 |
|
 |
|
Charleston, West Virginia, is a bustling city, a cultural mecca and a historical reminder of West Virginia's wild and wonderful past. Amid the tumultuous Civil War, West Virginia officially became a state through Presidential Proclamation. Abraham Lincoln declared the northwestern portion of Virginia to be returned to the Union, and on June 20, 1863, West Virginia became a state. Although the state now existed, settling on a state capitol location proved to be difficult. For several years, the capitol of West Virginia intermittently traveled between Wheeling and Charleston. In 1877, however, state citizens voted on the final location of their capitol. Charleston was chosen, and eight years later, the first capitol building was opened. After a fire in 1921, a hastily built structure was opened but burned down in 1927. However, a Capitol Building Commission, created by the Legislature in 1921, authorized construction of the present capitol. Architect Cass Gilbert designed the buff limestone structure that was to have a final cost of just under $10 million. After the three stages of construction were completed, Governor William G. Conley dedicated the capitol on June 20, 1932. The vivid past surrounding the capitol and the state makes the capitol complex a great place to begin a discovery of West Virginia. The state museum and cultural center are full of exciting exhibits and events that give visitors a glimpse into the rich tradition and culture celebrated in the people of West Virginia. Searchable historical and genealogical archives are located here. The immaculately manicured grounds surrounding the capitol include a statuary boasting magnificent examples of important individuals in the state's and the nation's history. Also, the West Virginia Veteran's Memorial Plaza, also located on the grounds, honors soldiers who were killed or missing in action. More than 10,000 names are etched into the stones of the interior walls. The governor's mansion, completed in 1925, also graces the majestic grounds of the capitol complex. This 30-room, elegant structure, made of Harvard brick and white Corinthian columns, overlooks the Kanawha River. During the summer, the capitol grounds also are host to two of Charleston's premier events, the Vandalia Festival during Memorial Day weekend and Multifest held in early August. Downtown Charleston, with its revitalization efforts, provides a glimpse into the early days of 20th century life. Magnificent examples of architecture still stand in grand style. Capitol Street, once the center of business in town, again flourishes with its quaint atmosphere. Unique shops, many restaurants and businesses line the street just as they did in days past. Davis Square, the old Scott Drug Store and the Kanawha County Public Library are just a few of the outstanding building designs in town. In addition to its fascinating capitol history, Charleston and its surrounding communities have shared a role in shaping West Virginia history. Charleston is edged by the Kanawha and Elk Rivers, which are both active with boat traffic, including the P.A. Denny sternwheeler that is available for limited public or private cruises along the Kanawha River. Early in Charleston's history, however, the rivers provided a viable means of transportation for salt-packing, an important early industry in the area. Malden, formerly Kanawha Salines, is located just outside Charleston on Rt. 60, which is part of the Midland Trail Scenic Highway. Malden has an interesting history all its own. One of its most important citizens was Booker T. Washington, who grew up here. The town recaptures the past exquisitely with charm. Tour the Salt Village that contains the Booker T. Washington cabin replica and the African Zion Baptist Church, where Washington taught. Cabin Creek Quilts, inside historic Hale House, features beautiful handmade, award winning quilts. Self-guided heritage tours of the town capture the essence of an important part of the area's past. || Order your FREE West Virginia Heritage Magazine | Request FREE regional travel information | Locator Map | Back to the top | Take me home ||
|
||
