Civil War Sites

West Virginia traces its very origins to the Civil War, and 150+ years later it’s still possible to experience the history of the War Between the States.

38 West Main Street | Destruction at the Courthouse: After defeating the town’s Union defenders Jenkins’s cavalry marched the prisoners to the courthouse and made them burn weapons and ammunition here. The building was used for storage and housing by Federal troops later in the war, causing considerable damage.

Park Street | General George McClellan: Visit Buckhannon City Park on Park Street to learn more about McClellan, a Union general, and the shifting of loyalties during the Civil War. While this area remained staunchly pro-Union during the Civil War, the Buckhannon support continually shifted sides as troops from both sides would arrive.

16 Marion Street | Jenkins in Buckhannon: Confederate General Albert Jenkins overcame some Union resistance here during his late summer 1862 cavalry raid. Jenkins was attracted to the town because of vast amounts of Union supplies stockpiled here. He attacked August 30 and scattered men from several Union units attempting to defend the town.

88 Rock Cave Road | Kesler’s Raid: In September 1863, Confederate Major Joseph Kesler led a raid through Upshur County aimed at capturing Sutton. As Kesler made his way back to his base in Pocahontas County, he captured seventy Union militia men at Centerville which earned him praise from his commander. Hardship and death was in store for the majority of the captured, however, others were sent to Confederate prison camps.

99 Edmiston Way | The Bassle House: After occupying Beverly for four days, Confederate General John Imboden led his wing of cavalry here to reunite with the wing under Gen. William Jones during their 1863 raid. After conferring, the Confederates moved on to Weston. Long lines of cavalry and wagons passed this spot May 2, 1863.

CivilWarTrails.org