In 1870, the Democratic Party won the elections in West Virginia. John J. Jacob became governor, starting 26 years of Democratic leadership. These so-called Bourbon Democrats, now with the support of former Confederates (who regained the right to vote in 1871 through the Flick Amendment) supported old Southern traditions but also promoted industry. They were in power when West Virginia began its industrial revolution.

In 1872, they created a new state constitution, which is still used today. This version eliminated the idea of townships and changed how county courts worked. It also made the governor’s term four years instead of two but prohibited back-to-back terms. Over time, voters have not rewritten the whole constitution but have made 77 changes to it through amendments.