​Today in Wheeling History: April 24--Father Wladimier Akiki, who later served as pastor of Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Wheeling from 1974 to 1977, was ordained a priest in Lebanon (1949).
 
Born on May 3, 1911, in Boston to Stephen and Takle Sakri Akiki, Wladimier Akiki returned to Lebanon with his family in 1921. There, he enrolled in the Oriental Seminary to begin his religious education. As a deacon, he served as a missionary assistant throughout North and Southern Syria, including Damascus, where he ministered to Muslim villages.
 
Missing his homeland, Akiki returned to the United States in 1937, joining the faculty at the University of Detroit. He briefly ventured into publishing with an Arabic newspaper called "Al-Ittahad." When this business failed, he returned to Lebanon in 1939, where he taught at Deir Chir Seminary while furthering his theological studies. His dedication culminated in his ordination as a priest on April 24, 1949.
 
Following his ordination, Father Akiki served numerous parishes in Lebanon, including Zabbougha, Baktoota, Biskinta, and Ain Aboo, before becoming the spiritual director at the convent of Antoora. At the request of Archbishop William O'Brady of St. Paul, he was assigned to St. Maron's in Minnesota, where he served as pastor from 1959 to 1968. He later ministered at St. George's in San Antonio, Texas, and St. George's in Dover, New Hampshire.
 
Father Wladimier Akiki served Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Wheeling, West Virginia, from October 1974 to July 1977, before retiring to his home village in Lebanon. His life represents the dedication of Maronite priests who served Lebanese immigrant communities across America, preserving their religious and cultural heritage.
 
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/26zhxfnv), Our Lady of Lebanon Church (https://tinyurl.com/5n9a5d8m), Wheeling Intelligencer/Wheeling News-Register (https://tinyurl.com/4haswtna)
 
Photo caption and credit: Our Lady of Lebanon Church at 2216 Eoff Street in Wheeling (Google Maps)

​Today in Wheeling History: April 22—The construction permit for WTRF-TV, Wheeling's first television station, was granted (1953).
 
WTRF-TV has been a cornerstone of broadcasting in the Ohio Valley since 1953. The station originated from Tri-City Broadcasting Corporation, which first operated WTRF radio stations in Bellaire, Ohio, with the call letters derived from "Two Radio Frequencies." After the FCC's four-year freeze on TV construction permits was lifted, Tri-City and WKWK merged their applications to expedite the creation of Wheeling's first television station. The construction permit was granted on April 22, 1953, and WTRF-TV began broadcasting six months later on October 24, despite last-minute equipment failures. Initially affiliated with NBC and secondarily with ABC, the station operated from the sixth floor of the Reilly Building (later known as the Ogden Building) at 14th and Market Streets. In 1966, TV-7 became the first full color station in the Ohio Valley with the installation of color movie projectors, videotape machines, and cameras. In 1969, WTRF moved to a new million-dollar complex at 96 Sixteenth Street in downtown Wheeling. The station switched from NBC to CBS in January 1980, citing NBC's eroding ratings. Throughout its history, WTRF has changed ownership multiple times, including Forward Communications, Wesray Capital, Nexstar Media Group, and others, while maintaining its commitment to local news coverage and community involvement.
 
To learn more: FCC Public Inspection Files (https://tinyurl.com/45xxnh2t), Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/296w23wc), WTRF Official Website (https://tinyurl.com/yb2ehj74), Jeff Miller (https://tinyurl.com/yc8a9u26)
 
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wikimedia Commons, Jeff Miller (jeff560.tripod.com)

Today in Wheeling History: April 21—The Cathedral of Saint Joseph was formally dedicated in Wheeling, marking the completion of its construction (1926).
 
The Cathedral of Saint Joseph stands as the mother church of Catholicism in Wheeling and seat of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Designed by architect Edward J. Weber in the Lombardi Romanesque style, the impressive structure features a 148-foot dome, twin turrets flanking a rose window, and a cruciform floor plan. Construction began in 1923 after a fire damaged the previous cathedral, with Bishop John J. Swint overseeing the project. The dedication ceremonies on April 21, 1926, were extraordinarily grand, with approximately 200 Catholic clergy attending, including Archbishop Michael J. Curley of Baltimore and multiple bishops. The solemn consecration began at 6 a.m. with the blessing of the exterior and interior walls, followed by the consecration of the altars and a Pontifical High Mass. Bishop Joseph Schrembs of Cleveland delivered the consecration sermon, comparing the event to Solomon's dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The Cathedral parish itself dates to 1822, making it Wheeling's oldest Catholic congregation. Over the decades, the Cathedral has undergone several renovations—most notably in 1973 to comply with Vatican II liturgical reforms and again in the 1990s and 2000s for restoration work. Today, it remains an architectural and spiritual landmark in Wheeling and a contributing property to the East Wheeling Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
 
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/mrx2dk2s); Wheeling Intelligencer (https://tinyurl.com/mwyc3xvb), Saint Joseph Cathedral (https://tinyurl.com/mszx2frp), Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/5exn288c), SAH Archipedia (https://tinyurl.com/299sk38x)

Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Diocese of Wheeling Charleston, American Architect and Building News (via the Internet Archive), Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons, Wheeling Intelligencer

​Today in Wheeling History: April 20 -- Sam Barkley, former Major League Baseball player and Wheeling native, died (1912).
 
Samuel W. Barkley was born in Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) on May 24, 1858, to Joseph Barkley, a local cigar manufacturer, and Catherine Colbert Barkley. He developed his baseball skills on vacant lots on Wheeling Island before joining the semi-professional Wheeling Standards club in the 1870s, where he played catcher and second base. Barkley began his professional career with Detroit in 1879, followed by the Toledo Blue Stockings. His Major League career spanned from 1884-1889, playing for four teams including the St. Louis Browns and Pittsburgh Alleghenys. His personal life was marked by a dramatic marriage to Flora "Dora" Feldman, whom he met while playing in Kansas City. She reportedly threatened suicide if he wouldn't marry her. They had a son named Harold, but the marriage ended when Dora began an affair with Chicago political boss Michael Cassius McDonald, who allegedly paid Barkley $30,000 for a divorce and later adopted Harold. After baseball, Barkley operated businesses in Pittsburgh and Chicago before returning to Wheeling in 1910 following financial setbacks. Shortly before his death, Barkley was converted by baseball evangelist Billy Sunday and baptized into St. Luke's Episcopal Church. He died from chronic kidney disease on April 20, 1912, at age 53. His funeral was held at 34 Indiana Street on Wheeling Island, with fellow baseball players serving as pallbearers, and he was buried in Peninsula Cemetery.
 
To learn more: Wheeling News-Register (https://tinyurl.com/mrjswfh8), Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/339bs7y3), Find a Grave (https://tinyurl.com/3nbcktsf), Wheeling Intelligencer (https://tinyurl.com/yksxbtmp), Wheeling Daily Register (https://tinyurl.com/yax6247c)
 
Photo credits: Wheeling News-Register, Wheeling Intelligencer, Wheeling Daily Register, Zillow, Find a Grave, Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons

​Today in Wheeling History: April 19 - Devastating flood strikes Wheeling, reaching 48 feet on the river gauge (1852).
 
The flood of April 19, 1852, was one of the most significant flooding events in Wheeling's history, with water levels reaching 48 feet on the river gauge. This devastating flood is documented in what is believed to be the oldest existing photograph of Wheeling—a daguerreotype showing the flooded intersection of 10th and Main Streets. According to historical accounts, the 1852 flood followed three days and nights of extraordinary rainfall. Colonel Henry Hubbard, an eyewitness who shared his memories with an Intelligencer reporter years later, described it as "such rains as only could have been equaled when Noah had completed his flatboat." Unlike the earlier devastating flood of 1832, which was caused primarily by melting snow and ice breakup, the 1852 flood resulted almost entirely from heavy rainfall.
 
The floodwaters caused significant damage to lumber yards, outbuildings, and fences throughout the city. While it was less destructive to homes than the 1832 flood and caused less suffering due to occurring in spring rather than winter, the impact was nevertheless extensive. Historical accounts indicate that water filled cellars in the downtown area, with skiffs being rowed up to the Exchange bank steps and along Water Street. The flood completely covered Wheeling Island except for a small elevated area in the yard of the Berger place.
 
The 1852 flood wasn't limited to Wheeling; it affected much of the Northeast. On the Potomac River, it surged with higher waters than a previous 1847 flood, causing an estimated $80,000 in damage (in 1852 dollars) to dams and infrastructure between Georgetown and Seneca. In Pittsburgh, the river reached 35.1 feet on the same day, making it one of the most significant floods recorded there at that time.
 
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/bdeuezh2) (https://tinyurl.com/5937vt9j) (https://tinyurl.com/4wezhsj3) (https://tinyurl.com/5cb3k2hd) (https://tinyurl.com/2jcdw7hh); Long Term Forecasts of Ohio River Floods (https://tinyurl.com/3f5dn3xr), National Weather Service (https://tinyurl.com/wcaw6nm8), Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/bdhfv2hz), Brookline Connection (https://tinyurl.com/hyjnscty
 
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV

​Today in Wheeling History: April 18—Edna Hall Scott Kump, future First Lady of West Virginia and alumna of Wheeling’s Mount de Chantal Visitation Academy, was born in Beverly, West Virginia (1887).
 
Edna Hall Scott Kump (1887–1957) was a distinguished figure in West Virginia’s history, known for her role as the First Lady of the state from 1933 to 1937. Born on April 18, 1887, in Beverly, Randolph County, West Virginia, she spent her formative years in the region. Edna attended the prestigious Mount de Chantal Visitation Academy in Wheeling, an institution renowned for its fine arts and academic programs. Her education there played a significant role in shaping her civic-mindedness and poise.
 
In 1907, Edna married Herman Guy Kump, who would later serve as the 19th Governor of West Virginia. As First Lady, she continued the tradition of enhancing the Governor’s Mansion gardens and was known for her love of horseback riding at the family farm. The couple had seven children, and Edna was deeply involved in their upbringing while supporting her husband’s political career. After leaving the Governor’s Mansion, the Kumps returned to Elkins, West Virginia. Edna passed away on January 19, 1957, at the age of 69 and was laid to rest in Beverly Cemetery in Randolph County.
 
To learn more: Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/545ntfrh), Find a Grave Memorial (https://tinyurl.com/3xbarfua), Weelunk  (https://tinyurl.com/4xah7v5c)
 
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling WV: West Virginia History OnView, Find a Grave, Wikimedia Commons

Today in Wheeling History: April 18—Susan Weigand Knight, a dedicated social worker and mental health advocate, passed away at Wheeling Hospital after a life committed to helping others (2024).
 
Susan Kay Weigand Knight (1968–2024) was a compassionate and accomplished individual who dedicated her life to serving others. Born on November 22, 1968, in Wheeling, West Virginia, she grew up in the community and graduated from Wheeling Central Catholic High School in 1987. Susan pursued higher education at Wheeling Jesuit College, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology, and later obtained a master's degree in social work from West Virginia University. Her career spanned decades in the fields of mental health, hospice care, and social work, where she made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.
 
Susan also served as a 1st Lieutenant in the West Virginia Army National Guard and the Florida Army National Guard, where she worked as a behavioral health officer. Known for her zest for life, she was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, enjoyed golfing, and cherished her pets. Susan passed away on April 18, 2024, at Wheeling Hospital. Her legacy of kindness and service continues to inspire those who knew her.
 
To learn more: Reasner Funeral Home Obituary (https://tinyurl.com/4ckbkk4v)
 
Photo caption and credit: Susan Weigand Knight (Reasner Funeral Home)

Today in Wheeling History: April 17--Chris Booker, nationally renowned radio and TV personality who got his start in broadcasting at WOMP-FM 100.5, a classic hits radio station serving the Wheeling area, while attending West Liberty State College, was born in New Martinsville, West Virginia (1971).

Chris Booker is an American radio and TV personality whose broadcasting career began in the Wheeling area. Born in New Martinsville (about 32 miles south of Wheeling) on April 17, 1971, Booker's professional journey started while attending West Liberty State College in 1989. After graduating from Magnolia High School in New Martinsville that same year, Booker got his first break in radio at WOMP-FM in Bellaire, Ohio, which serves the Wheeling market. Booker attended West Liberty State College for two years before his radio career took off. In 1992, he began what he called his "gypsy years radio tour," working as an on-air personality and music director at various stations across the country. Booker has since built an impressive career spanning multiple major markets, including New York City and Los Angeles. He has worked at legendary stations like K-Rock in New York, where he connected with Howard Stern, and has served as a VJ for MTV and MTV2. Currently, he co-hosts "ALT Afternoons with Booker and Stryker" on ALT 98.7 in Los Angeles and works middays on Rock 105.3 in San Diego. Booker also co-hosts "The Perez Hilton Podcast with Chris Booker," which he has done since 2015.
 
To learn more: Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/yc6xw9pp), West Liberty University (https://tinyurl.com/5btsmnx7), Barrett Media (https://tinyurl.com/5asc5wjn)
 
Photo caption and credit: Chris Booker, American radio and TV personality known for his work on major market stations and as an MTV VJ. [Photo by Chris Booker, CC BY-SA 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons)]

​Today in Wheeling History: April 16--Arch Alfred Moore Jr., future governor of West Virginia, was born in Moundsville, where he would later represent Wheeling and surrounding region in the U.S. House of Representatives and play a significant role in local political campaigns and events (1923).
 
Arch Alfred Moore Jr. (1923–2015) was a prominent political figure from the Wheeling area, serving as the 28th and 30th governor of West Virginia. Born on April 16, 1923, in Moundsville, just outside Wheeling, he grew up in the industrial northern panhandle of the state. Moore excelled in basketball at Moundsville High School and briefly attended Lafayette College before being drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. Serving as a sergeant in the 334th Infantry Regiment, he was severely wounded in Germany in 1944, earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
 
After the war, Moore attended West Virginia University, where he earned a degree in political science and later a law degree. He began his political career in 1952 as a state legislator and served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1957 to 1969, representing West Virginia's 1st Congressional District, which includes Wheeling. Moore was actively involved in political campaigns and events in Wheeling, including Richard Nixon's campaign visit to the city in 1964, where Moore was among the Republican candidates supported. Moore was elected governor in 1968 and served two non-consecutive terms, focusing on infrastructure and economic development. Despite his achievements, his career ended in controversy due to corruption charges, leading to a prison sentence in the 1990s.
 
Moore passed away on January 7, 2015, in Charleston, West Virginia, leaving a complex legacy.
 
To learn more: Find a Grave (https://tinyurl.com/y3jy8j96), Wikipedia (https://tinyurl.com/3dz8pwz3)
 
Photo credits: Find a Grave, State of West Virginia, West Virginia & Regional History Center

​Today in Wheeling History: April 15--A major building campaign for Wheeling's YWCA was launched, leading to the construction of its administration and residence hall (1912).
 
The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Wheeling has stood as a symbol of empowerment and community support since its establishment on April 9, 1906. Created to provide a safe haven and essential resources for women, the organization addressed their social, educational, and physical needs. Mrs. John B. Garden played a key role as temporary chairperson during the founding meeting, with Mrs. Robert J. Reed elected as the first organizing president. Among the initial board of directors were notable figures such as Mrs. E.A. Hildreth and Miss Emily Shephard, who contributed significantly to the organization's foundation.
 
Initially operating out of rented spaces on Chapline Street and later in the Schenk building on Market Street, the YWCA quickly grew in scope. Recognizing the need for a permanent location, a transformative building campaign began on April 15, 1912. Mrs. Alexander Young led the effort as financial chairperson, securing funds for an administration building and residence hall. Completed by 1915, this structure became a hub for physical fitness, career development, and racial integration programs. The Blue Triangle Branch, established in 1921, notably supported African American women and girls, championing racial equality even amidst segregation. Integration of the YWCA by 1956 marked another milestone in its history.
 
Today, the YWCA Wheeling continues its mission of empowering women and advocating for social justice, honoring the legacy of its founders.
 
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/k2zw2scj) (https://tinyurl.com/4zh4uxy9); Wheeling Daily Register (https://tinyurl.com/89x5efh6), Wheeling Intelligencer (https://tinyurl.com/29rhdc4n), YWCA Wheeling (https://tinyurl.com/55u9cxnh)
 
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV