Paden Island facts for kids
Geography | |
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Location | Ohio River, West Virginia |
Coordinates | 39°36′47″N 80°55′40″W / 39.6131317°N 80.9278810°W |
Administration | |
Paden Island is a small piece of land surrounded by water, located in Wetzel County, West Virginia. It sits in the Ohio River, right between Sardis, Ohio and Paden City, West Virginia. This island is a special part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
What is Paden Island?
Paden Island is one of many islands found in the Ohio River. It's not very big, but it plays an important role. The island is part of a larger group of protected lands. These lands are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Part of a Wildlife Refuge
Being part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge means Paden Island is a safe place for nature. A wildlife refuge helps protect different kinds of animals and plants. It keeps their homes safe from harm. This helps many species of birds, fish, and other wildlife thrive.
A Historic Crossing Point
Paden Island has a unique place in history. Long ago, during a time when some states allowed slavery and others did not, this island became important. People who were enslaved in Virginia sometimes used Paden Island. They would cross the Ohio River here to reach Ohio, which was a free state. This made the island a part of their journey to freedom.