West Virginia - Formation of a State

A Vote

Apr 17, 1861

Delegates from the future state of West Virginia voted 30 against, 17 in favor and 2 abstained from voting for the Ordinance of Secession for the state of Virginia.

First Wheeling Convention

May 13, 1861

Virginia had proposed the Ordinance of Secession and was poised to secede from the United States. As a result, delegates from 27 western Virginia Counties were present at this convention that lasted until May 15th. During this convention, it was proposed that the state of New Virginia be created but it was not a popular idea at the time.

Ordinance of Secession

May 23, 1861

The Ordinance of Secession was adopted by a public vote by the people of the state of Virginia, although the people in the north and west did not agree.

Second Wheeling Convention

Jun 11, 1861

32 counties were represented at the Second Wheeling Convention. On June 13th, John Carlile introduced, "A Declaration of the People of Virginia". This document declared that the secession and the present government of Virginia were illegal and void.

A New Government

Jun 20, 1861

The "Restored Government of Virginia" elected new officers for the state of Virginia. Francis Pierpont was elected governor and was recognized by President Lincoln.

Election

Oct 24, 1861

A popular vote passed for the creation of a new state. At this time, the proposed name for the new state was "Kanawha".

First Constitutional Convention

Nov 26, 1861

The name of the new state was voted upon and West Virginia was chosen. The convention also addressed issues of boundaries and slavery. The convention lasted until February 18, 1862.

Application for Admission

May 13, 1862

The state legislature approved the formation of the new state and an application for admission into the Union was formally made to Congress.

West Virginia

Jun 20, 1863

West Virginia was formally admitted to the United States, becoming the 35th state.