The West Virginia Division of Culture and History has created a new exhibit for the largest exhibit of West Virginia Civil War battle flags anywhere. The new exhibit at historic West Virginia Independence Hall in Wheeling features the state’s rare collection of original flags, none of which have been on public display for more than two decades.

The 140-year-old flags were among the most popular items on display in the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston, but because of their fragile condition, they have been protected in dark storage for the last 20 years.

Flags in the collection represent regiments of soldiers from what is now primarily central and northern West Virginia. Research has shown many of the banners probably were carried in some of the war’s most important battles and campaigns, including Vicksburg, Second Bull Run and Appomattox. A few flags even have what appears to be battle damage, including bullet holes in the fabric and shattered staffs. Others flew over military headquarters or were used for ceremonial purposes for years after the war.

Person Interviewed: Travis Henline
Title: Site Manager / West Virginia Independence Hall
Location: Ohio County, West Virginia
Address: 1528 Market Street Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: 304-238-1300
Website: www.wvculture.org/sites/battleflags.html

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