Community Info
Because Community Matters
Monongalia County
“Welcome to Monongalia County, steeped in traditional and progressive values to enable diverse business development. Our mountains, lakes and people invite you to visit and see for yourself what we have to offer. West Virginia is truly wild and wonderful and beckons you to Monongalia County where country roads invite you to explore for yourself.”
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Preston County
There is one rule in Preston County, West Virginia: Roam Free! The Appalachian views are inspiring, wildlife is abundant, and there is enough outdoor adventure to wear out the kid in you.
Countless customs and traditions passed down over generations are a vibrant part of daily life here, from mountain music to gifted artisans. The annual harvest has inspired the Buckwheat Festival for more than 75 years. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt served as the empathetic force behind Arthurdale, a New Deal community that became known as “Eleanor’s Little Village.” And the “free state of Preston” hosts a 13-mile section of Cheat River that presents over 30 rapids rated Class III to Class V surrounded by a spectacular wilderness canyon.
Between the mountains lie spectacular valleys with small towns full of friendly locals, eager to share their stories and learn about yours.
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Taylor County
Birthplace of Mother’s Day & Home of West Virginia’s National Cemeteries
Created by an act of the Virginia General Assembly, January 19, 1844, Taylor County was formed from parts of Barbour, Harrison, and Marion counties. The county was named in honor of U.S. Sen. John Taylor (1753–1824), a soldier-statesman from Caroline County, Virginia. Taylor County, served by U.S. routes 250, 50, and 119, is located in north-central West Virginia. The county has 175.6 square miles. Steep hillsides, V-shaped valleys, and narrow floodplains characterize the region. Taylor County population peaked at 19,919 in 1940, declined to a 20th-century low of 13,878 in 1970, and rebounded to an estimated 16,859 in 2016.
Manufacturing, government, health care facilities and public utilities are Taylor County’s biggest employers today. The region also benefits from its rugged beauty. Recreation and tourism are well established, with facilities including the Pleasant Creek Wildlife Management Area, Tygart Lake, Tygart Lake State Park, and Valley Falls State Park. The Tygart Valley River flows through the county, linking the two state parks. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed the Tygart Dam in 1938 to provide flood protection for the region. The resulting 1,740-acre lake is a popular recreation area. Valley Falls State Park, once a lumber and gristmill community, is enjoyed for its waterfalls, scenic beauty, and West Virginia heritage.
Useful Links:
- Taylor County Website
- New Residents
- Tax Office
- Taylor County Schools
- County Assessor’s Office
- Public Library
- Senior Center
- Circuit Court/Clerk
- County Health Department
- Parks & Landmarks
- Tygart Lake State Park
- Valley Falls State Park
- Lodging & Dining
- Genealogy & History
- Mountaineer Country Convention & Vistors’ Bureau