Today in Wheeling History: April 20--The West Virginia legislature held an unofficial session in Wheeling during a three-day centennial celebration to commemorate the issuance of the statehood proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln (1963). (https://rb.gy/taqu0)
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Today in Wheeling History: April 20--The Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) received its incorporation in West Virginia with the involvement of individuals such as A. Taylor from Wheeling Female College, along with Virginia M. Warren, Sarah Johnson, Emma A. Fowler, and Mary M. Wagner, all from Wheeling (1885).
The main headquarters of the organization was located in Wheeling. The WCTU's initial local chapter was established in Wheeling prior to 1877. Subsequently, the statewide WCTU was formally organized during an Interstate Convention held in Maryland in 1883, and its inaugural convention took place in Parkersburg in 1884. (https://tinyurl.com/4c7x9yb3) (https://tinyurl.com/5f9x9hyx) (https://tinyurl.com/47ujr9f6) Today in Wheeling History: April 20--Major General Jesse L. Reno, best known for commanding the Union Army's IX Corps in the Army of the Potomac during the American Civil War, was born in Wheeling (1823).
Jesse L. Reno was a career U.S. Army officer born in Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) in 1823. He graduated from West Point in 1846 and served with distinction in the Mexican-American War. During the Civil War, Reno commanded Union troops in the North Carolina Expedition and the Northern Virginia Campaign, earning a reputation as a "soldier's soldier" who fought alongside his men. He was promoted to major general and given command of the IX Corps in the Army of the Potomac. Reno was fatally shot by a Confederate sharpshooter during the Battle of South Mountain in Maryland on September 14, 1862 at the age of 39. Several places are named in his honor, including Reno, Nevada and Reno County, Kansas. To learn more: (https://rb.gy/qbxll) (https://tinyurl.com/muj9v9hv) (https://tinyurl.com/2yv2bbaf) (https://tinyurl.com/mr396tb2) Photo credits: University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections Division; Wikipedia, The Clio Today in Wheeling History: April 19—Virginia Fox, a silent film actress known for her roles in the 1910s and 1920s, was born in Wheeling (1899, 1902, 1903 or 1906). Virginia Oglesby Fox began her career as a bathing beauty in Mack Sennett's films and later starred alongside Buster Keaton in movies like "Neighbors" (1920). Fox married film producer Darryl F. Zanuck and had three children with him. She played a behind-the-scenes role in Zanuck's business decisions and cared for him until his death. Fox passed away in 1982 and was buried in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles. (https://rb.gy/oj27p) (https://rb.gy/haddj) (https://rb.gy/lidwo) Today in Wheeling History: April 19--A destructive tornado struck downtown Wheeling, injuring nine people and causing an estimated $500,000 in damage ($8 million today) as it tore roofs off buildings, demolished vehicles, and littered streets with debris along a path from 16th to 22nd Streets (1925).
A powerful tornado struck downtown Wheeling, West Virginia, on Sunday, April 19, 1925, around noon, causing extensive damage estimated at half a million dollars (equivalent to around $8 million today). The storm tore roofs off many buildings, demolished five automobiles, and littered the streets with wreckage. Nine people were injured, some seriously, mostly from flying debris as they were caught in their cars on 16th Street. The tornado formed at the mouth of Wheeling Creek and moved eastward along 16th and 17th streets. The wind was so strong it created a whirling funnel of wood, bricks, and stone. The Union Storage Company building at 16th and Main Streets lost its roof and upper walls, providing much of the debris. Live wires hampered rescue work until they could be shut off. The tornado was preceded by oppressive heat and humidity, with the temperature rising from 41°F in the morning to near 90°F just before the storm hit. The atmospheric conditions were highly unusual for the area. The storm then continued east, damaging other parts of Wheeling and surrounding towns before dissipating. Miraculously, the Ohio Valley General Hospital, directly in the storm's path, was spared any damage. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/3fuum4x8) (https://tinyurl.com/5y8mhmv5) (https://tinyurl.com/mu73hp7t) (https://tinyurl.com/y297m9e4) Photo Credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV Today in Wheeling History: April 18--Wheeling College President Charles Currie sustained two broken legs, a black eye, and facial lacerations in a helicopter accident (1979).
On April 18, 1979, Rev. Charles L. Currie Jr., the president of Wheeling College in West Virginia, was seriously injured in the crash of a New York Airways Sikorsky S-61L helicopter at Newark International Airport. Father Currie suffered two broken legs, a black eye, facial lacerations, and other injuries in the accident, which killed 3 of the 18 people on board and seriously injured 10 others. The helicopter had just taken off for a short flight to LaGuardia Airport when the pilot reported a control problem and attempted an emergency landing back at Newark Airport. At an altitude of about 150 feet, the entire tail rotor gearbox tore off the aircraft after a fatigue failure of one of the tail rotor blades, causing the helicopter to crash. Father Currie was traveling to New York to attend a reception for prospective Wheeling College students and their parents at the time of the accident. He underwent surgery and remained hospitalized in intensive care in Newark, but returned to Wheeling via private plane and ambulance on April 26, 1979, eight days after the crash. He was not hospitalized further upon arriving in Wheeling, but continued his recovery at the college's Jesuit residence. Father Currie was released from medical care on June 19, 1979. The crash generated major news coverage in Wheeling, where Father Currie was credited with leading a dramatic turnaround of the college, increasing enrollment by 40% and erasing budget deficits during his tenure as president from 1972-1982. An editorial in the Wheeling News-Register wished him a speedy recovery and praised his leadership in strengthening Wheeling College. The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of the accident was the fatigue failure of one of the helicopter's five tail rotor blades, which resulted in severe vibrations, the loss of the tail rotor gearbox, and a loss of control. The FAA grounded the S-61 fleet for inspections after the accident. Improper passenger seat design and lack of instructions for assuming a brace position were cited as factors in the severity of the injuries. The crash had catastrophic consequences for New York Airways. The airline ceased all operations on the day of the accident and never resumed flights. The company filed for bankruptcy just one month later in May 1979, citing the Newark crash as the primary cause of its collapse. The accident marked the end of the pioneering airline's 30-year history as one of the first scheduled helicopter passenger carriers in the world. Father Currie went on to serve as president of Xavier University from 1982-1985 and then had a distinguished career as a champion for social justice causes and as a national leader in Jesuit higher education. He passed away on January 4, 2019 at the age of 88. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/bdfbutyv) (https://tinyurl.com/mw3vs3sa) (https://tinyurl.com/h5brtmxc) (https://tinyurl.com/28xydeyy) (https://tinyurl.com/mkt85vcv) (https://tinyurl.com/4n36yabs) (https://tinyurl.com/yc6ukveh) (https://tinyurl.com/35hyvudv) (https://tinyurl.com/yt56594x) Photo credits: Wheeling University, Weelunk, Wheeling Intelligencer Today in Wheeling History: April 17--Stella C. Koerner, who served as the first female mayor of Wheeling, passed away (2000).
Stella C. Koerner, born on February 23, 1916, was a trailblazer in Wheeling, West Virginia, serving as the city's first female mayor from 1986 to 1988. Prior to her mayoral role, she was the second female city council member, following Mae Hughes. During her tenure, Wheeling gained national recognition as the safest city in 1986, and Koerner appeared on the "Today" show to discuss this achievement. She initiated public relations campaigns, including the iconic "I Love Wheeling" buttons, and spearheaded the drive to build the Veterans Memorial at the waterfront, which was dedicated on May 3, 1993. The memorial honored veterans from the Revolutionary War up to and including Desert Storm, and its unique design made it a symbol of service to the United States. Koerner was an active community leader, participating in various organizations such as the Woman's Club of Wheeling, Pilot Club of Wheeling, Thursday Music Club, Wheeling Business and Professional Women's Club, West Virginia Federation of Women's Clubs, and Greater Wheeling Chapter of AARP, all of which she served as president. She was also the High Priestess of the ISIS Court, Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America, and a member of the Fourth Street United Methodist Church. Known for her signature hats and high heels, Koerner was dedicated to the city and left a lasting impact on Wheeling. She passed away on April 17, 2000, at the age of 84, and was remembered for her contributions to the community and her abiding patriotism. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/52s7z594) (https://tinyurl.com/mrtydmnu) (https://tinyurl.com/32rart2e) (https://tinyurl.com/2sbu4jda) (https://tinyurl.com/y7vkwefj) (https://tinyurl.com/bhm9dvac) (https://tinyurl.com/2zzb3vzf) Photo credits: Wheeling News-Register Today in Wheeling History: April 15--The Ohio River at Wheeling reached a flood stage of 44.2 feet, causing widespread damage, disruption, and evacuations throughout the Ohio Valley region (1948).
In April 1948, the Ohio River experienced a significant flood that caused widespread damage and disruption in the Wheeling, West Virginia area. On April 15, the river reached a flood stage of 44.2 feet, forcing hundreds of families to evacuate their homes and move to higher ground. Large areas of Wheeling Island and South Wheeling had flooded streets, with water covering Market Street from 35th to nearly 22nd Street, Water Street from 12th to 48th Streets, Eoff Street from 48th to 33rd Streets, and Wood Street from 45th to 36th Streets. On Wheeling Island, the entire area south of Ohio Street was under water, with South Broadway open only between Ohio and Virginia Streets. Zane Street, the connecting link between Ohio and West Virginia, was covered by high water during the night. Mayor Cal G. Bachmann declared a state of emergency in the city of Wheeling, calling upon all governmental and administrative bodies to coordinate their activities with the Wheeling-Ohio County Chapter of the American Red Cross in flood relief work. Chief of Police Robert Kennedy announced that his men, along with the National Guard, were handling traffic in the affected areas. Fire Chief William McFadden ordered the setup of all portable firefighting equipment, including the city's fire boat stationed on Wheeling Island. Dr. John Gilmore, Commissioner of the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department, required all food establishments to be inspected before reopening after the water receded. Transportation was severely impacted, with many streets, highways, and bridges closed due to high water levels, including Route 7 at West Wheeling on the Ohio side, Route 40 at Brookside, and several points above Martins Ferry. Major Noel Ellis, commandant of The Salvation Army, opened their facilities at 3329 Eoff Street to those made homeless by the flood and had crews working to move furniture for affected families. The flood, described as the most erratic in the valley's history, attracted thousands of spectators and created a mounting sense of uneasiness among residents and business owners as the water continued to rise. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/yrczmsuv) (https://tinyurl.com/mt4k6vvc) Photo credits: Wheeling Intelligencer Today in Wheeling History: April 14--The Wheeling Daily Intelligencer reported that the Bradley & Eckhart Wool Mill was a successful and well-managed manufacturing establishment in Wheeling (1865).
John Eckhart Sr. was a prominent German citizen who immigrated to the United States in 1824, settling in Wheeling, West Virginia in 1835. He established a successful stocking factory, which prospered for many years and provided employment for numerous individuals. Eckhart Sr. was a respected member of the community, known for his quiet and unobtrusive nature, as well as his strong Christian faith and membership in the German Lutheran Church. He was also a charter member of William Tell Lodge of Odd Fellows and, at the time of his death in 1895 at the age of 90, was considered one of the oldest citizens of Wheeling, leaving behind a legacy as one of the city's most respected figures. John Eckhart Jr., son of John Eckhart Sr., married Allice Bradley in 1865. Together they became proprietors of the Bradley & Eckhart Wool Mill. The mill, located on the corner of Lindsey and Fifth streets (now 19th and Eoff streets), was among the most successful manufacturing establishments in the city. It operated continuously for six to seven years, only stopping for necessary repairs or public holidays. The mill produced high-quality flannels, jeans, and knitting and weaving yarns, which were in high demand. The factory processed approximately 150,000 pounds of wool annually and employed between 30 and 40 workers, half of whom were women. The mill's success was attributed to the skillful management of John Eckhart Jr. and Allice Bradley, as well as the local advantages of Wheeling's manufacturing industry. Tragically, John Eckhart Jr. died in 1870 at the age of 33. Following his death, the Bradley & Eckhart Wool Mill faced financial difficulties and was sold at a trustee's sale in 1876. Allice Bradley later remarried John Edwin Hannon in 1896. At some point, she moved to Colorado, where she passed away in 1920. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/mr39heab) (https://tinyurl.com/yc6j9amn) (https://tinyurl.com/5bp3nrjv) (https://tinyurl.com/cwheeez6) (https://tinyurl.com/2kk539ft) (https://tinyurl.com/5ckna9y6) (https://tinyurl.com/5bhhvakv) Photo credits: eBay, Find a Grave, Googe Maps Today in Wheeling History: April 12--Harry Walters Gee, founder and general manager of Wheeling's Gee Electric Company, was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (1880).
Harry Walters Gee, born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania in 1880, left an indelible mark on the Wheeling community. When his family relocated to Wheeling during his childhood, Gee's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a small electrical equipment shop at 1124 Market Street. Over time, this venture evolved into the Gee Electric Company, which played a significant role in the city's history. The company expanded its operations, moving to several locations. It started at 1126 Market Street, then shifted to 1215 Main Street, and later to 1217 Main Street. Finally, it settled at the intersection of Main and Fourteenth Streets, where Gee Electric was officially incorporated in 1909. By the 1920s, Gee Electric served 6 states and employed 75 people. Beyond business, Walter Gee actively participated in community initiatives, including wartime bond drives and church activities. He married Elizabeth Stifel in 1907, and together they raised 5 children. Despite the challenges, Gee's impact endured, and he passed away at the age of 91. Walter Gee's legacy endures through his contributions to Wheeling and the Gee Electric Company. To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/nvnxahcd) (https://tinyurl.com/bdz4epz8) Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Find a Grave |
Mike MinderMike Minder was born and raised in Wheeling, West Virginia. He is the author of Wheeling's Gambling History to 1976. Archives
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