Cleaning off a dusty shelf recently, we came across an old book sale find, the "Semi-Centennial History of West Virginia" by James Morton Callahan. Among many essays, photos and tables, it includes a speech by then-Gov. Henry D. Hatfield, marking the state's 50th anniversary.
In Wheeling in 1913, Gov. Hatfield praised those who led the statehood movement 50 years earlier and West Virginia's accomplishments. But looking ahead, Gov. Hatfield urged:
". . . let us enter into a new compact as West Virginians and stand for our commonwealth as no other generation of people have done. Let us indicate in a friendly manner and in an economic way what will be mutually beneficial to the citizenship of our state and to the owners of our natural wealth and call a halt to the transportation of these great natural resources to other states, where our raw material is now being conducted, there to be converted into energy which propels the numerous wheels of industry of the manufacturers of finished products, some of which are returned to our own state and sold to its citizens.
"Why not avail ourselves of these advantages and use our influence to bring about a unity of feeling and action, to induce the manufacturer to establish his business in our own commonwealth, which will guarantee to us a greater population and a wider influence.
"Let us perpetuate this natural wealth for future generations. Let us say to the manufacturers. We welcome you to our midst with your industries. Let us join hands for a united effort as loyal West Virginians to bring about an empire of industry of the finished product class throughout the length and breadth of our state. Why should this not be done? Gentlemen, I am willing to contribute liberally to this cause and to make any sacrifice necessary for a greater and more glorious commonwealth."
In some ways it seems like no one was listening. Most of West Virginia's clear-cutting, mining and all of its mountaintop removal was yet to come when Hatfield voiced that wish for his state. Some manufacturers of finished products did arrive or grow here, but never as many as other states enjoyed. Whole factories and industries have come, gone and evolved over the last century. Eventually, the state did create regulation and enforcement to "perpetuate this natural wealth for future generations," though West Virginians reasonably debate how well it works.
Despite all that has passed, or because of it, Gov. Hatfield's West Virginia Day words are as relevant now as they were then.
West Virginia cannot merely cut, dig, drill and export raw materials to enjoy the kind of diverse and resilient economy that its people have always longed to have. People must make goods and services that others want to buy to be a full participant in the economy and society, and they must do it in a way that preserves opportunity for their children and grandchildren.
With the benefit of modern highways and communications and with many lifetimes' of experience, certainly Gov. Hatfield's aspirations could be more attainable a century later, not less.