1. In 1863, during the height of the Civil War, the Battle of Buffington Island took place in southeastern Ohio near the West Virginia border. It was the largest Civil War battle fought in the state of Ohio and resulted in a Union victory.

2. On July 19, 1905, the state's first automobile race was held in Wheeling. The race covered a distance of 25 miles and attracted thousands of spectators.

3. In 1933, the state's first airport, the Greater Beckley Airport, was dedicated on July 19. It was the first airport in the United States to be constructed entirely by the Works Progress Administration.

4. The West Virginia Turnpike, a major highway connecting the eastern and southern parts of the state, officially opened on July 19, 1954. The highway is known for its scenic mountain views and was constructed in just over two years.

5. On July 19, 1972, the Blacksville No. 1 mine explosion occurred in Monongalia County, West Virginia, killing nine miners. The disaster highlighted the need for stricter safety regulations in the coal mining industry.