Corley, Braxton County, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Corley, West Virginia
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 Corley, Braxton County, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
Corley, Braxton County, West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Braxton |
| Elevation | 860 ft (260 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| Area code(s) | 304 & 681 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1554191 |
Corley is a small, unincorporated community located in Braxton County, West Virginia, in the United States. It's a quiet place found along Saltlick Creek and County Route 22. Corley is about 2.9 miles (or 4.7 kilometers) east-northeast of a town called Flatwoods.
Being an "unincorporated community" means that Corley doesn't have its own local government like a city or town does. Instead, it's part of the larger Braxton County and gets its services from the county government.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it's not officially a city or town. This means it doesn't have its own mayor or city council. Instead, the county government takes care of things like roads, police, and fire services for everyone living there.
How They Are Different
Think of it like this: a city has its own rules and leaders, almost like a small country. An unincorporated community is more like a neighborhood within a larger county. People in these communities still have a strong sense of belonging.
Why Communities Stay Unincorporated
Sometimes, communities stay unincorporated because they are very small. Other times, people might prefer to have fewer local rules and taxes. It allows them to keep a more rural or simple way of life.
The Name Corley
The community of Corley got its name from a local merchant. A merchant is someone who buys and sells goods, like a shopkeeper. Naming places after important local people or families was a common practice in the past.
How Places Get Their Names
Many towns and communities in West Virginia, and across the United States, are named after different things. Some are named after important people, like Corley. Others might be named after natural features, such as rivers or mountains. Sometimes, they are named after historical events or even places from other countries.
Local History and Names
Learning about how a place got its name can tell you a lot about its history. It often shows who the early settlers were or what was important to the people who first lived there. For Corley, it highlights the role of local businesses and individuals in the community's early days.
Geography of Corley
Corley is situated in a part of West Virginia known for its beautiful natural scenery. It's located along Saltlick Creek, which is a small waterway. Creeks and rivers are very important in West Virginia.
Saltlick Creek
Saltlick Creek is a tributary, meaning it flows into a larger river. It eventually joins the Little Kanawha River. Rivers and creeks have always been vital for communities. They provide water, and in the past, they were used for transportation and power.
Surrounding Area
The area around Corley, like much of Braxton County, is generally hilly and forested. West Virginia is famous for its mountains and forests, which offer many opportunities for outdoor activities.
Life in Small Communities
Life in a small, unincorporated community like Corley can be very different from living in a big city. These communities often have a close-knit feel.
Community Spirit
People in small communities often know their neighbors well. They might come together for local events, help each other out, and share a strong sense of community spirit. This can make them feel like one big family.
Quiet and Nature
Small communities are usually quieter than cities. They often have more open spaces and are closer to nature. This can be appealing to people who enjoy a peaceful environment and outdoor activities.
Braxton County, West Virginia
Corley is part of Braxton County, which is located in the central part of West Virginia. The county is known for its natural beauty and rural character.
County Seat
The county seat of Braxton County is Sutton. This is where the main county government offices are located. People from Corley would go to Sutton for official county business.
Economy and History
Historically, Braxton County's economy has been linked to natural resources, including timber and some coal. Agriculture has also played a role. Like many parts of West Virginia, the county has a rich history tied to its natural landscape and the people who settled there.
See also
In Spanish: Corley (condado de Braxton) para niños
