Leatherbark, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leatherbark, West Virginia
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 Leatherbark, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
Leatherbark, West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Calhoun |
| Elevation | 764 ft (233 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP codes |
25254
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| GNIS ID | 1554932 |
Leatherbark is a small, quiet place in West Virginia, United States. It's not a big city or even a town with its own local government. Instead, it's known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and people living together without a separate town government. The area once had its own post office, but it is now closed.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community like Leatherbark is a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own official city or town government. Instead, it's usually part of a larger county. The county government handles things like roads, schools, and safety for everyone living there.
How is it Different from a City?
Cities and towns have their own mayors, councils, and local laws. They collect taxes to pay for their own services. In an unincorporated community, these services are managed by the county. This can mean fewer local rules and a more rural feel.
Where is Leatherbark Located?
Leatherbark is found in Calhoun County, which is in the state of West Virginia. West Virginia is a state known for its beautiful mountains, forests, and rivers. It's often called the "Mountain State."
Exploring Calhoun County
Calhoun County is in the western part of West Virginia. It's a rural area with lots of natural beauty. The county is named after John C. Calhoun, a famous American politician. Life in Calhoun County often involves enjoying the outdoors and the peaceful countryside.
How Did Leatherbark Get Its Name?
The name "Leatherbark" comes from a type of plant that grows naturally in the area. This plant is known for its tough, flexible bark. Early settlers likely saw these plants and used them to name their community.
The Leatherbark Plant
The plant that inspired the name "Leatherbark" is often the eastern leatherwood or similar species. Its bark is very strong and can be peeled off in strips. Native Americans and early pioneers sometimes used this bark for things like ropes or baskets because it was so durable.
