In 1861, Virginians in the northwestern part of the state defied Virginia's secession from the United States. The region chose to remain in the Union and form a new state. West Virginia was admitted into the Union in 1863, after conditions requiring the gradual emancipation of slaves had been met. The state motto is "Mountaineers are always free," and West Virginia lives up to its nickname of the "Mountain State." With an average altitude of 1,500 feet above sea level, it's the highest of any state east of the Mississippi River. 

West Virginia History/Profile

Major Destinations

•  Charleston •  Elkins

•  Harpers Ferry •  Lewisburg

West Virginia Attractions
West Virginia Map
Local Daily Newspapers
Live Web Cam Views - West Virginia
West Virginia Restaurant

West Virginia Weather