Spencer in Roane County, West Virginia — The American South (Appalachia)
Spencer
The Siege of Spencer
— The Blue and Gray Trail —
In August 1861, a Union militia unit led by Capt. William Pell of Spencer was stationed in Spencer and charged with the area's protection. The first armed conflict consisted of three incidents over 11 days:
1—Confederate guerillas fired on the town from Tanner’s Hill (Schoolhouse Hill). Union troops returned fire and the Confederates fled. Pell ordered the Court House fortified with two-inch lumber and made preparations for siege. An estimated 400 Confederate “Moccasin Rangers” surrounded the town. First war casualty was William Pool, shot near present day Post Office by Confederate sniper stationed on Goff Hill.
2—Guerillas surround Court House. Sanford “Doc” Boone climbed to cupola to scout enemy, and was shot and killed by Confederate soldier in corn patch near corner of Church and Main Streets. Pell ordered earthworks built on Fort Hill (above present Circle Avenue).
3—Guerillas laid siege for seven days, pinning Union troops in Court House and Fort Hill fortification. A fake cannon appeared on Goff Hill flying a Confederate flag. Union troops discovered ruse, captured flag and placed it on Court House privy. (See replica of cannon and spring, also earthworks and cemetery on Goff Hill.) Mrs. Isaac McKown slipped into town and told Capt. Pell’s wife that guerillas were camped near her home, near the intersection of present day Routes 36 and 119. Union troops surprised them on the morning of the seventh day, killing two and injuring many others. This attack, and rumors of approaching Union reinforcements from Ripley, led to retreat.
Erected by Civil War Trails.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War, US Civil. In addition, it is included in the West Virginia Civil War Trails series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1861.
Location. 38° 48.114′ N, 81° 21.023′ W. Marker is in Spencer, West Virginia, in Roane County. Marker is on Main Street (U.S. 33), on the left when traveling east. It is at the court house. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Spencer WV 25276, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Capturing Spencer (here, next to this marker); U. S. Civil War (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named Spencer (here, next to this marker); Capture of Spencer (a few steps from this marker); Col. Ruby G. Bradley (a few steps from this marker); a different marker also named Spencer (within shouting distance of this marker); Robey Theater and Knights of Pythias Lodge (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Roane County Veterans Memorial (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Spencer.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 24, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 13, 2008, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio. This page has been viewed 2,072 times since then and 128 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on September 13, 2008, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Photos of cannon and spring, earthworks and cemetery on Goff Hill • Can you help?