1. The Battle of Droop Mountain took place on December 26, 1863, in Pocahontas County during the American Civil War. Union forces led by General William Averell defeated Confederate troops, securing control of the area for the Union and severing the Confederate supply lines.

2. The West Virginia State Board of Education was established on December 26, 1865, just two years after West Virginia became a state. The board has overseen the state's public education system ever since, with a mission to provide high-quality education for all students.

3. The West Virginia Mine Wars began on December 26, 1920, when coal miners in the southern part of the state began striking against the coal companies that employed them. The resulting conflicts and violence lasted for several years and played a crucial role in shaping West Virginia's labor history.

4. On December 26, 1929, the West Virginia Legislature established the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, which was tasked with promoting and advancing the state's agricultural industry. Today, the department is responsible for regulating and supporting a wide range of agricultural activities in the state.

5. The Greenbrier Resort, one of West Virginia's most famous landmarks, opened on December 26, 1979, after a massive renovation project that transformed the historic hotel into a world-class resort and conference center. The hotel has hosted numerous famous guests over the years, including U.S. presidents and celebrities, and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the state.