How Many Panhandles Does West Virginia Have?

West Virginia, a state located in the Appalachian region of the United States, is known for having multiple panhandles. But what exactly is a panhandle? A panhandle is a long, narrow strip of land that extends from a larger piece of territory, resembling the handle of a frying pan. In this article, we will explore the question – how many panhandles does West Virginia have?

What is a Panhandle?

Before delving into West Virginia’s panhandles, let’s first define what a panhandle is. A panhandle is a geographic region that is narrow and elongated, extending from a larger territory. These regions are so named because of their resemblance to the handle of a frying pan. Many states in the United States have panhandles, including Florida, Oklahoma, Idaho, and Texas.

Panhandles are often created by geographical, historical, or political factors. For example, Florida’s panhandle was created by the state’s acquisition of the territory from Spain in 1821. The panhandle was added to Florida to increase its size and to create a buffer zone between Florida and other territories. Similarly, Texas’ panhandle was created due to its proximity to the Oklahoma Territory, which was not yet a state at the time.

Panhandles can also be created by natural features, such as rivers and mountains. West Virginia’s panhandles, for example, were formed by the Allegheny Mountains, which run through the state from north to south.

In the next section, we will explore West Virginia’s panhandles in more detail.

The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia

The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is the easternmost region of the state, bordering Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. This panhandle is located in the Shenandoah Valley and is separated from the rest of West Virginia by the Allegheny Mountains. The Eastern Panhandle is a part of the Washington-Baltimore-Arlington, DC-MD-VA-WV-PA Combined Statistical Area, which is the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the United States.

The Eastern Panhandle is known for its rich history, picturesque scenery, and vibrant communities. The region played a crucial role in the American Civil War, with several key battles taking place in the area. Today, the Eastern Panhandle is home to several towns and cities, including Martinsburg, Charles Town, Shepherdstown, and Harpers Ferry.

The region is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, with several state parks and wildlife management areas located in the area. The Eastern Panhandle’s proximity to major metropolitan areas, such as Washington D.C. and Baltimore, makes it a popular destination for commuters and tourists alike.

The Northern Panhandle of West Virginia

The Northern Panhandle of West Virginia is the smallest and narrowest of the state’s three panhandles. It is located in the northernmost part of West Virginia and is bordered by Pennsylvania and Ohio. The region is separated from the rest of the state by the Ohio River, which runs along its western border.

The Northern Panhandle is known for its steel industry, which has played a significant role in the region’s history and economy. The city of Wheeling, located in the Northern Panhandle, was once a major center of industry and commerce in the region. Today, the city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, which is the oldest suspension bridge in the United States still in use.

Other key cities in the Northern Panhandle include Weirton, which is known for its steel mills and manufacturing industry, and Moundsville, which is home to the historic West Virginia State Penitentiary. The Northern Panhandle is also home to several state parks and recreational areas, including Tomlinson Run State Park and the Brooke Hills Park.

The Potomac Highlands of West Virginia

The Potomac Highlands of West Virginia is the largest and most mountainous of the state’s three panhandles. It is located in the eastern part of the state and is bordered by Virginia and Maryland. The region is characterized by its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife.

The Potomac Highlands is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting. The region is home to several state parks and forests, including the Monongahela National Forest, which covers over 900,000 acres of land. The region is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and the Seneca Rocks.

Other key cities in the Potomac Highlands include Elkins, which is known for its arts and culture scene, and Romney, which is the county seat of Hampshire County. The Potomac Highlands is also home to several colleges and universities, including Davis and Elkins College and Potomac State College of West Virginia University.

The Potomac Highlands of West Virginia

The Potomac Highlands is the easternmost of West Virginia’s panhandles, located in the northeastern part of the state. This region is bordered by Maryland to the north and Virginia to the east and is separated from the rest of West Virginia by the Allegheny Mountains. The Potomac Highlands is known for its rugged terrain, pristine wilderness areas, and scenic beauty.

The region has a rich history, with many of its towns and cities dating back to the early days of American settlement. The Potomac Highlands played a significant role in the American Civil War, with several key battles taking place in the area. Today, the region is home to several historic towns and cities, including Petersburg, Keyser, and Moorefield.

One of the most significant landmarks in the Potomac Highlands is the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. This area is home to the highest peak in West Virginia, Spruce Knob, and the impressive Seneca Rocks, a towering rock formation that attracts rock climbers from around the world. Other notable landmarks in the region include the North Fork Mountain Trail, Smoke Hole Caverns, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, West Virginia has three panhandles – the Eastern Panhandle, the Northern Panhandle, and the Potomac Highlands. These regions are defined by their narrow and elongated shapes, which are a result of geographical, historical, and political factors.

The Eastern Panhandle is known for its rich history and scenic beauty, while the Northern Panhandle is a hub for industry and commerce. The Potomac Highlands, on the other hand, is a rugged and remote region that is home to some of West Virginia’s most impressive natural landmarks.

If you want to learn more about West Virginia’s panhandles, there are several resources available to you. The West Virginia Division of Tourism website has information on each of the state’s regions, including the panhandles. The West Virginia State Parks website also provides information on the state’s parks and recreational areas, many of which are located in the panhandles. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just curious about the state’s geography, West Virginia’s panhandles have something for everyone.