1. In 1861, at the start of the American Civil War, Union troops in western Virginia defeated Confederate forces at the Battle of Camp Garnett. This victory helped secure control of the region, leading to the eventual creation of the state of West Virginia in 1863.

2. On July 24, 1922, the town of Matewan was the site of a deadly shootout between striking coal miners and anti-union forces. The incident, known as the Matewan Massacre, resulted in the deaths of ten people and further inflamed tensions between labor groups and mining companies.

3. In 1997, West Virginia native Randy Moss made his NFL debut as a wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings. Moss went on to have a legendary career, earning six Pro Bowl selections and setting numerous NFL records.

4. On July 24, 2014, an oil train derailed and exploded in the town of Mount Carbon. The incident resulted in a massive fire that burned for several days, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes.

5. West Virginia University was founded on July 24, 1867, as the Agricultural College of West Virginia. The school has since grown into a major research university, with a diverse range of academic programs and a storied athletic tradition.