February 8, 1865
Letter from Wheeling.
Wheeling. West VA., Feb. 1, 1865.
EDS. JOURNAL:--You are, doubtless, regularly advised, by the daily papers, or the proceedings of the legislature,--rendering any correspondence on that subject unnecessary.
The election of U.S. Senator came off yesterday. Hon. W. T. Willey was elected without opposition.
The friends of Mr. Campbell appeared pretty sanguine of success until the last hour, when all opposition to the election of Willey withdrew; there were a few scattering votes, but no other nominations. It would have been desirable to have had the office filled by someone from the 3d District, but it was not thought best to make the effort at present.
The subject of the Agricultural College is beginning to engage the attention of the Legislature. The 150,000 acres of land Scrip is in the hands of the Governor, and will be disposed of so soon as it can be done to advantage. There are several places informally proposed for the location of the College; Clarksburg and Morgantown are bidding the highest at present. Would not Charleston present as many advantages for the location of such an institution as any other place in the State?
A bill is before the Legislature making some slight amendments to the charter of the Central West Virginia Railroad. We have assurances that if such amendments are made, certain parties in New York and elsewhere will invest in it at once.
The bill abolishing Slavery in the State, passed the House, to day, by a vote of 29 to 17:Dr. Patrick making several speeches against, but voting for the bill. It will pass the Senate, in all probability, to day.
Dreary winter has held undisputed sway here for the last three weeks. Navigation is entirely suspended, although I believe the river has not been entirely closed below here. The merry sleigh-bells are keeping up their music night and day, on every street, road, or avenue to which they are accessible. ANON.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: January 1865