Places to see, things to do
The following sites and events are accessible to tourists and provide an
entertaining and educational experience for the whole family:
- The Battle of Philippi was fought on June 3, 1861, in Barbour County and is
the site of the first land battle – and amputation – of the Civil War. Visitors
can trace the area’s Civil War history through Philippi’s Historical Museum,
Blue and Gray Park, and the downtown historical district.
- Grafton National Cemetery in Taylor County is the burial site of the first
Union officer killed in the war, T. Bailey Brown.
- Historic Beverly in Randolph County was a gathering place for Virginia
Confederate troops. Following the Union victory at Rich Mountain, many
Southern supporters fled south, and the Federals took control of the town.
Beverly offers public museums, private historical attractions and more.
- The Battle of Camp Allegheny took place on Dec. 13, 1861, in Pocahontas
County. Confederate forces under Col. Edward Johnson occupied the summit
of Allegheny Mountain to defend the Staunton-Parkersburg Pike. At dawn on
Dec. 13, they were attacked by Union forces under Brig. Gen. Robert H. Milroy.
- The Battle of Cheat Mountain took place Sept. 12–15, 1861, in Pocahontas
and Randolph counties. Confederate forces led an unsuccessful attack
against Federal troops at Fort Milroy, also known as Cheat Summit Fort. At
an elevation of 4,085 feet, Cheat Summit Fort was the highest Union camp
in the war. Earthworks from the old fort remain today. A re-enactment and
other events commemorating the battle will take place Sept. 3-4, 2011.
- The Battle of Corrick’s Ford took place on July 13, 1861, on the Cheat River
in Tucker County. It is here where Confederate Brig. Gen. Robert S. Garnett
became the first general officer killed in the war.