Cities and Towns in Upshur County, West Virginia
Founded in 1851, Upshur County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Upshur County was formed from Barbour, Lewis, and Randolph counties. The city of Buckhannon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Upshur County has a population of 23,791 and area of 355 square miles (919 km²).
List of all cities in Upshur County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adrian, WV | 26210 | 304 |
| Alexander, WV | 26218 | 304 |
| Buckhannon, WV | 26201 | 304 |
| Century, WV | 26201 | 304 |
| Cleveland, WV | 26215 | 304 |
| French Creek, WV | 26218 | 304 |
| 26219 | 304 | |
| Frenchton, WV | 26219 | 304 |
| Hodgesville, WV | 26201 | 304 |
| Kanawha Head, WV | 26228 | 304 |
| Lorentz, WV | 26229 | 304 |
| Rock Cave, WV | 26215 | 304 |
| 26234 | 304 | |
| Selbyville, WV | 26236 | 304 |
| Tallmansville, WV | 26237 | 304 |
| Tennerton, WV | 26201 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Upshur County, West Virginia
Upshur County, located in the central part of West Virginia, is known for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and valleys. The county is home to several towns that reflect the region’s deep history, agricultural roots, and cultural heritage. Below is an overview of the major cities and towns in Upshur County, each offering a unique glimpse into the past and present of this charming Appalachian area.
Buckhannon
Location and History
Buckhannon is the county seat of Upshur County and is located at the confluence of the Buckhannon and Tygart Valley rivers. Founded in 1816, the town was named after the Buckhannon River, which in turn was named after an early settler of the region. Buckhannon grew quickly as a trading center due to its strategic location along river and later railroad routes. In the mid-19th century, it became a hub for agriculture and timber production. During the 20th century, Buckhannon expanded further with the development of education, business, and culture. It is now known for its historic downtown district and its proximity to both outdoor recreation areas and cultural attractions. Buckhannon also became a focal point for the growing oil and gas industry in the region.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,400
- Zip Codes: 26201
- Latitude: 38.9910° N
- Longitude: 80.2253° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Buckhannon is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College, a private liberal arts college that has been a focal point of the town’s educational landscape since 1890. The town is also served by several public schools, including Buckhannon-Upshur High School and Tennerton Elementary School. Buckhannon has a rich history reflected in its landmarks, such as the Upshur County Courthouse, built in 1900, and the beautiful, historic downtown area, which includes Victorian-style buildings and a number of antique shops and local businesses. Nearby, the Holly River State Park offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the town hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Buckhannon-Upshur Arts and Crafts Fair and the annual Strawberry Festival.
French Creek
Location and History
French Creek is a small unincorporated community located in the southern part of Upshur County, named after French Creek, which flows through the region. The area was first settled in the early 19th century and became known for its agricultural activities, particularly livestock farming. Over time, the community remained small, with farming, forestry, and natural resources forming the backbone of the local economy. French Creek is also known for its historical significance during the Civil War, as it was located along the border of the Union and Confederate territories, though it never saw major battles. The town remains a quiet rural area with close ties to its agricultural heritage.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Codes: 26218
- Latitude: 38.8604° N
- Longitude: 80.4629° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
French Creek is served by the Upshur County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as French Creek Elementary and Buckhannon-Upshur High School. The town’s landmarks are largely related to its agricultural history, with local farms and natural landscapes playing a significant role in the area’s identity. French Creek is also near the French Creek Wildlife Management Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and hunting. The nearby Audra State Park is another notable attraction, with its famous hiking trails, including the Rocky Point Trail, which provides scenic views of the area. French Creek remains a quiet, rural community surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Selbyville
Location and History
Selbyville is an unincorporated community located in the western part of Upshur County. Originally settled as a farming and timber area, the town grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the expansion of the railroad and local industries. The region around Selbyville was known for its dense forests, which were used for timber production, and for its fertile land, which supported a strong agricultural community. Today, Selbyville remains a small rural town, but its historical roots in timber and agriculture are still evident in the local economy. The town is close to several recreational areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100
- Zip Codes: 26415
- Latitude: 38.9371° N
- Longitude: 80.4943° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Selbyville is part of the Upshur County School District, with local students attending nearby schools in Buckhannon. Though small in size, the town’s history is reflected in its proximity to the rural landscape and its role in the timber industry. Nearby landmarks include the beautiful Upshur County countryside, which offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. Additionally, Selbyville is close to the Buckhannon River, which provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor recreation. The quiet rural lifestyle, combined with access to the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests, makes Selbyville a peaceful, picturesque community.
Hodgesville
Location and History
Hodgesville is a small community located to the north of Buckhannon, in the eastern part of Upshur County. The town was originally settled in the 19th century as an agricultural community, with many of its early residents working in farming and logging. Over time, it grew with the development of nearby towns and the construction of local infrastructure. Though a small community, Hodgesville retains its rural charm and is surrounded by scenic views of the Appalachian mountains. Today, it is largely residential, with a focus on preserving its rural way of life.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600
- Zip Codes: 26201
- Latitude: 38.9842° N
- Longitude: 80.3609° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hodgesville is served by the Upshur County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as Hodgesville Elementary School and Buckhannon-Upshur High School. The town’s historical landmarks are primarily residential, with old farmhouses and barns that showcase the agricultural heritage of the region. Hodgesville is located near the scenic Buckhannon River, which provides opportunities for fishing and boating. The nearby Holly River State Park offers hiking trails, camping, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hodgesville remains a peaceful rural community with easy access to the cultural and educational amenities found in nearby Buckhannon.
The Settlement of Upshur County
Location and History
Upshur County was founded in 1851 and is named after Abel Upshur, a former U.S. Secretary of State. Located in central West Virginia, the county is bordered by several other counties, including Barbour, Randolph, and Lewis. Early settlers were drawn to the area due to its fertile land and access to waterways like the Buckhannon River and Tygart Valley River. Like many other parts of West Virginia, Upshur County’s economy was traditionally based on agriculture, forestry, and coal mining. Over the years, the county has faced the economic challenges associated with the decline of the coal industry but has adapted by focusing on agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. The area is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Upshur County is served by the Upshur County School District, which provides educational opportunities from elementary through high school. The county is home to several historic landmarks, including the Upshur County Courthouse, the town of Buckhannon with its Victorian-style architecture, and the many state parks and recreation areas in the region. Notable landmarks include the Holly River State Park, Audra State Park, and the scenic Buckhannon River. The county also hosts cultural events throughout the year, including festivals and fairs that celebrate its agricultural heritage and local craftsmanship. The natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains provides numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation, making Upshur County a destination for nature lovers.
