Cities and Towns in Alleghany County, Virginia
Founded in 1822, Alleghany County is one of 95 counties in the state of Virginia. Historically, Alleghany County was formed from Formed from parts of Bath and Botetourt counties as well as Monroe County (now in WV). The city of Covington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 5, Alleghany County has a population of 14,986 and area of 446 square miles (1,155 km²).
List of all cities in Alleghany County, VA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clifton Forge, VA | 24422 | 540 |
| Iron Gate, VA | 24448 | 540 |
| Low Moor, VA | 24457 | 540 |
| Selma, VA | 24474 | 540 |
Major Cities and Towns in Alleghany County, Virginia
Clifton Forge
Key Facts
- Area: Approximately 3.1 square miles
- Population: 3,555 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 24422
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.8168° N, 79.8242° W
Location and History
Clifton Forge is nestled in the picturesque Alleghany Highlands along the Jackson River and surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains. Its origins trace back to the late 19th century, when the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway established the town as a critical hub for rail operations. The name reflects the area’s industrial history, with “Forge” alluding to its former ironworks. Over the decades, Clifton Forge transformed from an industrial center to a vibrant small town with a focus on arts, culture, and tourism. Its historic downtown area retains much of its charm, and the town has become a regional center for events and outdoor activities, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
Major Schools
Students in Clifton Forge attend Alleghany County Public Schools, including Mountain View Elementary School, Clifton Middle School, and Alleghany High School. These institutions provide a well-rounded education and extracurricular opportunities, fostering community engagement.
Major Landmarks
The Historic Masonic Theatre, built in 1905, is a cornerstone of the town’s cultural life, hosting performances and events year-round. The C&O Railway Heritage Center highlights the town’s rich railroad history, while Douthat State Park, located nearby, offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities, attracting both residents and visitors.
Iron Gate
Key Facts
- Area: Approximately 0.3 square miles
- Population: 388 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 24448
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.7987° N, 79.7936° W
Location and History
Iron Gate, located at the southern tip of Alleghany County, sits near the confluence of the Jackson and James Rivers. Established in the late 19th century, it developed as a small industrial and railroad town, benefiting from its strategic position near natural resources and transportation routes. The name “Iron Gate” reflects the town’s historical ties to the iron industry and its geographic location, which served as a gateway for goods and people traveling through the region. Today, Iron Gate remains a quiet, close-knit community, preserving its small-town charm while being surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Major Schools
Iron Gate is served by the Alleghany County Public Schools system. Students typically attend Mountain View Elementary School, Clifton Middle School, and Alleghany High School. These schools emphasize academic excellence and extracurricular involvement.
Major Landmarks
The Jackson and James Rivers provide recreational opportunities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The town’s location near the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests makes it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Iron Gate’s small historical sites and annual community events highlight its rich heritage and foster local pride.
Covington
Key Facts
- Area: Approximately 5.7 square miles
- Population: 5,737 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 24426
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.7782° N, 79.9923° W
Location and History
Covington, the county seat of Alleghany County, is located along the Jackson River in the heart of the Alleghany Highlands. Named after early settler Peter Covington, the town developed as a center for industry and transportation in the 19th century, driven by the arrival of railroads and the burgeoning paper mill industry. The Westvaco Corporation (now WestRock) established a paper mill in the town, which remains a significant employer. Covington’s blend of industrial heritage and scenic mountain surroundings creates a unique character that draws visitors and fosters community pride.
Major Schools
Covington hosts several schools within the Alleghany County Public Schools system, including Edgemont Primary School, Jeter-Watson Intermediate School, and Alleghany High School. The schools are complemented by community involvement and robust extracurricular offerings.
Major Landmarks
The Humpback Bridge, Virginia’s oldest covered bridge, is a notable landmark near Covington, drawing visitors for its unique architecture and scenic location. The Jackson River Scenic Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts miles of trails for hiking, biking, and fishing. Covington’s historic downtown features local shops, restaurants, and annual events like the Covington Cork and Pork Festival, celebrating the town’s rich culture and community spirit.
