Keyser, West Virginia

Keyser is a city located in Mineral County, West Virginia. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 5,303. Keyser is the "Friendliest City in the U.S.A." It is the county seat of Mineral County{{GR|6}}.

History

Keyser was originally called Paddy Town after Patrick McCarty, son of one of the original settlers. With the coming of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in 1852, the destiny of the area changed from a quiet rural community to a thriving industrial center. The name was changed to New Creek Station and then to New Creek. In 1861 the Civil War came rumbling through the valley. Fort Fuller was built on the present site of Potomac State College, and Fort Piano entrenchments were established on New Creek Mountain.

Related Topics:
Baltimore and Ohio Railroad - New Creek - Potomac State College

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Because of the importance of the railroad, the town changed hands 14 times.

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At the time, West Virginia became a state in 1863 there was some contention between Piedmont and New Creek over the location of the county seat. As an inducement to have the county seat located in New Creek, the Davis brothers donated land for the courthouse in 1867 and is still in use.

Related Topics:
West Virginia - Piedmont

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In 1874, the town was incorporated as ?Keyser? to honor William Keyser, Vice President of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Supposedly, intended to gain favor with Mr. Keyser and the railroad to ensure that they would move all rail operations from Piedmont to Keyser.

Related Topics:
William Keyser - Baltimore and Ohio Railroad

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