MERCER SALT WORKS, W.Va. — The legend of the lost Mercer Saltworks near the New River in West Virginia may be remembered now by only a few locals and adventurers, and its ruins may be known to even fewer. First, no more than a salt lick on what’s now known as Lick Creek, the site was much visited by Native Americans, who passed their knowledge on to settlers. “After concluding his investigations in Mercer County, he returned to Staunton, where he reported favorably on the possibility of establishing a salt works. From W.Va. 20 at Indian Ridge Road, follow Indian Ridge Road (CR 25) approximately five miles to a right turn at Butler Scales and onto Lick Creek Road (CR 26/2) for 2.5 miles to Lick Creek and the junction of Dry Fork Run. For more stories like this, sign up to receive a FREE copy of West Virginia Explorer Magazine in your email twice weekly.