Cities and Towns in Preston County, West Virginia
Founded in 1818, Preston County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Preston County was formed from Monongalia County. The city of Kingwood is the county seat. With FIPS code of 77, Preston County has a population of 34,358 and area of 648 square miles (1,678 km²).
List of all cities in Preston County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albright, WV | 26519 | 304 |
| Amboy, WV | 26705 | 304 |
| Arthurdale, WV | 26520 | 304 |
| Aurora, WV | 26705 | 304 |
| Brandonville, WV | 26525 | 304 |
| Bretz, WV | 26524 | 304 |
| Bruceton Mills, WV | 26525 | 304 |
| Bruceton MLS, WV | 26525 | 304 |
| Cascade, WV | 26542 | 304 |
| Corinth, WV | 26764 | 304 |
| Cuzzart, WV | 26525 | 304 |
| Eglon, WV | 26716 | 304 |
| Hazelton, WV | 26525 | 304 |
| Hopemont, WV | 26764 | 304 |
| Horse Shoe Run, WV | 26716 | 304 |
| Independence, WV | 26374 | 304 |
| Kingwood, WV | 26519 | 304 |
| Kingwood, WV | 26537 | 304 |
| Manheim, WV | 26425 | 304 |
| Masontown, WV | 26542 | 304 |
| Newburg, WV | 26374 | 304 |
| Newburg, WV | 26410 | 304 |
| Reedsville, WV | 26547 | 304 |
| Rowlesburg, WV | 26425 | 304 |
| Terra Alta, WV | 26764 | 304 |
| Tunnelton, WV | 26444 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Preston County, West Virginia
Preston County, located in the northern part of West Virginia, is known for its scenic landscapes, including the Appalachian Mountains and several state parks. The county is rich in history, from its early settlement during the American frontier to its development during the industrial era. Today, Preston County is a mix of rural and suburban communities, with a strong agricultural heritage and increasing tourism due to its natural beauty and proximity to larger urban centers like Morgantown. Below are the major cities and towns in Preston County, each contributing to the character and history of the region.
Kingwood
Location and History
Kingwood, the county seat of Preston County, is located at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains. Founded in 1817, Kingwood was named for its location among the “King’s Woods,” which were prime hunting grounds for early settlers. Kingwood grew as a small agricultural center, and its history is deeply tied to the timber and coal industries, which boomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s development was also influenced by its position along the river, making it a natural trading post. In modern times, Kingwood has remained a small but vibrant community, attracting those seeking a rural lifestyle while remaining close to the larger city of Morgantown. Its well-preserved downtown area and historical buildings reflect the town’s rich past.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,000
- Zip Codes: 26537
- Latitude: 39.4285° N
- Longitude: 79.3831° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kingwood is part of the Preston County School District, with Kingwood Elementary School and Preston High School being key educational institutions. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including the Preston County Courthouse, built in 1895 and a prominent feature of the town’s architecture. Kingwood also features the Kingwood Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore the local area, including the nearby Cheat River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The annual Kingwood Fall Festival is a major community event that celebrates the town’s heritage with food, music, and entertainment. Kingwood’s small-town charm, combined with its proximity to outdoor recreation, makes it a popular place for residents and visitors alike.
Tunnelton
Location and History
Tunnelton is a small town in the western part of Preston County, known for its historic significance and natural beauty. The town was established in the early 19th century, but its real development came with the completion of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 1850s. The construction of the Tunnelton Tunnel, one of the first major railroad tunnels in the United States, was a significant milestone in the region’s history. The town became a key railroad hub, facilitating the movement of coal and timber from the region. Though Tunnelton’s population and economy have declined over the years, it remains an important historical site and a peaceful community. The town’s history is still visible in the old railroad buildings and the remnants of the tunnel that once played a vital role in the nation’s railroad system.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Zip Codes: 26444
- Latitude: 39.4404° N
- Longitude: 79.9173° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tunnelton is served by the Preston County School District, with students typically attending schools in Kingwood or other nearby areas. A key landmark in Tunnelton is the historic Tunnelton Tunnel, which was a marvel of engineering at the time of its construction in the 1850s. Although the tunnel is no longer in active use for rail traffic, it is a point of interest for visitors and history enthusiasts. Tunnelton’s location near the Cheat River also makes it a destination for outdoor recreation, particularly fishing and hiking. The town retains much of its historical charm, with older buildings and structures from the railroad era still standing. The small-town atmosphere and scenic surroundings continue to make Tunnelton an appealing place for those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Reedsville
Location and History
Reedsville, a small town in the eastern part of Preston County, was settled in the early 1800s and named for its first settler, Richard Reed. The town grew slowly over the years, with the development of agriculture and timber as the main economic drivers. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth to the town, connecting it to larger markets and expanding its role in the region’s economy. Over time, Reedsville became a quiet, residential community with a rich history tied to the rural lifestyle of the region. Though small in population, Reedsville remains an important part of Preston County, and its rural setting makes it an attractive destination for people looking to escape city life while enjoying the peace of the Appalachian Mountains.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Zip Codes: 26547
- Latitude: 39.4657° N
- Longitude: 79.7989° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Reedsville is part of the Preston County School District, and while the town has no schools within its limits, nearby schools such as Preston High School in Kingwood serve the local population. Reedsville is home to the Reedsville Community Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. The town’s location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in nearby streams and rivers. Reedsville’s rural charm and proximity to larger towns like Kingwood make it an appealing location for those seeking a quiet, close-knit community. The town also boasts several historical buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century, reflecting its long history.
Bruceton Mills
Location and History
Bruceton Mills, located in the southern part of Preston County, is a small town known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. The town was settled in the early 19th century, and it grew as a result of its location along the Cheat River, which was used for both transportation and industry. Bruceton Mills’ history is tied to the region’s coal mining and timber industries, which flourished in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, Bruceton Mills is known for its charming rural atmosphere and is a gateway to nearby outdoor destinations, including the Cheat Canyon and the Coopers Rock State Forest. The town’s natural surroundings, including its proximity to the river and the forest, make it a popular location for visitors seeking outdoor adventure.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Zip Codes: 26525
- Latitude: 39.5484° N
- Longitude: 79.6843° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bruceton Mills is served by the Preston County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Kingwood. The town itself is home to a small library and community center, offering resources for residents and visitors alike. Bruceton Mills’ location along the Cheat River makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The nearby Coopers Rock State Forest, which is renowned for its hiking trails and panoramic views of the Cheat River Canyon, draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. The town also hosts several small businesses, local eateries, and bed-and-breakfasts catering to visitors exploring the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. With its combination of outdoor activities and peaceful setting, Bruceton Mills provides a serene escape from urban life.
The Settlement of Preston County
Location and History
Preston County was established in 1818 and is named after Virginia Governor James Patton Preston. The county’s development is closely tied to its location along key transportation routes, including the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the Cheat River. Early settlers were primarily farmers, and the county’s economy grew with the expansion of the coal and timber industries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As coal mining declined in the mid-20th century, Preston County experienced a shift towards tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The county is home to a number of state parks and natural attractions, making it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Preston County is served by the Preston County School District, which includes schools like Preston High School and several elementary and middle schools. The county is known for its natural landmarks, including Coopers Rock State Forest, which offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic vistas. The county also features the Preston County Fairgrounds, home to the annual Preston County Fair, which showcases local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment. The Cheat River provides opportunities for water-based recreation, including rafting and fishing, while the nearby Appalachian Mountains offer excellent hiking and camping.
