Hollywood, West Virginia facts for kids

Hollywood, West Virginia is a name that can be a bit confusing because it refers to two different places in the state of West Virginia, USA. Both are small, quiet areas known as "unincorporated communities."

• Hollywood, Raleigh County, West Virginia is one of these places.
• Hollywood, Monroe County, West Virginia is the other.

When you see "Hollywood, West Virginia," it's important to know which one is being talked about!

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community is a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town does. This means it doesn't have a mayor or a city council. Instead, the county government usually handles services like roads, police, and fire protection for these areas.

How are Unincorporated Communities Different from Cities?

Cities and towns have clear boundaries and their own rules, often called ordinances. They collect taxes to pay for local services. Unincorporated communities, on the other hand, are part of a larger county. They rely on the county for most services and don't have their own specific local laws.

Why do Places Stay Unincorporated?

There are many reasons why a community might remain unincorporated. Sometimes, the population is too small to support its own government. Other times, residents might prefer to have fewer local rules or lower taxes that come with being part of a larger county system. It can also be a way to keep a community's unique, quiet character.

Hollywood, Raleigh County

Hollywood in Raleigh County is located in the southern part of West Virginia. Raleigh County is known for its beautiful Appalachian Mountains and its history with coal mining. Many small communities like Hollywood are nestled in the valleys and hills of this region.

Geography of Raleigh County

Raleigh County has a varied landscape with forests, rivers, and rolling hills. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a famous natural landmark, is partly located in this county. This area offers many outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and exploring nature.

Hollywood, Monroe County

Hollywood in Monroe County is found in the southeastern part of West Virginia, close to the border with Virginia. Monroe County is known for its peaceful, rural setting and agricultural traditions. It's often called "The Little Switzerland of West Virginia" because of its scenic beauty.

Agriculture in Monroe County

Monroe County's economy has historically relied on farming. Many families in the area grow crops and raise livestock. The county's fertile land and climate are well-suited for agriculture, making it a key part of the local way of life.

Why Two Hollywoods?

It's not uncommon for different places in the same state to share a name. This often happens because settlers might have named a new community after a place they knew from back home, or perhaps after a local landmark or family. Over time, these names stick, even if they are used more than once.