Charleston, WV, is a bustling city, a cultural Mecca and a historical reminder of West Virginia’s wild and wonderful past.

Amid the tumultuous Civil War, West Virginia officially became a state through Presidential Proclamation. Abraham Lincoln declared the northwestern portion of Virginia to be returned to the Union, and on June 20, 1863, West Virginia became a state.

Although the state now existed, settling on a state capital location proved to be difficult.  For several years, the capital of West Virginia intermittently traveled between Wheeling and Charleston. In 1877, however, state citizens voted on the final location of their capital. Charleston was chosen and eight years later, the first capitol building was opened. After a fire in 1921, a hastily built structure was opened but burned down in 1927. However, a Capitol Building Commission, created by the Legislature in 1921, authorized construction of the present capitol. Architect Cass Gilbert designed the buff limestone structure that was to have a final cost of just under $10 million. After the three stages of construction were completed, Governor William G. Conley dedicated the capitol on June 20, 1932.

The vivid past surrounding the capital and the state makes the capitol complex a great place to begin a discovery of West Virginia. The state museum and cultural center are full of exciting exhibits and events that give visitors a glimpse into the rich tradition and culture celebrated in the people of West Virginia. Searchable historical and genealogical archives are located here.

The immaculately manicured grounds surrounding the capitol include a statuary boasting magnificent examples of important individuals in the state’s and the nation’s history. Also, the West Virginia Veteran’s Memorial Plaza, also located on the grounds, honors soldiers who were killed or missing in action.  More than 10,000 names are etched into the stones of the interior walls. The governor’s mansion, completed in 1925, also graces the majestic grounds of the capitol complex. This 30-room, elegant structure, made of Harvard brick and white Corinthian columns, overlooks the Kanawha River.

Downtown Charleston, with its revitalization efforts, provides a glimpse into the early days of 20th century life. Magnificent examples of architecture still stand in grand style. Capitol Street, once the center of business in town, once again flourishes with its quaint atmosphere. Unique shops, many restaurants and businesses line the street just as they did in days past. Davis Square, the old Scott Drug Store building and the Kanawha County Public Library are just a few of the outstanding building designs in town.  

The Capital Flea Market is open year round, so is the Capitol Market, with indoor specialty retail shops and outdoor farmer’s market that changes with each season. In South Charleston, just two miles from downtown, visit the Comedy Zone comedy club on Friday nights at the Ramada Plaza Hotel.  While in South Charleston also visit the Adena Indian Burial Mound, the second largest in the state.

Although Charleston holds its charm and beauty from its past with grace and style, the city is also rich with amenities of a sophisticated urban center and continues to look forward. The much anticipated Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginia opened in July 2003. This regional cultural center will greatly enrich the educational and performing arts opportunities for the state.

There’s so much to see and do in and around Charleston, you’ll simply find it hard to leave.  The relaxed atmosphere and quiet sophistication blend in perfect harmony. It’s all here to explore, so come to Charleston and open the door to West Virginia adventure!

View the 2007 Charleston Visitors Guide Online Now!