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Kanawha County, West Virginia

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Parent: Harley M. Kilgore Hop 3
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Kanawha County, West Virginia
CountyKanawha County
StateWest Virginia
Founded1789
SeatCharleston
Largest cityCharleston
Area total sq mi911
Area land sq mi902
Area water sq mi9.3
Population as of2020
Population total180,745
Population density sq mi200
Time zoneEastern
Named forKanawha River
District1st
District22nd

Kanawha County, West Virginia is a prominent county located in the central part of the state, with its county seat and largest city being the state capital, Charleston. Established by the Virginia General Assembly in 1789 from parts of Greenbrier and Montgomery counties, it is named for the Kanawha River, a major tributary of the Ohio River. As the most populous county in West Virginia, it serves as the economic, political, and cultural hub of the state, historically rooted in the salt and coal mining industries.

History

The region's history is deeply tied to early exploration and industry, with notable figures like Mary Draper Ingles experiencing captivity in the area in the 1750s. The Kanawha River valley became a national center for salt production in the early 19th century, with operations like those at Malden utilizing the labor of enslaved people, including a young Booker T. Washington. The discovery of extensive coal seams transformed the county, leading to rapid industrialization and labor movements, including the Paint Creek–Cabin Creek strike. Charleston was designated the permanent state capital in 1885, following a rivalry with Wheeling. The 20th century saw significant events like the construction of the West Virginia State Capitol and the Union Carbide plant at Institute, alongside tragedies such as the 1972 Buffalo Creek flood and the 2014 Elk River chemical spill.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 911 square miles, with the Kanawha River serving as its central hydrological feature. Major tributaries include the Elk River and Coal River. The terrain ranges from the flat, populated river valleys to the rugged hills of the Allegheny Plateau. It is bordered by Putnam, Lincoln, Boone, Clay, Nicholas, Fayette, and Jackson counties. Significant natural landmarks include Kanawha State Forest and the Coonskin Park complex.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 180,745, making it the most populous county in West Virginia. The racial makeup was predominantly White and African American, with smaller populations of Asian and Hispanic or Latino residents. The largest city, Charleston, anchors a metropolitan area that includes surrounding communities like South Charleston, St. Albans, and Dunbar. Population density is highest along the Kanawha River corridor, with historical peaks during the mid-20th century coal boom.

Economy

Historically dominated by salt and coal mining, the county's economy has diversified into chemicals, healthcare, government, and education. Major employers include the West Virginia State Government, CAMC Health System, and chemical manufacturers like Dow and Bayer. The Charleston Town Center mall and the Yeager Airport complex are significant commercial assets. Research and development are centered at the West Virginia University Institute of Technology and the University of Charleston. The presence of Interstate 64, Interstate 77, and Interstate 79 facilitates regional trade and logistics.

Government and politics

Kanawha County is governed by a County Commission and operates under the West Virginia Constitution. Charleston houses all three branches of West Virginia state government, including the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. The county is split between the 1st and 2nd congressional districts, represented by Carol Miller and Alex Mooney, respectively. It has been a political bellwether, voting for the statewide winner in most gubernatorial and presidential elections, though it has trended toward the Republican Party in recent federal contests.

Education

Primary and secondary education is administered by Kanawha County Schools, one of the state's largest districts, which includes high schools like George Washington High School and Capital High School. Higher education institutions are prominent, including the University of Charleston, West Virginia University Institute of Technology, and BridgeValley Community and Technical College. The county is also home to the West Virginia State Museum and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, which serve as major educational and cultural resources.

Transportation

Major highways include Interstate 64, Interstate 77, and Interstate 79, which converge near Charleston. U.S. Route 60 and U.S. Route 119 are key arterial roads. Air travel is served by Yeager Airport, a commercial airport with connections to major hubs. Public transit is provided by the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority, which operates bus routes throughout the county. Freight rail service is maintained by CSX Transportation along the Kanawha River, and the West Virginia Turnpike runs through the southern part of the county.

Category:Kanawha County, West Virginia Category:1789 establishments in Virginia Category:Counties of West Virginia