e-WV: The West Virginia Encyclopedia Online

Today in WV History
18 Feb

Governor Atkinson signed bill for capital punishment to be performed only in Moundsville

Until 1899, the death penalty in West Virginia was carried out by county governments. Following a public hanging in Ripley in 1897—a spectacle that attracted about 5,000 onlookers as well as the national press—legislation was introduced to transfe...

Test Your WV Knowledge

Ready to see how well you know West Virginia? Choose a quiz and give it a try!

Buy a copy of our book

The editors packed 2,200 articles into the original edition of the West Virginia Encyclopedia book, representing the work of nearly 600 writers. Get your copy today!

Help support e-WV

When you donate, you help to provide concise, authoritative information about West Virginia to Internet users around the world.

Buy a copy of West Virginia: A Film History

An unparalleled saga that reveals the enduring strength and courage of a people who've faced some of America's greatest challenges.