Tamroy, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tamroy
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 Tamroy
Location in West Virginia
Tamroy
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Raleigh |
| Elevation | 2,001 ft (610 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS ID | 1742992 |
Tamroy was once a special kind of town in Raleigh County, West Virginia. It was known as a "company town" because it was completely owned and managed by a single business. In Tamroy's case, this business was the McKell Coal & Coke Company. These towns were common in areas where industries like coal mining were very important.
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What Was a Company Town Like?
A company town was built and run by a company, usually for its workers. The company owned everything, including the houses, stores, and even the schools. Workers often got paid in a special kind of money called "scrip," which could only be used at the company store. This system meant that workers and their families relied completely on the company for everything they needed.
Why Did Company Towns Exist?
Company towns were created for a few reasons. First, they helped companies attract workers to remote areas where there weren't many existing towns. Second, they allowed companies to control many aspects of their workers' lives, which could sometimes lead to challenges for the workers. For example, if a worker lost their job, they might also lose their home.
Life in a Coal Mining Town
Tamroy was a coal town, meaning its main purpose was to support the nearby coal mines. Life in such a town revolved around the mining industry. Most of the men worked in the mines, digging for coal. Their families lived in houses provided by the company. These towns often had a strong sense of community, as everyone was connected to the same industry.
The Role of McKell Coal & Coke Company
The McKell Coal & Coke Company was in charge of Tamroy. They built the town and provided services for the residents. This company was a big part of the coal industry in West Virginia during its time. They managed the mines and the lives of the people who worked for them in Tamroy.
Where Was Tamroy Located?
Tamroy was located in Raleigh County, West Virginia. This part of West Virginia is known for its rich history in coal mining. The town's location was chosen to be close to the coal seams, making it easy for miners to get to work.
Tamroy Today
Many company towns like Tamroy no longer exist as they once did. As industries changed and transportation improved, the need for companies to build and run entire towns decreased. Today, Tamroy is considered an unincorporated community, meaning it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town.
