Austen, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Austen
|
|
|---|---|
 Austen
Location in West Virginia
Austen
Location in the United States
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Preston |
| Elevation | 1,621 ft (494 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS ID | 1553765 |
Austen is a small, unincorporated community located in Preston County, West Virginia, in the United States. An unincorporated community is a place that doesn't have its own local government, like a city or town. Instead, it's usually managed by the county it's in.
This community is found in the beautiful, hilly region of West Virginia. It sits at an elevation of about 1,621 feet (494 meters) above sea level.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community like Austen is a group of homes and businesses that are not part of an official city or town. This means they don't have their own mayor or city council. Instead, the local county government handles things like roads, police, and fire services for them.
How do Unincorporated Areas Work?
- Local Services: Services like law enforcement, emergency services, and road maintenance are provided by the county.
- Taxes: Residents pay county and state taxes, but not specific city taxes.
- Community Identity: Even without a formal government, these areas often have a strong sense of community. They might have local schools, churches, or community centers.
The Story Behind the Name
The community of Austen is believed to be named after a person named Dr. Austen. He was the original owner of the land where the community was built. Naming places after important landowners or early settlers was a common practice in the past.
Location in West Virginia
Austen is situated in Preston County, which is in the northern part of West Virginia. West Virginia is known for its mountains, forests, and rich history, especially related to coal mining.
Preston County's Geography
Preston County is part of the Appalachian Mountains. This area is famous for its natural beauty, including:
- Forests: Dense forests cover much of the land.
- Rivers: Many rivers and streams flow through the county.
- Hills: The landscape is very hilly, which adds to its scenic charm.
Austen's History as a Coal Town
Many communities in West Virginia, including some in Preston County, grew because of the coal mining industry. These places are often called "coal towns."
The Role of Coal Mining
- Economic Growth: Coal mining was a major industry that brought jobs and people to these areas.
- Community Development: Towns often developed around coal mines, with homes, stores, and schools built for the miners and their families.
- Historical Significance: The history of coal mining is a big part of West Virginia's story.
See Also
Images for kids
-
A robot, symbolizing technology and learning.
