Welch History Notable: 62 years ago today, May 9th, 1959, JFK was in Welch on the campaign trail. He visited Welch several times that year (April 26 and May 3) and he visited Gary, WV mining facilities along the way.
Why is Welch, WV Called CoalTown, USA?
Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Welch is the county seat of McDowell County, WV. Also known as CoalTown, USA, our city remembers our coal mining heritage and honors that many of our citizens, currently carry on this tradition and proudly call themselves WV Coal Miners.
We invite you to come and visit our town, learn our history, enjoy our special events, and embrace this unique place in the heart of Coal Country.
Welch, West Virginia is known is a city built on coal. However, it is a historic community in the heart of the mountains, where outdoor recreation, like ATV riding and hiking, are as abundant as the peace and quiet found on our safe streets.
Since the establishment of McDowell County in 1858, the main source of income for its residents has been derived from the coal mining industry. The population boomed during the 1950s and 1960s and reached more than 100,000 residents in the area.
Despite its smaller footprint today, coal mining continues to drive industry and commerce in Welch and the establishment of CoalTown, USA celebrates the future, while also remembering the heritage that made The City of Welch strong.
Visitors will also enjoy learning about our diverse and storied history, which showcases the Appalachian perseverance that helped build America and how Welch, WV continues trail blazing ahead into the future...
CoalTown, USA
The City of Welch, West Virginia
