West Virginia

The Mountain State

West Virginia is a state shaped by the Appalachian Mountains, rivers, forests, coalfields, railroads, small towns, craftsmanship, music, and generations of families connected to mountain communities. Native peoples traveled and lived throughout the region long before European settlement expanded westward through the Appalachian frontier. West Virginia became the 35th state in 1863. Coal mining became one of the state's defining industries, supplying energy that helped power American factories, railroads, cities, and industrial growth. Timber, natural gas, chemicals, glassmaking, manufacturing, and rail transportation also played important roles. Charleston developed as the state capital and largest city, while Huntington, Morgantown, Wheeling, Beckley, Parkersburg, and other communities grew around transportation, education, industry, and regional commerce. West Virginia's mountains and rivers now support a growing outdoor recreation and tourism economy, including hiking, rafting, fishing, climbing, and mountain biking. The New River Gorge has become one of the state's best-known natural landmarks. Appalachian music, quilting, woodworking, food traditions, storytelling, and family gatherings remain important parts of West Virginia culture. The state's story is one of mountain life, hard work, natural resources, close communities, and people whose traditions have remained strong across generations.

I've been there.
I know that place.
West Virginia is part of my story.

WEST VIRGINIA
The Mountain StateExplore the places. Learn their stories. Remember the journey.

MILEAMERICA
Wear the Journey.