On June 20th, Mountaineers come together to celebrate our beloved state on West Virginia Day. At Little General Stores, our history is rooted in West Virginia and we couldn’t be more proud to call this place our home!
As we honor this special occasion, it’s the perfect time to take a look at the rich history that makes West Virginia a place like no other. Check out some fun West Virginia facts below:
The story of West Virginia begins amidst the turmoil of the Civil War. In 1861, the western counties of Virginia chose to secede from the Confederate state. On June 20, 1863, West Virginia officially became the 35th state of the Union.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, West Virginia underwent a rapid transformation fueled by the rise of the coal industry. The state’s abundant coal reserves attracted investment and labor, leading to a boom in mining towns and industrial development. Coal mining became the backbone of the state’s economy, shaping its landscape and culture in profound ways. Despite the challenges faced by miners and their families, the coal industry played a central role in shaping West Virginia’s identity.
West Virginia’s history is also marked by struggles for labor rights and social justice. In 1921, the Battle of Blair Mountain erupted as thousands of coal miners rose up against oppressive working conditions and company-controlled towns. The conflict, one of the largest armed uprisings in U.S. history, underscored the resilience and determination of West Virginia’s working-class communities. Although the battle ended in defeat for the miners, it paved the way for progress in labor rights and spurred reforms in the coal industry.
Beyond its industrial heritage, West Virginia is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. From the towering peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the winding rivers and lush forests, the state’s wilderness areas offer endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Whether hiking through the New River Gorge, whitewater rafting on the Gauley River, or exploring the tranquil beauty of the Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia’s outdoor treasures continue to inspire and captivate visitors from near and far.
At Little General Stores, we have our feet firmly rooted in West Virginia. We proudly call the Mountain State our home and are grateful for all of the West Virginians who work in our stores.
Happy West Virginia Day to all!
The 13 Arby’s restaurants franchised by Little General Stores were recently awarded $10,000 to grant to a nonprofit of their choice from The Arby’s Foundation.
We believe in investing in the future of Appalachia, and that is why we established the Little General Stores Scholarship Program over two decades ago and have donated over $175,000 to students since its inception.
Little General Stores, Inc. recently presented $75,000 to WVU Medicine Children’s to help support the hospital’s efforts in caring for patients and their families.
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