“What is West Virginia known for?”
Some proclaim that because of its mountains, it’s the Switzerland of the United States.
Others think immediately of its country roads (and John Denver).
Still others find themselves thinking of its ample hiking trails, mountain climbing, and whitewater rafting opportunities. And given that a portion of the state’s economy is dedicated to these types of outdoor activities, it’s no surprise. In fact, tourism is currently the state’s leading industry. Talk about using your natural resources for good.
West Virginia has a rich history and an exciting future. It is the third most forested state, creating attractions like the River Gorge National Park, located off the New River, which brings both local visitors and those stopping by from other countries. Geographically, it is bordered by Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky. Its western border is created by the Ohio River and its eastern by the Appalachian Mountains.
In 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed that West Virginia would become a state, he had no idea that there would one day be a song that so perfectly captured its energy. Today, people around the world recognize West Virginia as a place full of nature, space, and of course, mountains.
15 Fun Facts about West Virginia
These facts may not be exactly what West Virginia is known for, but they make up for it by being interesting. Here are 15 West Virginia fun facts you need to know before your next trip to the Mountain State.
1. West Virginia is the only state that is completely within the Appalachian Mountain region. No wonder so many refer to it as the Mountain State. Its average elevation is higher than any other state east of the Mississippi River.
2. Live in the country and get mail from the US Postal Service? You’ve got West Virginia to thank. The first rural delivery mail service took place in 1896 in Charles Town. West Virginians went on to be part of the pilot program that would determine the feasibility for rural delivery throughout the US. (Just one of the state’s many contributions since the time of the Industrial Revolution.)
3. The town of Harrisville is home to the US’s oldest dime store — Berdine’s Five and Dime. It opened in 1908 and has been in continuous operation since then.
4. Love forests? Look no further than West Virginia – it’s the nation’s 3rd most forested state. You can even stop by the Monongahela National Forest, which covers nearly a million acres of land and stretches across 10 counties. (The town of Webster Springs was also home to the world’s largest sycamore tree – but unfortunately it fell down in 2010.)
5. West Virginia is home to the New River. Which is actually one of the 5 oldest rivers in the world. And it flows south to north — because it was formed before the mountains. (It’s also home to an extensive range of outdoor activities – but might be most known for its whitewater rafting.)
6. If you’re looking for a size comparison for friends abroad, West Virginia is similar in size to both Latvia and Lithuania.
7. West Virginians are in a great spot to be the host. Most of your friends can come visit you because 75% of the US population is located within a day’s drive of West Virginia.
8. The Golden Delicious Apple was discovered by Anderson Mullins in Clay County, WV in the early 1900’s. That’s also why it’s West Virginia’s state fruit. Yum!
9. Capital city Charleston is home to the very first brick street in the world. You can check it out on Summers Street.
10. West Virginia was the only state in the Union to acquire statehood by proclamation of the President.
11. The dome on the state’s capitol building is higher than that of the US capitol in DC. 292 feet higher, in fact.
12. Wizards and cowboys beware. Article IV of the West Virginia state constitution states that if you’ve ever participated in a duel, you can’t hold public office.
13. Ever been to the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs? Aside from being a gorgeous tourist destination, it also sits on top of a secret bunker designed to house the US Congress for 40 days in case of a nuclear attack. It was also used as an Army hospital during World War II.
14. Hate traffic lights? You’ll love Clay and Calhoun county, where there are none. (And remember fact #8 about the official state fruit? Just another reason to stop by when you’re journeying west. Don’t forget to grab some apples – but only of the golden delicious variety.)
15. Wild onions known as “ramps” are grown in West Virginia in spring. They’re so popular that they have their own annual festival called the Feast of the Ramson.
16: BONUS FACT – Did you know that the first Mother’s Day was celebrated in a church service in West Virginia? Yup – Andrews Church in Grafton, West Virginia on May 10, 1908.
17: BONUS FACT #2: West Virginia separated from Virginia in 1861. Two years later, it became its own state. It was originally going to be called “Kanawha,” a name honoring a Native American tribe.
West Virginia is the hidden gem of the mid-Atlantic. Want to learn more about what it has to offer? Check out a few of my favorite towns: Capon Bridge, Charles Town, Falling Waters, and Harpers Ferry.
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More mountain state facts
Need more West Virginia facts? Well, you’re in luck. Keep reading to find out more things that West Virginia is known for.
–West Virginia University is widely recognized as one of the top universities in the region. It has been around since 1867, making it one of the oldest institute of higher education in the state.
-The New River Gorge Bridge, in Fayetteville, is the longest steel arch bridge in the western hemisphere, spanning 1,815 feet across the New River Canyon. If you find yourself driving over it through the new river gorge and into the state park, you’ll be greeted by the best scenery the mountain state has to offer.
-Aside from being home to the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, the Allegheny mountains provide a gorgeous backdrop for the outdoor enthusiast in your life. Don’t miss Blackwater Falls State Park or the Seneca Caverns.
-A national historic landmark, Grave Creek Mound in Moundsville, West Virginia is the nation’s oldest Native American burial ground.
-The Green Bank Telescope is the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. It can map many outer space elements including asteroids, moons, planets, and comets. It also has its own ‘quiet zone’ in order to reduce radio interference.
-Found in Peterstown, the Punch Jones Diamond is the largest alluvial diamond in the United States.
-Cecil Underwood has been the state’s oldest governor and also its youngest governor. How? He was elected in 1956 and then again in 1996 – first at age 34, then at 74.
-Looking for a spooky national historic landmark? The Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is waiting for you.
-The West Virginia state flag is almost 100 years old.
-West Virginia is the only state found completely within the Appalachian Mountain Range.
-West Virginia hosted the first land battle of the Civil War.
Towns to Visit in West Virginia
When you’re ready to explore the great outdoors of West Virginia, here are a few popular and lesser known options for you to consider.
- Harpers Ferry: This cute town is full of history and charm – and it’s part of a national historic park. The town’s significant historical significance as the site of John Brown’s Raid and its pivotal role in the Civil War make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Additionally, nestled at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, Harpers Ferry boasts stunning scenery and provides ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
- Berkeley Springs, WV, is a charming and picturesque town known for its natural mineral springs, making it a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors to Berkeley Springs can indulge in the town’s renowned spas and baths, offering therapeutic mineral water treatments that have been sought after for centuries. Its rich history, showcased through its well-preserved architecture and fascinating museums, adds another layer of intrigue to explore while strolling through its quaint streets.
- Point Pleasant, WV, holds a unique place in folklore and pop culture due to its association with the legendary creature (and local celebrity) known as Mothman. Mothman is a cryptid said to be a winged humanoid with glowing red eyes, and the town gained widespread attention in the late 1960s with numerous reported sightings of this mysterious creature. Today, Point Pleasant embraces its Mothman legacy, attracting enthusiasts and curious visitors
- Ansted, WV, is a quaint town nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountain Range, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of the main attractions in Ansted is Hawks Nest State Park, renowned for its dramatic canyon overlook, where visitors can witness the majestic New River Gorge. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and even an aerial tramway ride.
- Wheeling, WV located in Ohio County, it was West Virginia’s first capital city. Its Washington Hall is known as the “birthplace of west Virginia”. Additionally, Wheeling’s location along the Ohio River offers opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and scenic riverfront walks, enhancing the overall experience of this vibrant city.
You can see homes available in the areas I serve by clicking the links below. And of course, if one catches your eye, don’t hesitate to reach out to me to help you schedule a showing.
Country roads, take me home…
West Virginia is a one-of-a-kind state that offers endless opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors and a slower pace of life. It is known for a wide range of features, but many can be found in its natural beauty.
I’m licensed in DC, MD, PA, VA, and WV, so I can help you to sell an existing home and find your dream property in the area. Contact me today with any questions and to get started on the next stage of your real estate journey.
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