The important history of Pocahontas County has been preserved in our state parks, museums and railroad depots. The traditions of our people have been preserved and handed down in our celebrations of the pioneers and their harvests. As you travel our back roads into history you too will appreciate the land and the people who have made our county so exceptional.
Restored Train Depots
Three outstanding train depots of the logging era have been preserved in Pocahontas County. The restored Durbin Depot, located on the historic Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike (Route 250) is the departure station for the Durbin Rocket excursion train. The Clover Lick Depot has been restored and is a landmark at Milepost 71.2 on the Greenbrier River Trail. The authentically restored Marlinton Depot, located on Fourth Avenue, was gutted by an early morning firre on March 28, 2008. The depot is scheduled to be rebuilt spring of 2010.
The Cass Scenic Railroad trains pull out from the Cass Depot where you can see photos of the town and the logging experience. The depots at Marlinton, Clover Lick and Durbin are on the National Register of Historic Places, as is the Town of Cass.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
Located in the southern portion of Pocahontas County on Route 219, the Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park is where the last Civil War battle in West Virginia was fought on November 6, 1863. The Civilian Conservation Corps (C.C.C.) built the Museum, Lookout Tower and other buildings in the 1930’s.
Civil War Sites
Civil War enthusiasts can enjoy several sites and camps in Pocahontas County including Cheat Summit Fort, Camp Allegheny, and Camp Bartow. The sites offer neither concessions nor services. Only the wind-blown fields covered in Natural Timothy Grass with Wild Blueberries and Black-eyed Susans remain for our viewing. Interpretive signage helps us imagine the history that occurred in these spots.
Pearl S. Buck Birthplace
Pearl S. Buck Birthplace
Pearl S. Buck was born in Pocahontas County in the area known as Little Levels, just north of Hillsboro. Today her historic home houses a museum with original furniture and memorabilia. Guides will meet you and give you an insightful tour.
Pocahontas County Courthouse
Pocahontas County Courthouse
Pocahontas County was formed in 1821 and the original courthouse was built in Huntersville, the first county seat. In 1891, with great plans for the coming of the railroad and a new town six miles to the west, citizens voted to move the county seat to Marlinton, a community that changed its name from Marlin’s Bottom.
Locust Creek Bridge
Built in 1888 across the Spring Creek, this picturesque structure is the lone survivor of Pocahontas County’s covered bridges. Located three miles from Route 219 on Locust Road, near Hillsboro, it is worth the drive to view it.
Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum
The history of Pocahontas County is well documented through old photographs and displays of implements and equipment in the Pocahontas County Historical Society’s Museum located on Route 219 south of Marlinton. The museum is the family home of the late Frank R. and Anna V. Hunter and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is open daily during the summer months.
Pocahontas County Opera House
Pocahontas County Opera House
In 1909, Mr. J. G. Tilton, publisher of the Marlinton Messenger newspaper, opened The Opera House as a venue for the rapidly increasing number of cultural and sporting events that rail travel had made possible. Musical and theatrical productions from as far away as New York were staged, as well as performances by local entertainers and moving picture shows.
Today, the refurbished building serves as a beautiful performance space and center for community activities.
Other Historic Sites
Other historic sites in the county include the IOOF Lodge and the Pocahontas Times Print Shop, both in Marlinton and the Huntersville Presbyterian Church and McNeel Mill at Mill Point.