The fate of West Virginia, comprised of land carved out of the state of Virginia in a citizen-initiated process that began in June 1861 in opposition to secession, will officially be determined on March 26, at which time a popular vote is to be held on the matter of formal statehood. Excitement is in the air as local meetings are held throughout the territory this month to discuss the impending vote. At the same time, Confederate guerrillas continue harassing Union forces in West Virginia territory.
Today a meeting in Wetzel County addresses the concerns of those who are as yet uncommitted. Speakers from Wheeling are anticipated, but do not show up. In the absence of the guest speakers, local leaders take matters into their own hands, of which the Baptist church plays a role.
In pursuance of previous notice given that there would be some two or three gentlemen of your city here to-day, for the purpose of addressing us on the very important question of our New State, there was a large and respectable meeting of our citizens had; and after waiting until a late hour, and being informed that those gentlemen could not be here, we repaired to the Baptist Church, and then and there, on motion of Levi M. Low, the meeting was organized by calling Dr. H. Jolliffe to the Chair and appointing James Savage Secretary. Dr. Jacob Young and William D. Walker, Esq., of New Martinsville, being present, they very appropriately and satisfactorily addressed the meeting; after which the meeting adjourned, and a great many went on their way home rejoicing, and many who had heretofore been opposed to our New State went their way more seriously considering the matter, and will in all probability go to the polls on the 26th and cast their votes in favor of it.
H. Joliffe, Chairman.
James Savage, Secretary.
The vote on March 26 affirms statehood. Subsequently, on June 20 U.S. President Abraham Lincoln proclaims West Virginia to be the 35th state of the Union, dealing yet another political blow to the Confederacy. Although rebel guerrilla activity continues in the new state with some success, West Virginia remains largely in Union hands throughout the remainder of the war.
Sources: “New State Meeting in Wetzel County,” Wheeler Intelligencer, March 13, 1863 (link); “West Virginia Statehood,” West Virginia Archives (link); “West Virginia Enters the Union,” History.com (link)
