Cities and Towns in Tyler County, West Virginia
Founded in 1814, Tyler County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Tyler County was formed from Ohio County. The city of Middlebourne is the county seat. With FIPS code of 95, Tyler County has a population of 8,155 and area of 258 square miles (668 km²).
List of all cities in Tyler County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alma, WV | 26320 | 304 |
| Bens Run, WV | 26146 | 304 |
| Friendly, WV | 26146 | 304 |
| Middlebourne, WV | 26149 | 304 |
| Shirley, WV | 26434 | 304 |
| Sistersville, WV | 26175 | 304 |
| Wick, WV | 26149 | 304 |
| Wilbur, WV | 26320 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Tyler County, West Virginia
Tyler County, located in the northern part of West Virginia, is known for its scenic beauty, rural charm, and historical significance. The county, named after President John Tyler, has a rich history rooted in agriculture, natural resources, and the development of the oil and gas industry. Below are some of the major cities and towns in Tyler County, each with its unique character and contributions to the county’s history.
Middlebourne
Location and History
Middlebourne is the county seat of Tyler County and is located in the central part of the county, along the Tyler County Highway (Route 18). The town was established in 1818, and it quickly grew due to its location near the intersecting rivers and its strategic position in the region. Middlebourne became an important center for agriculture, with the fertile land surrounding the town being ideal for farming. The town’s growth accelerated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area. While oil and gas production is no longer the dominant industry, the town has maintained its rural and agricultural character. Today, Middlebourne is a quiet community with a rich history, offering a peaceful place for residents to live while being close to the region’s natural beauty.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800
- Zip Codes: 26149
- Latitude: 39.3983° N
- Longitude: 80.8912° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Middlebourne is served by the Tyler County School District, with Middlebourne Elementary School and Tyler Consolidated High School providing educational opportunities for the community. One of the town’s notable landmarks is the Tyler County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government and is a key architectural feature of the town. The surrounding area is home to various outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing, particularly along the nearby Hughes River. Middlebourne is also close to several historic homes and buildings that reflect the town’s 19th-century heritage. The town hosts local events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community, including festivals and public gatherings.
Sistersville
Location and History
Sistersville is another significant town in Tyler County, located along the Ohio River in the northeastern part of the county. It was founded in 1815 and originally known as “Sisters,” named after the two daughters of an early settler. The town was incorporated in 1831, and its early history was centered around the river trade and transportation. However, it wasn’t until the discovery of oil in the region in the mid-19th century that Sistersville began to flourish. The oil boom in the late 1800s brought prosperity to the town, with oil derricks dotting the landscape and leading to an influx of people and wealth. While the oil industry eventually declined, Sistersville’s historical significance remains strong. The town’s location along the Ohio River makes it a scenic and attractive place, offering a peaceful environment with ties to both its industrial and riverboat history.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- Zip Codes: 26175
- Latitude: 39.4222° N
- Longitude: 81.1900° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sistersville is served by the Tyler County School District, with Sistersville Elementary School and Tyler Consolidated High School providing education to local students. The town has a number of historical landmarks, including the Sistersville Ferry, which offers boat trips across the Ohio River, connecting Sistersville with Pomeroy, Ohio. The Sistersville Historic District is another prominent area, with several Victorian-style buildings and homes that reflect the town’s heyday during the oil boom. The town also has a number of parks and recreational areas, including the Sistersville City Park, which features sports facilities, walking trails, and picnic areas. Sistersville hosts several annual events, including the Sistersville Ferry Festival, which celebrates the town’s river history and community spirit. The town’s rich oil heritage is showcased in the Tyler County Historical Museum.
Paden City
Location and History
Paden City is located in the northeastern corner of Tyler County, also along the Ohio River. The town was incorporated in 1900 and grew out of a small farming community that was established in the 19th century. The construction of the railroad and the subsequent industrial development in the region helped Paden City expand rapidly. Like Sistersville, Paden City saw an economic boost during the oil boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Paden City is known for its strong community spirit and historical significance. It retains its small-town charm while benefiting from its proximity to the river, providing residents and visitors with scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500
- Zip Codes: 26159
- Latitude: 39.5380° N
- Longitude: 81.4695° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paden City is served by the Tyler County School District, with Paden City Elementary School and Paden City High School providing educational opportunities. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including the Paden City Heritage Park, which features a series of plaques and monuments that showcase the town’s history. The Ohio River is a major feature of the town, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities. Paden City is also close to the Paden City Public Library, which serves as a resource for both residents and visitors. The town is known for its annual events, such as the Paden City Christmas Parade, which celebrates the holiday season and brings the community together. Paden City remains a welcoming, family-friendly town with a strong connection to its history and the surrounding natural beauty.
Friendly
Location and History
Friendly is a small unincorporated community in the western part of Tyler County, nestled near the intersection of State Route 18 and County Route 5. The town’s history is tied to its agricultural roots, with farming and timber production being the primary industries for most of its existence. Friendly is located near the West Virginia and Ohio borders, making it part of a region historically influenced by trade and transportation. The community remains a quiet, rural area with a close-knit population. It has also benefited from its proximity to the Ohio River, providing access to water-based recreation and trade opportunities in earlier years.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Codes: 26146
- Latitude: 39.4289° N
- Longitude: 81.2713° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Friendly is part of the Tyler County School District, and students typically attend schools in the nearby towns, including Tyler Consolidated High School. The community’s landmarks are primarily residential, with homes and farms that reflect the rural lifestyle of the area. Friendly’s proximity to the Ohio River provides residents with access to water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The town is also close to the historical town of Sistersville, offering additional landmarks and cultural events for those interested in local history. Friendly remains a quiet, peaceful community surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills.
The Settlement of Tyler County
Location and History
Tyler County was established in 1814 and is named after John Tyler, the 10th President of the United States. Located in the northern part of West Virginia, Tyler County is bordered by the Ohio River to the north and is home to a population that has historically been involved in farming, timber, and coal. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of oil and gas reserves dramatically changed the region, bringing both prosperity and challenges. The oil boom led to the rapid growth of towns like Sistersville and Paden City, but as the oil industry declined, the county’s economy shifted toward agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. Today, Tyler County remains a peaceful, rural area with a rich history and a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tyler County is served by the Tyler County School District, which includes several schools, such as Tyler Consolidated High School and Sistersville Elementary School. The county’s landmarks include the Tyler County Courthouse, the Tyler County Historical Museum, and the famous Sistersville Ferry. The Ohio River and nearby parks offer numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Tyler County also hosts a number of cultural events, such as the Sistersville Ferry Festival, which celebrates the area’s historical and natural beauty. The county’s small towns, rich history, and access to the river make it an attractive place to visit and live.
