by Josiah Hughes. 1932. 186p

In the early 1770s, settlers began establishing cabins in the Little Kanawha Valley, with individuals like Robert Thornton, Valentine Cooper, and Benjamin Harding taking up residence. However, these settlements were not without their challenges, as Native American attacks were a constant threat. These attacks often resulted in the death of men and the capture of women and children, highlighting the dangers faced by pioneers in the region.

During the Revolutionary War, backwoodsmen from the area showed their support for the American cause. Their involvement in the conflict underscored the significance of the frontier regions in the larger struggle for independence. The frontier played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war, with settlers contributing to the fight for freedom against British rule.

By 1783, several counties had been organized in West Virginia, including Hampshire, Berkley, Ohio, Monongalia, and Greenbrier. This organizational progress reflected the growing presence of settlers in the region and the establishment of more formal administrative structures. Despite the challenges of pioneer life, including wildlife threats and Indian raids, the settlers persevered in their efforts to build communities and create a new way of life on the frontier.