Union in Monroe County, West Virginia — The American South (Appalachia)
Bishop Matthew W. Clair, Sr.
Born at Union, 1865. Converted at age 15 at Simpson M. E. Church, Charleston. Licensed to preach, his first parish was Harpers Ferry in 1889. His most prominent pastoral work was the rebuilding of Asbury Church in Washington. Clair was one of the first two African Americans to become bishops in Methodism. He died in Covington, KY, in 1943 and was buried in Washington, D.C.
Erected 2020 by West Virginia Archives & History.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Religion & Religious Structures. In addition, it is included in the West Virginia Archives and History series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1865.
Location. 37° 35.493′ N, 80° 32.555′ W. Marker is in Union, West Virginia, in Monroe County. It is on North Street (West Virginia Route 3) west of Pump Street, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 65 North St, Union WV 24983, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Southern Coalfields. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, in Appalachia, and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Ames Methodist Episcopal Church (a few steps from this marker); Crook's Occupation of Union (within shouting distance of this marker); Veterans Memorial (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Vietnam Memorial
this page online
Another marker is no longer nearby. Bishop Matthew W. Clair, Sr. (was a few steps from this marker but has been replaced with another marker now near it).
Credits. This page was last revised on April 28, 2026. It was originally submitted on April 28, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 6 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 28, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
