Some say it started with a pig.
History will show the squabbles between two families on the border of Kentucky and West Virginia, the Hatfields on the West Virginia side of the Tug Fork of the Big Sandy River and the McCoys on the Kentucky side, probably started from the bad blood resulting from the Civil War. But many still think it was caused by that dang pig.
William Anderson Hatfield, known as “Devil Anse” was the leader of the Hatfield family and he had a Cousin Floyd Hatfield, who had possession of the pig in question in 1878. Randolph “Ol’ Ran’l” McCoy, head of the McCoy family, claimed ownership of said porker and things went downhill from there. The issue of the pig was heard by a local Justice of the Peace, Anderson “Preacher Anse” Hatfield, so three guesses who got keep the pig. The main witness in the hearing on the pig, a Hatfield, was later killed by two McCoy brothers and they were found not guilty in the trial as it was ruled self-defense. That must have been some pig.
The Hatfield and McCoy feud is widely considered the most famous war between two families in American history and the name “Hatfield and McCoy” has become synonymous with any bitter feud or rivalry. Thankfully we are past all that now and the Hatfield and McCoy names are now associated with something much more positive, the biggest ATV trail system in the country.
Unless you have been living under that proverbial rock I am always telling you about you know that trail riding on four wheelers, side by side off road vehicles, and dirt bike motorcycles is big right now, really big. Many people have turned to this exciting yet relaxing activity as their main form of recreation, they just want to get on their machine and ride through the mountains! The question for many is where can I do that?
For over 20 years the Hatfield and McCoy Trail has brought ATV riders from all over the world to southern West Virginia, introducing people to the beauty of the Mountain State and bringing lifeblood to local economies. The Hatfield and McCoy Trail now includes hundreds of miles of trails in some of the most rugged country east of the Big Muddy with more trails being planned in the future.
“I have seen countless people from all over the country, from states such as Florida, California, Texas, Iowa, and New York, even Canada and from other countries,” said Isaiah Tuck, a Division of Natural Resources Police Officer. DNR Officers patrol the Hatfield and McCoy Trail to enforce safety laws and assist ATV riders on the trail. “It wasn’t long ago that I met riders who came from Ukraine just for the experience. These riders come to enjoy the trails surrounded by the gorgeous scenery and the wildlife of West Virginia. It’s not uncommon to see deer, turkey, grouse, rabbits, and bear while they are here.” Isaiah told me the trails are open year-round and no matter what season, there’s always something to see. Another big attraction for trail riders is the many small towns and cities that these trails are close to. Riders often enjoy the local restaurants and businesses here in West Virginia.
“There are currently seven trail systems,” Isaiah said. “The “Warrior” trail system is scheduled to open on Labor Day of this year in War, WV. These provide off-road and outdoor enthusiasts access to over 700 miles of scenic trails inside our beautiful state.” The Hatfield-McCoy trails attract a wide range of individuals, lifelong riders to beginners, from all over the world to enjoy what many know to be “almost heaven.”
“On any given day I could come across well over two hundred riders while I patrol the trails, and my first priority is the safety of the riders,” Isaiah said. “Mostly, I check riders who aren’t wearing their helmets, which is a requirement to be on the trail.” The DNR Officers also make sure individuals are adhering to the Hatfield McCoy trail rules, including items such as each rider must purchase a Trail Permit, no alcohol is allowed on the trail, no riders under the age of 6, and no riding after dark. “Typically, riders understand and obey the rules,” Officer Tuck said.
The day I rode the Pinnacle Creek section of the Hatfield and McCoy Trail I talked to many riders from all over the map. Mostwere amazed there is a trail system where they can basically unload their machine and ride for hours in rugged mountains without ever crossing a main highway. Most states and urban areas have nothing like this and the Hatfield McCoy Trail is an easy day drive for most of the eastern United States.
In 2003 descendants of Devil Anse Hatfield and Ran’l McCoy came together and declared an official end to the Hatfield McCoy feud. The feud is over and the pig is long gone, but there are hundreds of miles of trails for you to ride in the mountains of West Virginia. Don’t wait too long to come and experience it. www.trailsheaven.com
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