WEST VIRGINIA - West Virginia, a state renowned for its breathtaking Appalachian Mountains and rich history, wasn't always known by its current name. Before achieving statehood in 1863, the region that is now West Virginia went through a series of names and identities, reflecting its complex journey to becoming the "Mountain State."
West Virginia: From "Kanawha" to the "Mountain State"
Part of Virginia: Initially, the area that comprises West Virginia was simply the western portion of the Virginia colony, and later, the state of Virginia. However, geographical and cultural differences between the eastern and western regions led to growing tensions and a sense of separate identity among the inhabitants of the west.
Trans-Allegheny Virginia: To distinguish the western region from the rest of Virginia, it was often referred to as "Trans-Allegheny Virginia," acknowledging its location west of the Allegheny Mountains. This term highlighted the geographical divide and the distinct character of the western region.
The Road to Statehood and the "Kanawha" Name:
As the American Civil War erupted in 1861, the issue of secession deeply divided Virginia. While the eastern part of the state voted to secede from the Union, many in the western region remained loyal. This led to a movement for the western counties to separate from Virginia and form their own state.
The Wheeling Conventions: A series of conventions held in Wheeling in 1861 led to the formation of a new state government, initially named "Kanawha" after the Kanawha River, a major waterway in the region. This name reflected a desire to establish a distinct identity separate from Virginia.
West Virginia is Born: However, the name "Kanawha" was short-lived. Just a month later, it was changed to "West Virginia," a more straightforward and descriptive name that emphasized its geographical location and its connection to the Appalachian region.
Native American Influence:
Before European colonization, the land that is now West Virginia was home to various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Cherokee, Delaware, and Iroquois. These tribes had their own names for the region, often reflecting its natural features or their own cultural associations.
"Tu-de-wanne" (Shawnee): The Shawnee people, who inhabited parts of present-day West Virginia, called the region "Tu-de-wanne," meaning "stream among the mountains."
Other Native Names: Other tribes had their own designations for the area, often based on specific landmarks, rivers, or their own tribal territories.
Nicknames:
"The Mountain State": This nickname, officially adopted in 1925, aptly describes West Virginia's mountainous terrain and its association with the Appalachian Mountains.
"The Panhandle State": This nickname refers to the Eastern Panhandle, a narrow strip of land that extends eastward between Maryland and Virginia. This region has a unique history and culture, distinct from the rest of West Virginia.
West Virginia's journey to statehood was marked by division and conflict, but it also demonstrated the resilience and determination of its people. Today, the "Mountain State" stands as a testament to its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty. Understanding its past, including its various names and identities, allows us to appreciate the complex tapestry that has shaped West Virginia into the unique state it is today.
