1. Birth of Booker T. Washington: On August 20, 1856, one of the most influential African American educators and leaders was born into slavery in Franklin County, Virginia. Booker T. Washington later founded the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama and became an advisor to presidents.

2. First Woman Voter: On August 20, 1920, just days after the 19th Amendment was ratified, a woman named Maude H. Chilton became the first woman to register to vote in West Virginia. She registered in the town of Ripley, becoming one of the first women in the country to exercise her newly won right.

3. Beginning of the Battle of Bulltown: On August 20, 1863, Confederate forces attacked Union troops at Bulltown, WV, in what became known as the Battle of Bulltown. Despite being outnumbered, the Union eventually emerged victorious, helping to secure western Virginia for the Union.

4. Formation of the Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park: On August 20, 1988, the Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park was officially established. The park spans over 1,900 acres in Lewis County, WV, and offers boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities, as well as a full-service marina and lodge.

5. West Virginia Becomes a State: Although it technically occurred on June 20, 1863, it was not until August 20 of that same year that West Virginia officially became the 35th state in the United States. This moment marked the end of a long and tumultuous process that began with Virginia's secession from the Union and ended with the creation of a new free state.