Eight, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eight
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 Eight
Location in West Virginia
Eight
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | McDowell |
| Elevation | 1,683 ft (513 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| FIPS code | 2747239 |
Eight was once a small, unincorporated community. It was located in McDowell County, West Virginia, in the United States. This community no longer exists as it once did.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place that doesn't have its own local government. It's not officially a city or a town. Instead, it's usually part of a larger county. People living there still follow the rules of the county and state.
How They Form
Many unincorporated communities grew up around specific industries. In West Virginia, many formed near coal mines. These were often called "coal towns." People moved there to work in the mines.
Life in Such Communities
Life in places like Eight was often simple. There might have been a general store and a post office. These places were important for daily life. They helped people connect with the outside world.
The Post Office at Eight
A post office is a vital part of any community. It allows people to send and receive mail. The post office in Eight was an important local hub. It helped residents stay in touch.
When the Post Office Closed
The post office in Eight closed its doors in 1936. This was a big change for the community. When a post office closes, it often means fewer people live there. It can also show that the community is shrinking.
Why Communities Disappear
Small communities like Eight can disappear for many reasons. Often, it's because the main industry leaves. For coal towns, if the mine closed, people would move away. They would go to find work elsewhere.
A Look at History
The story of Eight is common in West Virginia. Many small mining communities thrived for a time. Then, as mining changed or ended, they faded away. These places are now part of the state's history. They remind us of how people lived and worked long ago.
