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Category Archives: Logan

Former Sheriff Sidney B. Robertson Obituary (1923)

09 Friday Oct 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Huntington, Logan

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A.S. Bryan, Appalachia, Aracoma Lodge 99, banker, banking, C.C. Crane, C.H. Bronson, Charleston, Cincinnati, Cole and Crane Company, Ettye Robertson, First Presbyterian Church, genealogy, Gilbert, Guyan Valley Bank, Harry N. Robertson, history, Huntington, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Indianapolis, J. Murray Robertson, John Edwin Robertson, Kentucky, Knight Templars, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, Louisville, Mae Robertson, Mary S. Robertson, masons, merchant, Ohio, politics, Portsmouth, Robert S. Shrewsbury, Ruby Robertson Parris, sheriff, Shriners, Spring Hill Cemetery, Stirrat, Sydney Robertson, W.B. Miles, West Virginia, Wheeling Consistory

From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, comes this obituary for former sheriff Sidney B. Robertson, dated June 22, 1923:

S.B. Robertson Dies At Huntington Home

Former sheriff of Logan county, Sidney B. Robertson, of 501 Fifth Avenue, Huntington, died Monday afternoon at 5:40 o’clock after a lingering illness. He has been in failing health for over a year, but it was not until about four months ago that his condition was regarded as serious. The best medical skill in the country was employed in his behalf, but none could make a diagnosis of his condition.

Funeral services will be conducted this afternoon, at 2:30 o’clock at the late home by the Rev. J.L. Mauze, pastor of the First Presbyterian church of which Mr. Robertson was a member. The body will be interred in Spring Hill Huntington cemetery following the services.

Mr. Robertson was born, August 3, 1864, and was the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Edwin Robertson. He early entered into business, and was prominent in lumber circles for some time, being associated with the late C.C. Crane, of Cincinnati, in that business. He served as sheriff of this county from 1900 to 1904 and following that engaged in the wholesale grocery business, until the time of his retirement, a year ago, which was necessitated by ill health. He had extensive holdings in coal mines of the county.

Mr. Robertson was in Logan about a month ago with Laryed Buskirk, on business connected with the purchase of the Stirrat-Gilbert right-of-way–at that time Mr. Robertson was in very poor health and told friends that it was doubtful if he would ever be in Logan again.

On February 22, 1884, he was married to Ettye Bryan, of Logan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.S. Bryan. Four children were born of this union. Fifteen years ago, in the fall of 1907, the family moved to Huntington, which has been their home since that date.

Mr. Robertson was prominent in Masonry. He was a member of the Huntington chapter, No. 53, was a Shriner in the Charleston Beni Kedem temple, was a member of the Kanawha Commandery of Knight Templars of Charleston, held the thirty-second degree in Masonry in the in the Wheeling Consistory, and was past master of Aracoma lodge 99, of this city. He was also a member of the Logan chapter of I.O.O.F. He was at one time president of the Guyan Valley Bank and held a great number of offices in the different companies in which he was interested. He was a member of the First Presbyterian church of Huntington and was a member of the Men’s Bible class of that church.

Mr. Robertson is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ettye Robertson, three sons, Dr. J.E. Robertson, of Louisville, Ky., Harry N. Robertson of Logan, and J. Murray Robertson, of Huntington, an uncle, Sydney Robertson of Mana, Ark., three sisters, Mrs. C.H. Bronson and Mrs. W.B. Miles of Huntington, and Mrs. Mae Robertson of Pawtucket, R.I., and three grand children, Robert S. Shrewsbury of Huntington, John Edwin Robertson, Jr., of Louisville, Ky., and Mary S. Robertson of Logan.

Mr. Robertson’s only daughter, Mrs. Ruby Robertson Parrish, met a tragic death only a few weeks ago, dying as a result of injuries received when the family automobile went over a cliff near Portsmouth, O., while returning from the Memorial Day races at Indianapolis.

The Virginian Pool Room in Logan, WV (1922)

09 Friday Oct 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan

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Appalachia, baseball, boxing, football, history, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, racing, Sports, The Virginian, West Virginia

Logan (WV) Banner, 1 December 1922

Faithful Rover: A Poem (1915)

09 Friday Oct 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan, Poetry

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Appalachia, hunting, Logan, Logan Democrat, poet, poetry, poets, West Virginia, writers, writing

From the Logan Democrat of Logan, WV, comes this poem written by J. Rush Cook titled “Faithful Rover,” published January 21, 1915:

FAITHFUL ROVER

Old Rover was a faithful dog,

He stuck through thick and thin;

With me he crossed a thousand logs,

We’ve waded a hundred bogs

With the mud up to his chin.

We’ve hunted together, day and night,

He’s treed ten thousand mice;

He never retreated in a fight

Whether in darkness or in light,

And never barked but thrice.

One on the scent, one at the tree–

His gait was swift and strong;

Third, a long–that was for me,

Where e’er I might be,

To hustle and hurry along.

And when I’d reach the long sought spot,

Always on top of the hill,

A lookin’ wise there Rover sot,

Jump up and round he’d hop–

Could never keep him still.

And then, of course, the tree I’d cut

Old Rover sitting night;

Perhaps three, four feet at the butt

Pretty hard to crack such a nut!

But I did it without a sigh.

Down in the top old Rover would go,

To catch the game, you see;

But always in the tree below,

Old Rover would try to show,

Was the game for him and me.

With this repeated till at the foot,

He’d start up t’other side,

And then to me it began to look

As plain as an open book,

That Rover had surely lied.

I don’t think he meant to lie,

His guilt I could not own;

But in his eagerness to try

He always looked too high,

As others I have known.

Old Rover was built for strength,

Was deep across the chest–

His hips didn’t lack for breadth,

Neither his legs for length–

‘Tis needless to tell the rest.

He had a curl in his tail

As nearly all dogs do,

But he straightened it out on the trail–

It might hook on a briar or rail

And get to bleeding, too.

The scent of the game be lost–

The smell of blood is strong,

This he knew at any cost,

If this trail he happened to cross

The game would surely be gone.

Old Rover has passed away

To the happy hunting ground;

And there I hope he’ll stay

And tree his game each day,

And do his own cutting down.

Bus Terminal in Logan, WV (1929)

05 Monday Oct 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan

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Appalachia, history, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, West Virginia

Logan Bus Terminal Ad, Logan (WV) Banner, 16 April 1929

Chapmanville News 01.04.1924

05 Monday Oct 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Chapmanville, Logan

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A.K. Bowling, Appalachia, Bess Bowling, Burl Elder, Chapmanville, Charleston, Clinton Ferrell, Earnie Ward, Fannie Brown, Floyd Barker, genealogy, Gicetto, history, hunting, Inez Barker, Jim Barker, Lizzie Mounts, Logan Banner, Logan County, Lonnie Mounts, Mont Tabor, Peach Creek, West Virginia

An unknown correspondent from Chapmanville, West Virginia, offered the following news, which the Logan Banner printed on January 4, 1924:

As every one else has quit writing I will take up my old job.

Mrs. Jim Barker and daughter Zell were visiting in Chapmanville Sunday.

Mr. Floyd Barker and Miss Lizzie Mounts seemed to enjoy themselves at the depot Sunday.

Miss Fannie Brown spent Xmas in Huntington. She reported a good time.

Mr. and Mrs. Lonnie Mounts are again back home after a visit in Charleston.

Mrs. A.K. Bowling and daughter Bess was shopping in Logan Monday.

Mr. Clinton Ferrell is spending his vacation here rabbit hunting.

Miss Inez Barker looks down-hearted now days. Cheer up, Inez. You may get a letter some day.

Mr. Earnie Ward sure enjoys going to Peach Creek. Would like to know what the attraction is.

Mr. Mont Tabor left Wednesday for Gicetto, W.Va. after spending a few days with friends here.

Mrs. Burl Elder of Peach Creek was visiting relatives here Wednesday.

Boys, but we would like to know what has become of Ima Nutt. We haven’t heard from him for so long.

Thomas C. Whited

06 Monday Jul 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Big Harts Creek, Chapmanville, Civil War, Huntington, Logan, Poetry

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Anna Meadows, Appalachia, Chapmanville, Charles S. Whited, Charleston, civil war, Craneco, deputy clerk, Ella Godby, Ewell Deskins, genealogy, George W. McClintock, H.A. Callahan, Harriet Totten, Harts Creek, Hattie Rothrock, history, Huntington, J. Green McNeely, J.C. Cush Avis, John A. Totten, John W. Buskirk, Logan, Logan Banner, Mud Fork, poetry, preacher, Raleigh County, Robert Whited, Russell County, Slagle, Southern Methodist Church, T.C. Whited, teacher, Thomas Harvey Whited, U.S. Commissioner, Virginia, W.B. Johnson, W.G. Whited, W.W. Beddow, West Virginia

From the Logan Banner we find this entry for Thomas C. Whited, who resided at Logan, West Virginia:

“Uncle Tom” Whited, United States commissioner, one of the county’s oldest citizens, and poet, came to Logan, or the present site of Logan, on October 11, 1877.

He was born on a Russell county, Virginia, farm in a one-room log cabin on November 25, 1854, the son of Robert and Anna Meadows Whited, who reared a family of ten children, nine boys and one girl.

“Uncle Tom” has only one brother living, the Rev. Charles S. Whited, a preacher in Raleigh county. His sister is dead.

His home was broken up by the Civil War, and Mr. Whited began the life of a vagabond, wandering about over the country seeking happiness, but never finding it until he came to Logan. He discovered the little frontier settlement as he was making his way on foot back to his Virginia home to take a job in a store.

“I just dropped in here, tired and sore-footed and decided to attend a teacher’s examination that was advertised for the town–mostly just to see what kind of a certificate I could get among strangers,” Mr. Whited said.

He received his certificate and taught his first term of school at the mouth of Mud Fork in 1877. Then followed terms at Chapmanville, Craneco, Logan and Hart’s Creek until 1883 when he was asked to take a position in the clerk’s office as deputy clerk.

Among the well-known citizens that “Uncle Tom” taught in his educational forays in Logan county were the Rev. J. Green McNeely; Ewell Deskins; Mrs. Ella Godby of Huntington, mother of Mrs. W.W. Beddow of Slagle; J.C. (Cush) Avis, and several of the Conley family.

From the position as deputy clerk, Mr. Whited rose in succession to circuit clerk, county superintendent of schools, city councilman, and United States Commissioner. He served a total of 18 years as circuit clerk of Logan county.

In 1930 Federal Judge George W. McClintic appointed “Uncle Tom” United States Commissioner which office he will hold for life unless removed by the judge on charges of misconduct.

“Uncle Tom” is a poet of no mean ability. His poetry is recognized throughout the county and some think his best work was a poem dedicated to the old elm tree in the court house square which was recently cut down.

He was instrumental in saving the tree when it was just a sprout and John W. Buskirk was about to dig it up to plant a locust orchard near the site of the present courthouse. “Uncle Tom” requested that the sprout be left to grow. It was not moved from the original spot where it sprouted until it was cut down in 1931, Mr. Whited said.

Mr. Whited married Miss Harriet Totten, daughter of the Rev. John A. Totten, pastor of the Southern Methodist Church in Logan, on March 4, 1887.

The couple reared a family of five children–two boys and three girls. All are still living. They are Mrs. W.B. Johnson, W.G. Whited, and Mrs. H.A. Callahan, all of Logan; Mrs. Hattie Rothrock, Charleston; and Thomas Harvey Whited whose residence is unknown.

Though 81 years old, “Uncle Tom” still manages the affairs of U.S. Commissioner and finds time to dash off a line or so of poetry now and then.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 17 April 1937.

J.T. Morris Addresses Kiwanis about Blair Mountain (1923)

05 Sunday Jul 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Battle of Blair Mountain, Coal, Logan

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American Civil Liberties Union, Appalachia, Battle of Blair Mountain, Frank Keeney, history, J.T. Morris, Kiwanis Club, Logan, Logan Banner, Macbeth, Morgan County, Raleigh Register, Rotary Club, United Mine Workers of America, West Virginia

From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, comes this bit of history regarding the Armed March, or the Battle of Blair Mountain, dated March 30, 1923:

Morris Tells of Logan’s Invasion

Speaking before the Kiwanis club at its luncheon last Friday noon, J.T. Morris, who is now located at MacBeth, Logan county, told in some detail of the visit to Logan county on Sunday, March 4th, of the emissaries of the American Civil Liberties Union, characterizing the “invasion” as a “fizzle,” and stating that free speech was as free in Logan county as anywhere else in the country, but that both the mine workers and mine operators of the county were unalterably opposed to the United Mine Workers of America, and were in solid compact against it.

Mr. Morris stated that every mine worker in the Logan field was bound by his contract of employment to resist encroachment of the U.M.W.A., and that the employers in turn were bound in the same way and would resist to the last ditch. It was under these contracts, approved by a decision of the United States supreme court, the speaker said, that the recent injunctions against the United Mine Workers of America had been secured, and that these injunctions covered every means of attack except that brought about through the American Civil Liberties Union; which has also been busy with propaganda in the interest of C. Frank Keeney in Morgan county.

Their method of approach, widely advertised by inflammatory statements, Mr. Morris described as an insult to the people of Logan county. What was actually said at the meeting was very tame in comparison, he said. They merely generalized on the subject of free speech, and that didn’t worry Loganites, for any man can come into Logan and speak without hindrance so long as he stays within the limits of the law, of common decency and of the public interest.

Mr. Morris read extracts from the addresses of what he dubbed the “wise men of the east.”

Logan county is a unit in its resentment against its defamers. The bar association, the clergy, the chamber of commerce, the Rotary club–all have passed stirring resolutions condemning the insults heaped on the community.

Reprinted from the Raleigh Register

Regional Place Names

20 Saturday Jun 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Banco, Big Creek, Big Harts Creek, Big Sandy Valley, Boone County, Chapmanville, Crawley Creek, Gilbert, Giles County, Green Shoal, Guyandotte River, Harts, Logan, Matewan, Meador, Twelve Pole Creek, Wharncliffe

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Appalachia, Beech Creek, Ben Creek, Big Bottom Fork, Big Creek, Big Fork, Bluff Mountain, Bone Lick Bottom, Breckenridge's Fork, Clear Fork, Coal Branch, Coal River, Cow Creek, Crawley Creek, Crooked Creek, Crooked Run, Defeats Branch, Double Camp Branch, Drew's Creek, Elkhorn Branch, Elkhorn River, Flat Top Mountain, Grapevine Creek, Green Shoal Creek, Guyandotte River, Harts Creek, history, Horsepen Creek, Huff's Creek, Indian Creek, Ingrams Branch, Island Creek, Laurel Creek, Laurel Fork, Lick Branch, Lincoln County, Little Coal River, Little Huffs Creek, Logan County, Marsh Fork, Mate Creek, Middle Fork, Mill Creek, Millers Branch, Mingo County, New River, North Fork, Peach Tree, Peter Huffs Creek, Pigeon Creek, Pine Creek, Pond Fork, Rattlesnake Branch, Rock Creek, Rock House Fork, Rum Creek, Sand Lick Fork, Shannon Branch, Skin Fork, Spruce Fork, Trace Fork, Tug Fork, Turtle Creek, Twelve Pole Creek, Virginia, West Fork, West Virginia, Wolf Pen Creek

The following list of regional place names of streams is derived from Surveyors Record Book A at the Logan County Clerk’s Office in Logan, WV. Each document generally lists three dates for the survey; I chose to identify the earliest (Treasury warrant date) and the latest date (survey completion date). The purpose of this list is to document the earliest usage and spelling of a place name in my region. Logan County was extremely large in the 1820s and has since been partitioned to create new counties, so many of these places are not located in Logan County today. This list will be updated periodically.

Beech, a branch of Tug Fork (24 May 1825, 12 October 1825, p. 64)

Ben (26 July 1826, 13 October 1826, p. 89)

Bend of Guyandotte (30 April 1823, 3 March 1831, p. 129)

Big and Clear Fork of Guyandotte River (1 October 1818, 26 June 1826, p. 79)

Big Bottom Fork of Guyandotte (12 February 1823, 25 October 1827, p. 100)

Big Creek (11 December 1817, 25 October 1824, p. 34)

Big Fork of Guyandotte River (18 July 1825, 17 February 1826, p. 73)

Big Island [Logan] (16 February 1825, 17 January 1827, p. 94)

Bluff Mountain (1 October 1818, 21 February 1825, p. 37)

Bone Lick Bottom, New River (19 January 1824, 31 July 1830, p. 123)

Breckenridge’s forks of Cole River (31 January 1825, 27 February 1827, p. 100)

Buffalo (10 February 1825, 6 February 1827, p. 99)

Coal Branch of Guyandotte River (17 December 1824, 31 March 1825, p. 42)

Cow Creek of Island Creek (13 December 1823, 11 October 1826, p. 87-88)

Crawley (10 June 1824, 8 July 1825, p. 47)

Crawleys Creek (16 February 1825, 17 January 1827, p. 95)

Crooked Creek (16 February 1825, 1 April 1825, p. 43-44)

Defeats Branch on Little Huffs Creek (7 October 1830, 27 July 1831, p. 131)

Double Camp Branch of Clear Fork (1 June 1821, 29 December 1825, p. 69)

Drew’s Creek, one of the forks of Peech Tree, a branch of Marsh Fork of Cole River (22 July 1826, 15 October 1828, p. 109)

Elk, a branch of Guyandotte (14 January 1830, 22 November 1830, p. 127)

Elk, a branch of Pigeon (16 February 1825, 18 August 1825, p. 51)

Elkhorn Branch of Tug Fork (30 April 1825, 12 November 1826, p. 93)

Elkhorn River (30 April 1825, 1 November 1825, p. 65)

Flat Top Mountain (22 November 1824, 14 February 1826, p. 72)

Gilbert (14 January 1830, 26 August 1830, p. 121)

Grapevine, a small branch called Grapevine (8 July 1825, 14 October 1825, p. 63)

Green Shoal Creek (15 March 1826, 10 October 1826, p. 86-87)

Harts Creek (17 February 1824, 10 October 1826, p. 87)

Hewetts Creek, a branch of Spruce Fork of Coal River (20 May 1813, 11 April 1825, p. 44)

Horse Creek (10 February 1825, 22 July 1826, p. 92)

Horsepen Creek, a fork of Gilbert (14 January 1830, 26 August 1830, p. 121)

Huff Creek (11 December 1822, 11 March 1825, p. 40)

Huffs Creek (18 July 1825, 14 March 1828, p. 104-105)

Indian Creek (22 July 1826, 8 February 1827, p. 99)

Ingrams Branch, New River (6 October 1829, 4 December 1829, p. 117)

Island of Guyandotte [Logan] (17 December 1824, 18 January 1827, p. 96)

Island tract [Logan] (4 May 1826, 12 May 1830, p. 120)

Jacks Branch of Clear Fork (6 January 1824, 16 December 1825, p. 66)

Laurel Fork of Guyandotte River (17 February 1824, 27 August 1830, p. 122)

Left Fork of Island Creek (4 February 1817, 28 October 1824, p. 35)

Left Hand Fork of Ben, waters of Tug Fork (13 December 1823, 11 October 1826, p. 88)

Laurel Creek and Crooked Run, New River (10 May 1825, 25 August 1825, p. 56)

Laurel Fork of Pigeon Creek (17 December 1824, 10 October 1826, p. 85)

Laurel Fork of Twelve Pole (3 November 1813, 19 March 1825, p. 40)

Lick Branch (24 May 1825, 10 October 1826, p. 85)

Little Huff’s Creek (4 May 1826, 27 May 1829, p. 116)

Loop of New River (20 February 1821, 26 February 1825, p. 90)

Main Right Hand Fork of Big Creek (24 May 1825, 8 September 1825, p. 54)

Marsh Fork of Cole River (17 February 1823, 9 March 1825, p. 39)

Marshes of Cole River (30 April 1825, 3 February 1830, p. 118)

Mate, a branch of the Tug Fork of Sandy (8 July 1825, 11 October 1825, p. 62)

Mazzel, Little Huffs Creek (12 February 1825, 18 September 1829, p. 116)

Mill Creek, a branch of Guyandotte (18 July 1825, 28 January 1831, p. 128)

Mill Creek of Island Creek (10 January 1823, 29 October 1824, p. 36)

Millers Branch of Tug Fork (4 May 1826, 16 September 1826, p. 81)

North Branch of Big Creek (18 July 1825, 7 September 1825, p. 52-53)

North Fork of Big Creek (4 April 1825, 9 September 1825, p. 54)

Old Island survey [Logan] (22 July 1826, 17 January 1827, p. 95)

Peach Tree, a small branch called the Peach Tree (24 May 1824, 7 October 1825, p. 60)

Pete Huff’s Creek (18 July 1825, 27 August 1830, p. 125)

Peter Huffs Creek (13 December 1823, 12 November 1825, p. 66)

Pigeon Creek (16 February 1825, 15 October 1825, p. 63)

Pine Creek of Island Creek (4 February 1817, 27 October 1824, p. 35)

Pond Fork of Cole River (8 March 1826, 13 November 1828, p. 112-113)

Rock Creek (22 July 1826, 11 August 1828, p. 106)

Rock House Fork of Middle Fork of Island Creek (17 February 1824, 5 October 1825, p. 59)

Rock House Fork of Pigeon (6 February 1825, 22 March 1825, p. 41)

Rum Creek (23 November 1824, 17 July 1828, p. 105)

Sand Lick Fork of Cole River (14 May 1826, 31 January 1827, p. 97)

Shannon branches, Tug Fork (6 December 1828, 2 September 1830, p. 125-126)

Skin Fork of Cole River (12 February 1825, 29 October 1828, p. 111)

Spruce Fork of Coal River (16 February 1825, 22 April 1825, p. 45)

Tonies Fork of Big Cole and Horse Creek (10 February 1825, 22 July 1826, p. 92)

Trace Fork of Big Creek (16 February 1825, 8 September 1825, p. 52)

Tug Fork of Sandy River (10 March 1825, 24 March 1825, p. 42)

Turtle Creek, a branch of Little Coal River (13 December 1824, 12 April 1825, p. 45)

West Fork of Cole River (12 February 1825, 10 November 1828, p. 111-112)

Wolf Pen Creek, branch of New River (10 May 1825, 25 August 1825, p. 56)

Wolf Pen Creek at mouth of Rattlesnake Branch (10 February 1825, 11 January 1826, p. 71)

Armed Marcher Marries in Logan (1922)

06 Saturday Jun 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Battle of Blair Mountain, Coal, Logan, Williamson

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Appalachia, Blair Mountain, Charleston, history, Jack Brinkham, Jack Brinkman, Lacie Kirk, Logan Banner, Logan County, Peach Creek, West Virginia, William Chafin

On February 17, 1922, the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, offered this little tale relating to the Armed March, or the Battle of Blair Mountain as it is mostly known now:

JAIL PARLOR IS SCENE OF HAPPY WEDDING FEB. 15

Miss Lacie Kirk, of Peach Creek, Becomes Bride of Jack Brinkham, of Charleston

That little goddess of love called Cupid simply will not be downed. Blows below the belt, solar-plexus blows and all others fail to knock the little fellow out and he remains constantly on the job. Obstacles are nothing in his life and no obstruction is so great as to be insurmountable by him. Cupid had shot his darts into the heart of Jack Brinkman, pianist for the Hippodrome Theatre of Charleston and also into the heart of Miss Lacie Kirk of Peach Creek some months ago and the wounds were to be healed on January 22, when they expected to appear before a minister and have the injury cured via the matrimonial route but Fate struck Cupid a blow that all but put the little fellow out for the count.

On the evening preceding the intended wedding, Capt. Lilly of the state police arrived in Charleston, and in his pocket he carried a warrant for the arrest of Brinkman, charging him with being a member of the armed band who marched on Logan county last August. Capt. Lilly executed the warrant and brought Brinkman to Logan and lodged him in the county jail, where he lingered until Wednesday of this week when he obtained bail.

In the meantime the wound in the heart of Miss Kirk had refused to heal and cupid kept alive the spark of love kindled in her breast in days gone by. She bided the time and with womanly patience and fidelity she counted the days until her intended husband should gain his freedom.

Brinkman was busy Wednesday making preparations for the ceremony and the parlor of the Jailor’s residence was obtained and the nuptial knot tied there. Mr. Wm. Chafin of Williamson was present and played for the wedding ceremony and many relatives and friends of the couple were present to witness the happy event, which was a very elaborate affair. The happy couple left the residence amid the congratulations and best wishes of those present and the day proved doubly happy to them in that the husband had again obtained liberty and likewise a lovely bride.

West Virginia Coon Hunters to Play Public Dance at Ellis Park (1928)

29 Friday May 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan, Music

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Appalachia, Ellis Park, history, Logan Banner, Logan County, music, West Virginia, West Virginia Coon Hunters

Public Dance at Ellis Park LB 08.24.1928

Logan (WV) Banner, 24 August 1928

J. Green McNeely: Logan County Preacher (1937)

19 Tuesday May 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan, Timber

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Appalachia, Bethel McNeely, Billy Workman, Chapmanville, Cherry Tree, Crooked Creek, Delmas Seagraves, Dempsey Branch, Dyke Garrett, Elizabeth McDonald, Elliott McNeely, farming, ginseng, Hatfield Island, Henlawson, history, Howard Suiter, J. Green McNeely, Jimmie McNeely, John Morrison, Lee Whitman, Lewis McDonald, Little Buffalo Creek, Logan Banner, Logan County, logging, Luther McNeely, Mill Creek, Peach Creek, Pete Minotti, preacher, Stollings, Susan White, timbering, West Virginia

On May 26, 1937, the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, profiled one of the county’s more renowned preachers: J. Green McNeely.

Rev. J. Green McNeely: One of County’s Most Beloved Ministers Will Soon Round Out Half Century Of Service; Has Married Approximately 3,000 Couples; Conducted 3,500 Funerals, And Is Still “Going Strong”

One of the county’s most loved and best known ministers will soon round out a half century of service to the citizens of Logan county.

Born October 29, 1871, the Rev. J. Green McNeely, clerk of the county court, has already lived a full life of service, but is hale and hearty and plans to continue “preaching the gospel until the end.”

The Rev. McNeely has married approximately three thousand couples since he was ordained as a minister on March 28, 1891. He is proud to have been able to unite so many in the holy bonds of matrimony, he says, but he is prouder to know that the majority of the marriages “took,” he declares.

The first married he performed was on May 25, 1892. He married Lee Whitman and Elizabeth McDonald, both of Logan county. Mrs. Whitman is still living, but her husband preceded her in death several years ago. She lives on her farm in Henlawson.

The Rev. J. Green McNeely in addition to performing this amazing number of marriages, has conducted 3500 funeral services. His first service was for Billy Workman, 20, who was killed on Dempsey Branch by a falling tree. Workman’s death came in the fall of 1892.

The Rev. McNeely was born at the “Head of Dry Island” on a farm whose site is now occupied by the highway which runs down past Hatfield Island.

His parents were Elliott McNeely, farmer, Susan White McNeely. He had only a sister. She lives at Peach Creek at the present time. She is Mrs. Lewis McDonald.

The young man grew up on Mill Creek, his father having bought a farm there not long after where he attended rural schools and earned enough money chopping wood three months at $1.50 per month for the Mill Creek school to buy himself a suit of “store” clothes.

His first pair of “store” shoes were bought with a summer’s digging of the ‘seng.’ Young J. Green had dug a pound of the roots of the ginseng and dried them.

At nineteen the soon-to-be Rev. McNeely left home to do timbering work on Little Buffalo Creek at Henlawson. He had married by this time and “Uncle Dyke” Garrett, who was the Baptist evangelist who was responsible for the conversion of Rev. McNeely, performed the ceremony.

The Rev. McNeely’s conversion came a year after “Uncle Dyke” had married the couple in 1890.

He says: “I can remember that day yet. We had nearly completed a one-day revival meeting at the mouth of Crooked Creek in a grove where Pete Minotti’s house now stands, and I heard the call. ‘Uncle Dyke’ was a powerful preacher and he touched a responsive something in me that made me want to follow his example. So me and my wife were converted and were baptized by him.”

The Rev. McNeelys live in Cherry Tree. They are the parents of six children. The children are Mrs. John Morrison, Mrs. Howard Suiter, Mrs. Delmas Seagraves, Bethel, Luther, and Jimmie.

The Rev. J. Green McNeely, though “getting up in years” has not ceased active preaching. He delivers a Sunday message regularly to a church in Stollings once a month, Crooked Creek once a month, and in Chapmanville twice a month.

He says he has just closed the best revival meeting he has had in years. Thirty four persons were converted at the two-week’s meetings at Crooked Creek, and Rev. McNeely says: “It took us nearly half an hour to get the house cleared on the last night of the revival after the benediction. The people just couldn’t seem to get enough singing and praying.”

Perception: A Poem (1915)

03 Friday Apr 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan, Poetry

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Appalachia, J. Rush Cook, Logan, Logan Democrat, poems, poetry, poets, West Virginia, writers

From the Logan Democrat of Logan, WV, comes this poem written by J. Rush Cook titled “Perception,” published January 7, 1915:

PERCEPTION

I have seen the rosebuds blowing

In the springtime’s early morn;

The shining dewdrops showing

On the petals newly born.

I have heard the happy bird’s song,

Wafted from the leafy bowers;

I have felt the heart beat strong

As I gazed at bird and flower.

I have seen a grander vision

Than dewdrops on the flowers;

A sweeter song to me is given

Than was wafted from the bowers.

‘Tis a vision of the feature,

When right o’er wrong prevails;

When man, the noblest creature,

No longer each assail.

‘Tis a song of love and duty,

‘Neath a bright or frowning sky;

Like the rainbow in its beauty

And its promise, by and by!

Logan Court House, Floyd Addition (1885-1890)

29 Sunday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Guyandotte River, Logan

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Tags

Appalachia, Aracoma, C.R. Williams, Cecil L. Hudgins, Coal Street, Dingess Street, Elm Street, F.M. White, Floyd Addition, G.M. Dingess, G.W. Morgan, Guyandotte River, history, J.B. Buskirk, J.S. Aldridge, J.S. Miller, James A. Nighbert, John Chafin, Kell McNeely, L.H. Thompson, Logan, Logan County, Main Street, map, maps, Morgan Street, R.N. French, Stratton Street, Thomas Whited, W.A. Hale, West Virginia, White Street

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Plat Record Book 1, Logan County Clerk’s Office, Logan, WV. Note: At the time of this survey and map, Logan Court House (or Logan) was named Aracoma.

J.E. Peck for Circuit Court Judge (1928)

17 Tuesday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan

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Appalachia, genealogy, history, J.E. Peck, judge, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, photos, politics, West Virginia

J.E. Peck Photo LB 07.24.1928

Logan (WV) Banner, 24 July 1928

Chapmanville News 05.05.1922

15 Sunday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Big Creek, Chapmanville, Coal, Huntington, Logan, Stone Branch

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Tags

Alma Wagner, Anna Justice, Appalachia, Big Creek, Chapmanville, Cincinnati, Clee Conley, coal, Eustice Ward, genealogy, Hattie Clay, history, Hobert Spurlock, Huntington, Ida Butcher, Levy Hensley, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, Lola Ferrell, Maud Garrett, Mazie Bates, Morgan Garrett, Nettie Pauley, Oscar Langdon, Queeney Conley, Roy Hager, Ruby Wagner, Stone Branch, Wanda Ferrell, West Virginia, Wilbert Langdon

A correspondent named “Uncle Joe” from Chapmanville in Logan County, West Virginia, offered the following news, which the Logan Banner printed on May 5, 1922:

We are still having fair days and cool nights.

Miss Ruby Wagner has returned from the hospital at Huntington and is getting along nicely.

Mr. Oscar Langdon has left our town for Cincinnati.

Miss Alma Wagner looked lonesome Sunday. Where was L.T., Alma?

We wonder where they go when they take a ride here?

We saw two sweet gigglers out promenading all alone Sunday. Where were the boys?

Bug makes several trips to town during the day, but what does he care, for he gets his rides free.

Miss Eunice Ward and Mr. Hobert Spurlock were at the show Saturday night.

Miss Queeney Conley was shopping in town this week.

Some of the young folks were calling on Miss Clee Conley and thought they were on a merry go round.

Every person is always anxious to know who sends in the news. We wonder, who sent this?

Still more improvements and better wages at the mines here. You ought to make good money, boys.

When is Rev. Langdon going to preach for us again? It seems a long time between times.

Did we see Miss Maud Garrett and Mr. Wilbart Langdon out walking Sunday, or was it just imagination?

You’re not in style in our town unless you have a gray cap.

Mr. Roy Hager, of Big Creek, was calling on Miss Ida Butcher Sunday.

The handsomest man of Chapmanville has gone to work.

Mrs. Levy Hensley and daughter have returned to their home at Chapmanville after a short visit at Stone Branch.

Anna Justice, Hattie Clay and Mazie Bates were calling on Lola and Wanda Ferrell Sunday.

Mrs. Nettie Pauley was visiting relatives in this town Sunday.

Mr. Morgan Garrett has gone to work in Logan.

Appalachian Heritage Day 2019

13 Friday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan, Music

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Almost Heaven Dulcimer Club, Appalachian Heritage Day, bluegrass, Buddy Griffin, Cody Jordan, history, Jackie Whitley, Kim Johnson, Logan, music, West Virginia

On August 24, 2019, Appalachian Heritage Day occurred in Logan, WV. The event featured authors, musicians, speakers, all-day music performances by leading regional old-time musicians, old-time and bluegrass music workshops, a genealogy workshop, a writers’ workshop, and an old-time music concert. On August 28-29, 2020, Logan will host Appalachian Heritage Days at Chief Logan State Park Lodge and the Coalfield Jamboree.

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Kim Johnson led an old-time banjo workshop. 24 August 2019. Photo by Jackie Whitley

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Cody Jordan assisted Kim Johnson in the old-time banjo workshop. 24 August 2019. Photo by Jackie Whitley

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Almost Heaven Dulcimer Club! 24 August 2019. Photo by Jackie Whitley

Almost Heaven Dulcimer Club

Here’s the Almost Heaven Dulcimer Club on stage…they were wonderful! 24 August 2019

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Assisting Buddy Griffin in the bluegrass fiddle workshop! 24 August 2019. Photo by Jackie Whitley

Ku Klux Klan in Logan, WV (1922)

13 Friday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Logan

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

Appalachia, Billy Sunday, Charleston, history, Island Creek, Ku Klux Klan, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, Mud Fork, West Virginia

From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, comes this bit of history about the Ku Klux Klan in Logan County in 1922:

Has Logan An Organization of the Ku Klux Klan in her Midst?

Mysterious Fire Surrounded by Many Figures in Long Flowing Robes Observed

JUNCTION OF MUD FORK AND ISLAND CREEK ASSEMBLY SPOT

Ceremony Lasted Until Midnight, When Fiery Red Cross Was Raised and the Crowd Left

Has Logan a Ku Klux Klan?

Wednesday night a bright fire was observed on the mountain at the junction of Mud Fork and Island Creek, around which the figures of many beings were assembled. Many people that observed the fire made a closer inspection and they witnessed a secret meeting around a large, brightly burning fire, in which 60 or more figures dressed in long, flowing white robes participated. In the circle formed by these people could be observed the figure of the Chief, and the ceremony, while it could not be heard, was beautifully executed as each member arose and in a majestic manner saluted the Chief, and hastened to do his bidding.

The ceremony lasted until the hour of twelve when the fiery red cross was raised and the blazing emblem cast a ghostly shadow throughout the valley beneath. When the names from the flaming symbol had died away the clan evidently dispersed for the fire around which they had been assembled was ____ out and no further signs of the figures could be observed.

The Ku Klux Klan does not signify what the clansmen stood for during the reconstruction period. The Ku Klux Klan in this day assists in maintaining law and order, yet they still stand for supremacy of the white race. Unlawful acts and violence have no place within their councils, yet in their silent way they have a means whereby they are enabled to right wrongs and assist the authorities in maintaining the peace and dignity of the commonwealth. This invisible society is not to be feared by any that are law abiding citizens but to those who are inclined to do those things which are morally wrong yet probably within the law may sometime play host or hostess to a visit from these weird strangers.

Inquiry was made in the city as to whether or not there was a local branch of the Ku Klux Klan here. They are known to exist in many parts of the state and nation for the revival conducted at Charleston by Billy Sunday, which has just closed, was visited by members of the Klan there, who appeared in their weird attire. Of course no one here would speak authoritatively, but one prominent party of the town vouched for the information that they were here and in larger numbers than the public would suspect.

Strange and mysterious lights have been observed high on the peaks of the mountains about our city for some weeks. These lights have a habit of mysteriously appearing and suddenly disappearing. They occur at all hours of the night and in various places. Whether or not these strange lights have any connection with the meeting of Wednesday night is, of course, a matter of conjecture. However, those who observed the meeting of the Ku Klux Klan are inclined to believe all the lights signify individual members of the council which held forth Wednesday night.

Their future meetings will be observed with interest–if they can be discovered.

Logan (WV) Banner, 14 April 1922

***

Ku Klux Klan Has Been Organized Here

Organization Which Has Sprung Up So Quietly Within Our Midst Gives Promise of Being Strongest of Any Other Body in the County if Information Gained is True

Perhaps the readers of the Banner were a little doubtful of the authenticity of the statement made in these columns a few weeks ago relative to the presence in Logan county of the Ku Klux Klan. If any doubt existed then it is well to rid your mind of further doubt, for the Ku Klux Klan is here and the organization is not holding “marshmallow roasts” as was thought by a contemporary newspaper.

According to information which we feel is authentic, the second meeting of the Klan was held in this city Wednesday evening at which time the organization was perfected but only those on the inside are aware of the place of the meeting and just what occurred that evening. It is understood leaders were elected and members were made acquainted with the purposes and objects of the organization.

The movement for the organization in this country, while made secretly, spread like wildfire and applications for membership swamped those behind the movement and the Klan now numbers about 500 members, of which it is thought approximately 200 are to be found in the city while the remainder is scattered throughout the county and is composed of the most prominent business and professional men of the Guyan Valley.

The first meeting of the Klan was held a few weeks ago. Since that time the movement has grown with rapidity and it is understood several hundred applications for membership are now on file. New members are being carefully and systematically chosen and the Logan Klan will evidently take first rank with the numerous other Klans found throughout the state.

The Ku Klux Klan movement has met with the endorsement and approval of the most prominent men of the nation. The Rev. Billy Sunday, during his recent revival in Charleston, proudly announced he was a member and many of the Klans throughout the state number among their members, officials, professional men, and others whose moral character and community standing is above reproach.

The greatest secrecy attends all movements of the order and the identity of the members and the place of meeting of the Klan are secrets carefully guarded. secrecy is necessary in view of the old false prejudice against the order in the north, yet since the objects have become nationally known the order is experiencing its greatest growth in northern states. Membership is limited to native born Americans and initiation is open only to those who receive special invitation to join.

The Ku Klux Klan is described as an institution of picked men standing for “Chivalry, Humanity, Justice and Patriotism”; embodying in its genius and principles all that is chivalric in conduct, noble in sentiment, generous in manhood and patriotic in purpose; its peculiar objects being:

First: To protect the weak, the innocent, and the defenseless from the indignities, wrongs and outrages of the lawless, the violent and the brutal; to relieve the injured and oppressed; to succor the suffering and unfortunate, especially worthy widows and orphans.

Second: To protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America, and all laws passed in conformity thereto, and to protect the people thereof from all invasion of their rights thereunder from any source whatsoever.

Third: To aid and assist in the execution of all constitutional laws and to preserve the honor and dignity of the state by opposing tyranny, in any and every degree attempted from any and every source whatsoever, by a fearless and faithful administration of justice to promptly meet every behest of duty without fear and without reproach.

Logan (WV) Banner, 12 May 1922

Logan: A Poem (1923)

08 Sunday Mar 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Coal, Guyandotte River, Logan, Poetry

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Appalachia, Don Chafin, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan Wildcats, Mine Wars, New York City, O. Benton, poems, poetry, West Virginia, writers, writing

This poem was written by O. Benton and dedicated to Don Chafin, “a true son of Logan.” The poem relates to the Mine Wars, or as it was called by the Logan Banner, the “armed march.”

There’s a land of “Love thy brother”

By the sky-blue Guyandotte

Where the folks love one another,

And I know God loves the spot.

For he built those mighty mountains

And he touched their tops with blue,

From their sides gush crystal fountains,

Just to quench the thirst of you.

Oaks and poplars, pines and hemlocks,

On the mountainsides they grew.

There’ll be no coal beneath the mountains

For a million years or two.

In this glorious land of blessings

Long before the railroad came

Lived the honest, fighting people

Who have brought the country fame.

Now there’s mines beneath those mountains

And there’s towns most everywhere,

But with all the wealth and greatness

Freedom reigns and all is fair.

Some may say, “You think there’s freedom,”

But I’m saying what I know.

I have crossed the rushing rivers,

I have tramped the mountain snow.

I have sweated ‘neath those mountains

Where the motors screech and hum.

I have worked upon the tipple

Worked with pick and shovel some.

And I swear by all above me

That a man may have his say.

He may tell of any grievance

Unmolested, go his way.

For there is no lack of freedom

When the Court-House clock looks down

On the men who love their neighbors

In the busy coal-gorged town.

When the men from New York City

Told us that they were not free,

It was something quite unheard of,

Something free men cannot see.

If our misinformed brothers

Wish to DO, and not to mock,

Let them stay within the cities

Where there’s Hell in every block.

Let them stay away from Logan,

Where a man can be a man.

Take your creeds and go to New York

Where their brothers understand.

For the famous “Logan Wildcats”

And the lads who fought the Hun,

They are tired of soap-box teachings

And have said there shall be none.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 29 June 1923

Logan Memorial Park in McConnell, WV (1928, 2020)

16 Sunday Feb 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Cemeteries, Logan

≈ 9 Comments

Tags

Aldridge Coal Company, Amanda Avis, Anna Crovjack, Appalachia, Brandon Kirk, C&O Railroad, cemeteries, Charles Quinn, crime, Dwight Williamson, Ed Burgess, Elzie Burgess, Fintown, genealogy, history, Hugh C. Avis, immigrants, Ireland, Logan, Logan Banner, Logan County, Logan Memorial Park, Mamie Thurman, Maude Steele, McConnell, Noah E. Steele, Q.L. Stewart, West Virginia, Woodmen of the World, Works Progress Administration

Logan Memorial Park was a “perpetual care” cemetery established in the late 1920s in McConnell, Logan County, WV. The cemetery contains the final remains of many noteworthy Loganites, including Mamie Thurman, whose 1932 murder continues to tantalize regional residents. The Logan Banner reported on the cemetery’s beginnings on September 7, 1928:

Work Rapidly In Developing Burial Park

With Brush Cut and Loose Rock Being Hauled for Surface, Road Work Starts Soon

BEAUTIFYING COMES SOON

Plans Call for Use of Skilled Landscape Gardeners to Aid in Placing Shrubbery

Conclusive proof that Logan is soon to have a modern burial part embodying all the improvements found in the highest type institutions of this kind anywhere was afforded a reporter of The Logan Banner in an inspection of the work being done near McConnell by the Logan Memorial Park company.

Much work was found to have been done already. Brush and undergrowth has been cleaned off the entire 20 acre tract. This will finally include the grubbing of stumps and raking up the trash until the entire tract can be mowed with a lawnmower. Several hundred sled loads of loose rock have already been hauled to the banks of the small stream that flows through the central part of the tract, where a rubble stone embankment will be built near the water course to be covered with vines and shrubbery.

All surface rocks will be removed, blasting being resorted to loosen the larger ones. Several hundred holes were drilled in the surface of the entire plot of ground before it was decided that it would be a suitable place for burial purposes. It was found that there was no ledge rock on the entire tract except at one small spot.

Work is now in progress in preparation for the concrete road to be built from the state road into the park. A ditch suitable for the placing of 26-inch tile to carry the small stream out of the park is being dug. The C. & O. had two steam shovels at work Wednesday cleaning off a sidetrack, unused for several years and submerged by silt from the roadside, preparatory to setting out a carload of tile. It will be laid at once and then the making of a grade for the concrete will follow.

This entrance is between the residence of Burgess and Aldridge. Options have already been secured on property adjacent so that a large stone and iron entrance can be built just off the state road. From that point the hard surfaced road passes up the hollow to where a natural amphitheater provides several acres of smooth land where the first section of the park will be developed. The improved road will entirely encircle this plot so that easy access will be afforded and each lot will be reached by either the roadway or paths.

At the lower end of the natural amphitheater stand several houses that were formerly the property of the Aldridge Coal Company. The present tenants have been ordered to vacate these and they will be torn down.

Water will be supplied to the entire section now being developed and in the spring the entire tract will be plowed and seeded to the best grass obtainable. At that time much shrubbery, from the best nursery stock, will be planted under the direction of competent landscape gardeners.

The Bannerman was in doubt as to the closeness of this tract to the Courthouse, so it was metered and clocked. It proved to be 2 1/2 miles in distance and it was driven easily in traffic in six minutes. Thus there will be the dual advantages of the great natural and enhanced beauty of the Logan Memorial Park site and proximity to the town.

The earnest desire of the company to get this memorial park ready for those desiring to use it is shown in the rush that characterizes the work of cleaning it of brush and rock and in getting in a permanent road. More than a dozen men have been at work ever since the charter was granted and others will be added as more projects get under way simultaneously. The permanent road is to be laid immediately. The rubble stone wall along the stream will come later, but every bit of the work is to be pushed as rapidly as men can do it.

The perpetual care which the charter confirms to the lot owner will no doubt be a great inducement. Already interested parties are inquiring about when it will be open for inspection. Q.L. Stewart, the manager, assures them that no avoidable delay will be allowed to intervene.

***

Here’s a WPA map of the cemetery dating from the 1930s:

Logan Memorial Cemetery 1Logan Memorial Cemetery 2

***

This 1938 map of the cemetery is located in the Logan County Clerk’s office:

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***

Here are photographs of the cemetery in 2020:

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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Charles Quinn, Irish immigrant… 14 February 2020

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Many immigrants are buried in the cemetery… 14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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Woodmen of the World! 14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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14 February 2020

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Mamie Thurman is buried below the Steele Mausoleum… 14 February 2020

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Elzie Burgess helped dig Mamie Thurman’s grave. Here is an interview with Mr. Burgess by Dwight Williamson, dating from about 1985…

Joe Hatfield for Sheriff of Logan County, WV (1927)

08 Saturday Feb 2020

Posted by Brandon Ray Kirk in Hatfield-McCoy Feud, Logan

≈ 3 Comments

Tags

Appalachia, Delorme, Democratic Party, Devil Anse Hatfield, Evaline Marie Hatfield, genealogy, Grace Ferrell, history, Huntington Business College, Island Creek, Joe D. Hatfield Jr., Joe Hatfield, Levisa Hatfield, Logan Banner, Logan County, Marshall College, Mingo County, politics, Republican Party, sheriff, Stirrat, teacher, Tennis Hatfield, Tug River, West Virginia

From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, comes this bit of political history dated December 13, 1927:

J.D. Hatfield for Sheriff 12.13.1927 1

J.D. Hatfield Announces Candidacy For Sheriff

Native Son Will Ask for Republican Nomination in May Primary–That He Would Enter Race Was Expected, and That He Possesses Unusual Political Strength Is Undisputed

Joe Hatfield will be a candidate for the Republican nomination for sheriff in the primary election May 29.

That announcement will doubtless arouse tremendous interest but will create little surprise. For many months the public has expected that at a seasonable time his hat would be quietly tossed into the ring and remain there until the voters had registered their approval or disapproval. Having determined upon a course of action, he will go straight ahead.

Born and reared in Logan county, in love with its every stream and mountain, hoping and expecting to spend the remainder of his life amid the rugged hills to which his ancestors were lured by fate a century ago, he says he has long had an ambition to serve as sheriff of the county beloved of his kith and kin.

The statement that he was born in this county calls for this qualification: Joe Davis Hatfield was born at Delorme, on Tug River, then in Logan county but now in Mingo. That was 44 years ago. Except for a period at Huntington Business College and a year (1903-4) at Marshall College, he has lived hereabouts and his life is an open book. He attended country school on Island Creek and had some experience as a relief teacher, though at no time did he ever consider that his vocation. He is a brother of Sheriff Tennis Hatfield and a son of the late Captain Anse Hatfield and Lovisa Chafin Hatfield–their fourth youngest child, Tennis being the youngest.

Joe was married in 1917 to Grace Ferrell of a Mingo county family and is the father of two children, Evaline Marie, aged eight, and Joe D., Jr., aged five.

His fraternal affiliation are limited to the Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America.

In commenting on his announcement, Mr. Hatfield said, “I’m not running for the office solely for the honor and rewards it might bring, but also because I believe I can fill it in a way that my children and friends will be proud of. I want to give the people a square deal for their sake and mine–why should a man in an important office like that want to do less? I expect to be nominated, but if not I’ll do my part for the man who beats me; and when nominated I’ll plan to wage an active and winning campaign. Besides my experience and observation have given me some ideas about what a sheriff can and should do and I’ll probably discuss these with friends and perhaps in the papers at the proper time.”

Republican Stronghold

It is not The Banner’s purpose to espouse any man’s candidacy before the primary, yet there is no hesitancy in saying here and now that Joe Hatfield will be regarded by voters of all parties as a formidable candidate for the nomination. Quiet, suave, friendly, neat and attractive in appearance, on intimate terms with hundreds and even thousands of voters in the county, the scion of a prominent pioneer family, his strength is obvious to the humblest citizens as well as those trained in politics. And while on the subject of politics, let it be recalled that Stirrat, Hatfield’s precinct, was the banner Republican precinct in the county in 1926. The Republican vote varied from 310 to 312 for the different candidates; the Democratic vote from 54 to 58. The precinct won a flag for the largest registration of Republican voters before the primary and won a silver cup for the largest Republican vote in the election, the prizes having been offered by the county committee. Incidentally, that feat was credited largely to Joe Hatfield and brought the first prophecy the writer heard that he would be the next sheriff of Logan county.

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Appalachia Ashland Big Creek Big Ugly Creek Blood in West Virginia Brandon Kirk Cabell County cemeteries Chapmanville Charleston civil war coal Confederate Army crime culture Ed Haley Ella Haley Ferrellsburg feud fiddler fiddling genealogy Green McCoy Guyandotte River Harts Harts Creek Hatfield-McCoy Feud history Huntington John Hartford Kentucky Lawrence Haley life Lincoln County Lincoln County Feud Logan Logan Banner Logan County Milt Haley Mingo County music Ohio photos timbering U.S. South Virginia Wayne County West Virginia Whirlwind writing

Blogs I Follow

  • OtterTales
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OtterTales

Writings from my travels and experiences. High and fine literature is wine, and mine is only water; but everybody likes water. Mark Twain

Our Appalachia: A Blog Created by Students of Brandon Kirk

This site is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and promotion of history and culture in Appalachia.

Piedmont Trails

Genealogy and History in North Carolina and Beyond

Truman Capote

A site about one of the most beautiful, interesting, tallented, outrageous and colorful personalities of the 20th Century

Appalachian Diaspora

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