Jay Rockefeller: “139 years ago today, on June 20, 1863, West Virginia became the 35th State admitted to the Union. The only State born of…”

“139 years ago today, on June 20, 1863, West Virginia became the 35th State admitted to the Union. The only State born of Civil War, West Virginia was signed into existence by the hand of Abraham Lincoln. I am both proud and grateful to be a West Virginian and to represent my State in the U.S. Senate. I am also glad to have this opportunity to reflect on some of the features that make my home State so very special. Aside from my State's distinct heritage of industry and agriculture, one of its most defining characteristics is its extravagant natural beauty. Blessed with icy native trout streams, majestic deep-forest hardwood stands, and lush groves of rhododendron, West Virginia is almost heaven to many people. West Virginia is home to three of the Nation's most famous rivers: The Shenandoah and Potomac to the east, and the Ohio River along the State's entire western border. These and many other rivers, streams, and mountain lakes provide great places to fish or canoe on a relaxing weekend or sunny afternoon.”