Wheeling

Wheeling (pop. 159,301), city in northern West Virginia, located on the Ohio River. Wheeling is a highly industrial city, producing products such as coal and natural gas, metals, glass, plastics, textiles, and tobacco. The city is also a shipping and educational center. Wheeling College, Bethany College, and West Liberty State College are located in and around the area. Wheeling was founded in 1769 by the Zane family. In time, it became a trading center. During the Civil War, it was the headquarters for Virginians who opposed the withdrawal of the South from the Union.