An appreciation for Glen Ferris, WV and nearby Gauley Bridge,WV can be cultivated for various reasons: fishing, boating, rafting, hiking, sight-seeing, and etc. However, to acquire a true appreciation, the history of this lovely place requires attention. My initial reason for a visit was to do some plein air painting here. I had fallen in love with the place the first time my eyes beheld it not long after relocating to West Virginia, and I just wanted to try my hand at simply painting this jewel along the Kanawha River. Since learning the history however, a new dimension has been added to my painting here. Here the Gauley and New Rivers join and form the broad sweeping arc along which the town of Glen Ferris adheres. A list of notables have viewed the waters that flow here and took advantage of this strategic location. Names such as Andrew Jackson, John Tyler, Henry Clay, John James Audubon, Confederate and Union officers, and unnumbered civil war troops are a few. After the Civil War, the area became pivotal as coal production escalated in West Virginia. The historical Glen Ferris Inn housed many of the key players in the unfolding saga. The brick remains of Union Carbide hydroelectric plant still stands in conjunction with the dam down-river from the Inn. Glen Ferris and nearby Gauley Bridge have known both the prosperity and tragedy of West Virginia’s history. I am willing to bet just one visit is not enough for one who loves the great outdoors. Below are familiar views of Glen Ferris. They can be found on https://www.dailypaintworks.com/artists/Nan-Perry-5639/artwork. You are free to message me for information.
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