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History of Ripley, West Virginia, USA
Journey back in time to Ripley, West Virginia, USA
Also known as(Jackson Court House)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Ripley, West Virginia, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Ripley
Ripley was originally owned and settled by William, John, and Lewis Rodgers. They received a grant of 400 acres in 1768 where "Sycamore Creek joins Big Mill Creek" (the current site of Ripley). The land was later sold to Jacob (and Ann) Starcher, most probably in 1803. Jacob Starcher erected a grist mill in 1824 and laid out the town in 1830, naming it in honor of Harry Ripley, a young minister who was to be married, but drowned in Big Mill Creek, about one and a half miles north of the town, shortly before the ceremony took place.
The town was chartered by the Virginia General Assembly in 1832.
The post office was established in 1832 with the name Jackson Court House. The name was shortened in 1893 to Jackson. In 1897, the name became Ripley.
The town was chartered by the Virginia General Assembly in 1832.
The post office was established in 1832 with the name Jackson Court House. The name was shortened in 1893 to Jackson. In 1897, the name became Ripley.
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VINTAGE RIPLEY
Ripley Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Ripley, West Virginia, USA
Postcard
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Village Dairy Store
Ripley, West Virginia, USA
Postcard
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Ripley, West Virginia, USA
Postcard
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U. B. Church
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to RIPLEY
WEST VIRGINIA ROOTS - "My Ancestors Came From West Virginia" Ceramic Genealogy Mug
Embrace your Appalachian roots with this charming ceramic mug! Featuring the playful caption: "My Ancestors Came From West Virginia! That explains a lot about my love for Appalachian music and my ability to spot a coal miner from a mile away," this mug is perfect for anyone proud of their West Virginian heritage.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Ripley: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Ripley through the years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Show more local history, news & stories
1897 - (Ripley, WV) - On September 15, 1897 the name of the post office was changed to Ripley.
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.
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
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...
GENEALOGY IN RIPLEY
Discover YOUR Roots: Ripley Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Ripley, West Virginia, USA
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Updated: 9/29/2023 8:29:49 AM
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