Interesting Facts About West Virginia
West Virginia is a state located in the Appalachian region of the Eastern United States. It is bordered by Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. West Virginia is the 41st largest state in the country, with an area of 24,230 square miles. It is also the 11th least populous state in the country, with a population of 1.8 million. West Virginia is known for its rugged terrain, its rolling hills, and its diverse culture. It is a beautiful and fascinating state with a rich and interesting history. Here are some interesting facts about West Virginia that you may not have known.
West Virginia was the only state to join the Union during the Civil War. In 1861, the state of Virginia voted to secede from the Union, and the people of western Virginia refused to go along with the decision. They formed their own state, which was admitted to the Union as the 35th state in 1863. This made West Virginia the only state to join the Union during the Civil War.
West Virginia is the birthplace of country music. The genre was born in the Appalachian Mountains in the early 20th century, and many of the genre’s most influential performers, including the Carter Family, Merle Travis, and Bill Monroe, were from West Virginia. The state is also the home of the annual Vandalia Gathering, the oldest folk music festival in the United States.
The New River Gorge Bridge is the longest steel-arch bridge in the United States. It spans the New River Gorge in Fayette County, West Virginia, and is a popular tourist attraction. The bridge is 3,030 feet long and 876 feet tall, making it one of the most impressive structures in the state.
West Virginia is the only state to be entirely within the Appalachian Mountains. The state is home to some of the highest peaks in the country, including Spruce Knob, the highest point in the state. The Appalachian Mountains are also home to many of the state’s most famous attractions, such as the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and the Seneca Rocks.
West Virginia is home to the first state park in the country, the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. The park was established in 1921 and is located in the Cass Scenic Railroad Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. The park is home to the Cass Scenic Railroad, which is still in operation today, and is a popular tourist attraction.
West Virginia is home to the world’s largest teapot, located in Chester. The teapot was built in 1938 to celebrate the state’s centennial. It stands 24 feet tall and is made of steel and concrete. The teapot is a popular tourist attraction and is a favorite of visitors to the state.
West Virginia is home to the world’s largest sycamore tree, located in the town of Ceredo. The tree is estimated to be over 200 years old and is over 140 feet tall. The tree is so large that it is said that a wagon and team of horses can fit under the canopy of the tree.
West Virginia is home to the world’s largest outdoor drama, the Hatfield & McCoy Feud. The drama is based on the famous feud between the Hatfields and McCoys and takes place on an outdoor stage in the town of Matewan. The drama is performed every summer and is a popular tourist attraction.
West Virginia was home to the first state fair in the country. The West Virginia State Fair was established in 1854 and is still held every year in Fairlea, West Virginia. The fair is a popular tourist attraction and features rides, games, food, and entertainment.
West Virginia is a fascinating and beautiful state with an interesting history and culture. From its rugged terrain to its rolling hills, West Virginia is full of interesting facts and attractions. From its role in the Civil War to its contributions to country music, West Virginia is a state with a unique and fascinating past. These are just some of the many interesting facts about West Virginia.
