Sago, West Virginia

Sago is an unincorporated community in Upshur County, West Virginia, United States. It is located along the Buckhannon River and is the site of the Sago Mine, scene of the 2006 Sago Mine disaster.

Also located in Sago is the Sago Baptist Church, shown repeatedly by the international media during the Sago Mine accident relief effort as it served as the site of family briefings and vigils.

The community was named by a cattleman for unknown reasons.

== Geography and Natural Features of Sago, West Virginia ==

Location and Natural Beauty:
Sago is scenically located along the Buckhannon River in West Virginia. This river, characterized by its clarity and swift flow, is bordered by picturesque hills and adorned with hemlocks and rhododendrons, the latter being the state flower. Especially in winter, the landscape transforms as snow blankets the flora and ice fragments dash against protruding river rocks, creating a stunningly beautiful natural tableau.

Founding Families and Development:
The area was first settled permanently in 1801 by Zedekiah Morgan, who traveled from Newtown, Connecticut, with his family. This marked the beginning of Sago's transformation from a wilderness to a settled community. Morgan was followed by other families such as the Morgans and Buntens, each contributing to the early growth and establishment of the community.

Economic Development and Infrastructure:
The construction of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and its branch, the Coal and Coke Railroad, marked significant advancements in Sago's connectivity and economic integration with the broader region. These developments facilitated coal and timber operations, significantly impacting the local economy.

Settlement and Expansion:
Zedekiah Morgan initiated the settlement near what is now the railroad bridge of the Coal and Coke. His sons, Joshua and Ezra Morgan, along with their families, expanded the settlement, contributing to the agricultural and infrastructural development of the area.

Contributions to Community and Legacy:
Members of the Morgan family were integral in the establishment of homes, farms, and even the local Baptist church, reflecting their role in shaping the moral and physical landscape of Sago. Their descendants continued to influence the area significantly, evidenced by engagements in various professions and community roles.

James Bunten’s Influence:
James Bunten, marrying into the Morgan family, brought industrial innovation to Sago by building mills for sawing lumber and grinding grain, which were crucial for the community’s self-sufficiency and economic development.

The Moore Family’s Military and Civic Contributions:
The Moore family, particularly through individuals like James Levin and Lorenzo Byron Moore, made notable contributions in military service during the Civil War and in civic roles thereafter, including educational and ministerial positions across different states.

Sago Baptist Church and Educational Efforts:
Founded in the mid-19th century, the Sago Baptist Church was a cornerstone of community life and spiritual education. It played a pivotal role in the moral and social development of Sago. Alongside, the evolution of educational facilities, from subscription schools to free schools, marked significant progress in community development, with several individuals becoming prominent educators and contributing to the wider educational landscape.

Industrial and Social Progress:
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Sago continued to develop with the establishment of more advanced industrial operations like gristmills and wool carding machinery, alongside further railroad expansions. These developments supported the community's growth and integration into larger economic systems, setting the stage for continued prosperity and adaptability through changing times.

Cultural and Social Legacy:
The legacy of Sago is embedded in its ability to maintain a close-knit community while adapting to the economic and social changes over the centuries. The community's resilience and the familial legacies highlight a rich history that continues to be celebrated and remembered by its descendants and historians alike.