It’s National Trivia Day! There are many interesting facts and tidbits that folks don’t know about Williamson and Mingo County. The area is a treasure-trove of historic sites, and through the
years, it’s seen its share of stories.
Fascinating Locations and Famous Visitors
The Mountaineer Hotel, first built in 1925, boasts its fair share of famous guests. President John F. Kennedy stayed at the hotel during his 1960 visit. Other famous visitors include First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Loretta Lynn, and June Carter Cash.
The Williamson Field House, built in the 1950s, has also seen its fair share of famous guests. In 1987, Oprah Winfrey visited the city early in her career to film an episode of the Oprah Winfrey Show at the Field House. The Field House has also hosted multiple major sporting events, including numerous Harlem Globetrotters Games and an International Boxing Federation light heavyweight world title fight.
Local History
Williamson and the surrounding area is best known for the Hatfield-McCoy feud, which took place in the late 1800s. Though the story is now familiar, it is a lesser-known fact that there was a romantic relationship between the families in the middle of the feud. The relationship between Roseanna McCoy and Johnse Hatfield has been described as an Appalachian Romeo and Juliet story, and escalated the feud between their families.
The area was also prominent during the historic Coal Wars, when mineworkers battled mine management over mistreatment and exploitation. Multiple important moments occurred in and around Mingo County, including the Matewan Massacre, when miners faced off with agents sent by management.
Paranormal Encounters
Many folks do not know that Williamson is a great location for those interested in the paranormal. There are multiple spots in the area rumored to be haunted or otherwise paranormal.
The Dingess Tunnel is one of the most infamous locations in the area. Built in the late 19th century, the tunnel has a long and violent history beginning even during its construction. It is rumored by locals to be haunted, with some claiming to have heard mysterious voices while driving through.
The tunnel isn’t the only location in the area rumored to be paranormal in nature. Residents near Delbaration, West Virginia have claimed many sightings of mysterious “white things” throughout the years. “White things” are a popular part of West Virginia folklore, and have been “sighted'' throughout the state. They are described as massive, pale, and wolf-like, and they are regarded as being violent or even bad omens.
From local history to spooky encounters, Williamson is full of little-known fascinating stories and facts, if you know where to look. We hope you pass on these interesting facts and show off your Williamson trivia to your friends!