A historical marker in Mercer County, WV, stands in front of a preserved log cabin, detailing the site of Andrew Davidson’s pioneer home and its tragic past during early frontier conflicts.

Historical Sites

History runs deep in Mercer County, with stories waiting to be uncovered at every turn. Step back in time and trace the footsteps of those who shaped our region. Walk the same ground where Civil War battles unfolded, forever altering the course of our land. Stand where locomotives once roared through bustling rail depots, fueling industry and dreams. Explore the depths of the coal mines that powered communities and built legacies. Along the way, discover the untold stories of early settlers and Black leaders whose resilience and vision helped shape both Mercer County and Appalachia.

The Dr. Robert B. McNutt House in Princeton, WV, stands as a preserved Civil War site, with historical signage highlighting its role as a Union headquarters and hospital during the conflict.

Civil War

Mercer County played a pivotal role in the Civil War, with key sites preserved throughout the region — including the first stop along the West Virginia Civil War Trail. Visit the Union Headquarters and hospital, stand where the Battle of Pigeon Roost unfolded and explore artifacts at the Mercer County War Museum.

Spacious, bright room with tall windows, white walls, and polished wood floors inside the Princeton Railroad Museum in Mercer County, West Virginia, filled with historic railroad artifacts, photos, and display cases

Coal & Railroad

Coal and railroads shaped Mercer County, turning small towns into industrial powerhouses. Take a driving tour to see the railroad capitals of Bluefield and Princeton, marvel at the well-preserved Victorian homes of coal barons in Bramwell and pay tribute to miners who lost their lives in tragic disasters.

A historical marker in Bluefield, WV, honors Hotel Thelma, established in 1949 by Thelma Stone as a safe haven for African Americans during segregation, listed in the Green Book and frequented by performers of the era.

Black History

Mercer County’s Black history is rich with influential figures and historic landmarks that tell a story of strength and progress. Tour historic schools, churches and community hubs that played a vital role in shaping our towns. Visit legendary hotels and sites that once served as gathering places for leaders and changemakers.

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Historical marker sign and stone fountain surrounded by flowers at the start of the Bluefield Historical Home Driving Tour, with trees and a blue sky in the background.

Bluefield, WV

Bluefield Historical Home Driving Tour

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Outdoor Vietnam Veterans Memorial made of stone with engraved text, surrounded by colorful flower beds and flagpoles flying various flags, set against a cloudy sky.

Princeton, WV

Vietnam Memorial

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Overgrown amusement park ride surrounded by trees and tall grass at Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park, with a few visitors walking nearby under a sunny sky.

Rock, WV

Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park

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Mercer County Poor Farm Cemetery

Princeton, WV

Mercer County Poor Farm Cemetery

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Entrance to the One Thin Dime Museum in a historic brick building with a bright yellow and green door, two American flags displayed on either side, and flower planters with black and white checkered bases.

Bluefield, WV

The One Thin Dime Museum

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Clay Memorial Park

Kegley, WV

Clay Memorial Park

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Stone government building with tall columns, an American flag on a pole, and a historic cannon on the lawn in front of the Mercer County War Museum in Princeton, West Virginia

Princeton, WV

Mercer County War Museum

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Informational sign for East End Walking Trail Tour, featuring a map and photos of notable locations, mounted outdoors in a grassy area.

Bluefield , WV

East End Walking Trail

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Todd Flat Historical School entrance with a white door, school bell on a post, and a sign beside the doorway on the white wooden exterior.

Princeton , WV

Todd Flat Historical School

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Front view of the Mercer County Agricultural Museum, a small gray building with white trim and a sign on the window displaying the museum's name. A simple wooden ramp and stairs lead to the entrance.

Princeton, WV

Mercer County Agricultural Museum

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Blue, two-story Princeton Railroad Museum with white trim, large windows, and a covered front walkway with benches and flower planters.

Princeton, WV

Princeton Railroad Museum

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Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center with a red metal roof, wide overhangs, and cream-colored walls, surrounded by landscaped bushes and a grassy lawn under a partly cloudy sky.

Bramwell, WV

Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center

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Eastern Regional Coal Archives

Bluefield, WV

Eastern Regional Coal Archives

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Sign for the Dr. Robert B. McNutt House, a historic 1840s home with light siding and a red brick chimney.

Princeton, WV

The McNutt House

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Plaque on a moss-covered rock marking the home of Joseph Davidson, in front of a historic log and stone cabin.

Bluefield, Virginia

The Davidson Cabin

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