Tu-Endie-Wei State Park

Historic Battlefield at the Confluence — 4-Acre Revolutionary War Battle Site, 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant, Cornstalk Monument, Mansion House Museum, Ohio and Kanawha Rivers Confluence, Point Pleasant Mason County West Virginia

Tu-Endie-Wei State Park is a 4-acre historic park at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers in Point Pleasant, Mason County, West Virginia, preserving the site of the 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant — considered by some historians to be the first battle of the American Revolution. The park features the 84-foot Cornstalk Monument honoring Shawnee Chief Cornstalk, the Mansion House museum in an 1796 hand-hewn log structure, historical markers and monuments, interpretive exhibits on Lord Dunmore’s War, scenic river overlooks at the meeting of two great rivers, and one of West Virginia’s most significant Revolutionary War sites.

The Battle of Point Pleasant — October 10, 1774

On October 10, 1774, approximately 1,000 Virginia militia under Colonel Andrew Lewis clashed with a confederation of Shawnee, Mingo, Delaware, and Ottawa warriors led by Chief Cornstalk (Hokoleskwa) at the point where the Kanawha River flows into the Ohio. The fierce day-long engagement, part of Lord Dunmore’s War, resulted in significant casualties on both sides and effectively ended organized Native American resistance to colonial settlement in the Ohio Valley. The park’s name “Tu-Endie-Wei” is a Wyandot word meaning “point between two waters” — referring to the dramatic confluence that defines this site.

Monuments and Memorials

The park’s centerpiece is the 84-foot granite Cornstalk Monument, erected in honor of the Shawnee Chief Cornstalk who led the Native American forces in the 1774 battle and was later murdered under a flag of truce at Fort Randolph in 1777. Additional monuments include memorials to Colonel Charles Lewis (brother of Andrew Lewis, killed in the battle), “Mad Anne” Bailey (legendary frontier scout), and other significant figures in the region’s frontier history. The grounds feature historical markers, interpretive panels, and cannon that help visitors understand the strategic importance of this river confluence.

Mansion House Museum

The park’s Mansion House is an 1796 hand-hewn log structure that has been restored and converted into a museum. Originally built by Walter Newman, the building served various purposes over two centuries before being relocated to the park grounds and restored. Today it houses exhibits on frontier life, the Battle of Point Pleasant, Native American culture, and the early settlement of the Kanawha Valley, with period artifacts and interpretive displays.

Visitor Information

Tu-Endie-Wei is a day-use park open year-round, with the Mansion House museum open seasonally. The park’s scenic overlook at the confluence offers dramatic views of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers merging — a vista that has been significant to Native Americans and European settlers for centuries. The compact park is located in downtown Point Pleasant, easily accessible and often visited in combination with the nearby Mothman Museum and Point Pleasant River Museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Tu-Endie-Wei” mean?

“Tu-Endie-Wei” is a Wyandot word meaning “point between two waters”, referring to the park’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers.

Is the Battle of Point Pleasant considered a Revolutionary War battle?

The 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant is sometimes called the first battle of the American Revolution, as it occurred just months before Lexington and Concord. In 1908, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution recognizing it as such, though historians continue to debate this designation.

Is there an entrance fee?

There is no entrance fee. The Mansion House museum is open seasonally with free admission.

Wildlife & Nature

Tu-Endie-Wei SP — site of the Battle of Point Pleasant (October 10, 1774) — considered by many historians to be the first battle of the American Revolution. Chief Cornstalk led Shawnee warriors against Virginia militia at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. The park’s river confluence and grounds support bald eagles, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer.

Nearby Attractions

Point Pleasant — adjacent — also famous for the Mothman legend (1966-67). Mothman Museum — in town. Ohio River — at the park.