12 Things People From West Virginia Always Have To Explain To Out Of Towners
Outsiders don’t always understand West Virginia. It feels like we’re always having to explain stereotypes about West Virginia… which to locals, feels ridiculous. After all, we know our state like the back of our hand, and we know how magical it can be. You, too, can get to know our state like a local… but first you have to adapt to our colloquialisms and adjust to our friendly, nature-loving lifestyle. Take a look at this list so you can learn how to enjoy West Virginia the way the Mountaineers do:
We've been a member of the Union since 1863, after all. And before that? You guessed it. Appalachia was settled by members of an ancient mound-building culture.
2. The rest of the country doesn't know how to eat a hot dog.
It's not a West Virginia dog unless it comes with chili sauce, and in the southern part of the state, slaw. Hot dogs may seem like such a simple invention, but you haven't truly tried one until you've tasted one prepared the West Virginian way.
They are our grandfathers, fathers, uncles, cousins, and brothers. For many West Virginians, coal mining was the only opportunity to provide for their families. As such, our local landscape is dotted with remnants of their efforts and modern mining initiatives.
We're Appalachian. We're bordered by both Maryland and Ohio, for crying out loud. Our other neighbors, Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania each have their own personality. A number of different traditions have bled into local culture, and you'll notice this as soon as you settle in.
But it's worth it to give a home to the Green Bank Observatory and our wild natural lands. If you find a free moment to steal away during your visit in our state, you simply must budget some time to spend enjoying the great outdoors.
The Mothman is something of a mascot here. Each small town also seems to have its own stories and legacies, all of which offer a glimpse into the unique personalities our many neighborhoods have.
Once you taste one of these delicious treats, you'll be sad that they're hard to find in other states. Homemade is the best, so if you spot a bake sale, be sure to stop!
You have to get some momentum going at the start of our big hills, or you won't make it to the top. And the narrow country roads may seem terrifying at first, but you'll get used to them!
You can make all the West Virginia jokes that you want, but we'll never be sorry for living in the beautiful Mountain State. Living amidst these 24,230 square miles of absolute splendor is truly a treat.
While there are many stereotypes about West Virginia, you truly have to get to know our state… and us locals. We’re a breed like no other, and you just might fall in love with our landscape.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Stereotypes About West Virginia
January 19, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
What are some interesting things about West Virginia?
Living in West Virginia, you get to know a bit about what makes The Mountain State such a special place. You may know us for coal mining, but we also have a prominent logging industry. One of the more interesting things about West Virginia is that we have four anthems! The most famous, arguably, is “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”
What are West Virginians known for?
West Virginians are known for their love of the great outdoors, and it’s no secret why – we’re in one of the most beautiful and scenic landscapes in America!
What is the most popular West Virginia stereotype?
West Virginia, unfortunately, has to combat a number of unpleasant stereotypes – perhaps most notably that mining towns can be somewhat rundown. Locals can tell you that, despite this, our state is home to some architectural marvels. Once you settle in, you’ll notice that many of West Virginia’s traits are dazzling.
Address: West Virginia, USA
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Rachel is proud to live in wild and wonderful West Virginia. She enjoys nature walks, photography, and discovering new restaurants all around the state.
