Celebrating West Virginia Statehood!
On June 20, 1863, West Virginia officially became the 35th state to join the Union, marking a significant moment in American history. Today, we celebrate the unique heritage, history, and culture of the Mountain State.
West Virginia State Flag
The West Virginia state flag, adopted in 1929, beautifully encapsulates the state’s identity. At its center is the state seal, featuring a miner and a farmer, symbolizing the state’s rich industrial and agricultural heritage. The rock at the center of the seal displays the date of statehood, June 20, 1863. The crossed rifles and liberty cap beneath the rock signify the state’s readiness to defend its freedom. Encircling the seal is a wreath of rhododendron, the state flower, highlighting the state’s natural beauty. The Latin words “Montani Semper Liberi,” meaning “Mountaineers are Always Free,” are inscribed on a ribbon within the seal, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the people of West Virginia.
Fun Facts About West Virginia
- Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, West Virginia is often called the “Switzerland of America” due to its picturesque terrain.
- The New River Gorge Bridge, located in Fayetteville, is one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world and is home to the annual Bridge Day festival, where visitors can safely jump and rappel from the bridge.
- West Virginia is a major coal-producing state, playing a significant role in the nation’s energy sector.
- The Greenbrier Hotel in White Sulphur Springs houses a formerly top-secret underground bunker intended to house Congress in case of a nuclear attack during the Cold War.
