52 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about West Virginia, West Virginia situated in the Appalachian region within the Southern United States, achieved statehood on June 20, 1863, marking its induction as the 35th state into the union. This state, ranked as the 39th most populous and 41st most extensive among the 50 states, has a unique geographical placement.
Borders and Neighboring States
Bordered by five states—Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia—West Virginia spans a total of 55 counties and is identified by its nicknames, the “Mountain State” and the “Panhandle State”. Charleston functions as the state capital, while its abbreviation is recognized as WV. The region’s topography predominantly comprises mountains, offering spectacular landscapes and a diverse cultural heritage.
Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about West Virginia
1. Breaking the Sound Barrier: West Virginia takes pride in Chuck Yeager, a native born in 1923, who accomplished a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first person to surpass the speed of sound. In October 1947, piloting the Bell X-1 rocket, Yeager flew at an astounding 700 mph in level flight, achieving this milestone in aviation history. Charleston’s Yeager Airport serves as a tribute to this iconic aviator.
2. Capital City Conundrum: West Virginia encountered difficulties in selecting its capital city. Initially, Wheeling served as the capital, but the decision swayed towards Charleston. The pendulum swung back to Wheeling before settling once and for all on Charleston as the permanent capital.
3. Revealing a Secret Nuclear Bunker: Concealed beneath the Greenbrier resort lies a once highly classified nuclear bunker designed to shelter congress members and their support staff in the event of a nuclear attack. Operational since 1961, this bunker, although initially clandestine, now offers public tours, unveiling its historical significance in the state.
4. Pioneering Steamboat Launch
In a pivotal moment in 1787, West Virginia witnessed the inaugural launch of the first steamboat on the Potomac River at New Mecklensburg, marking a historic advancement in transportation.
5. Museum Dedicated to Mothman
The state houses a unique storefront museum dedicated to the enigmatic Mothman, a humanoid figure frequently sighted in the 1960s, whose legend has become deeply rooted in local lore.
6. A Governor of Many Firsts: Cecil Underwood made history by becoming West Virginia’s youngest governor at the age of 34 in 1956. Remarkably, he returned to office as the oldest governor at the age of 74. Underwood’s legacy is unique, having served as both the youngest and oldest governor in the state’s history.
7. Farewell to a Centuries-Old Tree: In a distinct display of local sentiment, West Virginians conducted a ceremonial send-off for the largest and oldest white oak tree in the country in 1938 after its demise was confirmed.
8. Livable Coal Houses: West Virginia stands as a singular location, possibly unique globally, boasting livable coal houses. Among them, the Coal House situated in White Sulphur Springs stands out, providing an exceptional and unusual living experience amidst coal mining history.
9. Danny Heater’s Basketball Feat: In 1960, local high school student Danny Heater achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring an unprecedented 135 points during a single basketball game. This outstanding achievement earned Heater a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, making it a historic moment in West Virginia’s sporting history.
10. Ancient Native American Burial Ground: West Virginia is home to one of the oldest and most expansive burial grounds for Native Americans in the United States. Notable for its unique cone-shaped structure, this sacred site stands tall at 69 feet with a circumference exceeding 900 feet, serving as a significant testament to the indigenous cultural legacy and history.
11. Weirton’s Unique Geographical Status: Weirton holds a distinct geographical identity as the only city in the United States that spans across state borders. Situated between Ohio to the west and Pennsylvania to the east, Weirton’s placement across state lines is an exceptional characteristic setting it apart from other cities across the nation.
12. Notable Senate Connections: Hallie Davis Elkins, a West Virginian woman, holds a unique distinction as the sole United States citizen to be a mother, daughter, and wife of different senators. The city of Elkins is named in honor of her husband, marking her significant familial connections to former United States senators.
13. Naming West Virginia: During the deliberation over whether to secede from Virginia in 1861, residents initially considered the name “Kanawha,” paying homage to a local Native American tribe. However, the legislators ultimately opted for the name “West Virginia” for the newly formed state.
14. Discovery of Fossilized Bones: In 1796, military personnel in Greenbrier County stumbled upon large animal bones believed initially to be those of a lion. However, an amateur paleontologist later identified the bones as belonging to a giant sloth, unraveling the true identity of the ancient creature.
15. Unearthed Alluvial Diamond: In 1928, a Peterstown family stumbled upon a sizable 34-carat diamond on their property. Unaware of its true value, they mistakenly stored it in a cigar box, assuming it to be a common quartz rock. After 14 years, upon consulting a local geologist, they discovered the gem’s actual identity as a valuable diamond.
16. The Marvelous Bridge of West Virginia
The New River Gorge Bridge, situated in Fayette County, stands as an architectural wonder, spanning an impressive 3,030 feet, making it the longest steel-span bridge in the western hemisphere. A noteworthy contrast is China’s Lupu Bridge in Shanghai, holding the global record for the longest single-span steel arch bridge.
17. The Antiquity of New River
West Virginia boasts the New River, one of the world’s oldest rivers, winding through the state and coursing towards Virginia and onward to North Carolina. This river proudly ranks as the second oldest river globally, following the renowned River Nile.
18. Unique State Formation
The state holds the distinction of being the sole state formed through secession from a Confederate state and stands among the select few to have separated from another state.
19. Last Survivor of World War I
Charleston was home to Frank Buckles, the final living veteran of World War I, whose remarkable life extended to 110 years. Buckles, in his younger years, altered his age to join the US Army.
20. The Royal Inspiration for West Virginia’s Name
The appellation “West Virginia” is an homage to Queen Elizabeth I of England, renowned as “The Virgin Queen.” This name choice resonates with the state’s historical ties to this iconic royal figure and serves as a commemoration of her legacy.
21. East Coast’s Counterpart to Colorado
West Virginia, commonly known as the Mountain State, occasionally earns the moniker “Colorado of the East.” This nickname highlights the state’s scenic landscapes and rugged mountainous terrain, reminiscent of Colorado’s natural beauty.
22. Setting the Stalagmite Sitting Record
Bob Addis, a resident of the state, achieved a notable feat by setting a world record for stalagmite sitting, spending an impressive 16 days atop a stalagmite rock formation, receiving supplies with assistance from a bucket and a supporting individual.
23. Birthplace of Mother’s Day
Grafton, West Virginia, holds the honor of hosting the inaugural Mother’s Day celebration on May 10, 1908. Anna Jarvis, the founder, initiated this commemoration to honor her deceased mother, and this heartfelt tribute swiftly transformed into a globally celebrated occasion.
24. Monumental Masonry Building
West Virginia boasts the Weston State Hospital building, a monumental structure recognized as the largest hand-cut stone masonry edifice across the United States. Erected in the late 19th century, this imposing building stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship.
25. Trailblazing Basketball Dunk
Georgeann Wells etched her name in history during a 1984 college basketball game at West Virginia University. Her remarkable achievement of successfully executing a dunk made her the first female player ever to accomplish this feat, marking a groundbreaking moment for the sport.
26. Pioneer Red Brick Road
In a revolutionary move, Charleston witnessed the laying of the inaugural red brick road in the United States back in 1873. Mordecai Levi, a local resident, sought to transform the city’s dirt-packed streets and successfully paved Summers Street with bricks. Levi later patented this innovative paving method.
27. Post-War Financial Dispute
Following the Civil War, Virginia demanded that its newly formed neighbor settle its pre-war debt. Eventually, after initial refusal, the Supreme Court mandated the state to settle the outstanding debt, marking a significant legal resolution.
28. Legislative Milestone
In a significant milestone for West Virginia’s House of Delegates, Minnie Buckingham Harper made history in 1928 by becoming the first African-American woman to hold a seat in this legislative body.
29. Town Name Quirk
Despite the state’s remarkable achievements, a peculiar incident unfolded when Mullens, a town in Wyoming County, was misspelled as “Mullins.” Interestingly, residents opted to retain the erroneous spelling despite efforts to rectify it.
30. Unconventional Tranquility in Monroe County
Monroe County, nestled in West Virginia, offers a serene escape without any traffic lights, bustling 4-lane highways, or ubiquitous fast food establishments. It stands as a haven where life can be embraced in its simplest form.
31. Global Ties in West Virginia’s Geography
Surprisingly diverse for its size, West Virginia showcases an eclectic global flavor through its towns, boasting a record for most town names inspired by cities from various countries worldwide. Among these towns, you’ll discover names like Shanghai, Athens, Cairo, Geneva, and Berlin.
32. The Political Schism with Virginia
In a historical divergence triggered by political disparities, Virginia underwent a split that resulted in the formation of West Virginia. This schism occurred in 1861, leading to West Virginia’s admission to the union as a distinct state in 1863.
33. Birth Amidst Civil War Turmoil
West Virginia and Nevada stand as the only two states in American history established during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War (1861–1865). Emerging from this conflict, West Virginia secured its unique place in the nation’s landscape alongside Nevada.
34. Commencement of Rural Mail Service
The advent of rural free mail delivery initiated in the United States marked a significant milestone in mail accessibility for rural areas. On October 1, 1896, this groundbreaking service commenced in Charles Town, Hall Town, and Uvilla, underscoring a transformative moment in postal services aimed at remote communities.
35. Unique Reptilian Residents Along Bluestone River
The Bluestone River in West Virginia hosts a unique population of northern water snakes, distinguished by their distinctive reproductive behavior. These snakes exhibit an unusual reproductive method by internally incubating their eggs, ultimately giving birth to live young. These reptiles typically range from 24 to 55 inches in length and can produce 9 to 45 offspring in a single reproductive cycle, making them a remarkable natural curiosity within the region.[2]
36. Olympic Triumph of Mary Lou Retton
On August 3, 1984, Mary Lou Retton, a gymnast of remarkable talent, made history as the first American woman to clinch an Olympic gold medal in the highly competitive All-Around gymnastic event. Her outstanding performance solidified her place in Olympic history and inspired generations of aspiring athletes.[4]
37. FBI’s Extensive Fingerprint Repository
Housing the world’s most extensive fingerprint database, the FBI’s crime data center located in Clarksburg, West Virginia, serves as the repository for a vast collection of fingerprint records. This centralized database plays a pivotal role in law enforcement and criminal investigations on a global scale.
38. Prominent Coal Production
Renowned for its significant role in coal production, West Virginia stands as the second-largest coal producer in the United States, following closely behind Wyoming. The state’s robust coal mining industry contributes significantly to the nation’s energy resources.[6]
39. Parkersburg: Evolving Identity
Parkersburg, the seat of Wood County, initially known as Newport and originally settled as Neal’s Station in the 1780s, underwent a transformation following Alexander Parker’s land acquisition. Renamed in honor of Parker in 1811, the city transitioned through various names to adopt its present identity.
40. Morgantown: Legacy and Sports Enthusiasm
Morgantown, honoring homesteader Zackquill Morgan, holds the distinction of becoming the most populous city during game days due to the massive attendance at the 65,000-seater Mountaineer Field, showcasing the city’s fervent passion for sports and community gatherings.
41. Giant Telescope at Green Bank
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory, situated in Green Bank, boasts the world’s largest steerable radio telescope. This monumental observatory, reconstructed in 2000, holds the distinction of possessing a telescope renowned for its massive size and advanced capabilities in exploring radio waves emanating from distant celestial bodies.[7]
42. Pioneering Glass Industry
Wellsburg witnessed the establishment of West Virginia’s inaugural glass-making plant in 1813. This pioneering initiative marked the state’s debut in the glass manufacturing industry, contributing to its industrial history and shaping the region’s economic landscape.
43. Emblematic State Animal
West Virginia officially adopted the black bear as its state animal symbol following a poll conducted during the years 1954-55. The black bear holds a significant place in the state’s cultural identity, serving as a revered emblem representing West Virginia’s wildlife heritage.
44. Unique Amphibian: The Cheat Mountain Salamander
The Cheat Mountain salamander, a distinctive amphibian indigenous to West Virginia, possesses a remarkable characteristic of breathing exclusively through its skin, devoid of any lungs. This extraordinary adaptation sets it apart, highlighting the salamander’s specialized respiratory system, contributing to its survival within its habitat in the region’s diverse ecosystems.
45. Clarksburg: Historical Origins
Clarksburg, bearing the name of Gen. George Rogers Clark, an esteemed American surveyor and military officer, served as a crucial supply depot for the Union Army during the American Civil War, attesting to its historical significance and contributions during that era.
46. Beckley: Legacy and Attractions
Beckley, the seat of Raleigh County, was named in honor of John James Beckley, the inaugural Librarian of Congress. Home to the annual Appalachian Festival, Beckley boasts the stunning landscapes of Grandview National Park and Bluestone State Park, drawing visitors with its natural allure.
47. Martinsburg: Quaint Town and Puppetry
Martinsburg, situated in Berkeley County and named after Col. Thomas Bryan Martin, an English-American legislator and justice, is renowned for its unique charm. Embracing its small-town appeal, Martinsburg retains a rare puppet theater, cherished by tourists for its distinctiveness.
48. Weirton: Industrial History
Weirton, once part of Holliday’s Cove, found its name in tribute to Ernest T. Weir, a prominent steel mill owner. Established in 1947, this city, previously encompassing a larger area during the 1700s, held the distinction of being America’s largest unincorporated city for over three decades.
49. Fairmont: Etymology and Scenic Vistas
Fairmont, previously known as Middletown due to its central location between Morgantown and Clarksburg, gained its current name from the picturesque overlook providing splendid views of the Monongahela River. The view from this vantage point was deemed a “fair mount,” hence bestowing the town with its present title.
50. Wheeling: Historical Significance and Origins
Wheeling, formerly West Virginia’s inaugural state capital, thrived as a manufacturing hub in the 19th century. Its name, traced back to a Delaware Indian term signifying “head” or “skull,” alludes to historical events involving settlers’ decapitation in the region’s past.
51. Charleston: Rich Heritage and Cultural Significance
Charleston, the state capital affectionately known as “Charlie West,” carries a historical legacy dating back to its incorporation in 1794. Named after Col. George Clendenin’s father, a military figure, it witnessed significant milestones, such as the laying of the world’s first brick street, Summers Street, in 1870. The city hosts the esteemed West Virginia Dance Festival and serves as the headquarters for the WV Air National Guard.
52. Huntington: Industrial Development
Huntington, featuring a bustling inland port propelled by coal and petroleum industries, was previously known as Holderby’s Landing before adopting its current name to commemorate Collis P. Huntington, instrumental in its founding in 1870. The city’s growth surged significantly in the 1950s, supported by coal and chemical sectors.
Life in West Virginia: Community, Outdoor Culture, and Economic Realities
Community Dynamics in West Virginia
Life in West Virginia is marked by a robust sense of community, attributed partly to the Blue Ridge Mountains acting as a geographical barrier. While this fosters close-knit bonds, it can also lead to a slower acceptance of outsiders and challenges in adjusting to cultural differences.
Limited Urban Centers and Access
West Virginia lacks major cities; even its capital, Charleston, comprises only around 50,000 residents. Accessing specialized medical care, major international airports, or prominent events requires a considerable drive of at least five hours to urban hubs like Washington, Cincinnati, or Pittsburgh.
Outdoor Lifestyle and Pursuits
The state boasts one of the highest rates of hunting enthusiasts in the nation, with nearly 12 percent of residents holding hunting licenses. Living in West Virginia often involves an inherent interest in fishing, alongside engaging in various outdoor activities like white-water rafting and mountain biking.
Perceptions and Educational Landscape
Residents of the Mountain State might often be labeled as “hillbillies,” a stereotype frequently associated with West Virginia, perpetuated by several cinematic representations. Despite this, the state grapples with lower educational rankings but houses notable institutions like West Virginia University, considered the state’s premier educational establishment.
Economic Challenges and Affordable Housing
The job market in West Virginia faces challenges, particularly due to the declining significance of coal mining, reflected in an unemployment rate of approximately 4 percent. Nevertheless, the state offers affordable real estate, with an average home price hovering around $108,000.
West Virginia State Flag: An Evolution of Symbols
Design Origins and Symbolism The state flag of West Virginia, originally conceived by Joseph H. Diss Debar in 1863 as a state seal, showcased the state’s coat of arms. Encircled by a wreath of rhododendron flowers, adopted as the state’s official flower in 1903, the flag featured a white background bordered by a blue stripe. This color scheme signified purity and the Union during the Civil War era.
Legislative Recognition and Modifications Initially acknowledged by the state legislature in 1905, the flag underwent alterations. In 1907, changes were made, repositioning the state arms and flower while introducing a scroll bearing the text ‘State of West Virginia’ beneath the arms. Subsequent modifications in 1929 relocated the scroll above the state arms and included a Latin motto below, creating the contemporary flag.
Coat of Arms and Emblematic Elements The central motif of the flag’s coat of arms depicted a farmer and miner flanking a rock etched with the statehood date, June 20, 1863. The imagery included crossed rifles and a liberty cap, representing the Latin motto ‘Mountaineers always are free.’ This motto commemorated the separation of the mountainous western region from Virginia in 1861 following Virginia’s alignment with the Confederacy, supporting slavery.
Unification of Symbols The 1907 version of the flag exhibited varying symbols on each side, displaying the state’s coat of arms on one side and the rhododendron flower on the other. However, the 1929 revisions aimed to unify these symbols on both sides, simplifying the design for cost-effective reproduction while maintaining uniformity.
West Virginia: Facts, Demographics, and State Attributes
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| State Abbreviation | WV |
| State Capital | Charleston |
| Largest City | Charleston |
| State Size | Total (Land + Water): 24,230 sq miles; Land Only: 24,078 sq miles |
| Population | 1,775,156 (Estimate July 1, 2021 from United States Census Bureau) |
| Statehood | June 20, 1863 |
| State Rank by Population | 39th |
| State Rank by Date of Formation | 35th |
| State Rank by Area | 41st |
| Number of Counties | 55 |
| Bordering States | Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia |
Demographic and Political Information
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Demonym | West Virginian |
| Official Language | English |
| Highest Point | Spruce Knob – 4863 ft (1482 m) |
| Lowest Point | Potomac River at Virginia border – 240 ft (73 m) |
| Mean Elevation | 1,500 feet above sea level |
| Length | 240 miles (385 km) |
| Width | 130 miles (210 km) |
| Governor | Jim Justice (R) |
| Lieutenant Governor | Craig Blair (R) |
| Electoral Votes | 5 |
| State Motto | Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free) |
| State Nickname | Mountain State |
| % Water | 0.6 |
Notable Symbols and Recognition
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Noble Prize Winners | Pearl Buck (Literature, 1938), John F. Nash Jr. (Economic Sciences, 1994) |
| Famous People | Frank Gatski (Pro Football player), Bill Mazeroski (Baseball player), Hal Greer (Basketball player), Elizabeth McLaughlin (Actress), Wilma Lee Cooper (Singer) |
| State Flag | Image of the Flag of West Virginia |
| State Seal | Image of the Seal of West Virginia |
| State Coat of Arms | Image of the Coat of Arms of West Virginia |
State Emblems and Natural Attributes
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| State Animal | Black bear – Image |
| State Bird | Cardinal – Image |
| State Butterfly | Monarch butterfly – Image |
| State Fish | Brook trout – Image |
| State Flower | Rhododendron – Image |
| State Fossil | Megalonyx Jeffersonii – Image |
| State Fruit | Apple – Image |
| State Gem | Fossil Coral – Image |
| State Insect | Honeybee – Image |
| State Reptile | Timber rattlesnake – Image |
| State Rock | Bituminous coal – Image |
| State Tree | Sugar Maple – Image |
Geographical Coordinates and Contact Information
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Longitude | 77° 43′ W to 82° 39′ W |
| Latitude | 37° 12′ N to 40° 39′ N |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone |
| Website | www.wv.gov |
| Area Codes | 304, 681 |
| Table Last Updated | April 27, 2023 |
Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about West Virginia FAQs
What is West Virginia known for?
Appalachian Mountains: Known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, including parts of the Appalachian Trail.
Coal Mining: Historically, West Virginia has been associated with coal mining and has a significant coal mining industry.
Outdoor Recreation: Offers opportunities for hiking, whitewater rafting, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Rural Charm: Known for its small towns, rural beauty, and friendly communities.
What is the economy of West Virginia based on?
West Virginia’s economy historically relied heavily on coal mining and manufacturing. Presently, it includes industries such as healthcare, education, natural gas production, tourism, and a growing technology sector.
What are some key attractions in West Virginia?
New River Gorge: Known for its bridge, outdoor adventures, and scenic beauty.
Seneca Rocks: A striking rock formation popular among hikers and climbers.
Greenbrier Resort: A historic luxury resort and golf destination.
Cass Scenic Railroad: Offers scenic train rides through the mountains.
Harpers Ferry: A historic town at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, famous for its role in the Civil War.
What are some traditional foods in West Virginia?
Traditional West Virginian foods include pepperoni rolls, ramps (wild leeks), biscuits and gravy, apple butter, and slaw dogs (hot dogs topped with coleslaw).
What is the nickname of West Virginia?
West Virginia is often called the “Mountain State”.
