During your visit to this West Virginia attraction, see For Liberty and Union. West Virginia: Born of the Civil War, a permanent exhibit features dramatic displays with period artifacts and explores the statehood process against the background of the Civil War. Additionally, you can view Waving for Liberty and the Union, one of the largest collections of West Virginia Civil War battle flags.
For Liberty and Union
Start your visit in the West Virginia Independence Hall’s theater, located on museum’s main floor. Here, the interpretive video, For Liberty and Union will provide you with background information on the site.
Permanent Exhibits
West Virginia: Born of the Civil War
Explore the only change in territory brought about by America’s greatest conflict, the Civil War and differences between eastern and western Virginia residents’ views on slavery, economic considerations, types of farming and the ethnic composition of the population during the mid 19th century in West Virginia: Born of the Civil War. The story of the birth of West Virginia is brought to life through maps, audio-visual elements, film and artifacts on the first floor of the West Virginia Independence Hall. Highlights of the exhibition include a three-dimensional topographical map that depicts the original land mass of Virginia complemented by a narration that describes the drive for statehood and a mural that depicts leaders in the West Virginia Independence Hall historic courtroom signing the document that resulted in the formation of the Restored Government of Virginia in 1861. At the murals center is a reproduction of the original document known as “The Declaration of the People of Virginia.”
Union and Confederate Viewpoints
Related exhibitions explore Union and Confederate viewpoints illustrated with memorabilia and artistic renderings of soldiers’ uniforms and weaponry. See artifacts from the West Virginia State Museum including a military drum used during the Civil War as well as old farm equipment that represents West Virginia’s agricultural roots. Additionally the exhibition features images of documents and Wheeling prints on loan from the Oglebay Institute. Of particular importance is a painting that depicts General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson and his troops travelling through snow covered mountains on their way to Romney by modern-day artist John Paul Strain. Other highlights include an illuminated map that details locations where Civil War battles were fought in West Virginia.
Waving for Liberty and the Union
Ascending to the second floor of the West Virginia Independence Hall, you will find Waving for Liberty and the Union, one of the largest collections of Civil War battle flags. Next door, the Flag Discovery Room let’s you design your own flag, take a quiz on an interactive kiosk, have your picture taken with the troops and learn about flag preservation.
Restored 19th Century Courtroom
Be sure to visit the West Virginia Independence Hall’s 19th Century courtroom with informational signs that provide a concise history of the room and its uses over the years.
- West Virginia Independence Hall is ADA complaint.
- In addition to its permanent exhibits, the West Virginia Independence Hall often features travelling exhibits.