Lebanese and Syrian immigrants began arriving in West Virginia in the 1880s, settling in cities like Charleston, Wheeling, and Parkersburg. They worked primarily in retail, starting as peddlers and later opening stores. By the 1930s, they were playing a major role in local commerce, one example being Fred Haddad, who founded the Heck's department store chain.

They also established religious communities, including Orthodox, Maronite, and Melkite churches. Lebanese and Syrians have kept their traditions alive through events like Wheeling's Mahrajan Festival. A notable figure of Lebanese descent is former U.S. Congressman Nick Joe Rahall.