Bridge Tales: Belmont County, Ohio and Wheeling, West Virginia

  • By Teri Stein
  • July 28, 2011
  • 493
                        
Summary: A number of firsts connect the communities of Belmont County, Ohio, to Wheeling, West Virginia, including the first bridge across the Ohio River and the first federal highway to be built across the nation. A visit to this Ohio River Country area truly has something for everyone. More than a bridge connects the quiet historic charm of Belmont County, Ohio and the unique attractions and entertainment at Wheeling, West Virginia, which is also the birth place of West Virginia. The National Road, the first federal highway, connects the communities as well as sharing the “Gateway to the West” title. “The most important bridge in Wheeling is the Suspension Bridge, it connects our downtown to Wheeling Island,” said Olivia Litman of the Wheeling Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. “It’s full of history and was the bridge that was the “Gateway to the West” and inspired the Brooklyn Bridge.” The Wheeling Suspension Bridge made life easier for the pioneers following the National Road, who no longer had to ferry their wagons to cross the main channel of the Ohio River. The Suspension Bridge, a national historic landmark, was the first bridge to cross the Ohio River and was constructed in 1849. At that time, it was the longest single span for a bridge in the world covering 1010 feet. Major repairs, completed in 1956, 1982, and 1999, have allowed it to remain in use for cars and foot traffic. The bridge was also honored with the titles of National Historic Engineering Landmark and National Register of Historic Places. The city of Bridgeport, Ohio, in Belmont County, was also known as the “Gateway to the West” as many covered wagons crossed through the area following the National Road on their way to the frontier. Other bridges in the area include the tied-arch Fort Henry Bridge, opened in 1955, which connects Bridgeport to Wheeling on I-70 and then continues through the Wheeling Tunnel. I-470, which carries traffic prohibited from using the Wheeling Tunnel, crosses the Ohio River via the four lane arch Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, opened in 1978, and connects Wheeling to Belmont County. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Bridge, a 643 foot long girder bridge, connects Bridgeport to Wheeling Island. Originally part of the Northwest Territory, Belmont County, Ohio, was formed in 1801 and was one of Ohio’s earliest counties. Though enhanced cosmetically over the years “several historic towns in Belmont County have kept their ‘old town’ look,” said Deb Carroll of the Belmont County Tourism Council. In Belmont County, “Jamboree in the Hills is the most visited event,” said Carroll. Known as the “Superbowl” of Country Music festivals, the event, featuring top country music performers, is held each year in mid-July. The Dickinson Cattle Company near Barnesville is the most visited attraction. The farm raises Texas Longhorn Cattle and sells steaks and a variety of Longhorn related products at their Longhorns Head to Tail Store. Belmont County boasts three official scenic Ohio byways: the Drovers’ Trail along Ohio 147 and 800, Historic National Road/US 40, and the Ohio River Scenic Byway along Ohio 7. In addition, finding the thirteen barns decorated with quilt patterns provide another relaxing activity in the county. “The country side is beautiful. Drive our rolling hills and enjoy the scenery,” said Carroll. “Our restaurants and hotels are easily accessible from Interstate 70,” said Carroll adding that with all the county has to offer, “You’ll want to come for a visit and stay for a while. Belmont County is a quiet place to settle down and call home.” At St. Clairsville, the county seat of Belmont County, the Ohio Valley Mall and Ohio Valley Plaza provide many shopping and dining opportunities. More information on Belmont County’s attractions can be found at their tourism office located in the mall. Wheeling was found in 1769 by Colonel Ebenezer Zane. Fort Henry was established there in 1774 and the town grew around it. Officially established in 1795, Wheeling became a popular frontier town. In the 19th century, iron, steel, and glass industries developed making Wheeling a rich city some of the grand architecture still stands. One of the most popular attractions in Wheeling is the Oglebay Resort. Once the summer home of the Oglebay family, it was later donated to the city. “Oglebay has so much to offer from golf, a zoo, spa, museums and the beautiful grounds,” said Litman. Wilson Lodge offers overnight accommodations in style along with gourmet dining and an indoor pool and recreation area. Litman says Wheeling is best known for its history and entertainment. “Independence Hall is full of history and is constantly having programs,” said Litman. “It is where the Constitution was signed for West Virginia to become a state.” Many visitors to Wheeling comment that they need more than one day to take in all the attractions. “Wheeling Island Hotel Casino and Racetrack offers the entertainment and thrills that people love,” said Litman. “Centre Market is a whole area of eateries, shopping, museums, and art. This gives the visitor a two block area of freedom to explore and do many different activities in a very attractive setting.” The Capitol Theatre, the home of the Wheeling Symphony, provides a lineup of first class shows throughout the year. The newest shopping mecca, the Highlands is located just east of Wheeling on I-70 features a Cabela’s store and many other stores including Target and JC Penny, and a Quaker Steak and Lube restaurant. For information on visiting, living, and doing business in Wheeling, a mobile app is available for Iphone, IPad, and IPod from the Wheeling CVB.


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