Mercer County

Mercer County is an administrative division in southern West Virginia, situated near the Virginia border. The region comprises rolling terrain with multiple small towns and rural communities connected by various highways.

The county was created in 1837 from parts of Giles and Tazewell counties, which were then part of Virginia. It became part of the newly formed state of West Virginia in 1863.

The region maintains seven distinct law enforcement agencies, with the Sheriff's Department controlling jurisdiction in non-incorporated sections of the territory.

Major transportation routes include Interstate 77, US Highways 19, 52, and 460, along with the West Virginia Turnpike. These roads provide good connections to larger cities and make it easy to explore the region.

The region contains the abandoned Lake Shawnee Amusement Park, a former entertainment venue with an intriguing past. Pinnacle Rock State Park and White Oak Falls offer natural attractions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Location: West Virginia

Inception: March 17, 1837

Capital city: Princeton

Shares border with: Raleigh County, Bland County, Tazewell County, Giles County, Summers County, Wyoming County, McDowell County

Website: http://mercercounty.wv.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.41000,-81.11000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:05