What is a little known invention that originated in West Virginia? Well, some of the most interesting, most historic streets in America are made of brick. But did you know that the entire nation owes its beautiful brick streets to West Virginia? Charleston, West Virginia, to be precise, which is credited as the birthplace of this iconic infrastructure.

It all began in the late 19th century (1873, to be exact) when Charleston, a bustling river city nestled among the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, faced a growing challenge.
Matt / Flickr
Traditional unpaved roads were notorious for their dust clouds in dry weather and muddy quagmires during rain, causing constant inconvenience and hazards for travelers. Desperate for a solution, the citizens of Charleston turned to an innovative idea proposed by local resident Mordecai Levi, namely, the use of brick as a paving material.
Cristy / OIYS
Levi paved a block of Summers Street in Charleston, proving it could be done, and the idea took off and spread around the nation.
Martinsburg, West Virginia - City Hall / Facebook

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The advantages of brick roads were immediately apparent. Compared to traditional unpaved roads, the brick surface provided a smoother ride, reducing travel time and fatigue for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Brian Stansberry / Wikimedia
The sturdy durability of brick roads was soon admired, as they resisted the impact of harsh weather conditions, making them a dependable choice year-round. The careful planning that went into their construction led to improved drainage, minimizing the accumulation of water and reducing the risk of accidents caused by slippery surfaces.
Angie / Flickr
Charleston's innovative approach to road construction spread like wildfire, and brick roads quickly became a staple not just in West Virginia, but throughout the country as countless other municipalities from the east to west coast to adopted brick as a paving material.
Andrew Bossi / Wikimedia
The charm and durability of these brick roads led to their preservation throughout the years, allowing us to still enjoy their beauty and functionality in the present day.
Cristy / OIYS

Today, as we wander the streets of Charleston (and elsewhere in West Virginia), the brick roads beneath our feet serve as a tangible reminder of our state’s pioneering spirit. They embody the ingenuity and determination of those early engineers and craftsmen who sought to revolutionize transportation, making journeys safer, faster, and more pleasurable. So, the next time you find yourself admiring a brick road, take a moment to appreciate the historical legacy that lies beneath you, connecting us to our past while guiding us towards a promising future.

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