Fayette County

Fayette County is a rural area in southern West Virginia that includes numerous towns and communities scattered across mountainous terrain. The landscape is dominated by the dramatic New River Gorge, which cuts through the region and shapes its geography.

The area separated from Virginia in 1863 during the Civil War and became part of the newly formed state of West Virginia. This split marked a pivotal moment in the creation of the modern state.

The county is named after Marquis de Lafayette, the French military leader who aided American forces during the Revolutionary War. You can see references to him throughout the region in place names and historical markers that visitors notice when exploring the area.

The main administrative hub of Fayetteville connects to major highways including Interstate 64, U.S. Highway 19, and U.S. Highway 60 for easier access. Visitors should plan for hilly terrain and limited flat areas when exploring the county.

The county is home to ten incorporated municipalities and more than one hundred smaller communities scattered across its mountainous landscape. This mix of settlements provides visitors with varied places to explore and discover.

Location: West Virginia

Inception: February 28, 1831

Capital city: Fayetteville

Shares border with: Nicholas County, Greenbrier County, Summers County, Raleigh County, Kanawha County

Website: http://fayettecounty.wv.gov

GPS coordinates: 38.03000,-81.09000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 20:45