Cities and Towns in Pendleton County, West Virginia
Founded in 1788, Pendleton County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Pendleton County was formed from Augusta County (Virginia), Rockingham County (Virginia), and Hardy. The city of Franklin is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Pendleton County has a population of 6,142 and area of 698 square miles (1,808 km²).
List of all cities in Pendleton County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brandywine, WV | 26802 | 304 |
| Circleville, WV | 26804 | 304 |
| Fort Seybert, WV | 26802 | 304 |
| Franklin, WV | 26807 | 304 |
| Moyers, WV | 26815 | 304 |
| Onego, WV | 26886 | 304 |
| Riverton, WV | 26814 | 304 |
| Seneca Rocks, WV | 26884 | 304 |
| Sugar Grove, WV | 26815 | 304 |
| Upper Tract, WV | 26866 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Pendleton County, West Virginia
Pendleton County, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, is known for its natural beauty, mountainous terrain, and rural charm. The county was founded in 1788 and is named after Edmund Pendleton, a prominent Virginia statesman. The county’s economy has historically been centered around agriculture, particularly livestock farming, and timber industries, with tourism becoming increasingly important in recent years due to its scenic beauty. Pendleton County is home to several small towns, each with a rich history and a close-knit community atmosphere. Despite being a rural county, Pendleton offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching, thanks to its vast forests, streams, and mountains. The county has a deep connection to its Appalachian heritage, and the area continues to maintain a slower pace of life that attracts those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature.
Franklin
Location and History
Franklin is the county seat of Pendleton County, located in the central part of the county. The town was founded in the late 18th century and played a significant role in the early development of the region. The town’s location along the South Branch of the Potomac River made it a key transportation hub for settlers and traders moving through the region. During the Civil War, Franklin was the site of several skirmishes between Union and Confederate forces due to its strategic location. Over the years, Franklin grew into a center of commerce and government for Pendleton County, maintaining its small-town charm while becoming an important part of the county’s development. The town has retained much of its 19th-century character, with several historic buildings and landmarks that highlight its rich history.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500
- Zip Codes: 26807
- Latitude: 38.4182° N
- Longitude: 79.3589° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Franklin is served by the Pendleton County School District, with Pendleton County High School being the primary secondary school. The town’s rich history is reflected in several key landmarks, including the Pendleton County Courthouse, a beautiful 19th-century building that has been central to the town’s administration since its construction. Franklin also boasts several old homes and churches that showcase its historic architecture. Visitors and locals alike enjoy outdoor activities along the South Branch of the Potomac River, which provides fishing, kayaking, and scenic views. The town’s annual events, such as the Pendleton County Fair, help to bring the community together and celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. Franklin’s peaceful, picturesque environment, combined with its deep historical roots, makes it an inviting destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of small-town West Virginia.
Brandywine
Location and History
Brandywine is a small, unincorporated community in Pendleton County, located to the northeast of Franklin. The town’s history dates back to the 19th century when it was primarily a farming and timber community. Named after the Brandywine Creek, which flows nearby, the town grew slowly over the years as families settled in the area, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The town was relatively quiet during the Civil War but saw some activity due to its location in the Appalachian foothills. Over time, Brandywine has remained a peaceful, rural community, with many of its residents involved in agriculture and outdoor industries. The area remains known for its scenic beauty and remains a tight-knit, family-oriented community.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 250
- Zip Codes: 26802
- Latitude: 38.7912° N
- Longitude: 79.3547° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brandywine is part of the Pendleton County School District, and students typically attend schools in the nearby Franklin area. The community is centered around its rural environment, with few commercial businesses but a strong sense of local pride. Notable landmarks in the area include the Brandywine Presbyterian Church, which has been a cornerstone of the town since the 19th century, and several local historic homes that reflect the town’s agricultural heritage. The surrounding area offers numerous outdoor activities, including hunting, hiking, and fishing, particularly in the nearby Monongahela National Forest. The scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains and the area’s natural beauty continue to draw visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. Brandywine’s quiet atmosphere and historical significance make it an important part of Pendleton County’s rural landscape.
Upper Tract
Location and History
Upper Tract is a small community located in the southern part of Pendleton County, West Virginia. The community was established in the early 19th century and is known for its natural beauty, including its proximity to the Shenandoah Mountain Range. Historically, Upper Tract was an agricultural community, with early settlers relying on farming and livestock production to sustain themselves. Over the years, the town saw growth in timber harvesting and mining, which brought prosperity to the area. Despite these economic changes, Upper Tract has remained a quiet, rural community, with many of its residents working in agriculture or local industries. The town continues to maintain its peaceful, rural character, and it remains a quiet retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life in the mountains.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Codes: 26866
- Latitude: 38.5633° N
- Longitude: 79.4011° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Upper Tract is served by the Pendleton County School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Franklin. While Upper Tract does not have many commercial landmarks, its rural charm lies in its natural surroundings. The area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, hiking, and wildlife watching, especially within the nearby George Washington National Forest. The community is also known for its strong sense of local heritage, with many families having lived in the area for generations. Residents and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Mountains and the surrounding valleys. Upper Tract is an idyllic spot for nature lovers and those seeking to experience the quiet, slower pace of life that rural West Virginia offers.
Pendleton County’s Role in West Virginia History
Location and History
Pendleton County, founded in 1788, is located in the eastern part of West Virginia, near the Virginia border. The county played a significant role in early Appalachian settlement, with agriculture, forestry, and river trade being the main sources of income for many of its early inhabitants. The county’s history is deeply rooted in both its natural resources and its role as a passageway for early settlers moving westward. Pendleton County was a hotbed of political and military activity during the Civil War, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers present in the area. Over the years, Pendleton has remained a rural and tranquil area, with a strong emphasis on farming, timber, and outdoor recreation. The county continues to attract visitors and new residents drawn by its natural beauty and historical charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Pendleton County School District serves the entire county, with schools located in Franklin and other nearby communities. Major landmarks in Pendleton County include the Pendleton County Courthouse in Franklin, which is an iconic symbol of the county’s history. The region is also home to the George Washington National Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Pendleton County’s natural beauty, combined with its rich historical heritage, makes it a popular destination for those seeking both a connection to the past and an appreciation for the outdoors. The county’s agricultural and rural landscape remains a defining feature of its identity today.
