Leevale, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leevale
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 Leevale
Location in West Virginia
Leevale
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Raleigh |
| Elevation | 860 ft (260 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS ID | 1541614 |
Leevale is a small community located in Raleigh County, West Virginia, in the United States. It is an "unincorporated community." This means it doesn't have its own local government, like a city or town. Instead, it is managed by the county or state.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it's not officially a city or town. It doesn't have a mayor or its own city council. Services like roads and schools are usually handled by the county government.
Leevale's Location and Geography
Leevale is found in the beautiful state of West Virginia. This state is famous for its mountains and natural beauty. Leevale is located at an elevation of about 860 feet (262 meters) above sea level. This means it's quite high up, offering views of the surrounding landscape.
How Leevale Got Its Name
Many communities in West Virginia were named after important people or local features. While the exact origin of Leevale's name isn't widely known, it likely came from a local family or a feature of the valley ("vale") where it is located.
History of Leevale
Like many places in West Virginia, Leevale's history is probably linked to the coal industry. West Virginia is well-known for its rich coal deposits. Many communities in the state grew up around coal mines.
Coal Mining in West Virginia
Coal mining was a very important industry in West Virginia for many years. It provided jobs for many families. Towns like Leevale often started as places where miners and their families lived. These were sometimes called "coal towns."
Life in a Coal Community
Life in a coal community was often centered around the mine. People worked hard, and the community supported each other. Stores, schools, and churches were built to serve the mining families. Even today, the history of coal mining is a big part of West Virginia's identity.
Modern Leevale
Today, Leevale remains a quiet community in Raleigh County. While the coal industry has changed over the years, the spirit of these small towns continues. People in Leevale enjoy the peaceful environment and the natural beauty of West Virginia.
Living in Raleigh County
Raleigh County offers many outdoor activities. There are opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring nature. The county seat, Beckley, provides services and shopping for residents of smaller communities like Leevale.
Connecting with Neighbors
In unincorporated communities, neighbors often know each other well. People might rely on community events or local gatherings to stay connected. This creates a strong sense of belonging among residents.
