Sodom and Gomorrah of Today
A History of Keystone, West Virginia
Book Description:
Keystone, West Virginia, located in the heart of McDowell County, was once a thriving hub during the early 20th century. Known for its vibrant and tumultuous atmosphere, Keystone earned a reputation as a wild and lawless town. During its heyday, the town was a bustling epicenter of vice and revelry, where prostitution, alcohol, and gambling were rampant.
The town's prosperity was driven by the coal mining boom, attracting a diverse and transient population. Miners and other laborers seeking fortune and respite from the grueling work found solace in Keystone's saloons, brothels, and gambling dens. These establishments operated openly, often under the protection or indifference of local authorities, creating an environment where the law was frequently disregarded.
Prostitution was a common sight, with numerous brothels catering to the desires of the miners and other visitors. Alcohol flowed freely despite the temperance movements and eventual Prohibition, with speakeasies and illicit bars ensuring that patrons could always find a drink. Gambling was another cornerstone of Keystone's vice economy, with games of chance and betting providing both a thrill and a means of escape for those hoping to strike it rich.
The town's notoriety for lawlessness and vice attracted not only those seeking pleasure but also various criminal elements looking to exploit the chaotic environment. This led to frequent conflicts, both petty and violent, further cementing Keystone's reputation as a rough and rowdy place.
Despite its unsavory aspects, Keystone was also a community where people forged strong bonds amidst the adversity and excitement. The town's history is a testament to the complexities of life in early 20th century America, where the pursuit of economic opportunity often collided with the darker facets of human nature. Today, Keystone stands as a reminder of a bygone era, with its past etched into the lore of West Virginia's coal mining heritage.
Keystone's reputation is still attached to its day as the Sodom & Gomorrah of West Virginia.
