The Battle of Cheat Mountain took place on September 12, 1861, near the Randolph-Pocahontas County line. Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee came to support Gen. William W. Loring’s army, hoping to protect key railroads. Union Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds led U.S. forces with strong defenses at Elkwater and on Cheat Mountain.

The Confederate attack plan failed due to bad weather, confusion, and Union scouts spotting them early. Lee tried other attacks, including a flanking move, but Union forces easily held their ground. Lee’s campaign ended in defeat, and one of his aides, Col. John A. Washington, was killed. This loss weakened the Southern position in Western Virginia.