118-643: Morgantown is a city in and the county seat of Monongalia County, West Virginia , United States, situated along the Monongahela River . The most populous city in North Central West Virginia and the third-most populous city in the state, Morgantown is best known as the home of West Virginia University . The population was 30,347 at the 2020 census . The city serves as the anchor of the Morgantown metropolitan area , which had
236-477: A 56.6% employment rate, with 43.2% of the population holding a bachelor's degree or higher and 92.1% holding a high school diploma. The top nine reported ancestries (people were allowed to report up to two ancestries, thus the figures will generally add to more than 100%) were English (15.8%), German (13.5%), Irish (11.7%), Italian (3.9%), Scottish (2.3%), Subsaharan African (1.7%), French (except Basque) (1.2%), Polish (1.1%), and Norwegian (0.5%). The median age in
354-422: A January daily average of 34.4 °F (1.3 °C), and with a mean of 16 days with maxima at or below the freezing mark. Snowfall generally occurs from late November to early April, with the heaviest period being January and February. However, major snowstorms of more than 10 inches (25 cm) are rare. The area averages about 3.5 inches (89 mm) of precipitation each month. Thunderstorms are frequent during
472-449: A July daily mean temperature of 74.1 °F (23.4 °C) and 13.2 days of 90 °F (32 °C)+ highs annually. Precipitation is generous, with winter being the driest period and May through July the wettest. Extreme temperatures range from −25 °F (−32 °C) on February 10, 1899 , up to 105 °F (41 °C) on August 26, 1893. Following the 2010 census, Monongalia County and neighboring Preston County were acknowledged as
590-433: A family was $ 62,966. Males had a median income of $ 43,383 versus $ 32,164 for females. The per capita income for the county was $ 23,116. About 8.6% of families and 21.0% of the population were below the poverty line , including 13.2% of those under age 18 and 7.6% of those age 65 or over. As of the census of 2000, there were 81,866 people, 33,446 households, and 18,495 families living in the county. The population density
708-528: A household in the city was $ 20,649, and the median income for a family was $ 44,622. Males had a median income of $ 33,268 versus $ 24,944 for females. The per capita income for the city was $ 14,459. About 15.0% of families and 38.4% of the population were below the poverty line , including 23.3% of those under age 18 and 8.3% of those age 65 or over. The Metropolitan Theatre is the center of performing arts in Morgantown. The Monongalia Arts Center works with
826-575: A household in the city was $ 34,009, and the median income for a family was $ 47,975. Males had a median income of $ 38,257 versus $ 26,671 for females. The per capita income for the city was $ 26,017. About 12.7% of families and 16.7% of the population were below the poverty line , including 24.5% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over. The City of Charleston recognizes the Charleston Area Alliance as its economic development organization. Notable companies headquartered in
944-508: A male householder with no wife present, and 67.3% were non-families. 36.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.05 and the average family size was 2.71. The median age in the city was 22.6 years. 8.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 52.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.4% were from 25 to 44; 13.1% were from 45 to 64; and 8.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of
1062-595: A matter of Register (sociolinguistics) . A two-story jail was the first county structure to be built, with the first floor literally dug into the bank of the Kanawha River . Daniel Boone , who was commissioned a lieutenant colonel of the Kanawha County militia, was elected to serve in 1791 in the Virginia House of Delegates . As told in historical accounts, Boone walked all the way to Richmond ,
1180-676: A metropolitan statistical area (MSA) by the United States government. Estimates from 2010 put the Metropolitan Statistical Area population at 129,709; as of July 2013, the estimate was 136,133. Of the 10 largest cities in West Virginia, only Morgantown and Martinsburg have shown positive population growth since the 2010 census, with Morgantown growing from 29,660 to a 2012 estimate of 31,000. West Virginia University constitutes 913 acres (369 hectares) of
1298-624: A mine northwest of Rivesville, West Virginia . Coal is the major commodity, with a train serving local chemical industries such as Tanner and Addivant (formerly Chemtura) that require tank cars. These are trucked in and then loaded onto high side gondolas or bulkhead flat cars. Conrail was split by Norfolk Southern and CSX in 1999. CSX pays for half of the cost of maintenance for the line. CSX uses it mostly to bring trains from Grafton to load at Consol's Bailey Mine and for direct access to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Monongalia County, West Virginia Monongalia County , known locally as Mon County ,
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#17327730986751416-568: A population of 138,176 in 2020. Morgantown's history is closely tied to the Anglo-French struggle for this territory. Until the Treaty of Paris in 1763, what is now known as Morgantown was greatly contested by white settlers and Native Americans , and by British and French soldiers. The treaty decided the issue in favor of the British, but Indian fighting continued almost to the beginning of
1534-572: A time, the opening of the Charleston Town Center Mall had a somewhat negative impact on the main streets of downtown Charleston, as many businesses closed and relocated into the mall. Also in 1983, West Virginia Public Radio launched a live-performance radio program statewide called Mountain Stage . What began as a live, monthly statewide broadcast went on to national distribution in 1986 through National Public Radio and around
1652-551: A two-room school in a house on McLane Avenue in the Seneca neighborhood, and run by lay teacher Miss Sterbutsal, who became Sister M. Isabelle of the Sisters of St. Joseph. In October 1915, the pastorate of Father Peter Flynn arranged for Ursuline nuns from Louisville, Kentucky , and in 1918, under principal Sister M. Isadore, the school moved to a new building on Beechurst Avenue, adjacent to St. Theresa 's Church. On June 9, 1990,
1770-430: A variety of performances, events and exhibits in music, dance, theatre, visual arts and other entertainments. Charleston has one central agency for its economic development efforts, the Charleston Area Alliance. The Alliance works with local public officials and the private sector to build the economy of the region and revitalize its downtown. Charleston also has an economic and community development organization focused on
1888-519: Is 4 °F (−16 °C) on December 22, 1989 (during the December 1989 United States cold wave ), while, conversely the record warm minimum is 84 °F (29 °C) on July 29, 1924. The hardiness zone is 7a. As of the 2020 census , there were 48,864 people, 22,082 households, and 11,685 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,551.2 inhabitants per square mile (598.9/km ). There were 25,766 housing units. The racial makeup of
2006-608: Is a county located in the U.S. state of West Virginia . As of the 2020 census , the population was 105,822, making it West Virginia's third-most populous county. Its county seat is Morgantown . The county was founded in 1776. Monongalia County is included in the Morgantown, WV Metropolitan Statistical Area , and is the largest county in North-Central West Virginia . It is part of the Pittsburgh media market . Monongalia County takes its name from
2124-401: Is also home to West Virginia's largest university, West Virginia University , located in Morgantown . 39°38′N 80°03′W / 39.63°N 80.05°W / 39.63; -80.05 Charleston, West Virginia Charleston is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of West Virginia and the seat of Kanawha County . Located at the confluence of
2242-403: Is bounded by University Avenue to the east and Campus Drive to the south. Close to the downtown campus of West Virginia University and for decades known as a neighborhood of student housing, is also the scene of many off-campus parties and post-game celebrations including, until 1995, the unsanctioned annual back-to-school block party that would annually draw upward of 10,000 revelers to celebrate
2360-502: Is in the local area as well as West Virginia University and Marshall University satellite campuses. After the American Revolutionary War , pioneers began making their way out from the early settlements. Many slowly migrated into the western part of Virginia . Capitalizing on its many resources made Charleston an important part of Virginia and West Virginia history. Today, Charleston is the most populous city in
2478-695: Is just south of the Mason–Dixon line . According to the United States Census Bureau , the city has a total area of 10.62 square miles (27.51 km), of which 10.17 square miles (26.34 km) is land and 0.45 square miles (1.17 km) is water. Morgantown is made up of several neighborhoods, some of which had been independent towns that were annexed by the city as it continued to grow. Neighborhoods include First Ward, Woodburn, South Park, Jerome Park, South Hills, Second Ward, Greenmont, Suncrest, Evansdale, Wiles Hill, Sunnyside , Sabraton,
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#17327730986752596-581: Is mountainous. Coopers Rock State Forest , 12 miles (19 km) east of Morgantown, has elevations between 2,000 feet (610 m) and 2,400 feet (730 m) above sea level. Morgantown lies on the border between a humid subtropical climate ( Köppen Cfa ) and a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa ), with four distinct seasons. Winters are cool to cold with a January daily mean temperature of 32.0 °F (0.0 °C), an average annual snowfall of 27.6 inches (70 cm) and 1.3 nights of sub-0 °F (−18 °C) readings. Summers are hot and humid with
2714-415: Is one of West Virginia's few commercial airports. It is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) northeast of the downtown along U.S. Route 119 . North Central West Virginia Airport is about 35 miles (56 km) away by road, and Pittsburgh International Airport is about 80 miles (130 km) away. The only active rail line near Morgantown is owned by Norfolk Southern with CSX trackage rights and serves
2832-679: Is part of the MLB Draft League . Games are played at the Monongalia County Ballpark in nearby Granville . The inaugural Morgantown Marathon was held in September 2015. The 26.2-mile (42.2 km) course winds through Morgantown's seven wards and is characterized by its elevation changes. Official times from the Morgantown Marathon can be used for Boston Marathon qualification. In addition to
2950-500: Is served by Monongalia County Schools. Public elementary schools in Morgantown and its surrounding area include Cheat Lake, North, Brookhaven, Ridgedale, Mountainview, Mylan Park, Skyview, Suncrest Elementary, and Eastwood. There are four middle schools: Mountaineer Middle, South, Westwood, and Suncrest Middle. The city's two high schools are University High School , the mascot of which is the Hawks, and Morgantown High School , whose mascot
3068-853: Is the Mohigans. The latter's name is that of a non-existent Native American tribe whose name is a combination of the words Morgantown (MO) High (HIG) Annual (AN), which was the school's yearbook. The Native American mascot and logo were adopted because of the close relation to the name Mohican , a real Native American tribe. Notable Morgantown High School alumni include screenwriter – film director Lawrence Kasdan (class of 1966), actor Don Knotts (class of 1942), college football coach Tommy Bowden (class of 1972), and TV college football analyst Terry Bowden (class of 1974). As of April 2005, Monongalia County Schools employed 897 professional personnel and 490 service personnel, and carries an enrollment of 10,076 students, including 156 adult students at
3186-440: The American Revolutionary War in 1775. Zackquill Morgan and David Morgan , sons of Morgan Morgan , entered the area of Virginia that would become Morgantown around 1767, although others, such as Thomas Decker, were recorded as attempting to settle in the area a decade earlier. Zackquill and David lived here for a few years and eventually built Fort Morgan in present-day Downtown Morgantown in 1772. Several forts were built in
3304-758: The Civil War began in 1861. After the Virginia Secession Convention of 1861 and a referendum, the state of Virginia seceded from the Union . However, Charleston, like much of western Virginia, was divided in loyalty between the Union and the Confederacy . On September 13, 1862, the Union and Confederate armies clashed in the Battle of Charleston . The Confederates won, but they could not hold
3422-513: The Elk and Kanawha rivers. The population was 48,864 at the 2020 census . According to 2023 census estimates, the city is estimated to have a population of 46,838. The Charleston metropolitan area had 203,164 residents in 2023. The first permanent settlement in the Kanawha Valley, Fort Morris, was built approximately 20 miles upstream of Charleston at the confluence of Kellys Creek near
3540-647: The Monongahela River . The name Monongalia may be a misspelling of Monongahela. Alternatively, the conventional Latinate ending "-ia" (designating "land of..." or "country of..." — as in Arabia , Bolivia or Colombia ) may have been added to Monongahela (i.e., "Land of the Monongahela"). Monongalia County was formed in 1776 when Virginia 's remote District of West Augusta was divided into three counties: Ohio , Yohogania and Monongalia, all named for their most prominent rivers. Ohio County then encompassed most of
3658-753: The Post Extra and the Morgantown Times , which typically feature a few local news stories and an abundance of advertisements. Both are free of charge and mass-mailed throughout the Morgantown area. Morgantown is part of the Pittsburgh television market. However, stations in the Clarksburg / Weston / Fairmont market claim Morgantown as part of their primary coverage area. Xfinity (formerly Comcast ) and its predecessors have supplemented area cable subscribers with stations from both markets since
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3776-716: The Reorganized Government of Virginia . Notable early structures still standing in Morgantown, include the Old Stone House , built in 1795 by Jacob Nuce on Long Alley (the modern-day Chestnut Street) and the John Rogers family home on Foundry Street, built in 1840 and occupied as of 2011 by the Dering Funeral Home. During the 1970s, the U.S. Department of Transportation built an experimental driverless personal rapid transit system in
3894-742: The United States Census Bureau , the city has an area of 32.535 square miles (84.27 km ), of which 31.397 square miles (81.32 km ) is land and 1.138 square miles (2.95 km ) is water. The city lies at the intersection of Interstates 79, 77, 64, and also where the Kanawha and Elk rivers meet. Charleston is about 117 miles (188 km) southeast of Chillicothe, Ohio , 315 miles (507 km) west of Richmond, Virginia , 228 miles (367 km) southwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania , 247 miles (398 km) east of Louisville, Kentucky , and 264 miles (425 km) north of Charlotte, North Carolina . The following are neighborhoods and communities within
4012-630: The University of Charleston . In 1983, the Charleston Town Center opened its doors downtown. It was the largest urban-based mall east of the Mississippi River , featuring three stories of shops and eateries. Downtown revitalization began in earnest in the late 1980s. Funds were set aside for streetscaping as Capitol and Quarrier streets saw new building facades, trees along the streets, and brick walkways installed. For
4130-855: The 1960s. Most of Morgantown is accessible by Mountain Line Transit Authority bus system. Most service operates Monday-Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a very limited service operating on Sunday during the WVU school year. Mountain Line's Grey Line bus operates every day of the year between Clarksburg, West Virginia and Pittsburgh International Airport . Morgantown also has the Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system. The system has five stations (Walnut, Beechurst, Engineering, Towers, and Medical) covering 8.65 miles (13.9 km). Morgantown Municipal Airport
4248-521: The 2020 presidential election, by far Biden's best county-level performance in the state. Its competitiveness is due to its seat, Morgantown, home of the West Virginia University , being solidly Democratic and the county's rural precincts being solidly Republican. The rural precincts are slightly more populous, resulting in the county's Republican tilt. The county's public schools are operated by Monongalia County Schools . The county
4366-688: The Assembly approved a charter change in 1838, the school became known as the Methodist Academy. This prompted local Presbyterians to create the Woodburn Female Seminary, for which the Monongalia Academy's Rev. Moore also served as principal. The seminary closed in 1866, and its assets, like those of the Monongalia Academy, were donated toward the future university. Following the 1863 creation of West Virginia,
4484-474: The Caperton and Deckers Creek Rail-Trails. Athletic centers include Milan Puskar Stadium and WVU Coliseum , the home West Virginia Mountaineers football and basketball teams, respectively. Dorsey Knob is a mountain at the southern edge of Morgantown that reaches 1,398 feet (426 m) in elevation. The West Virginia Black Bears are a collegiate summer baseball team based in Morgantown. The team
4602-466: The Charleston area include Appalachian Power , owned by American Electric Power of Columbus , Ohio; Charleston Gazette , Gestamp , Tudor's Biscuit World and United Bank . Notable companies founded in Charleston include Shoney's restaurants and Heck's / L.A. Joe discount department stores. Charleston is home to numerous annual events and fairs that take place throughout the city, from
4720-623: The District of Columbia, and 112 countries. Some basic 2021 figures regarding the student body are: The 2022–2023 curriculum is supported by 13 colleges and schools offering 350 bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degree programs in the arts and sciences; business and economics; creative arts; engineering and mineral resources; human resources and education; journalism; law; agriculture, forestry, and consumer sciences; dentistry; medicine; nursing; pharmacy; physical education; plus programs at Potomac State College and WVU Tech . The city
4838-632: The East End and West Side urban neighborhood business districts, Charleston Main Streets. Charleston is located in west-central Kanawha County at 38°20′59.35″N 81°37′57.44″W / 38.3498194°N 81.6326222°W / 38.3498194; -81.6326222 (38.3498195, -81.6326235). The elevation is 597 feet (182 m) above sea level. It lies within the ecoregion of the Western Allegheny Plateau . According to
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4956-903: The Kanawha Valley Ringers, the West Virginia Kickers, the Charleston Metro Band, the West Virginia Youth Symphony, the Mountain State Brass Band, and the Kanawha Valley Community Band. The now-defunct Charleston Neophonic Orchestra has also performed at the event. The NPR program Mountain Stage was founded in Charleston in 1983. The live performance music program, produced by West Virginia Public Broadcasting , and heard on
5074-551: The Mileground, and North Hills. While some of these, such as the Mileground, Easton, and Sabraton, are in part or entirely outside the city limits, they are still considered part of Morgantown. The City of Morgantown contained just over 30,000 permanent residents in 2020. The city is host to about 30,000 students at West Virginia University. Sunnyside , just north of downtown Morgantown, is an older neighborhood adjacent to West Virginia University's downtown campus. The neighborhood
5192-690: The Monongalia County Technical Education Center. Three of Monongalia County's 23 schools have earned Exemplary Achievement status, according to the West Virginia Office of Educational Performance Audits' (OEPA) report issued November 2004. In 2004, Suncrest Middle became a National Blue Ribbon School for the No Child Left Behind Act . A Roman Catholic elementary school , Saint Francis de Sales , began sometime prior to 1915 as
5310-452: The State of Virginia , Thomas Jefferson gave the militia enrollment of what was then the vast Monongalia County at 1,000 troops. In 1863, West Virginia's counties were divided into civil townships , with the intention of encouraging local government. This proved impractical in the heavily rural state, and in 1872 the townships were converted into magisterial districts . Monongalia County
5428-561: The United States Congress approved the formation of the state of West Virginia , which was admitted on June 20, 1863, as the 35th state, and the Restored Government of Virginia moved to Alexandria . Although a state now existed, choosing a state capital location proved to be difficult. For several years, the West Virginia capital intermittently traveled between Wheeling and Charleston. In 1877, however,
5546-403: The United States. Morgantown has two newspapers. The Dominion Post is a privately owned newspaper which is published daily. The university-owned and student-run college newspaper , The Daily Athenaeum , is published on weekdays while classes are in session, and is provided free of charge on campus and to many businesses around Morgantown. There are also other local quasi-newspapers such as
5664-720: The Walker Theatre, the Avampato Discovery Museum and the Juliet Art Museum . Also on site is the ElectricSky Theater, a 175-seat combination planetarium and dome-screen cinema. Movies shown at the theatre include educational large format ( 70 mm ) presentations and are often seen in similar Omnimax theatres. Planetarium shows are staged as a combination of pre-recorded and live presentations. The West Virginia Music Hall of Fame
5782-406: The age of 18 living with them, 38.3% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 49.6% were non-families, and 31.7% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.87. The median age was 29.1 years. The median income for a household in the county was $ 39,167 and the median income for
5900-427: The age of 18 living with them, 43.80% were married couples living together, 8.30% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.70% were non-families. 31.30% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.40% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.91. In the county, the population was spread out, with 18.20% under
6018-471: The age of 18, 23.40% from 18 to 24, 27.70% from 25 to 44, 20.00% from 45 to 64, and 10.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.20 males. The median income for a household in the county was $ 28,625, and the median income for a family was $ 43,628. Males had a median income of $ 33,113 versus $ 23,828 for females. The per capita income for
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#17327730986756136-501: The area about 1772 by establishing a homestead near present-day Fayette Street and University Avenue. Morgan fought in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War , rising to the rank of colonel . By 1783, following his wartime duties, Colonel Morgan commissioned Major William Haymond to survey his land and divide it into streets and lots. Colonel Morgan then received a legal certificate for 400 acres (160 hectares) in
6254-572: The area during this time: Fort Pierpont near the Cheat River , in 1769; Fort Coburn, near Dorsey's Knob , in 1770. Fort Morgan, at the present site of Morgantown, in 1772; Fort Dinwiddie, north several miles at Stewartstown , in 1772; Fort Martin, several miles north on the Monongahela River , in 1773; Fort Burris in the present-day Suncrest area of Morgantown, in 1774; and Fort Kern in the present-day Greenmont area of Morgantown, in 1774, in addition to other, smaller forts. Zackquill Morgan settled
6372-492: The area for long. The Union soldiers returned in force just six weeks later and retook the city. Charleston would remain under Union control for the remainder of the war. In addition to the dispute over slavery, the North wanted to separate West Virginia from the rest of the state for economic reasons. The heavy industries in the North, particularly the steel business of the upper Ohio River region, were dependent on coal from
6490-645: The area of his settlement near the mouth of Decker's Creek. Fifty acres (20 hectares) were appropriated for Morgan's Town by the Virginia General Assembly in October 1785. On February 3, 1838, the Virginia General Assembly enacted a municipal charter incorporating the city, now with a population of about 700, as Morgantown, Virginia. The town became part of the newly created state of West Virginia on June 20, 1863, through
6608-424: The area that is now the intersection of Brooks Street and Kanawha Boulevard. Historical conjecture indicates that Charleston is named after Col. Clendenin's father, Charles. Six years later, in 1794, the Virginia General Assembly officially established Charlestown. On the 40 acres (160,000 m ) that made up the town in 1794, 35 people inhabited seven houses. Charleston is part of Kanawha County . The origin of
6726-441: The average family size was 2.76. Morgantown's age distribution, which is heavily influenced by the presence of West Virginia University, is: 11.1% under the age of 18, 44.7% from 18 to 24, 20.4% from 25 to 44, 13.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 23 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.0 males. The median income for
6844-485: The banks of the Kanawha River to the capitol grounds. The West Virginia Dance Festival, held between April 25 and 30, features dance students from across the state that attend classes and workshops in ballet , jazz and modern dance. At the finale, the students perform in the West Virginia State Theatre; these are free to the public. Beginning in 1982, Symphony Sunday, held annually usually
6962-526: The beginning of March through early May, temperatures can vary considerably and it is not unusual at this time for day-to-day temperature fluctuations to exceed 20 °F (11 °C). Temperatures warm up considerably in late May, with warm summer-like days. Summer is warm to hot, with 23 days of highs at or above 90 °F (32 °C), sometimes reaching 95 °F (35 °C), often accompanied by high humidity. Autumn features crisp evenings that warm quickly to mild to warm afternoons. Winters are chilly, with
7080-615: The burned ruins of Walter Kelly's cabin in the fall of 1773 by William Morris prior to Lord Dunmore's War , and was used extensively during the American Revolution . The town of Charleston was incorporated by the Virginia House of Delegates in 1794 with the trustees being William Morris , Leonard Morris , and Daniel Boone . Early industries important to Charleston included salt and the first natural gas well. Later, coal became central to economic prosperity in
7198-537: The citizens voted on a permanent location. Charleston received 41,243 votes, Clarksburg received 29,442 and Martinsburg received 8,046; Wheeling was not considered. Charleston won, and eight years later the first state capitol building was opened there. The West Virginia Historical and Antiquarian Society was headquartered in Charleston in 1890. In 1891, the West Virginia Colored Institute, now known as West Virginia State University ,
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#17327730986757316-547: The city and the surrounding area. Today, trade, utilities, government, medicine, and education play central roles in the city's economy. Charleston is the home of the Charleston Dirty Birds of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball , and the annual 15-mile (24 km) Charleston Distance Run . Yeager Airport and the University of Charleston are in the city. West Virginia State University
7434-463: The city and vicinity, and with the fall 2012 enrollment added an additional population of 29,707 students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Morgantown had some of the lowest unemployment rates in the United States as of early 2009. As of the 2020 census , there were 30,347 people and 11,673 households residing in the city. There were 13,887 housing units in Morgantown. The racial makeup of
7552-400: The city limits: Charleston has a four-season humid subtropical climate ( Köppen Cfa ) with continental climate ( Dfa ) elements. Especially in winter, Charleston's average temperatures are warmer than the rest of the state, due to the city being west of the higher elevations. Spring is the most unpredictable season, and spring-like weather usually arrives in late March or early April. From
7670-542: The city was 42.2 years. As of the 2010 census , there were 51,400 people, 23,453 households, and 12,587 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,630.7 inhabitants per square mile (629.6/km ). There were 26,205 housing units at an average density of 831.4 inhabitants per square mile (321.0/km ). The racial makeup of the city was 78.4% White , 15.5% African American , 0.2% Native American , 2.3% Asian , 0.3% from other races , and 3.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 1.4% of
7788-427: The city was 50.9% male and 49.1% female. There are 21,746 households accounted for in the 2022 ACS, with an average of 2.12 persons per household. The city's a median gross rent is $ 870 in the 2022 ACS. The 2022 ACS reports a median household income of $ 58,902, with 60.8% of households are owner occupied. 17.0% of the city's population lives at or below the poverty line (down from previous ACS surveys). The city boasts
7906-571: The city was 53.5% male and 46.5% female. As of the census of 2000, there were 26,809 people, 10,782 households, and 4,183 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,736.0 people per square mile (1,056.2/km). There were 11,721 housing units at an average density of 1,196.2 per square mile (461.8/km). The racial makeup of the city was 89.48% White , 4.15% African American , 0.17% Native American , 4.15% Asian , 0.05% Pacific Islander , 0.51% from other races , and 1.48% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.54% of
8024-477: The city was 74.7% White , 14.8% African American , 0.3% Native American , 2.6% Asian , 0.0% Pacific Islander , 1.1% from some other races and 6.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 2.0% of the population. There were 22,082 households, of which 36.8% were married couples living together, 34.7% had a female householder with no spouse present, 22% had a male householder with no spouse present. The average household and family size
8142-433: The city was 83% White , 4.6% African American , 3.7% Asian , 0.2% Native American , 1.3% from other races , and 7.1% from two or more races . Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 4.1% of the population. Of the 11,673 households, 28.3% were married couples living together, 34.6% had a male householder with no spouse present, 28.3% had a female householder with no spouse present. The average household and family size
8260-444: The city was 89.7% White , 4.1% African American , 0.1% Native American , 3.4% Asian , 0.1% Pacific Islander , 0.6% from other races , and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.6% of the population. There were 11,701 households, of which 12.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 23.1% were married couples living together, 6.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.1% had
8378-530: The city, citing the area's variable seasonal climate and geographic elevations as factors in testing the technology's viability. The Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) has been in use since 1975. University students use the system for travel between the campuses. Morgantown is 75 miles (121 km) south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania , 208 mi (335 km) west-northwest of Washington, D.C., 81 mi (130 km) east of Marietta, Ohio , and 156 mi (251 km) northeast of Charleston . Morgantown
8496-455: The city. The population density was 1,690.4 inhabitants per square mile (652.7/km ). There were 27,131 housing units at an average density of 858.5 inhabitants per square mile (331.5/km ). The racial makeup of the city was 80.63% White , 15.07% Black or African American , 0.24% Native American , 1.83% Asian , 0.03% Pacific Islander , 0.30% from other races , and 1.91% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 0.81% of
8614-441: The community was known for carrying on a traditional eisteddfod every year. Located in the southeastern part of Morgantown, Sabraton is a former coal town and was previously known as Sturgiss City and Sabraton Station. The community was named after Sabra Vance Sturgiss, the wife of a local judge. Part of Sabraton was home to a tin plate mill, which later become a manufacturing plant for Sterling Faucet. In its early days, Sabraton
8732-456: The county was $ 17,106. About 11.30% of families and 22.80% of the population were below the poverty line , including 17.90% of those under age 18 and 8.00% of those age 65 or over. The county government consists of a county commission with three members. Currently, these members are: Thomas Bloom (D) , Sean Sikora (R) and Jeffery Arnett (D). While still typically favoring Republicans, the county tends to lean significantly more Democratic than
8850-444: The county was 85% White , 3.9% African American , 3.5% Asian , 0.2% Native American , 1.1% from other races , and 6.1% from two or more races . Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 3.1% of the population. There were 42,710 households, of which 41% were married couples living together, 25.4% had a male householder with no spouse present, 25.3% had a female householder with no spouse present.The average household and family size
8968-424: The county was 91.0% white, 3.6% black or African American, 3.1% Asian, 0.2% American Indian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.8% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 1.8% of the population. In terms of ancestry, 25.7% were German , 17.1% were Irish , 13.0% were English , 11.0% were Italian , 7.5% were American , and 5.0% were Polish . Of the 39,777 households, 22.0% had children under
9086-538: The first natural gas well in 1815. It was drilled at the site that is now the junction of Brooks Street and Kanawha Boulevard (near the present-day state capitol complex). In 1817, coal was first discovered and gradually became used as the fuel for the salt works. The Kanawha salt industry declined in importance after 1861, until the onset of World War I brought a demand for chemical products. The chemicals needed were chlorine and sodium hydroxide , which could be made from salt brine . The town continued to grow until
9204-700: The first weekend in June, is a full day of music, food, and family fun, culminating in a free performance by the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra and a fireworks display following. Throughout the day, local performing community dance and music ensembles present a series of their own selected pieces with the final performance being by the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. The local performing community dance and music ensembles that perform for Symphony Sunday include
9322-515: The full marathon race, the Morgantown Marathon also includes The Mountain Mama 8k and a half-marathon. West Virginia University (WVU) is a public land-grant university , founded in 1867. With an operating budget of approximately $ 1.2 billion as of 2022, it also has $ 150 million annually in sponsored contracts and research grants conducted by faculty members. Fall 2021 enrollment was 28,267, with students from all 55 West Virginia counties, 49 states plus
9440-400: The future West Virginia University), only a short term was provided for African-Americans, who met at St. Paul's African Methodist Episcopal Church, on Beechurst Avenue. In the late 19th and early 20th century, rural educational reformer Alexander Wade lived in Morgantown and was involved in establishing a system of graded education for country schools that was later adopted across the rest of
9558-714: The grade school moved into the former St. Francis Central High School building, and eventually into newly built facility at 41 Guthrie Lane. Its mascot is the Trojan. St. Francis Central High School existed for several decades on Birch Street in the Evansdale neighborhood until that campus was taken over by the elementary school on June 9, 1990. The West Virginia University Foundation purchased its building and land in July 2003, formally selling it to WVU for $ 11 million in August 2004, with
9676-428: The late spring and throughout the summer, and occasionally they can be quite severe, producing the rare tornado . Record temperatures have ranged from −17 °F (−27 °C) on December 30, 1917, to 108 °F (42 °C) on August 6, 1918, and July 4, 1931. However, decades can pass between temperatures of 100 °F (37.8 °C) or hotter, and the last such instance was July 8, 2012 . The record cold maximum
9794-560: The legislature in 1921, authorized construction of the present capitol . Architect Cass Gilbert designed the buff-colored Indiana limestone structure in the Italian Renaissance style, with a final cost of just under $ 10 million. After the three stages of construction were completed, Governor William G. Conley dedicated the West Virginia State Capitol on June 20, 1932. Charleston Municipal Airport
9912-646: The length of Richwood Avenue and originally connected downtown with Sabraton. The Welsh community was active in the Methodist Church at the intersection of High Street and Willey Street, and held picnics in Whitemoore Park, the main green space in Woodburn. Many of these immigrants retained the Welsh language , and as late as the 1930s it was common to hear Welsh spoken on the streets of Woodburn and
10030-409: The new state's first legislature created a public-school system. The act provided for the education of "free colored children", and was adapted three years later to mandate education for all African-American children. However, a two-tier system was created: White children attended a regular term (at the second former Monongalia Academy building, purchased in 1867 from West Virginia Agricultural College,
10148-475: The population. The five most common ancestries were German (12.4%), English (11.6%), American (11.4%), Irish (10.6%), and Italian (3.9%). There were 24,505 households, out of which 23.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 38.9% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.4% were non-families. 38.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.5% had someone living alone who
10266-406: The population. There were 10,782 households, out of which 15.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 29.1% were married couples living together, 7.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 61.2% were non-families. 37.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.08 and
10384-443: The population. There were 23,453 households, of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.6% were married couples living together, 14.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 46.3% were non-families. 39.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size
10502-412: The rest of West Virginia. In the 20th century, Monongalia County had been a bellwether for West Virginia, voting the same as the state in every election from 1916 to 2024 , even as the candidate lost the national election, with the sole exception of 2008 when Barack Obama won the county and lost the state. Donald Trump carried the county with just over 500 more votes than Democrat Joe Biden in
10620-538: The start of fall classes. The university and city put an end to the tradition that year after two students were shot the previous year. The City of Morgantown and West Virginia University jointly established the Sunnyside Up Project: Campus Neighborhoods Revitalization Corporation, dedicated to the redevelopment of this area. The first step was to create a comprehensive revitalization plan, which
10738-508: The state and the state capital. Charleston's history goes back to the 18th century. Thomas Bullitt was deeded 1,250 acres (5 km ) of land near the mouth of the Elk River in 1773. It was inherited by his brother, Cuthbert Bullitt , upon his death in 1778, and sold to Colonel George Clendenin in 1786. The first permanent settlement, Fort Lee, was built in 1787 by Col. Clendenin and his company of Virginia Rangers. This structure occupied
10856-678: The state capital. Boone served alongside Major William Morris Jr at the House of Delegates representing Kanawha. By the early 19th century, salt brines were discovered along the Kanawha River, and the first salt well was drilled in 1806. This created a prosperous time and great economic growth for the area. By 1808, 1,250 pounds of salt were being produced a day, and the Farmers' Repository newspaper began publication. An area adjacent to Charleston, Kanawha Salines (now Malden ) would become
10974-507: The state, attracted by the area's natural resources. The city established a chamber of commerce in 1900. There was a large amount of new construction in Charleston during this period. A number of those buildings, including churches and office buildings, still stand in the heart of downtown along and bordering Capitol Street. The State Bureau of Archives and History was established in 1905, and the Charleston Public Library
11092-399: The top salt producer in the world. The brines were heated over open flames causing the water to evaporate and leaving behind a residue of salt crystals. Much of the work was done by enslaved peoples. Historian Cyrus Forman estimated at the height of production as many as 3,000 slaves worked at more than 60 salt furnaces which operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Holly Grove Mansion
11210-608: The town established a one-story, coeducational, Virginia common school in July 1803, that students attended on a tuition basis. On November 29, 1814, the Virginia General Assembly incorporated Monongalia Academy, the county's first public school . Supported by obligatory surveyors ' fees, the male-only institution was the equivalent of a modern-day high school . The Academy moved to a new two-story building in 1830, with principal Jonathan Haddock offering courses in geography , surveying, and navigation in addition to traditional subjects. Presbyterian minister Reverend James Robertson Moore
11328-439: The university then announcing it intended to use the football and adjacent baseball fields as intramural recreation area. Other private schools include: Morgantown Christian Academy, Maranatha Christian Academy, Covenant Christian School, Trinity Christian School , St. Francis Elementary/Middle School, and the alternative, non-religious Morgantown Learning Academy. While informal schools existed from Morgantown's earliest days,
11446-756: The visual, performing, and literary arts communities in the city through programming and educational outreach. Other museums in the city include the West Virginia University Art Museum and Morgantown History Museum. Core Arboretum is owned by West Virginia University and consists of mostly old-growth forest on steep hillside and Monongahela River flood plain. It includes densely wooded areas with 3.5 miles (5.6 km) of walking trails, as well as three acres (1.2 hectares) of lawn planted with specimen trees. Other parks in Morgantown include Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park and
11564-420: The war effort. After the war ended, Charleston was on the brink of some significant construction. One of the first during this period was Kanawha Airport (now Yeager Airport , named after General Chuck Yeager ). Built in 1947, the construction encompassed clearing 360 acres (1.5 km ) on three mountaintops and moving more than nine million cubic yards of earth. Kanawha Boulevard, a riverfront four-lane road,
11682-668: The western Virginia mines. Federal units from Ohio marched into western Virginia quite early in the war solely to capture the coal mines and control transportation in the area. The Wheeling Convention of 1861 declared the Ordinance of Succession, and the Confederate state government in Richmond , to be illegal and void, and formed the Unionist Restored Government of Virginia . The Restored Government and
11800-683: The western region of the district bordering the Ohio River , including parts of what is now southwestern Pennsylvania . Yohogania County consisted of much of what is now southwestern Pennsylvania and the present counties of Hancock and the northern part of Brooke in West Virginia. Monongalia County also encompassed what are now the counties of Tucker , Randolph , Marion , Harrison and Barbour in north-central West Virginia, as well as parts of what are now Washington , Greene and Fayette Counties in Pennsylvania. In 1780, in his Notes on
11918-412: The word Kanawha (pronounced "Ka-NAH-wah"), Ka(h)nawha , derives from the region's Iroquoian dialects meaning "water way" or "Canoe Way" implying the metaphor, "transport way", in the local language. It was and is the name of the river that flows through Charleston. The grammar of the "hard H" sound soon dropped out as new arrivals of various European languages developed West Virginia. The phrase has been
12036-668: The world on the Voice of America satellite service. The new Robert C. Byrd Federal Building, Haddad Riverfront Park and Capitol Market are just a few new developments that have helped growth in the downtown area during the 1990s. Charleston launched its city website in 1998. 2003 marked the opening of the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences . The center includes the Maier Foundation Performance Hall,
12154-435: Was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.83. The median age in the city was 41.7 years. 20.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.9% were from 25 to 44; 29.9% were from 45 to 64; and 16.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.6% male and 52.4% female. As of the 2000 census , there were 53,421 people, 24,505 households, and 13,624 families residing in
12272-409: Was 2.71. The median age in the city was 24.4 years. Which is 43% less than the state average of 42.8. As of the census of 2010, there were 29,660 people, 11,701 households, and 3,827 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,916.4 inhabitants per square mile (1,126.0/km). There were 12,664 housing units at an average density of 1,245.2 per square mile (480.8/km). The racial makeup of
12390-439: Was 2.94. The median age in the city was 41.7 years with 18.9% of the population under 18. The median income for a household in the city was $ 54,101 and the poverty rate was 17.5%. The median age in the city was 36.0. 27.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.9% were between the ages of 25 and 44; 21.9% were between the ages of 45 and 64; and 13.9% were 65 and older. The gender makeup of
12508-490: Was 227 people per square mile (88 people/km ). There were 36,695 housing units at an average density of 102 per square mile (39/km ). The racial makeup of the county was 92.22% White , 3.38% Black or African American , 0.20% Native American , 2.45% Asian , 0.04% Pacific Islander , 0.32% from other races , and 1.39% from two or more races. 1.01% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. There were 33,446 households, out of which 24.20% had children under
12626-430: Was 3.06. The median age in the county was 33 years. The median income for a household in the county was $ 56,374. As of the 2010 United States census , there were 96,189 people, 39,777 households, and 20,032 families living in the county. The population density was 267.1 inhabitants per square mile (103.1/km ). There were 43,238 housing units at an average density of 120.1 per square mile (46.4/km ). The racial makeup of
12744-400: Was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.82. The age distribution was 20.7% under 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.6% who were 65 or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females there were 87.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.7 males. The median income for
12862-486: Was also built in the early 1940s. The Charleston Civic Center opened in 1959. Charleston began to be integrated into the Interstate Highway System in the 1960s when three major interstate systems— I-64 , I-77 and I-79 were designated, all converging in Charleston. In 1961, the Kanawha River flooded much of the lower-lying parts of Charleston. In 1973, Morris Harvey College was renamed to be
12980-663: Was connected to downtown Morgantown by a trolley line that ran the length of Richwood Avenue. Its amenities include Marilla Park. Morgantown lies in the Appalachian Region. The city is hilly with several sections rising over 1,200 feet (370 m) in elevation. The highest point is 1,398 feet (426 m) on Sky Rock in Dorsey Knob Park. The lowest point is on the banks of the Monongahela River at 800 feet (240 m). The area surrounding Morgantown
13098-508: Was divided into seven districts: Battelle, Cass, Clay, Clinton, Grant, Morgan, and Union. After a century of relative stability, in the 1970s Monongalia's seven historic magisterial districts were consolidated into three new Districts: Central, Eastern, and Western. As of the 2020 census , there were 105,882 people and 42,710 households residing in the city. There were 49,881 housing units in Monongalia County. The racial makeup of
13216-569: Was established during this period. In 1818, the Kanawha Salt Company, the first trust in the United States, went into operation. In the same year, "Charlestown" was shortened to "Charleston" to avoid confusion with another Charles Town in eastern West Virginia, which was named after George Washington's brother, Charles Washington . A lyceum was established around 1841. Captain James Wilson, while drilling for salt, struck
13334-560: Was established in 1909. The city's first chemical manufacturer began operation in 1913. Three years later, the Libbey-Owens-Ford glass manufactory was built, as well as Charleston High School . Another large manufacturer, Owens Bottle Company , opened in 1917. Charleston City Hall was built in 1921. In the same year, a fire at the capitol building resulted in a new, hastily built structure being opened, but it too burned down in 1927. A Capitol Building Commission, created by
13452-507: Was established in 1909. In 1934, the city library expanded to become the Kanawha County Public Library system. In 1935, Morris Harvey College relocated to Charleston from Barboursville, West Virginia . Charleston Municipal Auditorium was completed in 1939. During World War II , the first and largest styrene-butadiene plant in the U.S. opened in nearby Institute , providing a replacement for rubber to
13570-415: Was established in 2005. Many festivals and events were also incorporated into the calendar, including Multifest, Vandalia Festival, a July 4 celebration with fireworks at Haddad Riverfront Park, and the already popular Sternwheel Regatta, which was founded in 1970, provided a festive atmosphere for residents to enjoy. In 2005 FestivALL Charleston was established and has grown into a ten-day festival offering
13688-534: Was established. The following year, Capitol City Commercial College was founded. Charleston's Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart was completed in 1897. Charleston became the center of state government. Natural resources, such as coal and natural gas , along with railroad expansion, also contributed to growth. New industries such as chemical, glass , timber and steel migrated to
13806-738: Was principal during the Academy's 1852–1864 heyday, when its enrollment included students from 14 states. In 1867, the Academy closed, and donated its land toward the establishment of West Virginia University . The Virginia Assembly in March 1831 authorized the creation of the Morgantown Female Academy. Proceeds from the sale of the original Monongalia Academy building funded construction of a two-story school at Bumbo Lane (the modern-day Fayette Street) and Long Alley (the modern-day Chestnut Street). This school opened April 1, 1834. After
13924-663: Was published in fall 2004. The university's Summit Hall Dormitory and the Honors Hall Dormitory are in the southern part of the neighborhood. Woodburn used to be farmland on the hills to the east of downtown Morgantown. The area saw a rapid growth in population at the beginning of the 20th century as home to tinsmiths from Wales who came to work in the tinplate mill that later became the Sterling Faucet Company plant in Sabraton. A trolley line ran
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