Apparently in preparation for the First Wheeling Convention a fast day was held in Wheeling, Virginia.
From the May 10, 1861 issue of The New-York Times:
PATRIOTIC FAST DAY IN WHEELING.
WHEELING, Thursday, May 9.
To-day was strictly observed as a Fast day here. Patriotic sermons were delivered in nine out of the twelve churches. The Methodist Church pulpit was decorated with the Stars and Stripes. Rev. Mr. SMITH delivered an address worthy of BEECHER. He said he would hold no fellowship with traitors. If there was a Secessionist in his congregation he wanted him to leave. Other ministers prayed that the rebels might be subdued or wiped from the face of the earth.
One company was sworn into the United States service to-day; some others will be tomorrow.
