Tyree Halfway House
R. F. Tyree
Dear R.,
The following is my response to the question in your August 1, 1996 regarding the historical marker at Ansted.
The historical marker is definitely incorrect. The story behind how the Tyrees came to own the Halfway House in Ansted and the land upon which it stands was relayed to me by Mr. W. T. Lawrence of Fayetteville, WV. The story is as follows:
The land upon which the Halfway House stands was originally part of a land grant given John Jones. Mr. Jones was in the military and was at the Battle of Point Pleasant (French and Indian War). Mr. Jones sold James Skaggs a tract of approximately 400 acres which included present-day Ansted. Mr. Skaggs built the Halfway House. After Mr. Skaggs died, his two sons sold their fathers holdings which had been divided between them. The one son sold his holdings to a Mr. Westlake and the other son sold his holdings to a Mr. George Hunter. George Hunter bought the tract upon which the Halfway House stands. Mr. Hunter was a local merchant.
Mr. Hunter sold the Halfway House property to Francis and William Tyree around 1833. Francis apparently was a more successful businessman than Col. William. Col. William tied up most of his assets in the coal business which led to his financial ruin. The court sold off Williams land in order to pay off his debts, which included at least $2,500 owed Franciss heirs. Much of the land was sold in 1/4 acre lots. Sale of these lots contributed to the establishment of the Town of Ansted.
I have not researched this story for accuracy, however, W.T. Lawrence is normally a very reliable source.
Mr. Lawrence and I also discussed the location of the graves of Richard F. Tyree and his wife. He feels, as I do, that their graves are in the Tyree Cemetery at Ravens Eye. Francis should have been able to afford tombstones for his parents graves. I feel that their markers have fallen over and gotten covered. What is your mothers opinion?
Sincerely, . M. Amick