Decota, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Decota, West Virginia
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 Decota, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
Decota, West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Kanawha |
| Elevation | 1,125 ft (343 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| Area code(s) | 304 & 681 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1538099 |
Decota is a small place in Kanawha County, West Virginia, United States. It's known as an unincorporated community, which means it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's governed by the county. Decota is located about 7 miles (11 kilometers) northeast of Whitesville. It sits along a waterway called Cabin Creek.
The name Decota comes from the Dakota language. In this language, "Decota" means "allies." This name might have been chosen to reflect a sense of community or cooperation among the early settlers.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community like Decota is a group of homes and businesses that are not part of an official city or town. This means they don't have a mayor or a city council. Instead, the county government handles services like roads, police, and fire protection.
How are Unincorporated Areas Different from Cities?
Cities and towns have their own local laws and taxes. They can decide how to use their land and what services to provide. Unincorporated areas follow the rules set by the county. This can sometimes mean fewer local services or different ways of managing things.
Decota's Location and Geography
Decota is nestled in the beautiful, hilly landscape of West Virginia. The state is famous for its mountains and forests. Being in Kanawha County, Decota is part of a region with a rich history, especially related to natural resources.
The Importance of Cabin Creek
Cabin Creek is a significant waterway in this area. Creeks and rivers were very important in the past for transportation and industry. They helped people move goods and provided water for homes and businesses.
History of Decota
Many communities in West Virginia, including Decota, grew up around industries like coal mining. These places are often called "coal towns." People moved to these areas for work, and small communities formed around the mines.
Life in a Coal Town
In the past, life in a coal town was often centered around the mine. Many families had members who worked in the mines. The company that owned the mine sometimes also owned the houses, stores, and schools in the town. This created a unique way of life for the people living there.
What is Coal Mining?
Coal mining is the process of digging coal out of the ground. Coal is a fossil fuel that was used for a long time to power factories, heat homes, and generate electricity. West Virginia has a lot of coal, which made it an important state for this industry.
Modern Decota
Today, Decota remains a quiet community. While the coal industry has changed over the years, the history of these towns is still a big part of West Virginia's story. Many people who live in these areas have strong family ties to the region and its past.
What is Life Like in Decota Today?
Life in Decota is likely peaceful, surrounded by nature. Residents might travel to nearby towns for shopping, schools, and other services. It's a place where people can enjoy the outdoors and the close-knit feel of a small community.
