Fayetteville West Virginia
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Town of Fayetteville WV
Fayetteville West Virginia is home to the New River Gorge. This is West Virginia’s epicenter for adventure vacations and mountain getaways. Our town is a beautiful blend of old and new, excitement and relaxation, mountains and valleys. Fayetteville is a small town with a lot going on. A great place to visit, on business or vacation with a small-town atmosphere, world class thrills, and right next door to the New River Gorge National River.
In the town of Fayetteville West Virginia, you will find a shopping district, fantastic restaurants, windows to browse with lots to buy, and a lovely town park. From hotels near the New River Gorge Bridge to tucked away cabins and cozy bed and breakfasts, Fayetteville has many different types of lodging to suit your taste.
History of Fayetteville WV
Fayetteville has played a pivotal role in the area’s history. Fayetteville was originally founded by Abraham Vandal, a Revolutionary War veteran and local farmer. The town was originally named Vandalia. The Fayette County Courthouse is located on part of the original Vandal farm. The town’s name was later (prior to 1837) changed to Fayetteville after the Revolutionary War hero, Marquis de Lafayette. Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington’s famed French advisor during the Revolutionary War. Lafayette’s statue looks upon downtown Fayetteville from the Fayette County Courthouse lawn. Fayetteville changed hands several times during the war and was partially destroyed during the fighting.
Fayetteville grew rapidly in the late 19th century thanks mainly to the coal industry. The mining industry declined in the late 20th century. Fayetteville’s economy now is almost completely based on the tourism industry. Fayetteville is home to the New River Gorge Bridge, completed in 1976, and at the time was the world’s longest arch bridge. Popular activities include white water rafting, fishing, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the region. Also, the New River Gorge Bridge hosts annual celebration, “Bridge Day,” which is held on the third Saturday of October.