Today in Wheeling History: May 18--Incorporated in West Virginia, the Wheeling Female College took the place of the Wheeling Female Institute. Among the incorporators, all of whom were men, was Chester D. Hubbard, a prominent figure in the movement for statehood and a future Congressman (1865). (https://tinyurl.com/4c7x9yb3) (https://tinyurl.com/5f2fb3be)
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Today in Wheeling History: May 18--The newly renovated upper market house of the Centre Market in Wheeling was officially reopened with a rededication ceremony led by Governor Gaston Caperton, kicking off a three-day celebration (1989).
The Centre Market in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a historic public market consisting of two market house buildings - the upper market house built in 1853 and the lower market house added in 1890. The upper market house, designed by Wheeling architect Thomas Pope in the Greek Revival style, is believed to be the oldest cast iron market building in the United States. It features cast iron Doric columns, a gabled roof, and a belfry, and was originally complete with gas lights. The market has been a vital part of the Wheeling community since its establishment, serving as a hub for commerce, social interaction, and public gatherings. The surrounding area quickly filled with a large population of German immigrants and their small shops, churches, and homes. During the 1860 election, while Ohio County showed a preference towards Southern candidates Bell and Breckenridge, the Centre Market area strongly supported Lincoln and Douglas; so much so that a man was hung for voicing his approval of Jefferson Davis. As the market thrived and the population grew, a second market house was designed by prominent Wheeling architect Edward B. Franzheim and completed in 1891 to meet the demands of the growing community. This lower market house expanded the Centre Market's capacity and influence. The market played a role during the Civil War and has been a testament to the city's rich history and the influence of its German immigrant population. However, during World War I, the large German population had to remove the word 'German' from the community. By 1930, the area was diversifying, with Lebanese, Polish, and Greek immigrants moving in. In 1989, the upper market house underwent significant renovations, with a rededication ceremony held on May 18th. The $900,000 renovation project aimed to restore the building's openness and was largely funded by federal Community Development Block Grant funds. The reopening was celebrated with a three-day event, featuring the governor's rededication, a public reception, and various other activities. Poor maintenance of the Centre Market over time led to the deterioration of some buildings. Attempts to save the buildings in the 1960s and 1970s failed, but in 1982, Aetna Life, Casualty Foundation, and the City of Wheeling came together with grant money to fully restore the Market Square. While some buildings were rebuilt to mimic the originals, over two-thirds of the existing 58 buildings, originally constructed in the nineteenth century, have been restored and preserved. Today, the Centre Market continues to thrive as a vibrant part of the community, offering fresh produce, unique goods, and a variety of dining options, including restaurants, small eateries, a deli, unique shops, a local art gallery, and the famous Coleman's fish sandwich. The historic market houses, along with the surrounding Centre Market Square Historic District, serve as a testament to Wheeling's rich history, architectural heritage, and the traditions of the immigrants who first called it home. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/43e6jjxf) (https://tinyurl.com/6ffxd5ae) (https://tinyurl.com/257t9rwx) (https://tinyurl.com/ymcfpwyb) (https://tinyurl.com/mr44p8mh) (https://tinyurl.com/37x29f5u) (https://tinyurl.com/32p4wyn2) (https://tinyurl.com/3szcmhyp) (https://tinyurl.com/cxk8x4jm) Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Google Maps, The Clio Today in Wheeling History: May 17--A strong windstorm destroyed the deck of the Wheeling Suspension Bridge through continuous twisting and up and down movements that rose up almost as high as the towers (1854). The bridge was rebuilt and reopened in 1856.
Today in Wheeling History: May 17--The Shriver Grays, a Confederate company raised in Wheeling, secretly departed the city by riverboat, traveling to Harpers Ferry to join the Confederate Army (1861).
The Shriver Grays were a Confederate military company organized in Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) in May 1861 at the beginning of the American Civil War. The unit had about 80 men initially and was led by Captain Daniel Shriver. On May 17, 1861, the Shriver Grays departed Wheeling by riverboat, as they were unable to travel via the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad which was being guarded by Union forces. They moved down the Ohio River and up the Kanawha River, then traversed overland to the Shenandoah River, and finally down to Harpers Ferry. The company was mustered in as Company G of the 27th Virginia Infantry Regiment, part of the famous Stonewall Brigade. They fought in many of the major battles and campaigns of the war, including First Bull Run, the Valley Campaign, the Seven Days Battles, Second Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg. Captain Shriver was promoted to major and then lieutenant colonel. He was severely wounded in June 1862 at the Battle of Port Republic. In September 1863 after Gettysburg, Shriver resigned his commission to serve in the Virginia General Assembly. Command of the company passed to Captain Robert McEldowney. The Shriver Grays suffered very heavy casualties over the course of the war. By the end of the conflict, very few of the original members remained. The company fought to the very end, participating in the Appomattox Campaign before surrendering with Lee's army in April 1865. Of the 21 men of the 27th Virginia who surrendered at Appomattox, only 1 was from the Shriver Grays. In summary, the Shriver Grays were a Confederate company raised in Wheeling that fought bravely in many major battles as part of the renowned Stonewall Brigade, but was reduced to a remnant of its original size by the end of the Civil War due to very heavy combat losses. Their service was a notable chapter in Wheeling's Civil War history. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/4w6acmrt) (https://tinyurl.com/mrxzcmau) (https://tinyurl.com/ye29d355) (https://tinyurl.com/yseycw5z) (https://tinyurl.com/4ctdn6yz) (https://tinyurl.com/3k5hu6a4) Photo credits: Library of Congress, Find a Grave Today in Wheeling History: May 16--C.E. Dill became superintendent of Camp Waddington, a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp at Oglebay Park, stepping up from his previous staff position as landscape architect (1936).
Camp Waddington was a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp located at Oglebay Park in Wheeling, West Virginia, from 1935 to 1937. The camp housed approximately 200 young men who were paid $30 a month, $25 of which was sent directly to their families, to work on various improvement projects throughout the park in conjunction with the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Key projects completed by the CCC enrollees included constructing roads, trails, picnic shelters, cabins, tennis courts, and laying the groundwork for the Crispin Center. They also helped with flood relief efforts in 1935 and 1936. The camp provided educational and recreational opportunities for its members in addition to the manual labor. Several of the structures built by the CCC remain in use today, including the Crispin Center, the outdoor amphitheater, Caddy Camp and Camp Russel. The natural sandstone Crispin Center, constructed in 1937-1938, still stands as a tribute to the quality craftsmanship of the CCC and WPA workers during the Depression era. Overall, the work done by Camp Waddington was instrumental in developing Oglebay Park's infrastructure and recreational facilities while providing meaningful employment to local men during a time of great economic hardship. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/253x4x4u) (https://tinyurl.com/yc3vxt2x) (https://tinyurl.com/ymsst542) (https://tinyurl.com/y4p7wvh3) (https://tinyurl.com/n65y25nv) (https://tinyurl.com/2esv993z) (https://tinyurl.com/mr3x7ff6) (https://tinyurl.com/swfrht96) (https://tinyurl.com/bdzewhwp) Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling, WV; The Clio, Library of Congress, Weelunk Today in Wheeling History: May 15--Harry T. Clouse, a prominent figure known for his distinguished career in public service, including his roles as deputy Circuit Court clerk and Sheriff of Ohio County, his military service in World Wars I and II, his ownership of the Cricket Club, and his active involvement in various fraternal organizations such as the Masons, Shriners, and Elks, was born in Wheeling (1892).
Harry T. Clouse had a long and distinguished career in public service in Wheeling, West Virginia. In the fall of 1913, he was appointed deputy Circuit Court clerk of Ohio County, marking the beginning of his duties at the courthouse. In November 1920, Clouse was elected Sheriff of Ohio County, assuming office on January 1, 1921, for a four-year term. During World War I, Clouse enlisted in the U.S. Army in May 1917. He attended the Officers Training Camp at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, and was commissioned as a first lieutenant in August 1918. He was then transferred to Camp Zachary Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky, and later served with the 49th U.S. Infantry at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Clouse received an honorable discharge in September 1919. He later served as a captain during World War II, although the specific details of this service are not provided. Clouse was married twice. His first wife was Alma R. Sax, whom he married in 1915. The couple resided in an attractive residence at 31 Avenue A (now known as America Avenue), Edgedale, Wheeling. Alma Sax Clouse passed away in 1941. Later, Clouse married Geneva Lee McLure, who survived him at the time of his death in 1956. During his final years, Clouse was a resident of the Mar-Mary Apartments in Wheeling. In addition to his public service and military career, Clouse was the owner of the Cricket Club in Wheeling at the time of his death. After a three-month hospitalization, Harry T. Clouse passed away at the Ohio Valley General Hospital on April 2, 1956, at the age of 64. His funeral services were held at Altmeyer's Funeral Home, located at 1400 Eoff Street in Wheeling, on Wednesday, April 4, 1956. The Rev. W. Carroll Thorn of St. Luke's Episcopal Church officiated the service. Following the funeral, Clouse was laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery in Wheeling, West Virginia. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/2pu4daz5) (https://tinyurl.com/2kkxp9nc) (https://tinyurl.com/4b3wmwch) (https://tinyurl.com/5y26cuja) (https://tinyurl.com/2s3px877) Photo credits: Ohio County Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wheeling News-Register, Wheeling Intelligencer Today in Wheeling History: May 14--The City of Wheeling held a massive patriotic celebration called "Dewey Day" to honor the American victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War, featuring a parade with various organizations and school children, followed by a mass meeting with speeches by notable figures (1898).
On May 14, 1898, Wheeling, West Virginia celebrated "Dewey Day" with a massive parade and patriotic demonstration to honor the American victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War. The event attracted tens of thousands of spectators, with the city decorated in flags, bunting, and patriotic displays. The parade, which moved through the city with military precision, started at 2:40 PM and followed a route from Chapline Street to 14th Street, then west to Market Street, north to 9th Street, west to Main Street, south to 27th Street, east to Chapline Street, north to 22nd Street, west to Market Street, and finally up Market Street to 14th Street, ending at the speakers' stand. The parade featured various organizations and societies, including the Linsly Cadets, Uniform Rank Knights of Pythias, Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.), Knights of St. George and St. John, Junior Order of United American Mechanics (Jr. O.U.A.M.), Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Shield of Honor. School children from institutions such as Ritchie District School, Lincoln School, Madison District School, Washington District School, Centre District School, Webster District School, and Clay District School also participated in the parade. Following the parade, a mass meeting was held at the intersection of Chapline and 14th Streets, with speeches by notable figures such as Congressman B.B. Dovener, Judge H. Hervey, Dr. Charles A. Wingerter, and Bishop P.J. Donahue, who praised the bravery of American soldiers and sailors, condemned Spain's actions, and emphasized the United States' role in fighting for freedom and justice. The celebration showcased the city's unwavering patriotism and support for the war effort, marking a significant moment in Wheeling's history. To learn more: (https://rb.gy/7oxdy6) (https://rb.gy/x5cpjb) Photo Credits: Library of Congress, Wheeling Sunday Register Today in Wheeling History: May 13--The First Wheeling Convention, which set the stage for the creation of West Virginia, began (1861).
During the Civil War, as Virginia voted to secede from the Union, delegates from western Virginia faced death threats and escaped Richmond. They held a meeting in Clarksburg to discuss creating a pro-Union government. The Clarksburg Convention authorized representatives from northwestern Virginia counties to gather in Wheeling. The First Wheeling Convention, though not fully representative of the future state, saw delegates initially opposed to a new state or pro-Union government. However, support grew from loyal Union residents in the Eastern Panhandle. The convention achieved little and adjourned, but the Second Wheeling Convention formed the pro-Union Reorganized Government of Virginia, laying the foundation for West Virginia. (https://rb.gy/4l4jb) (https://rb.gy/zjt1h) Today in Wheeling History: May 13--John M. Birch, a prominent Wheeling educator who served as principal of Linsly Institute and City Superintendent of Schools as well as U.S. Consul to Nagasaki, Japan, passed away on May 13, 1911, at the age of 59, four days after suffering a paralyzing stroke at his residence in the Virginia Apartments (1911).
John Mitchell Birch was a prominent educator and public figure in Wheeling, West Virginia, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is best known for his two tenures as principal of the Linsly Institute, a prestigious private school in Wheeling. Birch first served as principal of Linsly from 1873 to 1885. During this time, he made significant improvements to the school, raising its academic standards and reputation. After returning to Linsly for a second stint as principal from 1890 until his death in 1911, Birch instituted a military training program under the direction of Lt. Braunersveuther of the U.S. Navy. This military focus helped further distinguish Linsly as one of the top college preparatory schools in the region. In between his time at Linsly, Birch served as the Wheeling City Superintendent of Schools from 1881 to 1885. In this role, he implemented a graded school system that laid the groundwork for Wheeling's later high school system. The first class graduated from Lincoln School under his guidance in 1885. Birch was also politically active, serving as a U.S. consul to Nagasaki, Japan from 1885 to 1890 after being appointed by President Grover Cleveland. He was a leader in the local Democratic party, captaining the Young Men's Democratic Club during Cleveland's campaign. In addition to his educational and political pursuits, Birch was a prominent Mason, attaining the 33rd degree of the Scottish Rite, a rare honor. He was actively involved in drilling local Masonic commanderies for an upcoming encampment at the time of his death. Birch suffered a paralyzing stroke on May 9, 1911, while residing at the Virginia Apartments in Wheeling. He lingered in a coma for several days before passing away on the morning of May 13 at the age of 59. His funeral at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church was widely attended by friends, Linsly alumni, Masons, and civic leaders. The service included Masonic rites by the Knights Templar in addition to the traditional Episcopal funeral. Birch was laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery. John Birch married Jennie Bailey of Wheeling in August 1900. She had been visiting Atlantic City when notified of his stroke, and immediately returned to be by his side when he passed. The couple had been married for nearly 11 years at the time of his untimely death. Birch was remembered as an influential educator who left a lasting impact on Wheeling's schools and community through his leadership at Linsly and as City Superintendent. His unexpected passing at a relatively young age was deeply mourned. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/2s3znmw7) (https://tinyurl.com/3utt3p4e) (https://tinyurl.com/ywsabv63) (https://tinyurl.com/mrxr7esn) (https://tinyurl.com/3nc4sp94) Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Find a Grave, Wheeling Daily Register, The Linsly School Today in Wheeling History: May 12--After several weeks without a permanent pastor following the passing of Father Jeremiah O'Connell on January 15, 1946, Father John J. Mueller, who had just returned from serving 30 months in the South Pacific theater of war, appeared before the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church congregation and announced that he was their new pastor, much to the delight of both the priest and the parishioners (1946).
The Sacred Heart Church in North Wheeling, West Virginia, was founded in 1904 to serve the growing Catholic population in the area. The construction of the church was made possible by a generous gift of $10,000 from Miss Kate Andrews of New York City. On August 28, 1904, the church was officially dedicated and began serving the community. Throughout the early 20th century, Sacred Heart Church played a vital role in the lives of its parishioners and the surrounding neighborhood. The church basement served as a school, social hall, and community center, hosting various events and activities. On May 12, 1946, Father John J. Mueller was appointed as the new pastor of Sacred Heart Church. Father Mueller, a native of Wheeling, had just returned from serving 30 months in the South Pacific theater during World War II. He appeared before the congregation and announced his new role, much to the delight of the parishioners who were happy to have him back offering Mass in a real church. Father Mueller's appointment came after the passing of the previous pastor, Father Jeremiah O'Connell, who had died on January 15, 1946, after serving the parish since 1932. In 1995, after over 90 years of service, the Sacred Heart parish was consolidated with the Cathedral of St. Joseph due to declining membership. The church building was then used for other purposes, including housing the Augusta Levy Learning Center, which served children with autism, and the congregation of the Faith Community Church. On July 7, 2018, a devastating fire broke out in the former Sacred Heart Church. The fire, which was determined to be accidental and caused by an electrical junction box, destroyed the roof and much of the first floor. Water damage also significantly impacted the structure. The Augusta Levy Learning Center and Faith Community Church were displaced as a result of the fire. The Wheeling Housing Authority, which had purchased the property in 2000 as part of the Hope VI housing program, decided that the damage was too extensive for renovation. In September 2019, crews began demolishing the remains of the church, with the process taking approximately two weeks. After the demolition, the Wheeling Housing Authority announced plans to return the property to green space and place a plaque on the site in memory of the church. In June 2022, the Housing Authority opened a new community center at the same location, 99 Main Street in North Wheeling, to serve the local community. The new center incorporates some elements from the old church that were not destroyed by the fire and will host various events and activities. Although the physical structure of Sacred Heart Church is no longer standing, its legacy and the memories it created for generations of parishioners and community members live on. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/2e7542mf) (https://tinyurl.com/2esmj854) (https://tinyurl.com/yn2zum39) (https://tinyurl.com/4ym9krw2) Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling WV; Google Maps |
Mike MinderMike Minder was born and raised in Wheeling, West Virginia. He is the author of Wheeling's Gambling History to 1976. Archives
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