History of Ripley, West Virginia, USA

1824 - (Ripley, WV) - Jacob Starcher erected a grist mill in 1824.

1832 - (Ripley, WV) - The town's post office was established January 31, 1832, and was named Jackson Courthouse. In the years that followed the town was referred to both as Jackson Courthouse and Ripley.

www.cityofripley.org/ history.html

1832 - (Ripley, WV) - On December 5, 1832, Jacob Starcher petitioned the General Assembly to give the town a name and grant a charter to govern it.
The request was granted fourteen days later on December 19, 1832.
www.cityofripley.org/ history.html

1852 - Ripley, WV incorporated

1854 - Ripley
Ripley, a village, capital of Jackson co., Virginia, on Mill creek, 350 miles W. N. W. from Richmond. Population, about 200.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

During the Civil War, Ripley remained under control of the Union except for a brief incursion by Confederate General Albert G. Jenkins in September 1862.

wikipedia.org

1895 - Ripley / Jackson Court-House
Jackson Court-House, or Rip'ley, a post-village, capital of Jackson co., W. Va., on Mill Creek, about 33 miles N. by W. of Charleston, and 11 miles from the Ohio River. The name of its post-office is Jackson Court-House. It has a newspaper office, 3 churches, 3 hotels, an academy or graded school, a woollen-mill, &c.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

The last public hanging in West Virginia took place in Ripley in 1897, when John Morgan was hanged for murder; the spectacle prompted the West Virginia Legislature to ban public executions soon after.

wikipedia.org

1897 - (Ripley, WV) - On September 15, 1897 the name of the post office was changed to Ripley.

www.cityofripley.org/ history.html

1906
Ripley, a banking post-town, capital of Jackson co., W.Va., on the Ohio River R., 32 miles N. by W. of Charles ton. Pop. in 1900, 579.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Ripley has something to offer. Here's a list:
Cedar Lakes Conference Center:

Start your visit to Ripley with a trip to Cedar Lakes Conference Center. This serene retreat offers picturesque lakes, beautiful walking trails, and a peaceful environment. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Jackson County Courthouse:

Take a walk around the historic Jackson County Courthouse. This stunning architectural gem stands as a testament to Ripley's history and serves as a great spot for photos.

Ravenswood Castle:

Located just a short drive from Ripley in Ravenswood, this historic castle is a must-visit. You can take guided tours to learn about its intriguing history, or simply admire the beautiful architecture from the outside.

Mountaineer Opry House:

If you're a fan of live music and entertainment, the Mountaineer Opry House is the place to be. They host a variety of musical performances, including bluegrass, country, and gospel.

Jackson County Veterans Memorial Park:

Pay your respects to the... Read MORE...