Buchanan Plaid

Buchanan Plaid. Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike. , Completed in 1847, the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike entered Buckhannon on what is now Island Avenue, crossed the river through a covered bridge, and proceeded west down Main Street. The turnpike significantly contributed to the growth of what was then a back country town., Many local residents, including Jacob and Marshall Lorentz, "subscribed" to the building of this road. Western Mills was the largest subscriber, with an amount of $175. Interestingly, the turnpike passed in front of his tavern and common house at Ellamore., What's in a Name? , Colonel John Buchanan, a Scotsman, was an influential political and military figure on the western front of Virginia. The river and town were likely named after him. The spelling changed several times throughout the years until it finally became Buckhannon in 1832., During the Civil War, Upshur County remained predominantly pro-Union, although it had strongly divided loyalties. Because the turnpike was the main route through the area, both armies frequently passed through and "captured" the town., (Caption):, Early stagecoach used on the turnpike, parked at the team changing barn of Blair House on the hillside above Buckhannon. , Upshur County Historical Society , Howard Hiner/Hode Clark Collection