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Question

What was the original name for the state of West Virginia when it seceded from Virginia?

Answer

In 1863, West Virginia seceded from Virginia at the height of the American Civil War. Consequently, the new state had a shortage of various public institutions, including prisons. In 1866, the state legislature approved the purchase of land in Moundsville for the purpose of constructing a state prison. Moundsville proved an attractive site, as it is approximately twelve miles south of Wheeling, West Virginia, which at that time was the state capital.

— Source: Wikipedia (www.wikipedia.org)