WEST VIRGINIA LOOKOUTS
HANGING ROCK
Monroe County
Jefferson National Forest
Jefferson National Forest
September 26, 1937: "The Monroe County Rod and Gun Club has requested the State Conservation commission to construct fire trails on the western slope of Peters mountain, according to J.J. Underwood, president of the local organization.
It was explained that the fire trails and the plans for a fire tower were once begun by the CCC organization, but for some reason work on the project stopped. The action of the local club in making the request was prompted by a desire to prevent forest fires from destroying game in one of the county's best game territories." (Raleigh Register)
It was explained that the fire trails and the plans for a fire tower were once begun by the CCC organization, but for some reason work on the project stopped. The action of the local club in making the request was prompted by a desire to prevent forest fires from destroying game in one of the county's best game territories." (Raleigh Register)
1956: A larger lookout structure replaced the original lookout building.
1972: This was the last year the lookout was used for fire detection. Following this closure the lookout became a popular site for watchers of raptors. These bird enthusiasts took it upon themselves the job of caring for the structure.
February 11, 1996: "A Monroe County landmark was destroyed by fire Saturday evening, leaving only a pile of ashes where the Hanging Rock Fire Tower once stood." (Beckley Register Herald)
March 19, 1996: "The U. S. Forest Service is moving ahead with plans to rebuild the Hanging Rock Fire Tower in Monroe County, but officials still aren't commenting on the suspected arson investigation.
A Feb. 10 blaze destroyed the tower on Peters Mountain in the George Washington-Jefferson National Forest. Though not used for fire spotting since the 1970's, the tower was a vantage point for fall hawk migration and as a stop on the Appalachian Trail.
Authorities questioned two adults and two juveniles, but no charges have been made public.
Officials have the original plans for the 14-square-foot cabin, he said. The new tower will be as historically accurate as possible, except it will have a 3-foot wide observation deck, which is larger than the original." (The Register-Herald)
May 1996: A new 14x14 cedar cabin was completed.