Cody Straley Speaks at Glenwood
May 31, 2026

On Sunday, May 31, 2026, Historic Glenwood welcomed author & historian Cody Straley as he presented a fascinating look into how Confederate general Stonewall Jackson was memorialized in a state that did not exist during his lifetime. Straley explained how the "Lost Cause" movement came to embrace Jackson as one of its heroes which led to the creation of monuments & memorials commemorating this Confederate leader. Straley's presentation was well received & generated some interesting comments & questions, illustrating the key points of his lecture.
Cody Staley is eighth-generation resident of Wayne County and a graduate of Marshall University where he earned both Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in history. He is the author of numerous historical works which have been published by West Virginia Explorer, The West Virginia History Journal & Goldenseal magazine. His books include "A Constant Reminder to All": Stonewall Jackson, the Lost Cause, and the Making of a West Virginia Idol. & Chronicling Ceredo: The History of a West Virginia Town. He currently serves as the National Register Coordinator at the West Virginia State Historic Preservation Office and has successfully nominated multiple properties for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.