EXHIBIT - 99(E)


                                    CONSENT


          The undersigned hereby consents to being named as a prospective
director of United Bankshares, Inc., in the Registration Statement on Form S-4
filed by United Bankshares, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
or about December 21, 1995, to which Registration Statement this Consent is an
Exhibit, and in any amendments (including post-effective amendments) thereto.




                                       /s/ J. Christopher Thomas
                                       --------------------------------
                                       J. Christopher Thomas


Date:  December 20, 1995