West Virginia

West Virginia, officially the State of West Virginia, is a state in the Appalachian region of the Southern United States. It is bordered by Pennsylvania to the northeast, Maryland to the east and northeast, Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest and Ohio to northwest. The capital and largest city are Charleston.

The population was 1.8 million people as of 2019 according to U.S Census Bureau estimates making it one of America’s least populous states with 37 inhabitants per square mile (14/km^2). Its total area encompasses 24230 square miles (62605 km^2), making it 38th among U.S states in terms of size – ranking 12th when considering only land area or 8th if water areas are included within its borders..

West Virginians were some of first Americans affected by COVID-19 pandemic; cases began appearing early March 2020 due primarily attributed travel from New York City which had become an epicenter for infection at that time . In response , Governor Jim Justice issued stay-at-home orders on April 3rd and subsequently went into effect on April 7th encouraging all residents across 55 counties comply with safety protocols regarding social distancing while also ordering closure most businesses considered nonessential including restaurants , gyms , barbershops & salons etc., being allowed reopen late May under certain restrictions such as limited capacity occupancy .

West Virginian culture has been shaped significantly through contributions various ethnic groups who have settled there since mid 1800s—including Scots Irish immigrants Appalachia Mountains regions other parts British Isles northern Europe plus African American slaves their descendants—resulting unique blend customs traditions arts crafts foods music etc .. These influences can be seen today throughout cities towns located along Eastern Panhandle where large numbers German Swiss Dutch settlers established themselves around 1730 before French colonialists arrived later take control these lands ultimately leading formation present day boundaries 1871 after Civil War ended following secession Confederate States America .. As result this history many sites attractions visitors explore learn about rich heritage found here —from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park historic Shepherdstown Moundsville’s Grave Creek Indian Museum Cave tours Seneca Caverns Mountain Lakes Resort Wildlife Management Area nearby Monongahela National Forest not mention plethora outdoor recreational activities available camping hunting fishing boating rafting hiking mountain biking skiing snowboarding more … All great reasons why love call home whether they live work visit !