1. West Virginia became the 35th state: On March 1, 1863, West Virginia officially became the 35th state in the United States of America.

2. The first black legislator was sworn in: In 1866, on March 1, John W. Davis became the first black legislator to be sworn into the West Virginia Legislature. He represented Jefferson County.

3. The first train arrived in Wheeling: On March 1, 1853, the first train arrived in Wheeling, West Virginia. This marked the beginning of a new era of transportation for the state.

4. West Virginia University was founded: On March 1, 1867, the West Virginia Legislature passed an act to establish a land-grant college. This college eventually became West Virginia University.

5. The Battle of Greenbrier River began: On March 1, 1862, the Battle of Greenbrier River began in Pocahontas County. The battle was fought between Union troops under General Milroy and Confederate troops under General Edward Johnson.