Calls to W.Va. tourism agencies soar after airing of 3-part 'Hatfields & McCoys' on History

The Associated Press

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Tourism officials hope the popularity of the "Hatfields & McCoys" miniseries on History will translate into visits to West Virginia.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin says the drama and companion documentary were great vehicles for sharing the history of the only state created by the Civil War.

He says tourism officials in southern West Virginia are inundated with calls, and websites are getting hundreds of thousands of hits.

Callers are seeking more information about the feud and places to visit, including the burial plot of Devil Anse Hatfield and the site of the Battle of Grapevine Creek.

The annual Hatfield & McCoy Reunion Festival is this weekend in Matewan and Williamson, and Pikeville, Ky.

Tourism Commissioner Betty Carver says her agency purchased ad time during each episode.