wv heritage and culture. @USATODAY #mountains #naturalresources #bluegrassmusic #finecrafts

To really appreciate where you live sometimes you have to step back and look at it from a different perspective. History, railroads, music, arts and crafts, and natural resources are just a few of the things that make West Virginia what it is today.

I am sure that you have probably heard of the Hatfield's and McCoy's, they are but one of the interesting parts of our state's history.

Take a trip back in time on the Cass Scenic Railroad, located in Pocahontas Co. WV.

"Much of West Virginia's history has been shaped by rail transport. Key routes were used to ferry oil, gas, timber, and the state's most abundant resource, coal."

Robert C. Byrd  playing the fiddle in 1976, US Senator from WV.

"West Virginia is synonymous with Appalachian music, and most cities offer ample opportunities to watch live fiddlers and mandolin players at bluegrass festivals."

Arts and Crafts found in the Tamarack, a showcase of local talent located near Beckley WV.  

"Many of the state's artisans are known throughout the country, upholding local traditions in the fields of pottery, custom woodwork, hand-blown glass, and jewelry."

Civil War Reenactment.

"As the only state that was created directly from the Civil War, many visitors learn about West Virginia's past through visiting Civil War sites and witnessing vivid reenactments."

"West Virginia's abundant natural resources directly contributed to the construction of much of the U.S. as we know it today." Hope that this has inspired learn more about where you live and maybe to come and explore some of the great things that West Virginia and the rest of Appalachia have to offer as well.

Referenced from USA Today.