Fayette County is located in the beautiful state of West Virginia, USA, and is an area steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Here are seven interesting facts about this fascinating county that will give you a glimpse into its past and present.
1. Fayette County was established in 1831 and was named after Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, the French hero who fought with the Americans in the Revolutionary War.
2. The New River Gorge Bridge, a beautiful and iconic steel arch bridge, is located in Fayette County. At 876 feet above the New River, it was once the world's largest steel single-span bridge and is now a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Fayette County.
3. Fayette County played an important role in the Civil War. The county was divided in its loyalties to the North and the South, and several skirmishes and battles took place here, including the Battle of Fayetteville in 1862.
4. The famous explorer and frontiersman, Daniel Boone, lived in Fayette County in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Boone carved out a home for himself in the wilderness and led many people along the Boone Trace, a trail through the Appalachian Mountains.
5. Fayette County was once a center of the coal mining industry. Coal was discovered in the area in the late 1800s, and the county became a hub for coal mining and processing. Today, the industry is not as dominant, but the history lives on in the many coal mines and mining towns that dot the countryside.
6. The Gauley River National Recreation Area is located in Fayette County and is a popular destination for adventure seekers. The area is known for its stunning scenery and challenging rapids, making it a prime destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts.
7. The town of Ansted, located in Fayette County, was once home to Polly Smith, the first female doctor in West Virginia. Dr. Smith graduated from the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1892 and returned home to Ansted, where she worked tirelessly to improve public health.
These are just a few of the many interesting facts about Fayette County's rich history and culture. From the stunning natural beauty of the New River Gorge Bridge to its fascinating Civil War past, the county has something to offer everyone who visits. Whether you're interested in outdoor recreation or delving into the area's past, Fayette County is a destination you won't want to miss.
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