1. On August 9, 1861, the Battle of Kesslers Cross Lanes took place in Nicholas County, West Virginia, during the American Civil War. The Union Army was defeated by Confederate forces, which led to the capture of Union troops and a significant setback for the Union Army's early efforts in the region.

2. On August 9, 1966, a tragic mining accident occurred in Logan County, West Virginia. A methane gas explosion at the Consolidation Coal Company's Payton Mine No. 1 resulted in the deaths of 12 miners and injuries to 46 others.

3. The West Virginia State Police was established on August 9, 1919, by an act of the state legislature. The agency was created to enforce state laws, investigate crimes, and provide support to local law enforcement agencies.

4. On August 9, 1930, the West Virginia Turnpike was officially opened to the public. The 88-mile toll road, which connects Charleston to the Virginia border, was the first limited-access highway in the state and a significant step forward in improving transportation infrastructure.

5. The West Virginia Lottery was created on August 9, 1984, with the passage of a state constitutional amendment. The lottery generates revenue for education and other state programs, and has since expanded to include several different types of games and drawings.