Jul 2, 2016 3 min read

Before 1885, thousands of couples from West Virginia, Ohio and other states eloped to Pennsylvania, eager to be wed in a state that did not require a marriage license.

Due to its close proximity to the state line, the Village of West Alexander soon gained a far-flung reputation as a “Gretna Green” along the old National Road. The term “Gretna Green” was a place of clandestine weddings in Scotland.

Local justices of the peace became famous as the “marrying squires,” performing an estimated 7,000 marriages until Oct. 1, 1885, when Pennsylvania, by Act of Assembly, joined its neighbors in requiring marriage licenses.

Gretna Green will return to the community Monday during the second annual Three Ridges Fourth of July Festival at the West Alexander Fairgrounds. One of the highlights will be a service renewing wedding vows at noon.

“We were looking for a couple to get married that day, but unfortunately we haven’t found anyone yet. However, we have sent invites out to many of the local churches in the McGuffey area and from Washington to Wheeling,” said Donegal Township Supervisor Doug Teagarden.

Donegal Township is co-sponsoring the event, along with the West Alexander Volunteer Fire Company and the West Alexander Agricultural Association.

Squire Joseph F. Mayes is credited with tying the knot for more than 2,031 couples as of July 23, 1882. His father, Squire Issac Mayes, married 930 couples. Their ledger at the Washington County Historical Society claims the largest fee the younger Mayes was paid was $20 and the smallest was 90 cents. Many couples paid nothing.

Monday’s daylong celebration will begin at 10 a.m., with a flag-raising and singing of the national anthem. A service of patriotic songs and hymns will then be held until noon.

Couples who would like to exchange or renew their wedding vows will be able to sign up until 11:30 a.m.

Other entertainment will be provided by Lonesome Ornery and Mean at 1 p.m.; Cross Creek, 4 p.m.; and the Joseph Sisters at 7 p.m. A fireworks display will begin at 10 p.m.

A “Not So Newlywed” game show will be back again at 6 p.m. under the large show tent.

There will be a classic and antique car show, as well as a motorcycle run, with registration beginning at 11 a.m., and a tractor poker run at 11:15.

There also will be old-fashioned family games, a bounce house for children and a historical display in the exhibit hall.

Food will be available for purchase. Advance tickets for a steak fry are available by calling 724-484-7919.

Admission to the festival is free.