1. West Virginia Statehood Day: On November 15, 1863, West Virginia officially became the 35th state to join the United States. It was formed during the Civil War when the western counties of Virginia broke away to form a new state that supported the Union.

2. The Kanawha Valley Railroad opens: On November 15, 1869, the Kanawha Valley Railroad opened, connecting Charleston with the Ohio River. This transportation link allowed for expanded commerce and industry in West Virginia.

3. The first Veterans Day Parade in Huntington: On November 15, 1952, Huntington held its first ever Veterans Day parade, honoring local veterans who had served in World War II. Today, it is an annual tradition that draws thousands of people.

4. The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum opens: On November 15, 2015, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum opened in Matewan, WV. It is dedicated to preserving the history of the mine wars that took place in southern West Virginia from 1912-1921, and the legacy of those who fought for workers' rights.

5. WV native Katharine Byron becomes first woman to chair a Foreign Affairs subcommittee: On November 15, 1977, West Virginia Representative Katharine Byron became the first woman to chair a Foreign Affairs subcommittee in the U.S. House of Representatives. She represented Maryland's 6th congressional district, which includes parts of West Virginia.