Putnam County

Putnam County is an administrative division in West Virginia centered on Winfield, which sits along the Kanawha River. The county encompasses a varied landscape with communities spread across its territory.

The county was founded on March 11, 1818, and was originally part of Virginia. During the Civil War, the region became part of the newly formed state of West Virginia in 1863.

The Putnam County Courthouse and James W. Hoge House reflect local building traditions from earlier periods. These structures still shape the appearance of the county seat today.

The county operates a public school system with facilities at different levels, mainly located in Winfield and surrounding areas. Visitors will find typical services of a rural region, with road access along the Kanawha River corridor.

Winfield, the county seat, was named after General Winfield Scott and began taking shape in 1818 with a ferry operation. The name honors a prominent military leader who played significant roles during multiple American conflicts.

Location: West Virginia

Inception: March 11, 1818

Capital city: Winfield

Elevation above the sea: 269 m

Shares border with: Mason County, Lincoln County, Cabell County, Kanawha County, Jackson County

Website: http://putnamcounty.org

GPS coordinates: 38.51000,-81.91000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:25