1. In 1861, West Virginia officially seceded from Virginia and became its own state. This was a result of the tensions between the western and eastern parts of Virginia over the issue of slavery, as well as the state's decision to secede from the Union during the Civil War.

2. On February 23, 1899, the West Virginia legislature passed the "Moonshine Bill," which made the production and sale of alcohol in the state illegal. This law was enacted in response to a growing moonshining industry in the state, which was seen as a threat to public safety.

3. In 1927, the Buckhannon-Upshur High School basketball team won the state championship on February 23. This was a historic moment for the school and the community, as it was the first time a team from a smaller school had won the tournament.

4. On February 23, 1954, the West Virginia Human Rights Commission was established. This organization was created to promote and protect the civil rights of all individuals in the state, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or other factors.

5. In 2012, the West Virginia House of Delegates recognized February 23 as "West Virginia Veterans of the Battle of Iwo Jima Day." This designation was made to honor the sacrifice and service of the West Virginians who fought in this historic battle during World War II.