Charleston

Charleston sits where the Elk River flows into the Kanawha River, serving as the seat of government for West Virginia with roughly 49,000 inhabitants. The city spreads along both riverbanks, with the gold-domed State Capitol building dominating the skyline.

The settlement started as Fort Lee in 1773 during the American Revolution and was incorporated as a town in 1794 with Daniel Boone among its trustees. The capital status became permanent in 1885 after the seat of government shifted several times between here and Wheeling.

The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences presents performances, exhibitions, and educational programs throughout the year in a modern facility downtown. Local events regularly take place on the Capitol grounds and in the public parks along the riverbanks, where residents gather.

The city connects to major destinations through Yeager Airport and multiple interstate highways, offering various transport options for travelers and residents. Most downtown attractions lie within walking distance or short drives, particularly around the Capitol district.

The Kanawha salt industry made this city a major economic center in the early 19th century, and brine is still extracted today for industrial purposes. The Capitol dome uses more gold leaf than any other dome in the United States except the national Capitol in Washington.

Location: Kanawha County

Inception: 1786

Website: https://charlestonwv.gov

GPS coordinates: 38.34722,-81.63333

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:09