President Wilson later proclaimed the day be observed nationwide. Few states are as rugged as West Virginia. There is almost no level ground except for a few flood plains and major rivers. Mountains give West Virginia great mineral wealth, which in addition to the coal mines, also supply sandstone for glassware and most U.S. marbles, clay for pottery, and salt for dyes and paints.
Forests cover approximately three fourths of West Virginia.
Most were young people who couldn't find jobs. The population has since stabilized.