Forest Hills, West Virginia facts for kids
Forest Hills, West Virginia is a name that can refer to two different places in the state of West Virginia, USA. When you see "Forest Hills, West Virginia," it might be talking about a community in Kanawha County or another one in Wood County. These places are known as "unincorporated communities."
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live that is not part of an official city or town. It doesn't have its own local government, like a mayor or city council. Instead, it's usually governed by the county it's in. This means services like roads, police, and fire departments are often managed by the county government.
Why are Some Places Unincorporated?
Many communities start small and grow over time. If they don't reach a certain size or decide not to form their own government, they remain unincorporated. Sometimes, people prefer to live in unincorporated areas because there might be fewer local rules or taxes compared to living in an official city.
Forest Hills in Kanawha County
One of the places named Forest Hills is located in Kanawha County, West Virginia. Kanawha County is one of the largest counties in West Virginia by population. Its county seat, which is like its main city, is Charleston, West Virginia, which is also the capital city of West Virginia.
About Kanawha County
Kanawha County is in the central part of West Virginia. It's known for its history in coal mining and chemical industries. The Kanawha River, a major waterway, flows through the county. Many people in the county work in government, healthcare, and education.
Forest Hills in Wood County
The other place named Forest Hills is found in Wood County, West Virginia. Wood County is in the northwestern part of the state, along the Ohio River. The county seat for Wood County is Parkersburg, West Virginia.
About Wood County
Wood County has a strong history in manufacturing and oil and gas industries. The Ohio River plays an important role in the county's economy and transportation. Like Kanawha County, Wood County has a mix of urban and rural areas, with many smaller communities like Forest Hills.
