Jakes Run, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jakes Run
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Country | ![]() |
State | ![]() |
County | ![]() |
Elevation | 1,010 ft (310 m) |
Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
GNIS ID | 1540800 |
Jakes Run is a small, quiet place located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, in the United States. It's known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a city or town with its own local government. Instead, it's part of the larger county.
The community gets its name from a nearby stream, also called Jakes Run. This stream eventually flows into a larger body of water.
Contents
Location and Geography
Jakes Run is nestled in the northern part of West Virginia. It's found within Monongalia County, which is close to the border with Pennsylvania. The area is known for its beautiful, rolling hills and green landscapes.
Natural Surroundings
The region around Jakes Run is part of the Appalachian Mountains. This means you'll find lots of trees, small valleys, and streams. The elevation of Jakes Run is about 1,010 feet (308 meters) above sea level. This elevation gives it a varied landscape, perfect for outdoor activities.
Nearby Areas
While Jakes Run itself is small, it's not far from larger towns and cities. These include Morgantown, which is the county seat of Monongalia County. Morgantown offers more services, shops, and educational opportunities.
History of the Area
Like many communities in West Virginia, Jakes Run has roots in the region's past. The area was settled over time by people looking for new opportunities. Many early settlers were drawn to the natural resources of the Appalachian region.
Early Development
The history of Jakes Run is closely tied to the history of Monongalia County. Early communities often grew up around natural features like streams or important roads. These places served as gathering spots for farmers and traders.
Naming the Community
The name "Jakes Run" likely comes from an early settler or a significant event related to the stream. Many small communities in West Virginia are named after local landmarks, families, or natural features. This naming tradition helps tell the story of how the area developed.
Life in Jakes Run
Life in an unincorporated community like Jakes Run is often peaceful. Residents typically rely on services from the wider county. This includes things like schools, emergency services, and public works.
Community Spirit
Even without a formal local government, small communities often have a strong sense of togetherness. Neighbors know each other and often help one another. This creates a friendly and supportive environment for families.
Education and Schools
Children living in Jakes Run attend schools within the Monongalia County Schools system. This system provides education from elementary grades through high school. Access to good schools is important for any community.
Local Environment
The natural environment around Jakes Run is a key part of its identity. The streams, forests, and hills provide a home for various plants and animals.
Flora and Fauna
The forests in West Virginia are home to many types of trees, such as oak, maple, and pine. You might also see various wildflowers and plants. Animals like deer, rabbits, squirrels, and many bird species live in these natural areas. Exploring the outdoors is a popular activity for residents.
Conservation Efforts
Protecting the natural beauty and resources of areas like Jakes Run is important. Efforts are made to keep the streams clean and to preserve the forests. This helps ensure that future generations can also enjoy the environment.
Conclusion
Jakes Run is a small but interesting part of West Virginia. It represents many similar unincorporated communities across the United States. These places offer a quiet lifestyle and a close connection to nature.