Williamson is a small town with big Appalachian heritage
Williamson, West Virginia, is a small community along the Tug Fork River in Mingo County, near the Kentucky border. Though it’s home to just over 3,000 residents, Williamson looms large in Appalachian heritage. The town was a central stage in the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud – a bloody family rivalry that’s become American folklore. While disputes over properties and pigs have subsided, folks can learn about this history through local landmarks and festivals. Williamson has long been shaped by the coal mining industry, which played a major role in the town’s development and economy. In recent years, the area has also become popular for outdoor recreation, especially ATV riding on the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. “Williamson is visually stunning, surrounded by lush mountains and rivers,” says Realtor Crystal Robinson with AAA Real Estate Services, who has sold numerous homes in the area. “It offers a small-town feel with friendly neighbors and a strong sense of community.”
ATV riding on Hatfield-McCoy trails and local parks
Tucked in the Appalachian Mountains, this community offers a variety of recreational opportunities. “Williamson is absolutely an outdoorsy area and is one of the top reasons people love living there or visiting,” Robinson says. The Hatfield-McCoy Trails system, a nationally recognized network of ATV, UTV and dirt bike trails, attracts riders from across the country. The trails wind through the mountains and hollers surrounding Williamson. One trek leads to the Death Rock summit, a 900-foot overlook that offers panoramic views of the town. The Williamson Fieldhouse features basketball courts and a 6,000-seat venue that hosts concerts and other events. It’s within Williamson Memorial Park, which has a football field and baseball diamond. Additionally, the Tug Fork River provides fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities.
Downtown Williamson has local spots, big-box shopping across the river
Downtown Williamson offers a variety of shops and restaurants within historic buildings. “You’ll find cozy cafes, local boutiques and eateries along East 2nd and 3rd avenues,” Robinson says. Starters Grill has a relaxed vibe and serves American classics, from cheese fries and tater tots to wings and clubs. Nearby 3 Guys Pizza & Brew is a favorite for pizza, garlic knots and antipasto. There’s also a Dollar General, a few pharmacies and a hospital in Williamson. “For big-box shopping, residents head across the river to the South Side Mall,” Robinson says. Here, shoppers can find a Shoe Show Mega Store, Tractor Supply Co., Bath & Body Works and more. Folks will also find a Save A Lot grocery store and a Walmart Supercenter across the river.
Homes with prices much lower than national average
Homes in Williamson sit up and down the town’s hills on curving mountain roads. For under $100,000, potential homebuyers can find a home in need of major repairs. Ranch-style homes, American Foursquares and split-level houses can range in price from $100,000 to $200,0000. Most properties feature grassy front and back yards, mature trees and mountain views. “Home prices are significantly lower than the national average in Williamson,” Robinson says. “It’s a great place for first-time buyers, retirees or those looking for more land and privacy or a quieter lifestyle without breaking the bank.”
Local events celebrate Williamson's heritage
There are a variety of community events in Williamson. Dirt Days, one of the region’s largest trail-riding festivals, takes over downtown Williamson each spring. “It attracts thousands of ATV, UTV and dirt-bike enthusiasts,” Robinson says. The Hatfield and McCoy Reunion Festival and Marathon celebrates local history with races and reenactments. Open from May to September, the Williamson Farmers Market sells local produce to the community. In the fall, the King Coal Festival celebrates the town’s heritage through a parade, live entertainment and vendors. Holiday events include the annual Fourth of July Thunder in the Valley fireworks show, Williamson Spookfest Halloween festival and the Williamson Small Town Christmas Celebration & Parade.
Zoned for Mingo County Schools
Students attend the Mingo County Schools district. They can go to Williamson PK8 School, which earns a B-minus from Niche, before Tug Valley High School, which gets a C-plus and offers a variety of clubs and programs, including Art Club, Future Farmers of America and Future Business Leaders of America. Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College is also in Williamson.
30 miles to Pikeville, 70 miles to Charleston
U.S. Route 52 intersects the community and can lead to other small towns in the area. Charleston is a roughly 80-mile drive northeast, and Pikeville, Kentucky, is 30 miles southwest. For air travel, Huntington Tri-State Airport is about 70 miles away, and West Virginia International Yeager Airport is about 90 miles away.
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Adreanna DeMarino
