12 Surprising Firsts That West Virginia Can Proudly Claim

Ready for some Mountain State trivia? West Virginia has been the birthplace of many ideas and inventions. Here are just a few things West Virginia did first. Each offers an interesting perspective on the history of not only the state but also its broader impact on the country's history. Come along as we take you on a look back at the past. How many of these West Virginia inventions did you already know about?

1. West Virginia: First State to Implement a State Sales Tax

We were the first state to implement a state sales tax. That happened on July 1, 1921. West Virginia's first move led to other states across the country adopting sales taxes. We will forever remain in history books for having led the way for with this invention.

2. We Are The Only State Born from Secession During the Civil War

We, of course, seceded from Virginia and officially became a state on June 20, 1863. When visiting, don't forget to Wheeling for historic Civil War and Philippi sites to learn more about West Virginia’s unique formation.

3. West Virginia’s WVU Player: First Woman to Dunk in a College Game

A West Virginia University (WVU) player was the first woman to dunk a basketball during a college game. That honor was bestowed upon Georgeann Wells in 1984 – another West Virginia first that makes us unique from other states.

4. West Virginia’s Memorial Tunnel: First Monitored by Television

Our Memorial Tunnel was the first to be monitored by television. This invention revolutionized safety and led the way for tunnel monitoring in other states across the nation. Read some more about why the memorial tunnel in West Virginia has a fascinating history.

5. West Virginia Land Hosted the First Land Battle of the Civil War

Land that became part of West Virginia was the site of the first land battle of the Civil War. That happened in Philippi, West Virginia. When visiting West Virginia, consider touring the Covered Bridge and the nearby battlefield. These sites are usually open for tourists throughout the year.

6. West Virginia Had the First Street Paved Entirely With Bricks

The first brick road in America was Summer Street in Charleston, West Virginia. Engineer Mordicai Levi paved it in 1870. The paved bricks on Summers Street are still preserved today, and you can visit to experience this landmark.

7. West Virginia: Home to the First Black Woman in U.S. Government

Minnie Harper Buckingham, of McDowell County, was appointed to fill her husband’s unexpired term in the state House of Delegates in 1928. That's how she made history as the first black woman in the U.S. government.

8. West Virginia: The Birthplace of Mother’s Day

It was first celebrated at Andrews Church in Grafton on May 10, 1908. Don't forget to visit Andrews Church when in West Virginia. The church usually holds commemorative events each year, and visitors are welcome.

9. West Virginia’s Chuck Yeager: First Pilot to Break the Sound Barrier

West Virginia native Chuck Yeager was the first pilot to break the sound barrier. That happened on October 14, 1947. Don't forget to read more about the history of Yeager from the Chuck Yeager Foundation.

10. West Virginia’s Oakhurst Links: America’s First Golf Course

The Oakhurst Links was the nation's first golf course. The golf course is located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Are you a gold enthusiast? When you come to visit, please consider touring the historic course. Please note that a daily green fee is charged to play golf at this course.

11. West Virginia: Where Grandparents Day Was First Started

A West Virginian is credited with starting Grandparents Day. Marian McQuade of Oak Hill started the holiday.

12. West Virginia: The Birthplace of Outdoor Advertising

It got its start with Mail Pouch tobacco ads on the sides of barns and businesses. When exploring the Mountain State, be sure to pass by the historic Mail Pouch barns to check out these roadside attractions.

West Virginia has a rich political and cultural history, having played a significant role in the nation's founding and development since its admission as a state. These examples are just a few West Virginia firsts.

Can you think of any other inventions from West Virginia? Would you agree that these are among the best inventions in WV? We'd love to read about your experience through this nomination form.

Are you planning to visit West Virginia soon? Don't forget to use our West Virginia itinerary planner to map your trip across the state’s historic and must-see sites.