Share Media File

Transcript

Tensions from the war continued to simmer in West Virginia during the summer of 1865. Former Confederates campaigned to have two northeastern counties rejoin Virginia. Local newspapers refused to use the word West in their mastheads.

“Hang me if I say West Virginia. Maps may say what they please, but I say this is Virginia.” George Bagby

Hostilities increased when Governor Arthur Boreman’s government banned ex-Confederates from voting, teaching, holding office or practicing law. The spirit of rebellion, said Boreman, still reigns in their breast.

Federal troops were sent in to keep the peace.