Hancock County

Hancock County sits at West Virginia's northern tip, bordered by the Ohio River to the west and Pennsylvania to the east. The territory forms a narrow strip connecting communities through several towns and smaller settlements.

The county separated from Brooke County in 1848 and remained part of Virginia until West Virginia became a state in 1863. The area lay along the border between North and South during the Civil War period.

The county's communities maintain ties to river life along the Ohio, where waterfront traditions remain part of everyday routines for many families. Seasonal gatherings and local celebrations continue to draw on these water-based connections.

New Cumberland serves as the administrative center where county offices and courthouse handle services on weekdays for residents and visitors. Morning and early afternoon hours typically offer the smoothest experience for conducting business.

The area measures only about 3 miles (5 km) wide at its narrowest point, making it one of the thinnest regions in the state. This shape means residents often live closer to neighboring states than to other parts of their own county.

Location: West Virginia

Inception: January 15, 1848

Capital city: New Cumberland

Shares border with: Beaver County, Washington County, Brooke County, Jefferson County, Columbiana County

Website: http://hancockcountywv.org

GPS coordinates: 40.52000,-80.58000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:06