Becoming the Town of Fayetteville
Fayetteville’s history traces back to 1837, to a small community called Vandalia, where Revolutionary War soldier Abraham Vandal lived and farmed. On November 21,1872, Vandalia was incorporated as the Town of Fayetteville in honor of Marquis de Lafayette. Since that time, Fayetteville has been a part of fascinating Civil War stories, and our area has been immersed in the boom of timber, coal and railroad history. Protected by the National Park Service, the New River Gorge is a destination for adventurers, and Fayetteville became an outdoor mecca for the tourism industry. Whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking and biking are all thriving activities here. Read more about the history and development of Fayetteville and the New River Gorge area through the National Park Service.