Shannondale, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Shannondale, West Virginia
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 Shannondale, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
Shannondale, West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Jefferson |
| Area | |
| • Total | 8.745 sq mi (22.65 km2) |
| • Land | 8.428 sq mi (21.83 km2) |
| • Water | 0.317 sq mi (0.82 km2) |
| Elevation | 558 ft (170 m) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 3,358 |
| • Density | 383.99/sq mi (148.260/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 2586881 |
Shannondale is a community in Jefferson County, West Virginia, United States. It is known as a census-designated place (CDP). This means it is an area identified by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes. In 2010, about 3,358 people lived in Shannondale.
Contents
History of Shannondale
Early Beginnings
Shannondale was first planned as a peaceful getaway. People from cities would visit in spring and summer. They stayed in vacation cottages. The area is located between the Shenandoah River and the Appalachian Trail. It sits on the western side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The name "Shannondale" was first recorded in January 1740. It referred to a large piece of land, about 29,120 acres (118 square kilometers). This land included a spa and resort called Shannondale Springs.
Developing the Community
The modern Shannondale community began in the mid-1950s. Charles M. Johnson, an engineer and real estate broker, started it. He saw that the land around Shannondale Springs could be a great retreat. It was perfect for people living in Baltimore and Washington. He invited them to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River.
In 1955, the first road was built in the new development. This area was about 2,500 acres (10 square kilometers). Three years later, a lodge, a bathhouse, and a large swimming pool were built. There were also places for recreation and camping along the river. Many summer vacation homes were built during this time. More than 20 miles (32 kilometers) of roads were also added. Over time, the developer bought more land. Shannondale grew to over 5,000 acres (20 square kilometers). This made it one of the largest communities in West Virginia by size.
The Mountain Lake Club
In 1961, work began on a new lake. An earthen dam was built to create a 65-acre (263,000 square meter) lake. It was next to the clubhouse and pool. When finished, this lake was the largest in West Virginia owned by a private group. More people bought homes and joined the community club after the lake was completed. By 1970, Shannondale had over 500 homes. Many of these homes became full-time residences. The community also had over 40 miles (64 kilometers) of roads.
In 1972, the club became public. Then, in 1978, a group of members bought it. The club is now privately owned and called The Mountain Lake Club. Sadly, the original Lodge (clubhouse) was destroyed by a fire on June 19, 2003. The area where the Lodge once stood is now considered historic ruins. Today, the Shannondale community has more than 1,200 homes. Most of these homes are lived in all year. The State of West Virginia now takes care of the over 70 miles (113 kilometers) of roads.
See also
In Spanish: Shannondale (Virginia Occidental) para niños
