Cities and Towns in Taylor County, West Virginia
Founded in 1844, Taylor County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Taylor County was formed from Barbour, Harrison, Marion counties. The city of Grafton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 91, Taylor County has a population of 16,492 and area of 173 square miles (448 km²).
List of all cities in Taylor County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Astor, WV | 26347 | 304 |
| Belgium, WV | 26354 | 304 |
| Brownton, WV | 26347 | 304 |
| Flemington, WV | 26347 | 304 |
| Grafton, WV | 26354 | 304 |
| Harmony Grove, WV | 26354 | 304 |
| Haymond, WV | 26354 | 304 |
| Rosemont, WV | 26424 | 304 |
| Simpson, WV | 26435 | 304 |
| Thornton, WV | 26440 | 304 |
| Wendel, WV | 26347 | 304 |
| White Day, WV | 26354 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Taylor County, West Virginia
Taylor County, located in the north-central part of West Virginia, is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and small-town charm. The county is a blend of rural agricultural communities and developing suburban areas, offering residents and visitors a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural heritage, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Below is an overview of the major towns and cities in Taylor County, each with its own unique history and character.
Grafton
Location and History
Grafton, the county seat of Taylor County, is situated at the confluence of the Tygart Valley River and the West Fork River. Founded in 1856, Grafton became a key transportation hub with the arrival of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in the 1850s, which spurred the town’s growth and development. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Grafton was known for its role in the coal and timber industries, which provided much of the economic foundation for the region. Over the years, Grafton has maintained its importance as a cultural and economic center for the surrounding communities. Grafton is historically notable as the birthplace of Mother’s Day, with the first official celebration occurring there in 1908, due to the efforts of Anna Jarvis. Today, Grafton is a small town with a deep sense of history and a variety of local attractions.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,000
- Zip Codes: 26354
- Latitude: 39.3411° N
- Longitude: 80.0210° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grafton is served by the Taylor County School District, with Grafton High School, Anna Jarvis Elementary School, and others providing educational opportunities to local children. One of the most significant landmarks in Grafton is the Grafton National Cemetery, which is the final resting place for many Civil War soldiers, making it an important historical site. The town is also home to the Mother’s Day Shrine, dedicated to Anna Jarvis and the holiday’s origins in Grafton. The Tygart Valley River offers opportunities for outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking, while the nearby Appalachian foothills provide additional scenic views and trails. Grafton hosts several local events throughout the year, including the annual Mother’s Day celebration and the Grafton Heritage Days festival, which celebrates the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Flemington
Location and History
Flemington is a small town located in the northeastern part of Taylor County, situated along the Buckhannon River. The town’s history dates back to the early 19th century, with its founding in 1814. Originally established as a farming community, Flemington grew during the late 1800s due to the development of the railroad, which provided better access to nearby markets. The town was officially incorporated in 1890 and was named after the Flemington family, early settlers in the area. Over time, Flemington transitioned from an agricultural base to a more diversified economy. Today, it remains a quiet rural community with a strong emphasis on its agricultural heritage, while also benefiting from its proximity to larger towns and cities like Grafton.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 250
- Zip Codes: 26347
- Latitude: 39.2794° N
- Longitude: 80.1394° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Flemington is part of the Taylor County School District, and local students attend schools in nearby Grafton. While the town is small, it has historical landmarks such as the Flemington Historic District, which features a collection of buildings dating back to the 19th century. The Buckhannon River provides a scenic backdrop to the town, and residents enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Flemington is also known for its annual events, including local festivals and community gatherings that bring together residents and visitors to celebrate the town’s history and rural culture. Its quiet, rural setting makes it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle close to the larger city amenities of Grafton.
Shinnston
Location and History
Shinnston is a city located in the southwestern part of Taylor County, at the junction of the West Fork River and the Simpson Creek. Originally settled in the early 1800s, Shinnston was first known as “Shinn’s Mill” due to a mill established by early settler Samuel Shinn. The town was incorporated in 1871 and grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The town’s growth was further bolstered by the coal and natural gas industries, which provided employment and attracted workers from across the region. Like many small towns in West Virginia, Shinnston saw a decline in its industrial base during the 20th century, but it has since experienced a revival with a focus on local tourism, agriculture, and community development. Today, Shinnston is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and small-town atmosphere.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000
- Zip Codes: 26431
- Latitude: 39.3899° N
- Longitude: 80.3470° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shinnston is served by the Harrison County School District, with students attending local schools such as Shinnston Middle School and Lincoln High School. The city is known for its historic downtown district, which features several 19th-century buildings and structures that reflect its industrial past. Notable landmarks include the Shinnston Depot, a former railroad station that now serves as a museum and cultural center. The West Fork River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking, with scenic views of the surrounding Appalachian foothills. Shinnston hosts a variety of local events, including the annual Shinnston River Festival, which celebrates the town’s heritage and brings together the community for music, food, and family-friendly activities. The town’s close proximity to larger cities, such as Clarksburg, also provides residents with access to additional cultural and economic opportunities.
The Settlement of Taylor County
Location and History
Taylor County was established in 1844 and named after Zachary Taylor, the 12th President of the United States. The county is located in the north-central part of West Virginia and is known for its rural charm, agricultural history, and natural beauty. Taylor County was originally settled in the late 18th century by European pioneers who were drawn to the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The development of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought growth to the area, particularly in towns like Grafton, which became an important transportation hub. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the coal, timber, and railroad industries helped to shape the economy of the county. Today, Taylor County remains a mixture of agricultural land and small towns, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle while still benefiting from its proximity to larger urban areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Taylor County is served by the Taylor County School District, which includes schools such as Grafton High School and Anna Jarvis Elementary School. The county’s landmarks include the Grafton National Cemetery, a Civil War-era cemetery with over 1,000 graves, and the Mother’s Day Shrine in Grafton, which celebrates the origins of Mother’s Day. Outdoor recreation is a key feature of the area, with local parks, rivers, and hiking trails offering year-round opportunities for activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating. The county also hosts several annual festivals, including the Grafton Heritage Days and the Grafton Mother’s Day celebration, which attract visitors from around the region. Taylor County’s combination of rich history, cultural landmarks, and access to natural beauty makes it a unique and desirable place to live.
