1. On August 24, 1863, the Battle of White Sulphur Springs was fought in Greenbrier County during the American Civil War. The Confederate army, led by General John Echols, defeated the Union forces under General William Averell, allowing the Confederates to extend their control over western Virginia.

2. August 24, 1921, marked the birth of Philippi, West Virginia native and country music legend, Jimmy Dean. Dean became famous for his hit songs, such as "Big Bad John," and later became a successful businessman with his line of sausage products.

3. On August 24, 1949, the West Virginia State Police Academy was established in Institute, West Virginia. It is the primary law enforcement training facility in the state and has trained thousands of police officers since its inception.

4. August 24, 1959, saw the opening of the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette County, West Virginia. At the time of its construction, it was the longest steel arch bridge in the world and is now one of the state's most recognizable landmarks.

5. In 1985, August 24 was officially designated as West Virginia Statehood Day, commemorating the state's admission to the Union on June 20, 1863. On this day, many West Virginians celebrate their state's unique heritage and accomplishments.