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West Virginia became the 35^th state on June 20^th 1863. West Virginia is commonly known as the "Mountain State" due to the fact that the Appalachian Mountains run through the state.

Origin of state's name: West Virginia got its name from the British virgin Queen Elizabeth I

Capital City

The capital of West Virginia is Charleston and the state is surrounded by several other states including Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Population

The population of West Virginia is in excess of 1.8 million people based on the last census in 2000.

Driving

Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, Driver's manuals and testing locations can all be found on the West Virginia Department of Transportation website under the Motor Vehicle section.

http://www.wvdot.com/6_motorists/dmv/6G_DMV.HTM

Economy

The economy of West Virginia is driven by a diverse range of industries including cattle and dairy farming, fruit and tobacco growing, lumbar production and related industries including furniture and paper production. Mining is also a big industry in this state.

State Bird: The state bird is the Cardinal known for its robustness and distinctly colored plumage. The Cardinal is also the state bird for Illinois, North Carolina, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and Virginia.

State Flower: The state flower is the Rhododendron or Rhododendron maximum which has rich dark green waxy leaves and beautiful delicate pink or white flowers.

State Song: The state song of West Virginia is "The West Virginia Mills" by E. King which the praises on this great state.

State Motto: The state motto is "Mountaineers are always free"

West Virginia – Interesting Facts

• West Virginia has the largest number of older people of all the states.
• West Virginia produces a significant quantity of the nations coal supply.
• West Virginia is considered to be one of the safest states to live in as it has a very low crime index
• The Golden Delicious apple was first grown in West Virginia.

West Virginia- Famous People

Many famous people were born and raised in West Virginia and many famous people call West Virginia their home today. This includes actors, athletes, authors, politicians and entertainers. These include the Olympic gold medalist for gymnastics, Mary Lou Retton and Steve Yeager the baseball great.