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Glen Jean, West Virginia facts for kids

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Glen Jean, West Virginia
Glen Jean, West Virginia is located in West Virginia
Glen Jean, West Virginia
Glen Jean, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
Glen Jean, West Virginia is located in the United States
Glen Jean, West Virginia
Glen Jean, West Virginia
Location in the United States
Country United States
State West Virginia
County Fayette
Area
 • Total 0.226 sq mi (0.59 km2)
 • Land 0.226 sq mi (0.59 km2)
 • Water 0 sq mi (0 km2)
Population
 (2010)
 • Total 210
 • Density 929/sq mi (359/km2)
Time zone UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-4 (EDT)

Glen Jean is a small community in Fayette County, West Virginia, United States. It is a census-designated place (CDP), which means it's a special area defined by the government for counting people. In 2010, about 210 people lived there. Glen Jean is located near the town of Oak Hill.

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History of Glen Jean

Glen Jean was first known as White Oaks. The town was founded in the early 1870s. It was named after Jean McKell, whose husband, Thomas G. McKell, owned the land.

This area was once very important for coal mining. It was also a busy railroad junction. In its busiest days, Glen Jean had an opera house, hotels, and a company store. After the coal mining industry slowed down, much of the town changed.

What to See in Glen Jean

Today, the most important building left is the Bank of Glen Jean. This historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It now serves as a visitor center for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Glen Jean is also home to a very special place for the Boy Scouts of America. It is called The Summit Bechtel Reserve. This is a national high adventure base where Scouts can have amazing outdoor experiences. In 2019, Glen Jean hosted the 24th World Scout Jamboree, bringing Scouts from all over the world together.

Location and Nature

Glen Jean is located in the Eastern Time Zone. Its exact spot is 37.926 degrees North latitude and 81.15 degrees West longitude. The town sits at an elevation of 1,627 feet above sea level.

There are many beautiful parks and outdoor areas nearby. These include the Bluestone National Scenic River and the Gauley River National Recreation Area. The famous New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is also very close. These places offer great opportunities for outdoor fun and exploring nature.

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