Pierpont is often remembered as the "Father of West Virginia." Born near Morgantown, he grew up in Fairmont, became a lawyer, and owned early coal and railroad companies. He later helped found what is now known as Fairmont State University.

During the Civil War, Pierpont opposed Virginia’s secession and became governor of the Reorganized Government of Virginia, a Virginia state government that remained loyal to the Union, with its capital in Wheeling. He worked hard to support the Union, protect railroads, and help stabilize the finances of his government and the military in Western Virginia.

After the war, he continued serving as governor of Virginia for three years but was removed during Reconstruction. He later returned to West Virginia and stayed active in politics. Statues honor him in Washington, D.C., and Wheeling.