the chief was notably absent. When requested by Colonel Gibson to come to the meeting he sent this speech to Lord Dunmore:
"I am a warrior, not a councilor, and I will not go. I appeal to any white man to say if he ever entered Logan's cabin hungry and he gave him not meat;
Resources of Central West Virginia. 87
The result of the battle of Point Pleasant, and treaty of peace made by Lord Duninore, together with the forts estab- lished along the frontier, caused nearly a complete cessation of hostilities, as well as the retreat westward of the Indians. Emi- gration now poured in the country over the Alleghanies, and the settlers turned their attention from the horror of war to the scenes of peace, and began bettering their condition. Their arms were turned into plough-shares, for not even were the sur- veyors out in dear old Kentucky in any way molested by the Indians. Lands were being taken, meted off, and cleared; set- tlements as permanent homes made, and when the last cloud of the Revolutionary War had been dispelled, a brighter horizon than ever of peace and plenty beamed over the land so dearly fought for and won as an everlasting heritage. And a goodly heritage it was.
if ever he came cold and naked, and he clothed him not. During1 the course of the last long- and bloody war, Logan remained idle in his cabin an advocate of peace. Such was my love for the whites that my countrymen pointed as they passed, and said: 'Logan is the friend of the white man.' I had even thought to live with you but for the injuries of our men. Colonel Cresap, the last spring, in cold blood and unprovoked, murdered all the relations of Logan, not even sparing- my woman and children. There runs not a drop of my blood in the veins of any living creature. This called on me for revenge. I have sought it. I have killed many. 1 have glutted my vengeance. For my country, I rejoice at the terms of peace; but do not harbor a thought that mine is the joy of fear. Logan never felt fear. He will not turn on his heel to save his life.' Who is there to mourn for Logan? Not one." "Trans-Alleg." Pp.226.
38 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers or.
CHAPTER III.
The Early Pioneers Settlement. — Mode of Life of the Early Set- tlers.— Their Way of Living. — Their Laws, Morals, Manners, Customs, and Amusements. — Rapid Improvement in the Ear- lier Part of the Nineteenth Century.
After the tocsin of peace had sounded throughout the land west of the Alleghany Mountains, and the savage barbarian who had fought so bravely, was driven farther along the west- ern wilds, the early settlers turned their attention, not to a life of ease and pleasure, but another field to conquer — the wilder- ness won by them. No one, except those intimately acquainted with the state of the country about 1780, can imagine what a dreary never ending wilderness the whole seemed. On every side primeval forests and thick undergrowth occupied the val- leys, Avhile gnarled oaks, crooked pines, and rugged rocks, lined the beautiful mountains. The penetration of this track- less region on the very start, gave one the idea of being lost, for it appeared never-ending, without an outlet, except a farther visit into its fathomless depths. The beauty of the scene was of the supernatural kind, that awed the soul of the beholder, leaving him in sole communion with his God and himself. The green leaves of the oak and hickory, contrasting strongly with the crimson of the alder-bush and the pink of the haw- haw, while presenting a picture of rare scenic beauty, was over- spread with a bewildered appearance as to where it all led. (1) Into a wilderness of this kind did the early pioneers fight their way to make a permanent home.
(1) If in this enlightened day, one should attempt to cross the Alleghany through a portion of its unexplored and uncultivated part, it would seem like a never-ending wilderness, fit only for the home of the wolf, the panther and the deer. A lonely, homeless, longing sensation for a human face, or habita- tion, is the prominent feeling, and a trip of this nature for a few days only gives an idea what our fathers suffered, to say nothing of the danger from Indians and wild beasts as well. Tradition, as as well as our scanty records, tell of the many dangers from some of the wild beasts of the forest. In the early days, bears, wolves, as well as panthers, inhabited this region, often attacking a settler. The rattlesnake, too, caused many a death, and was an inhabitant of this section, having his home first in the valleys, then upon the hill as man settled the former.
Resources of Central }Yest Virginia. 39
The first act of the pioneer was to construct a shelter. This was at first of the rudest description. A spot was selected and cleared off, and a few logs, notched at the end, were placed one upon the other in a square ; when these were ten or twelve* feet high, a layer of poles was spread over the top, and dirt thrown upon them. In this rude structure the little provisions and few tools of the pioneer were placed, and he resided here until he had time and means to erect a more commodious resi- dence. Soon he cleared a larger space, enough for a small yard with the house, and larger logs were felled and hewn with which to construct the body of the house. By means of riving straight pieces of pine timber, boards (called clap-boards) were made, which served for the covering, flooring, as well as doors and other parts. Wooden pins, of the necessary dimen- sions, were used instead of nails ; and the scanty f urniture filling the house was constructed in the same way. Beds, tables, chairs, cupboards, bowls and platters, were made in this simple fashion. It is not hard to imagine, that when a house had to be furnished in this mode, no more was constructed than actual necessity required. (2)
After the shelter from wind and storm was secured, the next step was to make sufficient clearing for a patch of corn. This •cereal was the bone and sinew of the pioneer. In the first place, Indian corn was the staple with the aborigines in this section, and very nutritious. It possesses, probably, more oil than any other grain, and is much more easily cultivated and garnered. It is a food that will support both man and beast alone, and can be eaten in its crude state by every class of graniverous animal. During the clearing, planting, cultivating and gather- ing of this first crop planted, the pioneer, if far from home or other settlements, supported himself by hunting, fishing and trapping. Rabbits, ground-hogs, pheasants, deer, and bear meat, all contributed to his support, while the skins were used in a, great measure for clothing. After gathering his first crop, the early settler brought in his family, pigs and chickens from the last frontier line, if he had them ; and, if not, he accumulated
(2) Some of the articles made from wood by the early pioneers and their ^families were really ingenious. They carved bowls and plates out of the knots of timber taken from the forest. An early settler on New River had a set made from gnarled walnut that was very pretty ; and the family who pos- sessed a table set made from cedar, was considered fortunate indeed. These were only used when company came.
40 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
all as rapidly as time would permit. The introduction of the feminine gender into his house always meant improvement in every way. After her advent, the spinning-wheel, flax-wheel and loom, were introduced, and the next year a larger patch was cleared in order to grow cotton, flax and vegetables. In those days everything worn was made at home, from a coat and dress of jeans and linsey, to a pair of socks knit of cotton and wool. Clothes were worn then on a much more economical scale than now, two pairs of socks being considered ainple for a man. (3)
In many places far from home, grain was crushed between rocks, and wheat, if raised, was severed from the chaff by means of flails. Owing to this fact but little wheat was cultivated until threshing machines began to be introduced. Some little buckwheat flour was raised, and occasionally rye. They cured their own meat, consisting of pork, as well as venison, and bear meat dried, or jerked, after being sliced up. Generally, during the summer and spring the settlers would clear and cultivate their patches of ground, in order to have a sufficiency of bread during the following winter, and when the fall ushered in its clear, frosty weather, hunting, the business of the winter, began. Every morning the men of the household sallied forth with their flintlock rifles, their powderhorn and shot-pouch, and tow, used for wadding. They killed every kind of game that presented itself, discarding what was unpalatable, and conveyed home what could be used for food. The skins were always preserved for shoes, clothing, cords and thongs. (4) All the
(3) The industry of those early ladies was something' marvellous. From a Miss Wright, a lineal descendant of Peter Wright, who resided in the Alle- ghany Mountains, we have the following recital handed down in her family by tradition :
"There lived in our neighborhood a family by the name of Tucker. The grandmother of the present generation of men. was a woman of great industry and activity. Once a week she walked ten miles to the mill to have her grain ground. She would place the turn upon her head, walk going and coming, and knit a pair of socks on the way. She carried her ball of yarn in her pocket. Her grandson, in relating her many deeds of prowess, always wound up by saying : ' But though my grandmother could knit her pair of socks going and coming from the mill, and tote her turn at the same time.' This old lady was called Peggy Tucker."
(4) When General Andrew Lewis was on his expedition, in 1"56, known as the "Big Sandy," on his route to Ohio, a buffalo was killed on a stream in West. Virginia. His skin was cut into tugs, and hung up to dry. On their return months afterwards the famished soldiers ate those pieces, and called the. stream "Tug." To this day it is known as "Tug Fork" of Big Sandy River-. "Dr. Campbell's Sketch."
Resources of Central West Virginia. 41
meat not used for present needs was dried, cured and hung away for future use, or some of it presented to a less fortunate neigh- bor, if he lived near enough to reach his home. By this means their table was supplied, though scantily, and often a pioneer would have to go out before eating anything early in the morn- ing in order to secure his breakfast. The mode of locomotion of the early settlers was primitive to the last extent. Personally, they almost invariably walked — some more fortunate ones rode. All their lumber and building material was dragged along land, or floated down streams. Perishable material was conveyed either on the back, or if too burdensome for that, placed upon rudely constructed sledges, that were hauled by horses or oxen. When one was so fortunate as to possess a horse, his wife frequently rode behind him to preaching, to make a call, or go elsewhere ; and even now in the extreme mountainous region this custom prevails to a large extent. The young people always walked ; generally together, and a ten or fifteen mile tramp was not regarded as anything extraordinary. Roads were nearly unknown at first, but trails were used instead, many of these having been made by the Indians in crossing and recross- ing mountains. They generally followed streams, except when the latter made a large bend, then the trail cut across. As the country became more thickly settled, the settlers opened up avenues of communication, (5) But few of these existed, how- ever, until the country was cut up into counties, and communi- cation became a common occurrence between the more populous settlements.
As courts were not in existence among the old pioneers, nor magistrates generally near them, they were more or less a law unto themselves. If a man committed murder, they quietly had him sent to the nearest court-house within that jurisdiction, and turned over to the proper authorities, If he simply killed a fellow-being in a square fight, nothing was thought of it, and no steps taken except to bury the dead man. Any one caught
(5) Many of these trails existed between various places, but there seems to have been a principal one leading from west to east, over which the Indians came. At various points the trees were marked so as to indicate the route, as well as distance to various points, and were of assistance to pioneers in locating themselves. One of the largest of these was the one made by the buffalo through the cane-brake from the mouth of Limestone Creek in Kentucky to the interior. The present Maysville and Lexington turnpike runs along the old buffalo trail.
42 Heritage of the Trains- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
stealing in a large quantity, was niade to leave the settlement at once, and if guilty of petty theft, was whipped. (6) If a man wantonly destroyed his neighbor's property he was made to return it either in kind or labor. Offences of a carnal nature were severely dealt with : if a young girl was seduced, her near- est male relative killed the seducer, and criminal intercourse was promptly frowned down, by the guilty parties being exclud- ed from the society of the entire settlement, until they either amended their lives or married. If a person contracted debts, and failed to pay them in kind or labor, he was not trusted by any one in the settlement, and his promise was regarded as null and void. And if a settler showed a disposition not to rectify his breach of these unwritten laws, he was notified to leave the settlement at once. He rarely left after a second notice, unless carried away bodily. The result of these laws was a strong, healthy morality, that permeated almost every early settle- ment. "Whenever practicable, religious services took place in some house at which the whole community would assemble, and often prayer-nieetings were held. Swearing (except at an Indian) was not encouraged, and Sabbath-breaking not tolerated ; on the records of some of the earlier courts of these settlers are found indictments for both Sabbath-breaking and profanity, showing that their code of morality was by no means a low one. While the hardships and toils endured by the early settlers prevented their manners being either elegant, highly refined, or cultured, they were genial, kind and hospitable. Scarcely any one was guilty of injuring his neighbor, wounding his feelings, or being absolutely rude. Each person did all in his power for the pleasure and comfort of his brother-pioneer, and the door of his cabin was ever open to friend, and stranger alike, and the best in his house provided for both unstintingly. They were always ready to assist and aid a new settler, giving him of their stores, advice and knowledge, as he might see fit to ask, or demand. Necessarily both their laws and manners made their customs peculiar, compared to ours of the present day. Banded together by the same ties ; bent on the same pursuit to reach a given end; isolated, and cut off from all law, order, refinement and culture, they forged a set of customs that have been handed
(6) From this custom of whipping lor potty larceny by the early settlers, was inaugurated the statue of Virginia, introducing the whipping-post, which was afterwards abolished.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 43
down like law. Their first and great custom was that every one should join together to defend their settlements and homes from the Indians, when any one was attacked — one which was religi- ously obeyed. The first news that an attack had been made by the redskins, brought out every male settler in the com- munity ; and, in the mountains to-day, if any citizen is molested the rest fly to his assistance at once. When any one desired to build his house, or clear a patch of ground, the custom was to summon his neighbors, and all joined in the work until finished. (7) Owing to the peculiarity of their situation, the individuals were drawn into closer bonds of union than those we have in the present day, and were much more alive to each other's wants. The ladies attended strictly to their household duties, and at meals waited upon the table, therefore, they rarely ate while the gentlemen did so. At services, too, at any place of public worship, they generally occupied one side of the church, while the men took the other.
Weddings were ordinarily turned into feasts of the liveliest description, at which the guests and friends of the household assembled to witness the ceremony, and afterwards have music and dancing. (8) The bridal presents consisted of a bed, a chair, a skillet, or some other useful household article, that would enable the young people to begin housekeeping. As all the manners and customs of these people were simple, so were their
(7) The assembling- to build the body of a house of log's was generally called a house-raising1. When a settler desired to construct a building, he notified his neighbors, who assembled at an appointed time, and in a short while the hewn logs were in place, and the building ready for its roof. When a clearing was to be made it was termed a "chopping." The assembly cut, rolled, and moved the timber and brushwood, leaving the ground ready for cultivation. The owner of the place usually gave a feast at the end of the work.
(8) " The marriages among the old settlers differed very materially from those of the present day. Like a death, it was not an every-day occurrence . and while celebrated in a different manner, was equally an important event. On the day on which the ceremony took place, the bride was never seen by any one except the bridesmaids, who assisted in robing her for the occasion. The groom was accompanied by a brother, or his nearest male rela- tive, and kept as much as possible from the crowd until the ceremony. After that, the bride and groom were seated in two chairs by each other's side, to be gazed at and talked to, until the dancing began. When the bride retired, she was accompanied to her room by two of her maids of honor, who assisted in disrobing her for retirement. After which, they descended, and notified tha groom. He was then conducted up by two of his groomsmen, who disrobed him and put him to bed." This custom must have been just the least bit try- ing to a newly-made, blushing bride. Looney M. S.
44 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
amusements. Among the men these consisted of hunting, trap- ping and fishing, principally. Occasionally they indulged in light games, such as quoits, cards and marbles. Betting on any game was religiously excluded, — so gambling was unknown. Parties, house-raisings, choppings, quiltings, butter boilings, were all made to furnish their quota of amusement for both male and female, the old and the young. Dancings were fre- quent, and picnics in the summer, connected with a fishing bout, were not unknown. In everything the pioneer settlers banded together ; they fasted, feasted, fought the Indians, danced, prayed, and cursed with one common mind, and were as true, loyal and rugged a set as ever existed.
But through the fertility of the soil they had won, and their frugal industry, these people soon improved their condition in every way. The law of supply and demand found its way be- yond the rugged mountains, and the means of bringing away the surplus made by the pioneer settlers and their descendants were used by capital and traders. When the 19th century was ushered in, and their supply of grain exceeded their wants, and furs were abundant, trading establishments were located ; and as their means increased, so did their wants. The traders took out such articles as they thought would please them, taking their supplies in return, until money as a commodity of exchange began to flow freely to supply the channels of trade. At last, as their tastes advanced, they erected better houses, and improved their farms more to increase the supply that was in demand. The gentlemen wanted better material for their houses and farms ; the ladies finer wearing apparel. (9) In order to facili- tate a better communication, highways were constructed be-
(9) A leading- gentlemen of this section gives a very forceful recital illus- trating how careful the ladies of those early days were with their footgear, they purchased. He gets the story from a letter written early in the 19th cen- tury by his grandmother then living on the frontier, and the facts he detailed are true. He said:
"When the first trader came to the section where Chamblissburg, in Bed- ford County, now stands, he brought some very pretty ladies' shoes, two pairs of which were purchased for some ladies by their lather. The girls were aews- tomed to fur shoes, and going barefooted in the summer. Some time after they got their shoes religious services took place about four miles from their home. On the morning in question they set out with their shoes in their hand, and walked until they reached a branch about a quarter of a mile from the church. There they bathed their feet, and putting on their shoes and stockings pro- ceeded to church. On their return, when just out of sight, they took them off, and walked barefooted back home. They did not believe two such fine pairs of shoes would ever be made again. One of those ladies is the ancestress of three of the leading men of our country."
Resources of Central West Virginia. 45
tween the east and the west, traversing the mountains, and gradually they improved until the whole region became by the middle of the century greatly improved, and in many places wealth was accumulated, and followed by refinement and cul- ture. Comfortable houses were erected; education encouraged, and at last capital sought the northern portion, causing a devel- opment the early settlers scarcely dreamed about. A careful glance at this region as it stands to-day, with some account of the means used in bringing its hidden treasures to light, is by no means uninteresting.
46 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
CHAPTER IV.
C 'o u idles Composing th is Region. — Boundaries of Same. — Area of Square Miles. — Topography of the Country. — Scenery. — Cli- mate.— Soil. The region of Central West Virginia won by the early Trans- Alleghany-pioneei's through the hardships we have detailed, is quite extensive in territory. The trackless forest through which the wily Indian trailed, and the hardy settler trod had been fought for, until the pathway was stained with the blood shed by the Indian, and strewn with the scalps taken from, the Cau- casian. Through toil, hardship, and suffering, these brave set- tlers gradually improved this region, which at present is com- posed of the following counties : Barbour, Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Grant, Gilmer, Harrison, Jackson, Lewis, Mar- ion, Mason, Mineral, Nicholas, Pocahontas, Randolph, Ritchie, Roane, Taylor, Tucker, Upshur, Webster, "Wirt, and Wood. By the treaty with France in 17G3, all this section was comprised within the limits of the county of Augusta, and subsequently, as the population increased, and law and order was necessary, new counties began to be cut off from the parent county, until the sec- tion we now write of has twenty-four. These were formed gradu- ally, as the needs of the people required. Harrison was cut off in the year 1784, having been taken from Monongalia. In 1787, the County of Randolph was carved from Harrison. Wood County was meted off in 1799 from Harrison. During 1804, Mason County was established, having stood previously as a part of Kanawha. The now populous County of Lewis was cut off from Harrison in 1816, while Nicholas was taken in 1818, from Kanawha, Green- brier, and Randolph. Bath County of Virginia, and Pendleton, and Randolph Counties of West Virginia, furnished the territory for the formation of Pocahontas in 1821. And from these counties at later dates, within the memory of the ordinary historian, were taken, Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Grant, Gilmer, Jack- son, Marion, Mineral, Ritchie, Roane, Taylor, Tucker, Upshur, Webster, Wirt and Wood. These were not made counties in the alphabetical order in which we have named them, but cut off as the country became opened up, and settled.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 47
This central part of West Virginia is bounded on the north by the Counties of Pleasants, Tyler, AVetzel, Monongalia, Pres- ton, and Grant ; west by the Ohio River ; south by the Counties of Cabell, Putnam, Kanawha, Payette, and Greenbrier ; on the east by the Alleghany Range of Mountains, properly speaking. It possesses an area of 10,217 squai'e miles, extending from the mountains to the Ohio River. The diversity of formations throughout this region is so comprehensive that we have every age, except the azoic period from which to draw. Within the eastern boundaries we can look over the immense Appalachian range, with its wonderful upheavals and disturbances, while on the west, we can turn our vision over the broad lowlands of the Ohio River.
From the extent of territory embraced within the bounda- ries named, the topography of the section is a varied one, as can be readily seen. Mountains, valleys, ridges, faults, planes and. bottoms succeed each other, from the lofty ranges of the Alle- ghany, to the lowlands of the Ohio ; and in such a condition of surface are all the facilities for every class of agriculture, and every degree of manufacture. All of those counties bordering the western base of the Alleghany Mountains, are situated in the lovely valleys lying between the spurs of the range, as it slopes westward to the planes of the Ohio. The spurs are filled, more or less, with minerals, while the vales are rich and pro- ductive. The region is admirably watered by the Cheat River, and its tributaries, that run through Randolph and Tucker Counties ; the Greenbrier, running through Pocahontas ; the Gauley and its branches, running through Webster and Nich- olas ; the Elk and its streams, running through Braxton and Clay Counties ; the West Fork, running through Lewis and Harrison ; the Monongahela, flowing through Harrison and Marion ; the Tygart's Valley, running through Barbour, Tay- lor and Marion ; and the Little Kanawha, flowing through Gilmer, Calhoun, Wirt and Wood Counties. These streams, in addition to other smaller ones, not only afford ample facilities for draining the soil, and a wholesome supply of pure water, but are of the greatest utility for agricultural purposes, as well as manufacturing interests. There are some very interesting formations connected with the western spurs of the Alleghany range. In many places, owing to the upheaval when the Appa- lachian chain was formed, almost every structure of the geolo- gical column is represented, with its accompanying minerals,.
Salt Lick Falls.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 49
except t'he primary rocks of the archaen period. In some of this section valleys are delightfully situated on the tops of mountains, in the shape of an oval bowl. Such is the topo- graphy of the country immediately surrounding Camden-on- Gauley. The ascent and descent of these unusual formations are of such an easy nature, that railroads are readily con- structed to their midst. All the valleys along the banks of the streams not only lend variety to the hills, but are very product- ive for agricultural purposes, as well as stock-grazing. The hill- sides have, in many places, a splendid southern exposure, where blue grass grows indigenously. The altitudes vary from a few hundred to three thousand two hundred feet above the sea level, giving, as can be easily imagined, some change in the climate. As the heights of the mountains are descended, the valleys along the different streams broaden out as we proceed westward, while the spurs decrease to hills until the broad plane is reached, where the gentle waters of the beautiful Ohio flow peacefully onward from the hills of West Virginia to the extended prairies of the West. The scenery of such a country is necessarily the most beautiful and picturesque on earth. A great part of this region is still wild, with its wealth of scenery, timber, and mineral resources. Only a few years ago everything in this section was wild and silent. The beautiful scenic views were enjoyed by the beasts of the forest, the birds of the air, and nature alone. The swaying branches of the primeval oaks, and hickories were undisturbed save by the whistling of the winds, the rushing of the waters, and the roar of the storms. The wolf, the bear, the deer, and the panther, marched through the distant ravines and gorges, monarchs of all this lovely scenery, watching the laurel, the sumac and the linden, as they gave their glistening colors to the sun. Grauley River leaped along its rugged way, overshadowed by the beautiful foliage, and undisturbed, except by the fantastic shades and shadows dancing on its waters in the glittering sunlight, as they sounded down ravines and gorges, to join those of the turged New below. The eagle and the hawk, in sombre solitude, perched upon the cragged peaks overhanging the West Fork, and the precipitous cliffs of the Little Kanawha, listened to the chirp of the spar- row, the note of the thrush, and the whirr of the pheasant. The sportive grey squirrel bounded from bough to bough, stopping ever and anon to admire his shadow made by his gambols amid the honeysuckle and laurel. The silent trails of
50 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
the decoying Indian, and listening pioneer, had grown cold under this lovely scenery, as the one receded westward, while the other returned home, From where the Elk flows in a nar- row ravine, to "where it broadens into a plane, the beautiful views were undisturbed, save for the howl of the wolf, the bound of the deer, and the cry of the panther.
Through these high, snow-capped hills the numerous streams cut their way flowing over billows of stone, and by sharp, jagged end of rocks, until they pass gorge after gorge, ravine after ra- vine, to empty their waters into those of the Kanawha, and Ohio. In passing along the railroads the variety is startling ! One moment we whirl across a little valley, looking north and south, and pass a roaring stream dashing downwards — the next we are in darkness — a tunnel ! Suddenly the light gleams upon a precipitous gorge, or steep ravine, running up one side hun- dreds of feet, while on the other dances the merry waters of some cascade tumbling down the mountain. At one place a stream broadens almost into a lake — at another it narrows into a creek. Boulders of rock jut out as if hanging by a thread; huge ravines sink back as if hammered in. Wild and weird grows the picture, until the whole culminates in some sublime scene, that causes our earthly sense of sight to pause, and ask if it is not gazing on the supernatural.
It matters not to what point of the compass we direct our footsteps in this region, the scenery is not only beautiful, but varied. If we rush along the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, from Weston to Pickens, the view is one of rare beauty. The broad plains around Buckhannon, in Upshur County, sweep away to the blue mountains north and south, while, eastward on the West Virginia Central 11. R. we whirl into a trackless forest. The high cliffs on one side, with the river cut- ting its way through ravines of stone on the other, make us feel as if the train we were on was civilization carving its way for the first time into a wilderness. The sombre shadows of the dense forest give a weird shading to the whole, unbroken save by the brighter colors of the honeysuckle and violets, peeping 'mid the leaves, as if struggling to catch the rays of sunlight dancing through the dense foliage above. From Weston to Sut- ton, and then on to Camden-on-Grauley, we have a different, but not less lovely, scene. Winding around West Fork, in a tortu- ous way, we pass the lovely forests and rolling hills of Lewis County, until wilder Braxton is reached. At Flatwoods the
Resources of Central West Virginia. 51
view grows grander as we approach the Elk, along the beautiful waters of which we go for miles, winding up Laurel, until the plateau on Grauley is seen, studded with hills and vales, amid which nestles the young town of Cainden-on-Gauley. And it is here that the view culminates in grandeur. The deep gorges and ravines along the Elk River are succeeded by the rugged, precipitous cliffs of the Grauley, that hang like huge boulders of earth and stone over the river banks, as they wind westward.
From this region of wilder beauty, in a few hours, the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad will transport us to Clarks- burg, where we catch the historic Baltimore and Ohio for the Ohio River. Through Harrison, Doddridge, Ritchie and Wood, a less weird, but grander scene strikes our vision. The rolling hills gradually increase until they become mountains — wild, and rugged, as we whirl through tunnel after tunnel, speeding on towards Parkersburg Descending, valleys come in view interspersed with spurs of the Alleghany that give the whole a never-tiring variety. This scenery, as well as the rest along the Baltimore and Ohio between Parkersburg and Harper's Ferry, contains a wealth of views that are familiar to the households of all people North and South, who appreciate loveliness in nature.
The scene down the West Virginia side of the Ohio River, along the Ohio River Railroad, while neither so wild nor weird as the mountains proper, is grander, and more subdued. The broad expanse of view given after being hemmed in by the mountains is a relief, and the placid Ohio looks so soothing and peaceful after the rushing of the mountain streams. The low hills of Wood, Jackson and Mason greet the eye as the valley stretches away until the hills of the Ohio side are seen. For over a hundred miles in West Virginia, this valley extends north and south, as far as the eye can reach, dotted here and there with cities and towns, while in the interior, succulent farms may be seen. The valley grows narrower after Ravenswood is passed, continuing so by Hartford, Mason City, Clifton and Point Pleasant, when it broadens again from the mouth of Biir Kanawha to the bustling city of Huntington. No lovelier view than this can be found anywhere, and from this valley, eastward to the Alleghany proper, West Virginia has every variety of scenery from the western lowlands to the rugged mountains.
ALDERSON-BROADDUS COLLEGE LIBRARY
Si
Resources of Centril West Virginia. 53
As some erroneous views are held by non-residents concern- ing the climate of this section we desire to disabuse those by a statement of facts. It is known that this section lies in the middle latitudes, so it is necessarily free from the extremes of heat and cold. The climate, while varying somewhat in different localities, is a good one, particularly in the valleys and moun- tainous region of the section, The territory is free from the cold of the Northern States and heat of the South. The Appalachian range passing through this section shelters it from the western tornadoes, which leave such disaster in their train. These destructive elements that have brought so much trouble to people in the extreme West, beat in vain against these rock-ribbed barriers that tower up as protecting walls for the inhabitants between. The climate is moreover an equable one in which to reside. (1) It is a delightful summer climate, closly resembling that of the springs region of the two Virginias, and compares favorably with that of Milan, Turin and Vienna, in Europe. During the summer, even in July, August and September, the nights are cool enough for covering, and in the mountains a fan can always be excluded in the shade. Mountain showers are fre- quent, refreshing everything, yet the water is quickly carried off by the naturally fine drainage. (2) The heavy dews play an important part, for with the showers, they insure the farmer against any such catastrophe as drought, and moisture is amply sufficient for the growth of grasses for hay, as well as pasture. While there is some difference in the climate of the counties bordering the mountains, and those on the Ohio River, the latter is very pleasant.
(li The following temperature is that given by the Weather Bureau atPark- â– ersburg, West Virginia, for this region ; "Mean temperature for each month :
1889 1890 1891 1892 1893
January 36 42 36 27 22
February 30 43 40 38 36
March 43 37 39 37 42
April 53 54 55 51 55
May 62 62 59 62 63
June 68 74 73 75 72
July 74 73 70 74 76
August , 70 70 71 73 72
September 61 65 69 66 67
October 50 55 53 53 56
November 44 46 42 40 42
December 33 47 33 41
For the year 52 55 53 53 —
W. W. DENT, Observer."
54
Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
But the sense of conifort and pleasure derived from a cli- mate, such as we have described, are not all of its chief charac- teristics. It is a remarkably healthy one. Consumptives have as long a lease on life here as elsewhere, and there is a total absence of all malarial troubles. Ague, chills and fever, are unknown, while the air gives a wonderful lever to nature in recovering a patient to health who has once suffered from the blood poisoning, commonly known as malaria. Longevity of life is obtained by the majority of the people in this region, and the territory, as a whole, will compare favorably with any in the wrorld on the subject of climate. Certainly there are two facts connected with it that render it very superior : freedom from the northeast chilling rains and vaporous fogs that have such a depressing effect upon the human race ; and the presence of a bracing northwest wind that gives wonderful elasticity to the frames and minds of humanity. The climate of a country has much tc do with the disposition of the people who are born and bred in it, and whose parents have been affected by it. (3) This is one of the reasons that people in the middle latitudes are superioi in every respect to those existing north and south of the territory. During life the inhabitants are unusually free from any chronic diseases, and are generally hale and hearty, being peculiarly free from all dyspeptic complaints. As a place of residence, for health and comfort, no more superior climate can be found in America, than the region of which we are writing.
The soil of this whole extent of territory is valuable in every sense. We speak, too, advisedly upon the subject, from the fact, owing to West Virginia's being rough in surface, some
(2) The following statistics are carefully compiled, and give the average inches of rain-fall during the seasons of the year, varying but little :
Spring 10.6
Summer 11.9
Autumn 9.5
Winter 9.8
Tear 41.8
(3) It hae been observed by people investigating the subject, that climate plays an important part in the disposition, as well as the habit of those affected by it. In the North, or frigid climate, people are by nature cold, and acquire a cool, calculating way of living that renders them impervious to the genial amenities of life. Selfishness is sure to develop itself tc a certain extent. On the other hand people living in the region of the torrid zone, are so much carried away by warmth of temper and impulse of the moment that reason scarcely has a chance to play.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 55
are disposed, on that account, to decry the value of its soil as an agricultural country. But it is our duty, and it should be our policy, to take things as they are, and not as they seem. The valleys and lowlands are admirable for all the purposes of agriculture, while the mountains and hills produce blue grass indigenously, that is so necessary for stock-raising. On the Ohio valley, and in the lowlands generally, the soil is a rich choco- late, sandy loam, of the best producing capacity. These lands, in the winter, are more or less submerged under the overflow of streams, becoming thereby rejuvinated in fertility every two or three years. And these facts apply to all the soil along the larger water courses we have already named. In many sections limestone is found, and the soil here assumes a stiff, clay loam, varying in color from light yellow to dark red and wine color. On he mountain sides, a loose chocolate, gravelly earth is found, peculiarly adapted to the production of vegetables and small fruit. The potatoes and cabbage raised in this section give us a most favorable opinion as to the power of its production. In the limestone regions there is a durable and fei-tile soil, well adapted to the growth of grain and grass, In Randolph, and Lewis, and Harrison Counties, where the slate belts lie, the mix- ture of the decomposed aluminous rocks makes a lighter and warmer soil. Going nearer the base of the Alleghany range, we have the sandstone formations, that render the ground colder, requiring more cultivation and fertilizing, in order to render it productive. Nearly the whole section has a fine surface, run- ning in belts with the stratas of the valleys, showing wonderful fertility as a whole, there being but few lean spots in it. The streams are very crooked, making more or less bottom land that is good for producing purposes.
Passing westward Ave come to Potomac, Cranberry, Cheat, Elk, Oauley, "West Fork, Monongahela, and Little Kanawha Rivers. Along all these streams we find as arable a soil for both production and grazing, as can be seen in any coun- try. And up from the streams wherever the growth of the timber is checked or deadened, blue grass comes naturally, which accounts for all the fine stock that is raised in this section. Wherever the soil has been properly tilled, the returns from agricultural products, as well as grasses and grazing, show a handsome profit. So, taking even the moun- tainous lands, looking as rough as they appear, experience tells that they are capable of high production in every sense, not-
Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Cheat Mountain Grade.
withstanding the fact that West Virginia does not rank high as an agricultural State. This proceeds from the character of the cultivation of the lands, rather than from any want of a pro ductive soil. Thousands upon thousands of acres now lie un- filled, capable of a high degree of cultivation, and only waiting
Resources of Central West Virginia. 57
a proper tillage to yield a handsome return in every way agricul- turally. Taking the section of AVest Virginia bordering on tin- Ohio River, and there is not a finer country in an agricultural "way under the sun. This soil produces the very finest yields of cereals, and grasses, as "well as every variety of small fruit. It is this productive region that has doubtless assisted in giving the Ohio River R. R. some of its material on "which its fine financial standing has gone before the country, which is a credit to the management of that thoroughfare.
While it is not suitable at this stage of our work to go mi- nutely into either the agricultural, or mineral resources of the section, until the means that set their development afoot is rela- ted, it is not amiss to give some idea of them in connection with the topography and soil of the country. All of the lands in the Ohio Valley, as well as on the other streams, are suitable for the production of corn, wheat, oats, barley, rye, hay, and the usual vegetables. In the western part of the State, bordering the Ohio section, some tobacco is cultivated. So far as mineral wealth goes the region is unsurpassed. On the western base of the Alleghanies, where the Pottsdam sand stone abounds, there is the celebrated Oriskany system of iron ores, which, while re- quiring intimate study, and are hard to understand, are the most reliable in the South. In other sections the limonites, argilla- ceous, and granotites range in working quantities. Unlimited fields of bituminous coals exist, and cannel coal in large quantity has been found. Oil, gas, fire-clays, sandstones, marble, and glass sands are abounding, ready to be taken out. The Avhole region was stored with agricultural, and mineral wealth that waited for ages for the necessary means to be developed, and their benefit given to mankind. These facilities were at last es tablished, which, with the united efforts of some enterprising people, have placed the whole region on the highway to pros- perity. Whatever riches any country may possess, they can never be wholly determined, or understood, without sufficient transportation facilities have been constructed to interest capital in their development. And to obtain a concise, prudent account of the wealth of a country, we cannot adopt a wiser Course than to follow the history of these highways from stage to stage, until reaching the present time we see precisely what surrounds us in the land of which we are writing.
C. K. LORD, Third Vice-President, B. & O. R. K,
Resources of Central Went Virginia. 59
CHAPTER V.
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad System. — Its Extent as a National System. — Its Development of this Section. — Bearing on the Region of which we are Writing. — Its Present Policy towards West Virginia. — C. K. Lord, Third Vice President. — Charles 0. Scull, General Passenger Agent. — B. and 0. Field. — M. V. Richards, Land and Immigration Agent. — His Policy for Developing the Resources. — Some- thing of the Service of the Baltimore and Ohio Line. — The Royal Blue Line. — Pittsburg and Southern Route. This railway system is at the present time one of the national competing systems of America. The space that is necessary to detail its gradual development ; its various ramifications, and extent of territory covered, is wanting. We can only touch sufficiently upon it to show its bearing upon this section of West Virginia as an outlet of transportation, and its policy adopted towards the development of the region.
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad System may be said to be one of steel bands connecting the great commercial marts of the North and Northeast, with those of the West and Southwest. It is one of the great thoroughfares that brings New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington into daily communi- cation with Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis. And one of the main lines of this system connecting the East and West, traverses for quite an extent this section of West Virginia of which we are writing, giving the country an extensive outlet and markets for trading purposes, both East and West, Northeast and South- west. The region can export its agricultural products ; its minerals, and vast timber resources to all parts of the Union, having in exchange the best commodities of the entire land and country, without being restricted to any particular locality of the compass. This line enters West Virginia on the east, near Harper's Ferry, one of the divisional points of the road, and pursues its route through the Counties of Jefferson, Berkley, Morgan, Hampshire, Mineral, Preston, Taylor, Harrison, Dodd-
60 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
ridge, Ritchie and Wood, reaching the Ohio River at Parkers- burg, the western boundary of the State. In addition to the direct development of the counties through which it passes, it plays an important part on the whole of the central section, in being the main outlet for the West Virginia Central and Pitts- burg, the Greenbrier and Grafton Division of the Baltimore and Ohio, the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, the Monon- gahela River Railroad, and the narrow gauge line from Penns- boro to Ritchie Court House, and from Tunnelton to Kingwood. Prom the time the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was con- structed in this section in 1856, nntil the present day, the country has progressed rapidly. With the exception of the material improvement of the counties bordering the Ohio River, the remainder of the region before the advent of this line, was a wild, — untutored in material development, and relegated to the most primitive mode of living. Comforts were few; luxu- ries none, and civilization and refinement, in a progressive way, unknown. The rush of steam engines, however, through the counties we have named brought about a wonderful change. The immense timber resources were utilized ; agricultural interests improved ; the large coal fields and other mineral deposits were opened up, until the whole section along the line has become a thriving business centre. Harper's Perry, Mar- tinsburg, Hancock, Paw Paw, Keyser, Piedmont, Terra Alta, Rowlsburg, Tunnelton, Grafton, Clarksburg, (1) West Union, Central, Pennsboro, and Parkersburg, towns in this region, ranging from five hundred to thirteen thousand inhabitants, have been the result, in a great measure, of the development inaugurated by the construction of the Grafton and Parkers- burg Line of the Baltimore and Ohio System. All along the road may be seen mines, manufacturing industries and com mercial interests flourishing ; and so rapid has been the advance
(1) For location, fertility of soil, and rich mineral deposits, the town of Clarksburg- is more fortunately situated than any other place along the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in West Virginia. With every advantage of nature lavished upon it in the most prodigal manner, it should have been a city of fifty thousand inhabitants. It has made but little progress in a quar- ter of a century, and stands as a monument of how a place, blessed with the gifts of nature, may never progress, when public spiritedness, energy and public patriotism is relegated back behind old fossil ways, ancient ruts, and every per cent. I can get on money loaned. It is to be hoped that the younger â– set will see the error of the past ways, and throw that spirit, necessary to make it a city, into its future material development.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 61
of this section since the line was built, that through this region the State has its principal reputation abroad. This country is, by far, the most prosperous in the State, and its prosperity may be said to have resulted from the advent of the Baltimore and Ohio Line.
As may well be imagined, the bearing of this great railway system is immense on this country. The outlet it gives for exportation, and inlet for importation, is the life of commercial success in the region. By means of the Metropolitan Branch of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the Philadelphia Division, and traffic arrangements with the Philadelphia and Reading and the Central Railroad of New Jersey, Baltimore, Wilming- ton, Del., Philadelphia, Trenton, Elizabeth, Jersey City, and New York, are in quick communication with this region. Agri- cultural products of every class can be sent east to consumers, and comforts and luxuries imported at short notice. The country, in a mercantile, financial, and social way, is in touch with the throbbing pulse of the great metropolis of the east, through the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as a connecting link. Nor are the western connections less important. The Baltimore and Ohio South- West, running westward from Parkersburg, and branching with its extensions in every direction, plays an important part in the system of which we are writing. Besides the Main Line running to Cincinnati, the Baltimore and Ohio South-West has branches extending from Hamden to Poi-ts- mouth, from Belpre to Marietta, and Blanchester to Hillsboro. The Columbus Line is a favorite one, and very popular in every way. The acquisition of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad by the Baltimore and Ohio, places all the valuable section of the West, between Cincinnati and St. Louis, in immediate commu- nication with West Virginia. The mineral resources of West Virginia, and her vast timber interests, can be exported West to all points, while the vast grain and meat products of the lat- ter can come East. This vast means of transportation has told wonderfully on the development of this section of West Virginia.
But the means of transportation is by no means the only bearing on this region by the Baltimore and Ohio. The actual capital invested by the Railroad Company in the State along its lines has been a large entering wedge in the development of the country. The effect of progress on a State by a railway system may be direct, or indirect. When a
Resources of Central West Virginia. 63
railroad is constructed through any section, the money expended in the cost of building, and operating the same, with its trans- portation facilities, bring a certain species of development in its train, that naturally follows. Towns and villages spring up along its line. The employment given produces an influx of population. This may be termed indirect growth brought on by the advent of the line. But the Baltimore and Ohio System has not only been the means of this kind of development, but inaugurated a direct mode of progress in Central West Virginia. The length of its line running east and west through the State attained such an extent that divisional stops for the change of engines and crews became necessary. Shops, round-houses and repairing buildings were erected at Parkersburg, Grafton and Keyser. The result was a large outlay of capital by the com- pany, and employment to thousands of men. Grafton, now a thriving town, as well as Keyser, are purely Baltimore and Ohio creations. The former is not only a divisional point for the New York and Cincinnati route, but the Wheeling Branch as well. Crews upon both lines change here, The result is Grafton has become a flourishing town. So with the city of Parkersburg and town of Keyser. In the ways mentioned, it can be easily seen that the bearing of this system upon West Virginia is very great, with a certainty of increase, as the line â– extends with its ramifications.
The present policy of this line is for the material growth and progress of Central West Virginia. The Main Line is fed by many branches, and the West Virginia and Pittsburg, and Monongahela, at Clarksburg, and the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg at Piedmont. The result is self-interest, the strongest motive known to humanity, must actuate the Balti- more and Ohio to cultivate the prosperity and traffic drawn through its feeders from Central West Virginia. And it comes within our knowledge that no pains are spared by the line of which we are writing, to bring out and place before the world the resources of this section. The traffic department, under the management of a broad-spirited man, is opening its channels to this region. Mr. C. K. Lord, Third Vice-President of the sys- tem, is particularly interested in the resources of Central West Virginia. — knowing their futui'e value to his line in the way of traffic. (2) Every possible encouragement is given to those desiring to locate along the line in the way of freight rates, ser- vice and side tracks. The comp any, in addition to the invest-
64 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or.
ments already named, has purchased large properties in this-. State, and is now engaged in their development. The passen- ger department lends its aid, as far as possible, to place the country in an attractive way before the public. This depart- ment, under the admirable training of Mr. Charles 0. Scull, gives the world much in connection with the scenery of the State, that has attracted wide-spread notice. (3) But, probably, one of the greatest engines inaugurated by the Baltimore and Ohio System, is the " Baltimore and Ohio Field," a journal published in Baltimore, for the benefit of the country tributary to the line of the railroad. This undertaking, under a careful management, has gradually improved, until Mr. M. V. Richards, Land and Immigration Agent, has caused it to gain a national reputation. (4) The knowledge disseminated by this journal is
(2) Mr. C. K. Lord, Third Vice President of the Baltimore and Ohio System' has not only given West Virginia every possible facility through railway chan- nels for development, but has shown his faith in the central part, by investing in various enterprises. His knowledge concerning railway matters is quite extensive. Born in Hoosac Falls, N. Y. , he entered the railway service in 1865 ; since which he has risen steadily until the year 1888, when he was created Third Vice President of this system. He is one of the directors of the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, and the Monongahela River Railroad. He has taken an active interest in all matters connected with the material development of West Virginia. He regards this State as equal in resources to any other in the Union, as to coal, timber and other products. His is a familiar name in Central West Virginia, being inseparably connected with his system, wherever the development of the region is mentioned. The gratitude due him is cheerfully accorded by the people here, which is doubtless appreciated by him.
(3) Mr. Scull is peculiarly fitted for the position he now fills. Educated in railroad service, he comes from the well disciplined corps of passenger men, that the Pennsylvania System has turned out. He posseses a perceptive power for the needs of passenger service, evolving many original ideas for attracting people along his lines. He lends prompt attention to anything con- nected with the reputation of the country along his line, giving every avail- able means for the spreading of the same in the most attractive mode. West- Virginia has come in for its share.
(4) The policy pursued by this journal has been of infinite service to the country along the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and its tributaries- Particularly has its pages been devoted to the placing of Central West Vir- ginia's resources on the West Virginia and Pittsburg and Monongahela Rail- roads. It has culled information from every quarter with reference to the agricultural products, timber wealth, and mineral resources, and given them to the public, north, south, east and west. Mr. M. V. Richards has charge of this important branch of development, for which he possesses peculiar capa- city. A wide knowledge of every section of the Union, particularly the West, combined with broad intellectual capacity, gives him full power wherewith to- publish to the world the advantages of this rich section in a proper manner.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 65
the concensus of opinion of those who have the means and opportunity of judging.
The wealth, advantages, and resources of this region are constantly kept alive in such a mode as is sure to attract more or less settlers. Too great credit cannot be given this enterprise, nor the good it does be readily computed. From this cursory view of some of the undertakings of the Baltimore and Ohio System, may be gathered its present policy towards Central West Virginia. It is a most progressive one in every sense.
The service of a railway system, especially passenger, has more to do with the progress of a country than would be sup- posed from a casual view. First impressions with some people have a great deal to do with the makeup of conclusions and opinions. "Who has not connected miserable railway service more or less with the section we are in when passing through it ? Like a bad hotel, it irritates on the start, so we dissuade and discourage friends and others from passing that way. And countries, like gold-mines, can never be developed unless they are seen and known. The service along the Baltimore and Ohio is amply good and sufficient for its traffic, being an attractive one in every way. At Cumberland, Maryland, the Main Line from the East, and Northeast Branches, one going via Pittsburg to Chicago, the other via Grafton to Wheeling, Bellaire, and other points West, and to Parkersbiirg, Cincinnati and St. Louis. Over these various lines through express and passenger trains are run on the quickest schedule, with Pullman sleeping and buffet cars, and all the modern appliances, comforts and lux- uries. The through New York, Cincinnati and St. Louis Express, running double-daily vestibuled trains, traverse the section of which we are writing, giving it ample passenger facilities, and an opportunity for strangers passing through to see the country and make enquiries concerning it. Local trains, to accommodate passengers in the section, are arranged on a schedule to suit the travelling public, with reference to pursuit of business and comfort of life. By means of these trains a person can reside in Parkersburg, or Clarksbux-g, or Grafton, with his family and attend to his business elsewhere every day. The service is very complete in every way.
But it would be amiss to close this particular subject without some reference to what is known as "The Royal Blue Line,'' comprising the Metropolitan Branch, and Philadelphia Division of the Baltimore and Ohio. Whoever goes from this section is
55
Resources of Central West Virginia. 07
never satisfied in wending his way North, unless he alights from the express train at Washington, and goes over one of the trains of the "Royal Blue Line," that has acquired the reputa- tion of being the most complete line in the United States. A careful comparison of these trains with others over national systems, give the palm of victory to the "Royal Blue Line,'' when speed, comfort, ease, elegance and cultured taste are all considered. The parlor cars on this line are miniature palaces, fitted up luxuriously. One is transported from Baltimore to New York in an incredibly short time with the most perfect ease and comfort. The ultimate success of the Baltimore and Phila- delphia Division justified the wisdom that first thought of running an opposition road to the Pennsylvania lines. This line fought the Baltimore and Ohio undertaking bitterly, and the latter only carried its point by the most lavish expense, and dogged determination. But it is now one of the best paying portions of the whole system. No better service is found in America than that afforded by the "Royal Blue/' over which every one is desirous of going when travelling North.
This system is destined to play by no means an unimportant part in what will be geographically the through route between Pittsburg and the South. We allude to the link just finished between Morgantown, West Virginia, and Uniontown, Pa. The extension of the West Virginia and Pittsburg, south to some point on the Chesapeake and Ohio, will give a much shorter mode of travel between Uniontown, Connellsville, Bradford, HcKeesport, Pittsburg and Alleghany, in Pennsylvania, to the South, than the ones now adopted for use. Time and distance will be saved, and the present routes practically abandoned — those by Washington, D. C, and Charleston, West Virginia. The manufacturing industries North will be more intimately connected with the raw material of the South — that of Central West Virginia in particular. A new country through this region will be opened up, whereby it can pour its tribute of vast quan- tities of lumber and mineral resources into the laps of the manufacturing industries North.
The Baltimore and Ohio with all its lines, feeders, branches, and links is one of the finest in America. It passes through the best section of country in the land, not least of which is Central West Virginia.
63 Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
CHAPTER VI.
The Ohio River Railroad. — Its Earlier History. — Bearing on this Section. — Its Present Status, Management and Condi- tion.— Number of Miles Operated, and Financial State cf the Company.
The Ohio River Railroad, that runs on the West Virginia side of the Ohio River from Wheeling, in the northern part of the State, to Kenova, that is situated on the borders of Ken- tucky, has an important bearing on the section of country now tinder consideration. Its Main Line runs through a large part of the region, while its branches penetrate the interior. It is a south-western and north-west, and east outlet for Central West Virginia, furnishing ample transportation facilities for a region that would be virtually dependent upon primitive modes if the line was not in existence. It is a connecting link between the great Pennsylvania System, running into Wheeling in the northern part of West Virginia, and the Chesapeake and Ohio System running east and west through the southern part of the State. As a local line, it traverses a fertile valley, not only rich in agricultural resources, but a country bristling with oil plants, coal mines, and manufacturing industries.
To the wisdom of Senator Johnson N. Camden is probably due the original idea of constructing this road. Seeing the many advantages to be derived from a route along the Ohio River, he succeeded in obtaining the interest of others in the plan. On April 18, 1881, a charter was obtained under the name the Wheeling, Parkersburg and Charleston Railroad. The rights of way from Wheeling to Parkersburg, were obtained principally by Mr. Greorge W. Thompson, the present President. On December 16th, 1882, the charter was amended, and name changed to the Ohio River Railroad ; June loth, 1884, the road was opened from Wheeling to Parkersburg for traffic, a distance of over one hundred miles. January, 1886, traffic was opened between Point Pleasant and Parkersburg, and April 1st, 1888, saw the entire route in operation between Wheeling and Hunt- ington. The Huntington and Big Sandy Railroad, that was
Resources of Central West Virginia. 69
built to run from Guyandotte to the Big- Sandy via Huntington, was opened and operated by the Ohio River Railroad in lbSKJ. So it will be seen that the latter has a line from Wheeling to Kenova, a distance of two hundred and twenty-four miles as a Main Stem, besides several branches in operation. This line Las two branches that act as feeders from the counties of Roane •and Jackson. One runs from Ravenswood on the Main Line to Spencer in Roane County, a distance of some thirty miles. The other branch runs from Ripley Landing on the Ohio River to Jackson C. H., a distance of some fifteen miles or more. It is therefore seen that this system is of very important bearing on a portion of Central West Virginia. It gives the Counties of Wood, Jackson, Mason, Wirt and Roane transportation facili- ties, to say nothing of the section of West Virginia it penetrates north and south of the region of which we are writing.
Considering the fact that this is virtually a home industry, and under control of home people, the success of the line, as a railroad to convey people and freight, as well as its financial aspect, is something phenomenal. Two reasons may be assigned for this state of affairs. In the first place, the resources along the line are very rich in every way. For two hundred miles it traverses the great valley of the Ohio River, that is rich and succulent in the productions of the soil, and live stock of every description. It runs through the rich oil-belt of West Virginia in the northern part of the State, and taps the great Pittsburg coal seams in upper West Virginia, and Mason County south. The continual supply of resources from these natural means has given the line a wonderful traffic as a local route. Again : the management of the finances of the system from the beginning of the operation of the road has been so ably administered that it has not only. escaped the hands of a receiver, but become a paying institution in every sense. (1) The most rigid economy has been practiced, and the operations confined to a basis for revenue alone. The scope of country from which the line has drawn its traffic extends far from the limits of the road. It is the most direct route between Pennsylvania, and the country
(1) The financial policy of this line under the management of Mr. George W. Thompson, i'.s President, is a by-word for economy and revenue. However much he may have been criticised as adopting a policy savoring too much of "false-economy" he has made the line, not only a self-sustaining, but a paying institut:on. The physical condition is well preserved, and equipment amply •sufficient. From extracts taken from the Ninth Annual Report of the Presi-
70
Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or.
bordering the C. and O., and N. and W. It connects at Wheel- ing with the Pennsylvania Railroad and B. and O. At Parkers- burg with the B. and O. and B. and O. S. W. It crosses the T. and O. C. at Point Pleasant, and connects at Huntington with all lines running east and west. With these connections it can be readily seen that the line has an important bearing on the country of which we are writing.
The present management, and condition of this system, while not complete, owing to the fact it is not a trunk line, is highly satisfactory. Both freight, and passenger traffic is in such quantity as to render the road able not only to meet all fixed charges, but to have a surplus as well. And the fact that it is a local road does not detract from its carrying a great deal of freight originating over other lines. (2) The interchange of commodities between the sections of country connected by
dent to the stockholders, some idea can be gained of the present condition of the line. For the fiscal year ending December 31st, 1892, the earnings, after paying interest on bonds, and all fixed charges, left a considerable surplus to the credit of the company. During the great financial stringency, when other lines were suffering from a decreased revenue, this road maintained its own, giving a wonderful reputation for financial stability. Comparing its physical condition with that of other lines, it does not suffer by the comparison, but is on a par with the average. The following extract from page 9 of the Ninth Annual Report gives an idea of the gross earnings, expenditures, and net profit:
Gross Earnings $795,135 74
Less Operating Expenses 452.79103
Net Earnings
Deduct—
Interest on Bonds
Taxes
Rent of Benwood Extension
Interest on Car Trust Obligations.,
Discount and Interest
Adjustment Sundry Accounts
Total.
Net Income for the Year
Balance, to Credit of Income Account. Surplus on December 31, 1891
Net Surplus December 31, 1892.
$228,705 83
25,941 86
7,143 07
6,018 40
1,697 22
211 74
72,626 59 161,431 04
42.344 71
59,718 12' 72,626 59
$235,057 63
(2i From the same report, on page 22, it can be seen that the number of tons of freight carried is a fine showing for a system of its size :
"weight in tons. Tons.
Originating on this road 319,019.
Received from connecting lines 190,132.
Total 509,151."
This freight consists of minerals, manufactured goods, agricultural pro- ducts, and live stock, as well as general merchandise.
Resources of Central West Yiryinii
71
this line, is one of the prime causes of the receipts from connect- ing lines. In addition, it carries a large amount of freight from the section of West Virginia already reverted to. The equip- ment is ample for the traffic, and the service for passengers good. Owing to local travel the stops are frequent, yet a schedule of time is maintained that averages well with any of the other sys- tems in the South. The line has done much for the country it penetrates in the way of development, and been the means of establishing numerous manufacturing industries along its line, and building up many towns. As has been shown, its financial policy speaks well for its management in that sense. (3)
The future of this line is something to be considered if pru- dence is combined with a liberal, broad-spirited policy in dealing with it. From its connecting links, and geographical position, it must be sooner or later a part of some trunk system. It has been advocated, and we think not improbably so, that this route may at no distant date become a southern outlet for the Penn- sylvania System, that only needs a southern terminus to render it capable of running its trains, north, south, east, and west.
(3) A careful glance at the statement given here, of the earnings and expert ses of the years 18H1-92, gives a good view of its financial condition. From th< "Ninth Annual Report" we have the following:
"Earnings and Expenses for the Years 1892 and 1891.
the
EARNINGS.
From Passengers
" Freight
" Express
" Telegraph
" Miscellaneous
" Car Mileage
1892
Total Earnings.
EXPENSES.
Maintenance of Way and Structures..
Maintenance of Equipment
Conducting Transportation
General Expenses
Total Operating Expenses. Net Earnings
,106 92 ,524 01 ,400 71 ,414 20 ,380 60 ,361 31 ,947 99
$795,135 74
$117,839 76
85,413 80
215,314 35
34,223 12
$452,791 03
$342,344 71
1891
DIFFERENCES.
$291,685 55 355,384 87 22,783 79 6,549 21 3,023 84 8,081 06 19,457 73
$40,421 37 52,139 14 616 92 864 99 1,356 76 3,720 a5 3,507 74
Inc. Inc. Inc. Inc. Inc. Dec. Dec.
$706,966 65
$127,252 47 67,228 61 187,776 35 29,993 34
$412,250 77
$294,715
$88,169 09 Inc.
$ 9,412 71 Dec.
18,185 19 Inc.
27,538 00 Inc.
4,229 78 Inc.
$40,540 26 Inc. 847,628 83 Inc.
Taxes.,
Per cent, of Operating Expenses to Earn- ings
Per cent, of Operating Expenses and Taxes to Earnings...
25.941 86
56.95
60.21
25,799 40
58.31 61.96
$ 162 46 Inc.
1.36 1.75
Dec. Dec
72 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
CHAPTER VII.
The West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad. — Its Earlier His- tory.— The Weston and West Fork Railroad. — Early Incor- porators.— Clarksburg, Weston and Glenville Railroad. — Hon. J. N. Camden. — Lease of the Weston and West Fork Railroad, by the Clarksburg, Western, and Glenville Railroad, and Transportation Company. — The Narrow Gauge Railroad. — .Doctor A. H. Kunst. — Buckhaunon and West Fork Railroad. Weston end Cenlreville Railroad.— Weston and Elk ; River Railroad. — Consolidation. — Baekhannon River Railroad. — Farther Merger of all Lines into the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad. — Construction of the Broad Gauge. — Extension of Line to Pickens, and <'amden-on-Gauley. — Number of Miles of Road. — Country Penetrated. — Prist at Management and Condition of the System. — Its Geographical Future.
In the section of country we are describing, the West Vir- ginia and Pittsburg Railroad has played such an important part, that it deserves a minute account. Anything concerning it, is of peculiar interest to the people, from the fact it is a home enterprise, and managed, and directed by home people. The change effected in the country by the construction of this line is so marked that it cannot be properly appreciated, unless the region had been examined before it was built, and looked over subsequently.
On the 2d day of January, 1875, the citizens of Lewis County feeling the necessity for railroad transportation, determined to inaugurate a plan by which a line could be constructed giving their country an outlet. Too much credit cannot be yielded those people who first started the enterprise, by incorporating what was then known as the Weston and West Fork Railroad, to run from Clarksburg, in Harrison County, to Weston, in
Resources of Central West Virginia. 73
'Lewis County. (1) This corporation commenced the construc- tion of a Narrow Gauge Line, that was completed by a subse- quent concern. On May the 17th, 1878, the Clarksburg, "Weston and Grlenville Railroad and Transportation Company was incor- porated, which company leased the Weston and "West Fork Railroad that ran from Clarksburg to Weston. On the 28th day of September, 1878, the Hon. Johnson N. Camden, now one of the Senators from West Virginia, became interested in this line. Having in view then, the construction of a road from Clarksburg to Fairinount, along the line of the Monongahela River, to con- nect with the Baltimore and Ohio, leading direct to Pittsburg, he turned his attention towards the narrow gauge system. On the 14th day of December, 1878, he was elected President of the Narrow Gaug'e Road, and the construction begun by the Weston and West Pork Railroad was completed in 1881, from Clarksburg to Weston. Through his control of capital, and untiring energy other steps were taken to open up and develop this section. (2)
(1) The early incorporators of this road were as follows: W.G.Bennett. Henry Brannon, George Ross, L. H. Wood, Thomas A. Edwards, Er. Ralston, A. A. Lewis, W. H. Aspinwall, F. M. Chalfanlt. The reader will recognize some prominent names in connection with these men. W. G.- Bennett, of whom we have already spoken, is a son of the late J. M. Bennett, once Auditor of the State of Virginia. W. G. Bennett was elected Judge of the Eleventh Judicial District of this State, including Braxton, Lewis, Nicholas, Upsnur and Webster Counties. He has won an enviable reputation as a tine judge of law, and a gentleman of scholarly attainments, as well as integrity.
Mr, Henry Brannon, a native of Winchester, Virginia, came to this State prior to the Civil War. In 1860 he engaged in the practice of law, and subse- quently was elected to the House of Delegates in 1870-71. From 1881 to 1889, he held the position of Judge of the Eleventh Judicial District, In 1888 he was elected to the Supreme Bench of West Virginia, which position he now holds.
The late Dr. Thomas Edwards, and Mr. A. A. Lewis, now a resident of Weston, with Judges Bennett and Brannon, were among the first to make an effort to open the section, that has subsequently proven so rich in timber and mineral resources.
(2) Johnson N. Camden, the prime factor in the development of this section of West Virginia, is justly esteemed one of West Virginia's greatest sons. He was born in 1828, in Lewis Count}', West Virginia, spending his childhood among the native mountains of his State. In 1840, he was appointed a cadet to West Point, from which position he resigned in 1848. In 1851, he was admitted to the bar and appointed Prosecuting Attorney for Braxton County in the same year. In 1853, he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Nicholas County, and was engaged in the banking business from 1854 to 1858, when he became interested in the development of the petroleum interests of his State. His .success in this line was not lesfe marked than the benefit conferred on the â– country in which he lived. In 1862, he was made President of the First National Bank of Parkersburg, and the year succeeding found him first
74 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,.
On the 6th day of April, 1882, the Buckhannon and West Fork Railroad was incorporated, to run from Weston, in Lewis- County, to Buckhannon, in Upshur County. In May, 1882, the- Weston and Centreville Railroad was formed, and leased the former, the name of both being changed to that of the Weston and Buckhannon Railroad, and a narrow gauge road was con- structed between Weston and Buckhannon, that was opened for traffic in 1883. Dr. A. H. Kunst, who was elected President of the Clarksburg, Weston and Glenville Railroad, was made Superintendent of the Weston and Buckhannon Railroad, whicb respective positions he held until the year 1888, when he was elected President of the last named.
The array of obstacles that met this narrow gauge system of forty miles would have seemed insurmountable to an outsider. The management of this line was the cradle in which Dr. Kunst was rocked, when first learning railway experience. It gave him a minute knowledge of railroad matters, that has served him well in later days, when the line has become a large system. He, after a while, began nursing the road. By the practice of strict economy, he made it pay, occupying every post in turn, from that of freight agent and dispatcher, to that of President. For seven or eight years, the little line plodded along, paying its own expenses, and earning all the funds possible. Every
launched into politics, in which he achieved such success subsequently. In 1868 and in 1872, he was the Democratic nominee for Governor of West Virginia In 1868, '72 and '76, he was the nominee from West Virginia to the National Democratic Conventions, and was elected a United States Senator, taking his seat March 4th, 1881. In this capacity he served until March 3d, 1887. In January, 1893, he was elected to fill the vacancy created by the death of the Hon. John E. Kenna. He took his seat on January 28th, 1893, and his present term will expire March 3rd, 1895.
While Senator Camden has served the people of West Virginia well as a legislator, and they have conferred the highest politicr.l honors upon him, it is in another field that he has done, perhaps, more for his fellow creatures. We allude to the development of his state in a material way. With almost pro- phetic foresight, he recognized years ago the many resources of his state, and by a judicious use of his capital, began the development of them, as we have related. He brought in foreign capital, and energy also, all of which have been expended here at home, showing West Virginia's great wealth, as well as giving her sons and daughters employment in many honorable ways. The logi- cal results of such conduct, without the aid or word of man, has crowned him with by far the best earned of all laurels, — the wreath belonging to the brow of the public benefactor, before which all of his political and worldly honors- sink into nothingness. Living at Parkersburg, in the section with which he is so closely identified, he is surrounded by not only the esteem and respect of his fellow-men, but by what is far better— their love and affection.
Resources' of Central West Virginia. 75
•expedient was used for the increase of traffic. When excursions were the order of the day, flats and box cars were brought into requisition, in which temporary seats were made, and a happy crowd transported from Clarksburg to Weston, or to other points. In 1839, the earnings of the line increased, until the time arrived when the narrow gauge system was to be changed into a broad gauge railroad. (3)
Some time before the events transpired of which we are writ- ing at present, Senator Camden had purchased large mineral rights along the east bank of the Monongahela River, and to bring out the coal from this Pittsburg seam, and to get a direct connection at Fairmount with the Baltimore and Ohio for Pitts- burg, constructed the Monongahela River Railroad running from Clarksburg to Fairmount. The construction of this line bore heavily upon the future of the West Virginia and Pitts- burg, for the Senator, in speaking of the matter, wrote as fol- lows :
"The building- of that line was a considerable factor and inducement in the standard gauging of the West Virginia and Pittsburg system."
At all events, the year 1889, brought a new era to the West Virginia and Pittsburg. On the 10th day of April, 1889, the Western and West Fork Railroad, and the Clarksburg, Weston, and Glenville Railroad, were merged into the Clarksburg, Wes-
(3) Doctor A. H. Kunst, formerly President of this narrow gauge line, and now Vice-President of the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, is so inter- woven with the development of this section, that he becomes a part and parcel of. its history. It is gratifying to know, that Dr. Kunst, while he has exhib- ithed marked executive, as well as administrative talent, in the management of railway matters, is a gentleman of unusual culture. The latter is probably inherited. He is a native of Taylor County, West Virginia. His father was G. H. A. Kunst, a son of a first lieutenant in a volunteer company against Napo- leon the Great. His mother was a daughter of a prominent citizen, who was banished from Alsace-Lorraine in France, on account of Huguenot troubles. Mr. G. H. A. Kunst was first in America, as the representative of a large Bremen house, locating first at Baltimore, Md., afterwards going to Peters- burg, Va., where he engaged in the mercantile business. Subsequently, he removed to West Virginia. Doctor Kunst was a graduate of Starling Medi- cal College in Columbus, Ohio. In May, 1868, he was elected Assistant Superin- tendent of the Asylum for the Insane at Weston, which post he occupied until 1881, when he resigned to practice his profession, but was afterwards elected President of the C. W. and G. Railroad. While at the asylum, doubtless, he laid the foundation for the address delivered by him, entitled: "Freaks of the Brain." This was afterwards published, and gives conclusive evidence of Dr. Kunst's broad cultivation, as well as talent for writing. It seems a pity that such literary ability should not have a broader and more congenial field in which to expand than in a railway office.
Resources of Central. Wext Vtr</tni'a: 17
ton, and Midland Railroad. The new company allowed the stockholders five per cent, of the stock held in the former com- panies. On July 3rd, 1889, the Weston and Elk River Railroad was consolidated with the Clarksburg,. Weston, and Midland Railroad on same terms as the former consolidation. Following this merger, the Buckhannon River Railroad was incorporated on the 20th day of July, 1889. (4) During the following Septem- ber, the Buckhannon and West Fork, and the Weston and Cen- tre ville were merged into the Clarksburg, Weston, and Midland. On February 6th, 1890, the latter absorbed the Buckhannon River Railroad, and a reorganization took place under a new name : The West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad, now held its stand among the systems of the South, and was changed to a standard gauge railroad, with the Hon. J. N. Camden as Presi- dent, and Dr. A. H. Kunst, of "narrow-gauge" fame, as Vice- President, and General Manager.
The West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad connects at Clarksburg with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the Mo- nongahela River R. R. Leaving Clarksburg, it runs southward through Harrison and Lewis Counties to Weston, a distance of twenty-five miles and four-tenths. At this point the line branches somewhat southeast and southwest. The former runs by Buckhannon, through Upshur County to Pickens in Randolph County, a distance of forty-nine miles and some tenths. The Southwest Branch runs from Weston, through Lewis, Braxton, and Webster Counties to Camden-on-Oauley, a distance of seventy-five and six-tenths miles, making a total mileage of one hundred and fifty-six and four-tenths, not including sidings. A
(4) Among- the incorporators of these latter roads were some prominent gentlemen who have been identified closely with the development of this sec- tion. We refer to Judge John Brannon, of Weston, and Mr. M. W. Harrison, the present accomplished Treasurer of the West Virginia and Pittsburg Rail- road; Judge John Brannon, a native of Frederick County, Va., who came to West Virginia in 1847, and began the practice of law. He was a member of the Virginia House of Delgates from 1853 to 1856, and was in the Senate of Virginia to the end of the war. He was Judge of the Circuit Court from 1873 to 1881 and in every capacity has proven both his ability and integrity. He now occupies the position of General Counsel for the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad.
Mr. M. W. Harrison, who is now identified with the road, has been one of its warmest supporters, and co-adjutors from the beginning. He is a descendant of the Virginia Harrisons, a family as old and refined as the State itself, and he has been largely instrumental in the development of this section. He resides at Weston, West Virginia, and is devoting his time and means to the interests of his native State— West Virginia.
78
Heritage of the Trans-AUeghany Pioneers, or,
branch runs from Flatwoods to Sutton, the county seat of Brax- ton, a distance of six miles. These lines penetrate a country that has two admirable advantages. It is rich in resources, and is comparatively unopened. Beginning at Clarksburg, the line
Jefferson Rock.
Resources of Centrxl West Virginia. 79
to Weston traverses the fertile valleys of Harrison and Lewis, with the rich coal fields of the Mount Clare section that are a continuation of the rich Pittsburg seam. The fine building stones of Lewis County are penetrated, as well as its fire-clays, and iron, south of Weston. Leaving Weston, the fertile hills and lowlands bordering Stone Creek, and the Buckhannon River lie along the line, until ascending the river the rich timber section of Pickens, with its additional wealth of coal, fire-clays, brick-clays, glass-sands and slates. The forests in this region are magnifi- cent, and yet in their original state. From Weston to Camden-
Scene along the West Virginia and Pittsburg R
80 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers or,
on-Grauley, the line opens up the valley of the West Fork through Lewis, with its hills permeated with iron, running southwards toward Flatwoods across the Little Kanawha River and its valley, until Sutton, the county seat of Braxton conies in view. The extension from Flatwoods through Braxton into Webster, where lies Camden-on-Grauley, goes along the wild and romantic banks of the Elk, into probably the finest timbered region in the South. The section has also valuable deposits of^ minerals, in the way of coal, clays, iron and building stones of rare value. Such is a faint portrayal of the section of country tributary to the West Virginia, and Pittsburg Railroad, along its present extensions. The second advantage derived by the system from the region it runs through is the fact it is new and as yet unopened. Millions of feet of timber will have to yield its tribute to this line, in being conveyed to the various marts of man ; thousands of tons of building stone will sooner or later come into requisition for constructing material, which in this section is largely increasing in demand. The clays, iron and sandstones, so useful in every way must be carried out over these lines, giving additional freight. All of these resources wait in their native state for the magic stroke of capital that is gradually flowing in under the inexorable law of demand and supply. Already, numerous manufactories and lumber plants have sprung up, giving the line all the freight its present outfit can carry. (5) The output of minerals already give an idea of what is coming for the future in this respect. And so, too, with the timbered resources. (6)
(5) Although this line is but in its infancy, it has a fine showing for the country when examined with reference to its freight hauled. The following gives an idea of the section as a grazing country :
Live stock carried for the year ending June 30, 1893 :
Horses and Mules 4,754
Cattle 69,294
Hogs 2,320
Sheep 33,511
(6) The following gives some idea of the timber and minerals hauled out:
Minerals and forest products hauled for year ending June 30, 1893.
Minerals. No. lbs.
liiiuminous Coal 407,100 •
Coke 366
Rock, Sand and Clay '. 10,640
Forest Products.
Lumber and Timber 2,193,673
Staves, Shooks, Headings, Hoop Poles 81,620
Bark 27,711
Wood and Posts 2,982
Resources of Central West Virginia. 81
After a careful review, the condition of this line reflects won- derful credit upon the officials managing it. This can be readily seen from a glance at its financial, as well as physical state. With a bonded debt of $4,000,000, the line has not only paid all expenses of construction and operation, but interest on its bonds. This state of affairs is so unusual, that it necessarily attracts the attention of the stranger, and the admiration of the financier. The passenger, as well as freight traffic, is care- fully nursed and handled, while t?very expense is closely scruti- nized by the astute, but pleasant, General Manager. (7) A careful review of the operating expenses, as compared with those of other systems, shows them very small — in fact, so low, that we wonder how the line can maintain its present physical condition. The steady increase of the earnings for the year ending June 30, 1893, is largely in excess of those for year ending June 30, 1892. This shows not only the rigid economy practiced, but increase of traffic in passengers and freight. In the year 1891-92, the earnings were $287,701.02. For the fiscal year end- ing June 30, 1893, they were $402,717.11 Increase— $114,955.49. The percentage of cost for operating expenses is only 46.8 per cent, of the gross earnings, and a greater part of this was expended in betterment of the property. The showing in every phase is so remarkable for a line as young as this, that we have
(7) The following statement of the Annual Report of the Road for the fiscaj year ending June 30th, 1893, gives the number of miles operated, and net earnings :
Miles Operated.
Total miles operated up to September 18, 1892 109 76
New line added September 18, 1892, Newlon to Pickens, 9 28
" " October 17, 1892, Flatwoods toCamden-on-Gauley, 40 34
Total miles operated June 30, 1893 159 38
Average mileage operated during this year 145 52
Total mileage operated during the preceding fiscal year, 109 76
The operations for this fiscal year were on 109.76 miles up to September 18 1892, when the line between Newlon and Pickens of 9.28 miles was added and opened to traffic. On the 17th of October, 1892, the new extension between Flat- woods and Camden-on-Gauley of 40.34 miles was also opened to traffic, making the total mileage operated from that date 159.38, of which .4 of a mile between West Virginia and P. Junction and Monongahela Junction was under mileage arrangements with the M. R. R. R. Co., and 1 mile between Monongahela Junc- tion and B. & O. Clarksburg depot was under mileage agreement with the B. & •O. R. R. Co.
Gross earnings $402,717 11
Operating expenses, 188,532 20
Net earnings, $214,184 91
82 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
dwelt with some particularity on the subject. The road has been criticized by some persons on account of its rigid saving,, and been accused of practicing false economy, but a careful examination of its service, equipment and physical condition, shows to the contrary. All of these bear the closest scrutiny. Of course the road needs, and will have, as its traffic increases, a larger amount of engines, cars and other rolling stock. But was there ever a railroad that was doing a good business that did not need more rolling stock ? That of this line, while taxed to its full capacity, does the work. The service is polite, good, and efficient, haviner among its employees men of more than average ability than is usually seen in this walk of life. The physical state of the line is unusually good — in fact, is the best of any railroad in this State, probably with the exception of the Chesapeake and Ohio Line. Most of the track is ballasted well — a part with stone, and carries a train over its rails smoothly and nicely. At the regular stations, good buildings may be seen, with comfortable service. When we then see with what economy the system is managed, and yet observe the fine road- bed and physical condition, we dare not withhold our admira- tion at its management. Justice demands it.
This line has a future in railway history for itself. It is a future not laid out on paper, nor yet in the minds of capitalists. The future arises from its geographical position. Doubtless Senator Camden held this idea in view, when after construction of the Monongahela River Railroad, he determined to make the West Virginia and Pittsburg a broad gauge line. It is the con- necting link of the Pittsburg region of Pennsylvania with the South, and the most direct route by over two hundred miles when the line is extended to the Chesapeake and Ohio at Cov- ington, Virginia. Time, that precious commodity that moves the world, will have its way, and for the saving of itself, presses humanity into taking the shortest and quickest geographical routes and locations. The vast mineral resources of the South are putting her rapidly in touch with Northern, Eastern and Western capital. The latter will seek the shortest possible route, and from the manufacturing regions of Pennsylvania to the raw material in West Virginia, and Virginia, the West Vir- ginia and Pittsburg, with the Monongahela and Baltimore and Ohio, hold the geographical key that unlocks the shortest, quickest, and most direct route in the future.
Resource* of Central West Virginia. 83
CHAPTER VIII.
The Monongdhela River Railroad — Its Route and Distance. — Cause of its Construction. — The Vast Mineral Field it Pene- trates.— Its Bearing on this Section. — Effects of its Construc- tion upon the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad. — Its Future Part in this State. — Management of the Line. — H. Q. Howies. — Its Service and Equipment. — Traffic Receipts in Coal. Through the mountains and charming valleys of Lewis County, on through the succulent farming lands of Harrison, into Marion County flows the West Fork River. Just beyond Fairmount the muddier waters of this stream mingle with the brighter ones of Tygart's Valley River, forming one of the prettiest water-courses in West Virginia, known as the Monon- gahela River. From this stream the railroad we shall now describe, takes its name. It extends from Clarksburg, Harrison County, to Fairmount, in Marion County, winding along the banks of the West Fork River, amidst the most picturesque, and varied scenery in this section of the State. The lovely hills of Harrison and Marion Counties line each side of the stream, that cuts its tortuous way through almost solid banks of coal, iron ore and fire-clays. The route is commonly known as the "Monongah Route," and plays a most important part on this section of the State, although it is but thirty miles in length.
The original cause of the construction of this line was the immense deposits of coal along the region tributary to the road. But its construction resulted in matters equally as great as hauling out coal for the immense coal works along its line. It was destined to change the West Virginia and Pittsbm-g Rail- road from a narrow to a broad gauge, and become as well, a connecting link in the system now running southward from Pittsburg, through Central West Virginia. The mineral field penetrated by this line is beyond a doubt one of the richest in the way of coal in Central West Virginia. It is lined through- out with the celebrated ''Pittsburg Seam," that crops out on both sides of the road and West Fork River, from Fairmount to
84 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
Clarksburg. The line runs through Fairmount, Monongah,. Jackson, Camden, and. Clarksburg fields, all of which possess- the original seam mentioned above, that ranges from eight to eleven feet in thickness of solid bituminous coal, a good material for coking, steaming, and domestic purposes. The construction of the line was finished in 1888, and the road opened for traffic in 1889. The logical result was, numerous coal mines were opened, and at present, several good towns have sprung up, the result of the construction of this line. (1) The shipment of coal and coke is large, and Monongah product has found its way not only into the Eastern markets, but as far west as the bust- ling city of Chicago, the distributing point of the products of the Union. In addition to the coal, the section has iron, clays, and stone, which as yet have not been developed fully. As already stated, the iron ore in this region was used by the old "Jackson Furnace,'' that made a superior grade of iron that was boated down streams to Pittsburg. The minerals of this whole territory are as yet but partially opened, and will afford a hand- some traffic in the future for the Monongahela River Railroad, as they have done in the past. In fact, upon the west bank of the river near Lumberport, the immense coal fields have never been touched, and so with those on the east at the same point, that are now owned by Senator Camden.
The bearing of this line upon the section is great for more reasons than one. In the first place, the Monongahela Railroad brings out vast quantities of coal, a large part of which goes east and west. South of the Mount Clare Mines, in Harrison County, no coal mines of magnitude have as yet been developed. So the Monongah Field, through the Monongahela River Rail- road, furnishes coal along the line of the West Virginia and P. Railroad in Lewis, Upshur, Braxton, and Webster Counties. In
(1) One of the largest coal works in Central West Virginia is located on this line. We refer to the Monongah Coal and Coke Company, a few miles south of Fairmount. This company, owned principally by Senator Camden, owns the coal territory running north and south for many miles, and has probably the largest output of coal of any other mine in that section. The seam is the regular Pittsburg layer, ranging from nine to eleven feet in thickness of solid, bituminous coal. This field yields a product that is admirable for coking domestic, steaming and gaseous purposes, having been fully tested in every respect.
In addition to this large mine, the line is fairly bristling with works of a lesser nature, all of which do a good business, giving the Monongahela River Railroad a splendid traffic.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 85
addition to this traffic feature, the line opened a passenger traffic that is not a surprise Avhen we consider the location of the line. Passengers in this section who had to visit Wheeling were accus- tomed to going via the Baltimore and Ohio, to either Parkers- burg or Grafton. Going either of those ways made a considera- ble elbow. The construction of the "Monongah Line" from Clarksburg to Fairmount gave a direct route for Wheeling, saving both time and distance, the economizing of which invar- iably means a saving of money. And now, since the Baltimore and Ohio has finished its line from Morgantown, West Virginia, to Uniontown, Pennsylvania, the Monongahela River Railroad becomes a shorter link in the chain of transportation facilities, that connects the raw material of Central West Virginia with the manufacturing world at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. It plays a most material part in the railway systems of the State of West Virginia. When this line was constructed, and the Baltimore and Ohio line from Morgantown to Uniontown made a certainty, Senator Camden looked down the vista of the future with his prophetic eye, and saw the prospective iron link between the Pittsburg regions and the southern part of Central West Vir- ginia. At that time Dr. A. H. Kunst was cradling the little nar- row gauge line of the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad. Suddenly, the latter was changed to a standard gauge, and ex- tended on through Braxton and Webster Counties. The three have now become the Main Line from Pittsburg, south. The gap filled up by the Monongahela River Railroad was a most important one, as can be readily seen at a moment's glance. And in the future it will become a part of the great trunk line that is being gradually constructed to make a direct mode of travel from north to south, by way of Morgantown, Fairmount, Weston, Flatwoods, Camden-on-Gauley, West Virginia, and Covington, Virginia. The construction of most of the line is finished, and on completion of a small gap between Camden-on- Gauley, West Virginia, and Covington, Virginia, the vast coal and iron fields of Central West Virginia will have the gates of Pittsburg opened to receive their raw material.
The management of this line is a careful and prudent one, under the superintendency of Mr. H. G. Bowles, the General Manager. (2) From its incipiency as a public carrier it has been
(2) Mr. Bowies' policy is one of unusual conservatism. Though his line is a short one, he has inducted the same care and prudence in his mode of operation that characterizes the greater systems: The discipline he uses is unusually
86 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
made to pay handsomely. Some have maintained that the rich mineral field through which it ran was the chief cause. That the material for traffic is necessary to make a road pay is true, but equally true is it that the line under the best conditions has to be properly managed to render it a paying institution. And in this way has the Monongahela been handled by its efficieut corps under Mr. H. G. Bowles. The gross receipts are good, while the fixed charges and operating expenses show an econom- ical mode of fiscal dealing in the conducting of the line. (3) The service of the road is excellent, and double daily passenger trains are run between Clarksburg and Fairmount. The equipment, for a short line, is unusually good, being equally as fine as that of many of the larger systems. The line has become a popular route towards the north, having superseded the old ways, and relegated the elbow routes by Parkersburg and Grafton, com- pletely in the back ground. The amount of traffic carried by this line is wonderfully great when its shortness is considered, and as a part of the lines that connect the North and South, the Monongahela River Railroad recommends itself most cordially every way to the traveling public. It is a route that in the future holds a great deal of prominence for the reasons named.
good— more so than the general run of the rest of the systems, and a careful insight into his modus operandi, shows us that he possesses unusual capacity for cutting close. No man is more eager than he to increase the traffic of his line, and the results of such management are such as entitle him to be proud.
(3) From the last Annual Report of this company, the traffic sheet is one that reflects a great deal of credit on the system. The fact that this line traverses such a wonderfully rich region, and has now become a part of the through system from Pittsburg, south, gives a signal note to the future of the line. The policy of the Monongahela is to increase its traffic in every way, and the idea of the road's being run in in the interest of any one corporation along its line, as is entertained by some, is erroneous. The following is a written statement from Senator Camden, the President, on that subject in answer to inquiries from us:
'â– Referring to our conversation, and your inquiries in relation to the devel- opment of the coal fields on the west side of the West Fork of the Monongahela River in the neighborhood of Lumberport, I will state, that it is the policy and intention of the Monongahela River Road to bridge the river, and make con- nections with the coal lands on the west side, whenever those lands are ready to be operated, and assurances can be given of sufficient business to justify the expense. This will not only be done at Lumberport, but at other I'oints aloner the rit er between Clarksburg and Fairmount. The terms of the contract between the Baltimore and Ohio and Mononaahela River Roads will make it improbable, if not impossible, to build and maintain any other road along the valley of the river in competition with the Monongahela River Road, and it is the interest and policy of the stockholders of that road to do what is necessary not only to develop that coal region, but to take care of the business which it' expects to do as rapidly as the occasion arises."
HON. HENRY G. DAVIS,
of West Virginia.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 89
CHAPTER IX.
West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railroad. — Territory Traversed by the Same. — Inception of the Road, and Cause of its Construction. — Ex-Senator Henry O. Davis. — Extension and Growth of the System. — Hon. S. B. Elkins. — Develop- ment Inaugurated along its Line. — Present Status. — Manage- ment, Service, and Equipment of the System. — Its Financial State. — Its Probable Future.
The wonderful development of the eastern portion of Central West Virginia, bordering the Alleghany range of mountains, is due principally to the construction of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railroad. The conception of the plan of girding the Alleghany Mountains was bold ; its completion a master- piece of successful energy. This line at present runs from Cumberland, Maryland, to Belington, in Barbour County, and Beverly, in Randolph, running via Keyser, Piedmont, Davis, Hendricks, and Elkins, all of which have been brought into life through the building and construction of this line. From Cumberland to Elkins (the Main Line) is a distance of one hun- dred and thirteen miles, while at Davis, Hendricks, Elkins, and other points are branches ranging from three to thirty miles in length. All these lines penetrate the eastern section of Central West Virginia, draining the counties of Mineral, Grant, Tucker, and Randolph of their immense timber and mineral resources. This line, and the West Virginia and Pittsburg Railroad are peculiarly near to the hearts of West Virginians, and are com- monly known as the "Davis and Camden" roads. Conceived, constructed, and now operated by home people, gives them peculiar interest to West Virginia, and everything connected with either is watched with the greatest pride, and an interest almost akin to that of direct ownership.
The origin and conception of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railroad, is so closely entwined around the career of Ex-Senator H. G. Davis of West Virginia, that an account of one is almost inseparable from the other. (1) Mr. Davis early became acquainted with the resources of the country tributary to his line, and believing they would enrich those who assisted in bringing them out, succeeded in obtaining the interest of
iK) Heritage of the Trans-Alleghany Pioneers, or,
prominent men in his proposed plan while a member of the Senate. Inch by inch — foot by foot — inile by mile, — was this line constructed southward from Piedmont, until the impassi- ble defiles, immense ridges of the Alleghany Mountains were girded with a steel band, that has been of such infinite service to the State, as well as the country tributary to its line, The subsequent extension and growth of the system was due to the united efforts of Hon. H. G. Davis and S. B. Elkins, lately Secretary of War under President Harrison's Administration. (2) It has become, through constructed and projected lines, an important factor in the railway systems of the South. And its full completion and construction, so far, has been done under the personal supervision of Ex-Senator Davis, the President, resulting in its having been built at the least possible cost.
(1) Connected with the industrial development of Central West Virginia in the east, Hon. II. G. Davis stands out in bold relief. Born in Maryland, in the year 1833, he was bred in the country. Early in life he became connected with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and by energy and pluck, rose fast in the ranks of that system. This accounts for his practical knowledge concerning radway matters. After his connection with the Baltimore and Ohio, he became engaged in business in West Virginia, where his business capacity was exer- cised with the same sense and judgment that has characterised it since his entry upon the uncertain sea of railway life. In all probability, it was during his business career in West Virginia, that he gained the intimate knowledge he possesses about the resources of the State,— that proved of such wonderful power to him later on. The conception and construction of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg, across the Alleghany Mountains, is a monument of testamentary evidence of his foresight, energy, and indomitable pluck. In addition to the material wealth and development that has come to Central West Virginia through his efforts, he has been a central figure in the political •councils of the State. He was elected to the Legislature of West Virginia, in which state of political life he was prominent. Subsequently, he was elected to the Senate of the United States, where he made an enviable record. It was while he served in this latter capacity, that he succeeded in interesting peo- ple of 'means in the construction of the West Virginia Central. In the vale of life, he is respected by all for his worth, and loved by many for his kindness •of heart.
(2) Hon. Steven B. Elkins, who of late years has occupied a conspicuous place in the industrial, as well as political, world of West Virginia, is a native of Missouri. For quite a length of time, he was largely interested in financial ventures in the West, as well as in New Mexico, where success crowned his efforts. Subsequently, he became acquainted with Ex. Senator H. G. Davis, through whose counsel and advice he invested largely in West Virginia's wealth. The combination has proven not only a successful one to the parties concerned, but a most advantageous one for the section of West Virginia in which they are operating. The whole region has been benefited. Mr Elkins has 'filled several important political positions, and under President Harrison's Administration, before Cleveland's election, was a member of the Cabinet, holding the position of Secretary of War. He is a gentleman of .ability and marked generosity.
Resources of Central West Virginia*
911
The development that has resulted from the building of this line through the eastern part of Central West Virginia, has been something wonderful. In the first place, the natural wealth in the way of coal is immense, the counties through which the line passes possessing the best seams in the carboniferous period of
1 O
o t3f-
a
this State. Mr. Davis' prophetic eye recognized the value of this hidden wealth, so he labored earnestly until he finally accom- plished his plans, and laid a permanent foundation for bringing them before the public. The result was twofold : increased prosperity for himself and co-workers, and development of the
m
Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or.
section of country touching the Main Line and branches of the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg* Railroad. Whatever increases the list of necessary commodities, stimulates commer- cial activity, and gives employment to labor. This material progress is the bone and sinew of prosperity. Any undertaking
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that draws upon nature's handiwork for material, that has to be extricated through mental as well as physical power, gives employment to mankind, the greatest boon that can be con- ferred upon humanity. To thread the labyrinth of passes and defiles in order to ascend the Alleghanies, as this line does
Resources of Central West Virginia.
93
meant not only the expenditure of large sums of money to accomplish it, but the necessity for renewed expenditures to bring out the raw material from which source a profit was to be derived. All of this the West Virginia Central Line did, and the results are highly satisfactory.
5~
The numerous industries flourishing along the line now; the propinquity of newly-made towns give evidence of the rapid material progress that has taken place. A few years ago, before the 1880s crept silently over the dial of time, this region was virtually wild. The head-waters of Potomac River leapt down- ward undisturbed by the music of the handsaw, and the ringing
94 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
sound of the pick in the cold. The waters of Blackwater Run,, flowing down on the southern side of the mountains formed. their eddying pools in total silence, save for the roar of the cata. racts, and cascades that now lie hundreds of feet below the rail- road in a perpendicular manner, causing the eye of the traveller to become bewildered as he glances downward at the dashing waters. Everything was wild — even nature's sublimnity, that overhung the whole like a cloud of mystic scenery. To-day, the hum and stroke of work can be heard on all sides ; the growing towns, and gigantic lumber plants, with the rich coal mines, present a business activity that impregnates the air around. Bayard, Wilsonia, Davis, Coketon, Gorman, Fairfax, Douglas Hughlin's, Hendricks, Bretz, Parsons, Dobbins, Montrose, Elkins and Belington, are towns ranging from two to fifteen hundred people, that have grown from the opening of the mineral and timber resources in this section. The vast coal fields penetrating Mineral, Grant, Tucker and Randolph Counties are the line traversed by the West Virginia Central Railroad, and its avowed object being accomplished, that is, to haul out this product, has developed the whole section in a marvellous manner. In addi- tion to the natural wealth here, the policy of the West Virginia Central has been an aggressive one for material progress. (3)
The present status of this line is a very creditable one in every way. The interests of the road are fostered and cared for
(3) The act of the West Virginia Central in running parallel with the Baltimore and Ohio from Piedmont to Cumberland, has had the effect of assist- ing the material progress of this section materially. Railroads remind us very forcibly of the female sex in two respects. They love to coquet, and hold the balance of power. When they perceive the latter is gradually slipping from them, they will use any reasonable — and in many instances unreasonable — means to retain it. And like the female again, they are indispensable ! No undertakings ever instituted by man have been so useful and so great a service to our country as the railroads. And the legislature which is eternally passing bills to clog their progress, and throw obstructions in their way is unwise. The law-makers should nurse, foster and encourage them as much as possible, in ortler to have as many as can be gotten in a State. For experience teaches us that the only power which can govern a railroad, and keep it entirely within bounds, is competition/ And competition between railway systems is the most reliable engine of development we can name, for causing a country to progress rapidly, and grow rich through commercial and manufacturing interests. The object of the West Virginia Central in running to Cumberland was to connect there with the Cumberland Valley Division of the Pennsylvania Line. This competition between the Baltimore and Ohio and West Virginia Central brought in many a plant along the latter that has added materially to the wealth of the country.
Resources of Central West Virginia. 95
in the most prudent manner. The industries from which the line draws its traffic are given every possible facility for increas- ing their capital and doubling their output. The vast raw material in the way of timber and minerals that must be utilized to create traffic, is so extensive the company can confidently give every facility which will increase the power of bringing it on the line of the road for traffic. The management is a progressive one — as much so as it is consistent with railroad policy to be. The roadbed, rolling stock and equipment is on a high order, while the service is equally as good as that of any other system we can name. The line, as well as property of the company, show a very judicial handling, possessing the appearance of being well-cared for in every respect. (4)
From the foregoing facts, it is readily seen that the financial state of the system is a sound one. The traffic has steadily increased as the line was extended, until the showing now made is one of unusually good results. To further increase its traffic, several branches to the Main Line have been con- structed, while others, in course of construction, are supported and encouraged by this line. (5)
The branch running from Thomas, on the Main Line, to Davis, a town of fifteen hundred people, some six miles dis- tance, is a paying one. At Hendricks, the Dry Fork Railroad Company have begun the construction of a line to run thirty miles southeast, to open up the vast timber resources lying on the property of the latter company. This branch will not only prove a good feeder for the West Virginia Central, but is des- tined to play an important part in the future of the line. At Roaring Creek, five miles west of Elkins, on Tygart's Valley River, a branch is being constructed to open the coal fields in that immediate region, of which we have already spoken in the chapter on the resources of the section. This extension will ultimately prove a most valuable arm, owing to the wealth it penetrates on Roaring Creek. Already the line has a very large traffic in coal from the Elk Garden, the Upper Potomac, the Belington extension, and Piedmont and Cumberland Rail-
(4) Mr. C. L. Bretz, the General Manager, on whose shoulders falls the import- ant duty of managing the Road, is fully equal to the occasion. Reared in the railway service, he was trained under the regime of the Great Pennsylvania System, that inducts practical knowledge, as well as discipline, into every- thing. Both of these requirements have been brought by him into his work on this line, and the results from it are manifest and apparent.
96 Heritage of the Trans-AUeghany Pioneers, or,
way. (6) The future of this line is destined to play an important part in the railway history of this State. It connects, at pre- sent, with the Pennsylvania System at Cumberland, Md. It has several pi-ojected lines that will be of marked advantage to the future material prosperity of West Virginia. A line is now projected from Cumberland to Hagerstown, by which route an entrance into Baltimore could be effected. The Dry Fork Branch, running from Hendricks, will ultimately be extended, and at no distant future day, the systems will, doubtless, tap the Chesapeake and Ohio Line at the White Sulphur Springs, in Greenbriar County. A prospective line is now in view, from Belington to Clarksburg, to touch the West Virginia and Penn- sylvania Railroad, that has been surveyed from Clarksburg to Brownsville in Pennsylvania. From the present condition of the line, with its material wealth, and the future in view, the West Virginia Central has one cf the brightest prospects that we know of, in connection with railway improvement in the South.
(5) From the following statement, it will be seen that for the year ending- June 30, 1893, after paying every fixed charge, the income of the road was $137,833 17. Twelfth Annual Report. 3. Receipts, Transportation. Eec. :
Passengers $ 91,735 61
Coal and Coke Freights 182,328 51
Other Freight and Express 159,819 44
Car Service, IT. S. Mail, etc 106,435 72
Miscellaneous 11.446 59
Expenditures: $551,765 87
Maintenance of Way $130,565 20
Maintenance of Equipment, 48,497 86
Conducting Transportation 112,755 14
Car Service and General Expense 40.637 91
Miscellaneous, 3,304 41 $335,760 52
$216,005 35
Percentage of operating expenses, (not including taxes) to receipts, 61.08
Net gain to West Virginia Central from operating Pied- mont and Cumberland Railway at 60 per cent, of gross earnings, 91 16
During the year ended June 30th, 1893, the Company has mined and sold from its Elk Garden Mines 369,510 tons of coal, at a profit mot cuaryina against this, however,. its proportion of interest, taxes, and gen- eral expenses of the Company), of 88,554 12
Add prolit on sale of coal made at Baltimore office 56,000 00
$360,650 63
Deduct interest on bonded debt, payable Jan- uary 1st. 1893. and July 1st, 1893, . '. $177,045 00
Taxes, etc 27,421 46
Deductions made for depreciation in value of
mining plants, hotels, etc., 18,35100 $222,817 46
Net income, after paying fixed charges,, $137,833 17
Resources of Central West Virginia.
97
(6) The following' statement gives the shipments of coal from this line for each year since 1881 :
a
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Davis— Tons. |
|
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1,131 2,772 3,774 10,350 23,320 30,405 55,888 43,120 |
Thomas — Tons. |
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Douglas— Tons. |
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Bayard— Tons.
Junior— Tons.
Total— Tons.
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98 Heritage of the Trans- Alleghany Pioneers, or,
CHAPTER X.
Agricultural Resources. — Products of the Section. — Stock Gra- zing.— Horticulture. — Fruit Culture. — Grape Culture. — Dairy Farming. — System of Culture in the Region. — Uncultivated Lands. — General Remarks on the Subject.
The capacity of this section of West Virginia,, as an agricul- tural country, is improperly judged by many passing casually through its borders. The mountainous aspect does not impress the beholder favorably on first sight. But a closer inspection will soon disabuse his mind. In the discussion of this subject, we shall judge the country by what it is capable of, and not condemn the whole on account of a bad system of tillage of a part. The agricultural phase of the region may be divided in two parts : the system of culture, and productions of the val- leys, of the streams, and the mountains and hillsides. In Bar- bour County we see a fine lot of agricultural lands, bordering Tygart's Valley River and other streams. Taylor, Harrison and Marion possess some fine country, while Lewis, Braxton, Nicho- las, Grant and Mineral and the other interior counties have good farming lands bordering the waters of the various streams. Wood, Jackson and Mason, along the Ohio River, hold the highest reputation as farming lands, possessing much of the alluvial bottoms of the Ohio, that are famed, far and near, for their productiveness. In all of the counties, on the hillsides, some fine crops are produced, and grass raised for stock.
The products of the section may be said to be : wheat, oats, rye, barley, corn, hay, and vegetables, with some fruit- growing and dairy-farming. In the limestone regions of the section, and on the Ohio River, the cereals produce well, and are raised in surplus quantities. Large amounts of grain are shipped abroad from the section bordering the Ohio River, as well as other regions in the limestone country. Still, there are other counties devoted principally to grazing, in which the production of grain is small. The tables given in the notes appended hereto, give an idea of the productions of the cereals
Resources of Central West Virginia.
99
and hay, as well as showing the counties that raise them in less quantities, where stock-grazing is the staple. (1) In some favored regions the average yield of wheat is from fifteen to twenty bushels per acre ; of oats, twenty-five to thirty bushels ; of corn, fifteen to forty bushels ; of hay, two-and-a-half to three tons per acre. The foregoing yield is that taken from Wood, Jackson, Mason, Harrison, Upshur, Mineral, and the counties that are best in an agricultural sense. The rest of the sections will average from eight to fifteen bushels of grain per acre, and one- and-a-half" tons of hay. Owing to the elevation of the lands; the frequent showers and heavy dews in the summer season, grasses do remarkably well, and timothy, red top clover, lucerne, Grer-
(1) The table following g-ives the average yield of crop per acre in this region :
COUNTIES
WHEAT. OATS. CORN. Meadows. Pas Potat's Ap.
- ah
T3S CI at O o
O 0)
Barbour
Braxton
Calhoun