Was Charleston Ever the Capital of West Virginia? No—Wheeling Was First

Charleston was never the original capital. When West Virginia achieved statehood (20 June 1863), Wheeling served as the first capital (1863–1870, 1875–1885). Charleston became the permanent capital only in 1885 after a statewide referendum.

Timeline:
1863–1870 Wheeling
1870–1875 Charleston (first stint)
1875–1885 Wheeling (again)
1885–present Charleston