McDowell County, West Virginia

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Anawalt_Lake

Coalwood,_WV

WV-16

WV-80

WV-83

WV-103

County in West Virginia, United States

McDowell County

General Information
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McDowell County is a county located in the state of West Virginia, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 19,211. The county seat is Welch. The county was founded in 1858 and named for James McDowell, a governor of Virginia.

History

McDowell County was created by an act of the Virginia General Assembly on February 20, 1858, from parts of Tazewell County. It was named in honor of James McDowell, who served as Governor of Virginia from 1843 to 1846. The county has a rich history in coal mining, which has been a significant part of its economy and culture.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 535 square miles (1,390 km²), of which 533 square miles (1,380 km²) is land and 2.2 square miles (5.7 km²) (0.4%) is water. The county is located in the Appalachian Mountains, which provides a rugged terrain and scenic beauty.

Adjacent counties

• Wyoming County (north)
• Raleigh County (northeast)
• Mercer County (east)
• Tazewell County, Virginia (south)
• Buchanan County, Virginia (west)
• Mingo County (northwest)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 19,211 people, 8,327 households, and 5,123 families residing in the county. The population density was 36 people per square mile (14/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant African American and smaller Native American populations.

Economy

The economy of McDowell County has historically been dominated by the coal mining industry. However, in recent years, the county has faced economic challenges due to the decline in coal production. Efforts are being made to diversify the economy and attract new industries to the area.

Education

McDowell County is served by McDowell County Schools, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. The county is also home to the Welch Public Library.

Communities

Cities

• Welch

Towns

• Anawalt
• Bradshaw
• Davy
• Gary
• Iaeger
• Kimball
• War

Unincorporated communities

• Ashland
• Berwind
• Big Sandy
• Coalwood
• Elbert
• Havaco
• Jolo
• Keystone
• Leckie
• Pageton
• Premier
• Roderfield
• Skygusty
• Switchback

Notable people

• Homer Hickam, author of Rocket Boys

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in McDowell County, West Virginia
• List of counties in West Virginia

External links

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