One Of The Biggest Names In Civil War History Grew Up In One Of The Smallest Towns In West Virginia
By Cristy
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Published May 17, 2023
Jackson Mill, West Virginia is just a dot on a map. It doesn’t have its own zip code. It doesn’t have its own school. It boasts not much more than 700 residents. But it sure does have its own big name claim to fame!
Stonewall Jackson, born on January 21, 1824, was a renowned Confederate general during the American Civil War. However, before becoming a military leader, he grew up as Thomas Jonathan Jackson in Jackson Mill, West Virginia (then Virginia).
Jackson's childhood was marked by tragedy; both parents died when he was a young boy. He was raised by an uncle on Jackson's Mill in Jackson Mill, West Virginia, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for learning. Jackson excelled in his studies and became a teacher at the young age of 18.
Jackson's early life in West Virginia also set the stage for his strong religious beliefs, which would later define him. He was raised as a Presbyterian and attended church regularly, even teaching Sunday school. He also attended the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia, and became a professor there after the Civil War began.
As a military leader, Jackson's tactics and strategies were often unconventional and unorthodox. However, his success on the battlefield earned him the nickname "Stonewall," which was given to him during the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861.
Jackson became one of the most distinguished and revered Confederate generals of the Civil War. His life was tragically cut short when he was accidentally shot by his own troops at the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863.
Today, Stonewall Jackson is remembered not only for his military achievements but also for his unique and influential leadership style. Growing up in Jackson Mill, West Virginia played a significant role in shaping his character and beliefs, setting him on the path to become one of the most well-known figures of the Civil War era.
Also today, you can still visit Stonewall Jackson's boyhood hometown. Located in the south-central part of Lewis County, Jackson Mill is named after the original Jackson to settle here, Edward, a sawmill owner who built a mill on the West Fork River in the early 1800s.
Over the next century, Jackson Mill became a bustling industrial town and an important center for agriculture and commercial activities in the region. Nowadays, though, Jackson Mill is a quiet community known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and rich history.
Visitors can explore the historic landmarks (including Jackson's Mill) and enjoy the outdoor recreational opportunities in and around the town. A few small stores (like the Corner Mart) call this town home as well.
Have you ever visited the small town with a big claim to fame, Jackson Mill, West Virginia? Learn a little more about visiting Jackson’s Mill on the WVU website . And while you are in the area, consider a stop at the nearby Museum of American Glass in Weston.
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Jackson's Mill, Kincheloe, WV 26378, USA