Moundsville is an Ohio River city best known for its historic prison
Defined by the gothic walls of the now-retired West Virginia Penitentiary, Moundsville has been the backdrop of movies, the subject of songs and a go-to destination for ghost hunters. But outside the imposing former prison, this Ohio River city is a small-town community with a slow pace of life. Like many cities in the region, it has faced struggles as major industries moved out, and large retailers like Walmart replaced mom and pop stores. However, the nearby WVU Reynolds Memorial Hospital is expanding, and the city continues to have mining and energy jobs available.
"We've been blessed with raw materials here — we have coal, oil and gas," says Chris Reager, the Marshall County Chamber of Commerce executive director and a lifelong Moundsville resident. "We’re a small area just south of Wheeling, and we’re kind of nestled in a perfect position — you can jump on the interstate and get anywhere." He also adds: “It’s a great place to live and raise kids.” However, according to Reager, kids tend to graduate and move out of town, creating a gap in the middle-aged demographic and leading to an older population.
Statues at the courthouse reflect Marshall County’s rich history.
West Virginia Penitentiary offers tours and seasonal haunted attractions.
1/2
Older bungalows and ranch styles define the housing options
The heart of Moundsville is lined with bungalows, workers' cottages and American Foursquare homes from the early 1900s. Farther out, there are plenty of ranch-style designs from the mid-1900s and, less frequently, some properties built after 2000. "We haven't been able to develop just because of our topography — we have a lot of hills and ridges," Reager says. Properties needing renovations start under $100,000, and most move-in-ready homes range from $100,000 to $250,000. From $300,000 up to $500,000, homebuyers might find renovated historic homes, modern construction or properties in the country with several acres.
Historic homes on spacious lots are common in Moundsville.
Renovated homes from the early 1900s line central Moundsville streets.
1/2
Career-focused courses at Marshall County schools
McNinch Primary School serves kindergarten through second grade and receives a B-minus rating from Niche. Central Elementary is for third through fifth grade, and then students move on to Moundsville Junior High. Both schools get a C-plus. John Marshall High School receives a B. "We have a good tax base, because we have all this industry," Reager says. "So, if you look at our school, they are second to none. We have turf on all our fields, which for a small community, is really impressive." The high school offers a Career & Technical Education program with classes like welding, nursing and business marketing.
The student-teacher ratio at McNinch Primary School is 12 to 1.
Central Elementary School has an overall rating of a C+ on Niche.
Moundsville Junior High School has an overall rating of a C on Niche.
Niche rates John Marshall High School a B-.
1/4
An adventure park and penitentiary tours bring in tourism
Tourism is a major part of the city's economy, mainly due to the West Virginia Penitentiary. Retired from use in 1995, the gothic prison is now primarily a tourist attraction offering history lessons, paranormal tours and a popular Halloween haunted house. Across from the penitentiary, history buffs might visit the Grave Creek Mound, a notable Native American burial site and the reason the city got its name.
Just north of town, Grand Vue Park is a large outdoor recreation center with disc golf, mini golf, zip lines and an aquatic center. The park has expanded its selection of cabins and RV sites, drawing even more tourists. While access to the park's hiking trails is free, most other features cost a fee.
There was tough competition on the Ohio River at the Wheeling Regatta.
Grave Creek Mound Archaeology Complex explores Native American history.
1/2
Small-town community at local parks and the county fair
Residents come together at local churches, veterans organizations and Little League games at the city's many ballfields. Downtown has a public library and the historic Strand Theater, which puts on local productions. The annual Marshall County Fair is a favorite local event, with live music, dirt bike races, and animal shows put on by local 4-H clubs. "That's always a huge attraction," Reager says.
To get out on the Ohio River, residents can head to Riverfront Park, which has picnic pavilions and a boat launch. From the park, the paved Glen Dale to Moundsville Rail Trail runs along the river, connecting the two communities. Less than 5 miles south, the Moundsville Country Club is semi-private, so anyone can stop by to play golf.
There are activities for kids at the Public Market Harvest Party in Downtown Wheeling.
The headliner during evening hours at the Eats and Beats Festival.
1/2
Homestyle restaurants and local markets coexist with a Walmart
Lafayette Avenue has chain restaurants and grocery stores, including Walmart, Aldi and Kroger. According to Reager, a lot of local businesses got overtaken when big stores like Walmart moved in. "I think some of our specialty shops can stay afloat because they have such uniqueness and offer such great service compared to some of the bigger ones," he says. The two locally owned Greg's Market locations are known for the deli selection, and Marshall County Co-op is a community staple for animal feed and gasoline. Moundsville also has several homestyle diners and neighborhood bars. The family-owned Bob's Lunch has been a standout spot for homemade comfort food since 1947.
Bob’s Lunch has served homestyle comfort food since 1947.
Walmart is in Moundsville and offers groceries for residents of surrounding areas.
1/2
Driving to shopping options in Wheeling and The Highlands
Moundsville is a car-dependent area, and locals often drive to Wheeling to run errands. The city is just over 10 miles north via U.S. Route 250. The Highlands, a large shopping center with a movie theater and a sports complex, is about 20 miles north. "Our people are mobile," Reager says. "I am in Wheeling and up in the Highlands about every other day."
Pittsburgh is under 70 miles away, a little over an hour by car. The major city has the closest airport, Pittsburgh International.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Jeffrey Knight
Video By
Bill Jennings
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jane Ann Gamble,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Moundsville, WV sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Moundsville, WV over the last 12 months is $135,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Great location single family home with detached garage furnished apartment overlooking John Marshall High School stadium, walking distance to downtown Moundsville shopping and restaurants and across from Moundsville Middle School. This property features 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, move in ready condition, original woodwork, pocket doors and other craftsman features. The garage apartment is
Seize the opportunity to own this in-town lot! This level and cleared lot offers an ideal setting for your next home or investment. Walkable to local amenities, it's just minutes from shopping, dining, schools, and more.
Bring your own ideas for this fantastic lot in a high traffic area right next to WV Rt.2 Lot is zoned commercial corridor per city of Moundsville. Tons of possibilities!!
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick ranch located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in a peaceful country setting. Features include an enclosed sunroom, covered deck, and partially finished basement offering flexible living space. Enjoy the attached 2-car garage and a spacious yard perfect for relaxing or entertaining. A family member is occupying the home, please allow 24-hour notice
Welcome to this BEAUTIFUL home nestled in a desirable neighborhood, offering comfort and modern updates. The interior boasts gorgeous hardwood floors/trim and heated floors for cozy living, while the finished basement provides ample space for entertainment or family gatherings. Step outside to enjoy the expansive deck, perfect for outdoor entertaining, or unwind in the inviting hot tub. The
You walk back in time when you open the front door and enter the quaint foyer. The house has a nice mix of original, restored hardwood floors, & trim accompanied with modernized kitchen and bath. 2nd bath in the basement.
This well-cared-for 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home is full of charm and thoughtful updates. You'll love the bright, welcoming kitchen with crisp cabinetry, updated finishes, and plenty of workspace that flows easily into the main living areas. Warm flooring, neutral tones, and classic details create a cozy feel throughout. The home offers three comfortable bedrooms and a layout that feels functional
Super nice location in Moundsville, two lots, one with house and 1 car detached garage, second lot has newer 2 car garage with covered patio 24x24 overlooking the yard.
Your opportunity to invest, develop, and own a piece of American history is here! Sitting along the heavily traveled Route 250/ First Street, these 4 adjoining parcels make up over 8 acres of prime land in the heart of Moundsville. From the 1890's until 1986, this property roared with the sounds emitting from the Fostoria glass manufacturing facility. Once the home of a beacon of American
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom property offering a perfect blend of charm and modern improvements. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors that flow throughout the main living areas, creating warmth and character. The list of updates in the past 5 years include new vinyl siding and shutters, gutters and downspouts, new breaker box, basement waterproofing, and much more. A recently
Newly remodeled four bedroom/two bathroom house available immediately$1,350/monthTenant responsibility for all utilities$1,350 deposit due upon move-inHas a yard, a garage, stainless steel appliances, and W/D hookup
2-Bedroom, 1.5 Bath townhouse apartment in quiet residential neighborhood of Maxwell Acres, Moundsville, WV. Walking trail and park just a short walk down the street. Apartment has large bedrooms upstairs. Brand new vinyl flooring throughout first floor. Includes Fridge and new range. Off-street parking. Garbage pickup is included in rent. No Pets. $850 plus utilities.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
