West Van Voorhis, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
West Van Voorhis, West Virginia
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 West Van Voorhis, West Virginia
Location in West Virginia
West Van Voorhis, West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  West Virginia |
| County |  Monongalia |
| Elevation | 250 m (810 ft) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| Area code(s) | 304 & 681 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1555956 |
West Van Voorhis is a small, unincorporated community located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, United States. An unincorporated community means it's a place with a name but no official local government like a city or town. It's part of the larger county.
This community sits on the north bank of the Monongahela River. It is directly across the river from another community called Van Voorhis. West Van Voorhis is about 4 miles (6.4 km) north of Morgantown, a larger city in the area.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a group of homes or buildings that are not part of an official city or town. They do not have their own mayor or city council. Instead, they are governed by the county they are in.
How Do Unincorporated Areas Work?
People living in unincorporated areas still get services like police and fire protection. These services are usually provided by the county government. Roads and schools are also managed by the county.
Why Are Some Places Unincorporated?
Many communities start small and grow over time. Some choose not to become official cities. This might be to keep taxes lower or to avoid extra rules. It allows residents to live in a less formal setting.
Geography of West Van Voorhis
West Van Voorhis is in a scenic part of West Virginia. It is right next to the Monongahela River. This river is important for the region's history and transportation.
The Monongahela River's Role
The Monongahela River flows north from West Virginia into Pennsylvania. It joins with the Allegheny River to form the Ohio River. Rivers like the Monongahela were once key for moving goods and people. They also provided water for local industries.
Location Near Morgantown
Being close to Morgantown is a big advantage for West Van Voorhis. Morgantown is home to West Virginia University. It offers many services, shops, and job opportunities. Residents of West Van Voorhis can easily access these resources.
Life in Monongalia County
Monongalia County is in the northern part of West Virginia. It is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The county has a mix of small towns, rural areas, and the city of Morgantown.
Local Activities and Nature
The area around West Van Voorhis offers many outdoor adventures. You can find places for hiking, fishing, and boating. The natural landscape includes hills, forests, and the river. This makes it a great place for people who love nature.
Education in the Area
Children in West Van Voorhis attend schools within the Monongalia County school system. This system provides education from elementary to high school. Being near West Virginia University also means there are higher education options nearby.
