Wilson Island (West Virginia) facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kanawha River, West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 38°21′42″N 81°43′18″W / 38.3617622°N 81.7217926°W |
| Administration | |
Wilson Island is a small piece of land located in the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia. It is known as a "bar island," which means it formed from sand or gravel that built up in the river over time. A major highway bridge, I-64, crosses directly over Wilson Island as it enters the city.
What is a Bar Island?
A bar island is a type of island that forms in a river or near a coastline. It happens when sand, gravel, or other small pieces of rock are carried by water currents. These materials then settle and build up in one spot. Over time, if enough material collects, it can rise above the water's surface, creating a new island. Wilson Island is an example of this natural process happening in the Kanawha River.
Location of Wilson Island
Wilson Island is found within the Kanawha River, which is an important waterway in West Virginia. The island is specifically located in the city of Charleston, the capital of West Virginia. The Kanawha River flows through many parts of the state, and Charleston is one of its main cities. The island's position in the river makes it a notable landmark for people traveling through the area.
The I-64 Bridge Connection
A significant feature connected to Wilson Island is the I-64 bridge. This large bridge carries traffic over the Kanawha River into Charleston. The path of the bridge goes right over Wilson Island. This means that drivers using I-64 to enter Charleston will pass directly above this unique river island.
