West Virginia, Still Home | Op-Docs | The New York Times

Residents of McDowell County, W.Va., share memories and hopes for their rural community -- in jeopardy because of high unemployment and an exodus of young people.
Read the story here: nyti.ms/12dFitZ
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West Virginia, Still Home | Op-Docs | The New York Times
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[@kenbroo7305]

I was born in Kentucky but I lived in West Virginia for 6 years and they are some of the finest people I have ever met,as a black man I love you West by God Virginia

[@tammywines9789]

Thank you . God bless .

[@jinafromwv6391]

We love U!

[@kenbroo7305]

@@tammywines9789 good morning Tammy

[@tammywines9789]

@@kenbroo7305 God bless and good morning sweety.

[@kenbroo7305]

I can't wait to move back to west virginia , probably around oak hill or weirton

[@f00kiebookie]

To all my fellow West Virginians, I love you and you are special and strong. Keep being the great people that you are. I am, as we are, a mountain mama.

[@drew_lucas]

Your comment made me tear up! I moved away from Huntington, WV 5 months ago for a job and I want to go back so bad! I hope I can someday soon! God Bless

[@andrewthemastercards9402]

Drew Lucas I currently Live in Huntington

[@f00kiebookie]

Drew Lucas I hope you’re doing well wherever you are! As a Huntington resident, we will always welcome you back.

[@drew_lucas]

@@f00kiebookie I'm doing great I just miss home :)

[@blaze.eliana]

@Alex Austin That's just a stereotype.

[@melindabelcher9850]

I have lived in West Virginia all my life moved out of state once or twice but the mountains calls me back home I'm very proud to be from here

[@smug8567]

Ever been to Preston County?

[@durag4208]

Same

[@poppybell8217]

Oh honey, i feel sad for you that you've only been out of WV a few times. It's a wonderful place, but traveling does a soul good!

[@CJ_7519]

Hi, Melinda!

[@melindabelcher9850]

Poppy Bell I have traveled to other places and lived in some but the wva mountains is my home and I’m proud to be from here

[@brittanychristine3450]

Most beautiful place and most beautiful people in this country ❤❤❤ Great mini documentary. I hope to see WV flourish again in my lifetime

[@garryjoseph5837]

Brittany Christine you will have to live 30 more life times...because that racist State will never rise again...good riddance!

[@mjreikiriot3302]

@@garryjoseph5837 yup.

[@mjreikiriot3302]

Beautiful land that the ignorant people allowed to get poisoned for factories, like Dupont, paying folks ten dollars an hour.

[@yolandaponkers1581]

I’m sorry, but it’s not a beautiful place, and that’s largely due to the fact that the residents continue to vote against their own interests. There’s a reason young people are leaving.

[@robinhager1989]

Matt C as bad as I hate to say it you are right!!! I have lived here almost all of my life and I love it here but rich white men have taken advantage of the people that just need money to try and keep their families together.

[@toynazi]

I grew up in WV. Not a coal town like this but near similar places. The coal companies take the coal and all the profit from it and move it out of the state. That is why the state has always been so poverty stricken. They exploit the hard working people take the money and split when times got bad. The people of WV are some of the kindest and helping people you will run across.

[@theuglykwan]

And to think there are ex miners who would love for them to return.

[@DH-ib9xc]

@James Zachary I wouldnt say that since trump came in office I can name 5 mines just in my area that have opened

[@matthewbeaver5026]

Yea I always said if they wanted to take it outta state they should be taxed harder, or build ur plant here and avoid the tax Why politicians can't figure that out one can only guess...

[@veronicam2942]

Dhproductions 👍

[@theminuteman6211]

@@matthewbeaver5026 The flipside of those policies is that you get fewer mines and lower wages

[@TheMrscrawford09]

Very proud to be from and live in West Virginia💛💙

[@yolandaponkers1581]

I’m not. I’m not at all. It’s a horrible, horrible place, and it makes me sad because a lot of the people are good and deserve better.

[@robinhager1989]

TheMrscrawford09 I am proud to be from WV also!

[@robinhager1989]

Matt C I'm not sure whether to agree or hate you. I have lived in WV most of my life. The people are good and deserve better! But they have trusted the wrong people! The truth is coal is dying. And it should be it is slowly poisoning the state and country. Although it hasn't affected my life it affects many. Our state needs to retrain our coal miners for new jobs. They have suffered for us the least this country can do for them is help find these hard working men and women a new way of supporting their families

[@ethansalyers4515]

Proud to be from WV and proud to be a mountaineer for my whole life

[@wythetrumpet6419]

McDowell County was my home for the first 32 years of my life. It was a place of so many wonderful people. Sadly, I had to leave there 30 years ago after U.S. Steel closed its mines in Gary. I will never forget those great people and it will always be my home.

[@GetToDaChoppa-k5r]

Capitalism sucks!

[@jakespradling7842]

no hassle no sir, it does not.

[@edpayne3613]

Try Venezuela on for size or maybe Greece or any one of the other failing Socialist societies of your choosing...then get back with us, tell us how Capitalism sucks...

[@wandalllither2452]

its more globalism, then capitalism, just dont buy chinese products BUY LOCAL PRODUCT, DOMESTIC PRODUCT

[@KishorTwist]

...he commented online on his Chinese-made electronic device.

[@doccreed658]

I love to see humble, grateful people (regardless of their race) who work hard, reach out to their community, and take pride in their heritage. No matter where one stands on the issue of coal mining, I think it's difficult to ignore how these people just want a healthy, happy, thriving life, like we all do. They don't deserve to be reduced to a stereotype or an uneducated troglodyte, as they're sometimes portrayed. Thank you, NYT, for this peek into the fissures of a forgotten town; it's a beautifully human story.

[@007mia7]

Funny you felt the need to add the caveat “(regardless of race)”...as if that shouldn’t be a given.

[@Hooverpixie24]

Mia DoubleZeroSeven But it’s not. Someone would have said it.

[@doccreed7182]

@@007mia7 Yes, only because people constantly make it an issue. It has never been an issue for me. Sad that the caveat is needed.

[@TheBikemaster94]

"big john" and "16 tons" were right

[@buttercupj6208]

I would love to live here were I live my spirit is dead ..

[@kimbranham1515]

Born and raised in WV. I have lived in KY for almost 20 years now but WV will always be my home! Every time I cross that bridge from KY into Wild and Wonderful.... I can't help but smile and feel proud to be a WV girl.

[@carrieadams]

Oh man I didn't need to cry this early in the morning. As one of the "youngins" that "got educated" and now has the opportunity to live anywhere in the world doing what I do, the words at the end about WV always being home is so true. My roots are here.

[@liz-qt3st]

so much love for wv in these comments. makes my heart warm seeing many others enjoying this state

[@buttercupj6208]

It's so beautiful and based on the comments the love is wonderful I would love to live here ..

[@dauseanadoingme3824]

I was born and raised in McDowell County. When I go back its always a sense of home. My mother has to move to Columbis Ohio when I was a child, due to better survival. It is a beautiful place and needs to be restored. Whenever I go back to visit it's always a warm feeling.

[@CJ_7519]

Me too!

[@yukograce]

The love, loyalty, and long suffering of West Virginians for their home is unique and not commonly found in other states

[@mjreikiriot3302]

It is sociologically considered a third world country.

[@yolandaponkers1581]

The people are hanging onto a dream and a fantasy. It’s really sad. Coal is never coming back, but they continue to stay and believe in it. That mindset will consume you and rob you of your potential.

[@johnwhite5306]

Suffering for their homes lol.

[@acman0926]

WV

[@kellyheidenreich3514]

@@yolandaponkers1581 Burned coal creates coal ash, which is sub-categorized into three different kinds of ash: boiler slag, fly ash and bottom ash. Fly ash is versatile and economical filler used in concrete cement, sports rackets, tool handles, and a variety of plastic implements - even bowling balls. Boiler slag is a type of liquefied ash that accumulates at the base of cyclone and tap furnaces. When saturated with water; it forms crystallized, black pellets used in asphalt, roofing material and concrete. The carbonization process that coal undergoes to produce coal gas or coke also creates dark and gooey tar. Coal tar can be found in both over the counter and prescription medications meant to treat various skin conditions, specifically dandruff, eczema and mild psoriasis. Head lice also hate products containing coal tar, probably because of the strong smell and-well, scientists aren’t sure why coal tar works to relieve numerous skin problems. It just does. Foods that are artificially colored yellow or orange may contain a derivative of coal called tartrazine that gives them this appealing, sunshine-y hue. Without a coal feeder continuously providing coal to hundreds of processing plants, you might be eating bland-colored candy, puddings, corn chips and cereal. Seriously, who wants to eat corn chips that aren’t richly orange and heavily salted? Coal derivatives are also found in batteries, sugar substitutes and even baking powder. Without coal, your grandmother wouldn’t be able to freshen up her home with the smell of mothballs; nor would you be able to create a rubber band ball whenever you are bored and feeling creative at the office. So the next time you complain about the smell of your dandruff shampoo, consider how different your life would be without the versatility of coal. Stop with the stupid comments and get a better education!

[@jcarter3238]

Wonderful mini doc. Moved here with my kids not long ago as it was an affordable place for the 3 of us and what a wonderful, supportive community. If you're happy with the simple things in life and want to contribute positively to a community, this is the place to be!

[@kjensen7]

Love the veteran's smile in the las shot!! Thank you sir!!

[@lindagore6527]

I was born in McDowell County in Stevens Clinic hospital almost 71 years ago.

[@yolandaponkers1581]

I’m sure it was a much nicer place then. I’ve seen photos of Welch and surrounding areas from the forties and fifties, and it breaks my heart.

[@CJ_7519]

I was born in Stevens Clinic Hospital 45 years ago, Linda!

[@bobberguy1]

May God bless these people. True American values and the backbone of this country.

[@buttercupj6208]

Amen 🙏

[@mr.dakamd5444]

The backbone of our country is addicted to heroin and meth

[@karenmiller1156]

I have lived in WV all of my life. Sadly, after serving in the military, my son could not find a job here to support his family & he left WV. What I find truly marvelous, is when I am traveling in other states in the USA & of course, proudly wearing a WV shirt or hat...I find it A M A Z I N G..how others will come up to me & say they're from WV too, SO excited & glad to see me. They'll ask what part, where? It's like we all, of course, know each other, & they are so happy they have found a long, lost dear friend..... (though they really do not know me). If they have been away from WV for years, they still speak very fondly of WEST VIRGINIA. There is a BOND between fellow-West Virginians like NO other.

[@smug8567]

Are you related to them Millers from Preston County?

[@kathey1981]

That is so true. I lived in Hawaii when I was 20 and moved back here for 4 years then moved to VA for two in about 93 we moved to NC. Every time I saw a WV shirt or hat I had to stop them and talk. I lived back here to WV in 2019 to take care of my mother and our family home. It's great to be back with the people I love.

[@tbrown9222]

Watching this video makes my heart hurt. I moved away from Southern WV about 20 years ago but it is still my home.

[@myesenc]

To my fellow West Virginians, bless you all, never give up👍

[@EdgeOfEntropy17]

I am a hop, skip and a jump from here, living in Eastern Kentucky. Everything I saw in this video is JUST LIKE it is here. Love these old mountains, and I will never leave 'em!

[@jenniferodell9228]

My heart is always here. I love my state but it is getting harder to make it here.

[@JanetTweedie]

I was born and raised in St. Louis, MO, but my mom was born and raised in Keyser, WV (Mineral County). Most of my extended family still lives in that area. Growing up, our summer vacations were spent visiting my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins... I have ALWAYS felt like my heart belongs in WV. It’s nothing I can explain, but it’s a place I miss, a place I long for, and a place I feel like I belong. It’s like the lady in the end said about the roots and the mountains... my heart will always belong to those mountains.

[@meaganmuladore6431]

I’m from Michigan, but my great-grandmother is from Harrison County! I would love to explore my roots further and meet some of the amazing, warm-hearted people in West Virginia! Sending WV love from Michigan! ❤️

[@cindyfitzgerald4500]

My ex in laws are from West Virginia and they are one of the most kindest and caring people that I have ever known! Wow I miss them.

[@DeniseLaFranceCDNpainter-z9g]

It's really beautiful there in the nature. All that lush greenery. The people seem very friendly too.

[@truhill3986]

ZOLTAR we are :)

[@robinhager1989]

Tru Hill yes we are!!

[@brittany2250]

We are :)

[@robinhager1989]

Jeffrey Scott yes they are

[@tammywines9789]

We are good ppl !! We welcome anyone in and want you to sit and have something good to eat, a cold drink, good conversation , and maybe a shot of good shine. I personally have never met a stranger!!

[@poppyneese1811]

As a kid I was raised up in Mac Dowell County as we say it, I was probably around 8 and went down to stay a week with family in Roanoke, these kids had everything, dirt bikes and played sports, their parents gave the money to go down to the local 7/11 and get a Slurpee sometimes more than once a day, to me they were rich, but the only time they spoke to their parent was to ask for money. I thought they got everything and at the same time they got nothing. I am Blessed to live here, I have cried with neighbors and they have cried with me over the death of loved ones. I have cut their yards when they couldn’t and snuck food to their houses when they didn’t have any and I know they’d do the same for me. I have begged God to help in my prayers and again I have no doubt they’d pray for me. I’d grab a shot gun and defend them with my life if I have to. I look at the big places where folks don’t know the people that live beside them and they have pretty house and fancy cars, but their shirts ain’t ever Been soaked by their neighbors tears and still I think them folks got everything and nothing at the same time.

[@michaelashley4446]

I left 32 years ago and I have never been the same. I miss it so much.

[@Moving_Forward247]

spent two weeks in the WV mountains recently. never thought i’d visit there but my husbands work took him to Huntington WV. I left a part of my heart there. Those mountains are stunning. Truly a wonderful place. May God bless West Virginia and the people there. Esp Huntington.

[@dollreemappmmk14]

It's definitely pretty and that's about it.

[@bethanyhenderson1374]

Love my state and the true West Virginians. We are strong, kind people. 💛💙

[@susankitts139]

She’s right, those mountains are still in my spirit. I grew up in Logan. Loved my childhood there. Moved to Fort Lauderdale long ago, but the stories and fun I will never forget.

[@Timmer-qp8sy]

Me too.

[@wds179]

Some of the nicest ppl I ever met... always was super nice to me...while I worked there..building the fiber opticsystem.phone cable n internet...Welch wv...GOD BLESS ALL PPL HERE

[@kyiamcgill9144]

I go down to McDowell County every summer to work on renovating houses of low-income families- and every single person I have met has been nothing but absolutely amazing to me. I love West Virginia and am proud to be from this state. So, so much.

[@kelleyannethomas5372]

Kyia McGill-After seeing this lovely video, it made me wish that we could visit/live there...🙃 I bet that if we did live there in that county, I would be able to AFFORD MY OWN HOUSE! (Sorry for caps). But where would I work?🤔 Maybe that would be a nice county to retire to? 🤔mm

[@deborahdaniels3838]

My parents and their family are all from West Va. My relatives still live out there and my 2 Aunts and my parents moved away. However, my parents always went back to see the family and visit the area they grew up in. Its sad to see but the memories will always be in their hearts.

[@cathymullins3833]

I'm from War West VA..one of the Best places to raise kids but it's dieing out. HOME SWEET HOME. IM PROUD TO BE A COUNTRY GIRL FROM WVA.

[@jamiecook7319]

Born in WV. Grandparents from Calhoun County. This is beautiful. One day I'll be going back ❤

[@seanjunkins8986]

I Was born and raised in WV. I grew up in a little town called Dallas, WV. Left when I was 17 and returned when I was 22. West Virginia is home and there's no better place I'd want to be.

[@indieauthorjasonblayne7511]

West Virginia is home, born and raised in Lesage. My grandpa worked the mines around Logan County. I've even used WV a good bit in my novels.

[@LVXMagick]

Almost Heaven! I've lived many places but no where has ever been as beautiful or peaceful as West Virginia. And the people are truly something special. Hawaii may be the only other state where the residents treat each other as family. There is a reason it's called almost Heaven. 🖤😊

[@ryanking3775]

Miss wonderful West Virginia. Sadly had to move to Florida several years ago but heart is wild and free

[@yolandaponkers1581]

Florida is a much, much better place to be. Trust me. Hang onto the good feeling about WV, but remember that it is best admired from afar.

[@matthewbeaver5026]

Enjoy your hurricanes, I wouldn't wanna deal with natural disasters....yearly Not to mention illegals, tho they have made their way here also....

[@yolandaponkers1581]

Matthew Beaver Lol. And your xenophobia is one of the major reasons West Virginia sucks. People here are terrified of what they’re unfamiliar with. They don’t understand something, and it makes them angry instead of inquisitive.

[@matthewbeaver5026]

@@yolandaponkers1581 no phobia here, I know and care for many people of many different cultures and backgrounds...and what I do understand is that this is a REAL problem, Ive met many myself (not that I had personal issue with them) all I'm saying is that it needs to be done the right way. And we all know that is not the case, and it gets worse by the day (Illegals can be of any culture fyi)

[@brittany2250]

As a West Virginian who grew up here - I think we need to throw a bunch of money into education and incentives that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. It's change or die.

[@justinwilliams7181]

Brittany Ratcliff that’s cool and all but, I am currently in the West Virginia school system, and the kids don’t want to learn. The extra money would be wasted. In our county recently, kids were given laptops to increase economic opportunity. Instead of using these for education, kids used them to play games, or just broke them on purpose to be funny. I do not know what the best solution to our plight is, but I do not think that pouring money into the schools is the way to fix the states problems

[@blaze.eliana]

@@justinwilliams7181 As a Doddridge County Student, I disagree. Pouring money into our county's education system has changed our county significantly. The schools are providing families with meals and support they need as well as providing high school students with opportunities to learn about different careers and colleges they may want to pursue.

[@justinwilliams7181]

Ella, I am aware of these systems and agree with you that they are beneficial. But this is a system that we already have. The statement “pour more money into our school system” implies that there will be more thing, I think that our money would be better spent on our infrastructure than our educational system.

[@carolholmes6352]

I’ve lived in WV for 57 years that’s the hardest thing for the people of these hills to do is Change

[@blaze.eliana]

Sirus fan If you would've read my sentence correctly, you would've realized that my statement was past tense. I did not say to pour MORE money into education but there are certainly some areas that lack. Doddridge has risen from a poor county that was unable to provide to children to a wealthy county that is able to provide to families & children in need through the education system. The money did come with a cost, which was basically selling the county to oil and gas and ruining the beautiful habitat that God created, but without some sacrifices there will be no change. I do, however, do not disagree that West Virginia is in need of infrastructure.

[@sahayla12]

Born and raised in good ol Huntington, West Virginia 💚💚💚 now I’m raising my two children here as well. Lots of love 💕

[@RosemarieHunter]

I was born and raised a West Virginian...it's tougher to stay everyday. It breaks my heart that our good hearted and hard working people don't have work, we are the greatest resource of the state. I see our government drive taxes up and jobs out....tragic so opiods are what they despondant are left with.... instead of hope for a bright future.

[@CreatorCade]

It’s a shame isn’t it, if only there were more jobs here it wouldn’t be so bad.

[@ashlieh]

West Virginia proud!!! Born and raised! We love our beautiful state. I’ve moved to Arizona for 5 years when I graduated school. I came right back home. Love my beautiful West Virginia! There’s no place like it! The people are proud & kind.

[@lorimollette3970]

My heart will always be in West Virginia. Montain Momma take me home country roads

[@ryanbostick1915]

That's Right! :)

[@codyratliff8302]

You still around here cutie?

[@eratoisyourmuse659]

Good song.

[@CJ_7519]

Where'd you grow up in good ol' West Virginia?

[@tishajacquet8116]

I have lived in Ohio for 23 years .However, Keyser WV where I was raised will always be my home . God bless the people of West Virginia.

[@inthevault9603]

My mother has told me several times during my life that West Virginia is the most beautiful place she’s ever been but the poorest too. She said some of the best people she ever met were in WV.

[@sailorxmars]

Born and raised in Mingo County WV, this will forever be my home.

[@judya.shroads8245]

I LIVE IN WV AND LOVE IT. KEEP UP YOUR PRIDE.

[@hillsonn]

As a West Virginian living in Japan, I want to thank you for this video. I can't agree more with what the woman at the end said about the hills always being your home. It might sound trite or overplayed, but goddamn if it ain't true!

[@lulzface5366]

As a backpacker and being born and raised in West Virginia 33 years now and counting. The mountains are beautiful. Get out there able bodies. Do some hikes. Backpacking. The ones out there. You know what i mean

[@poppybell8217]

That sweet little bird! And how sweetly he greeted it.

[@JUSAGUYNKY]

So of the most beautiful people/souls!! ❤️❤️😿🤍🤍

[@wvjon75]

I just took a 3week trip all over the southwest and visited the Grand Canyon, Zion etc., etc. I expected to go out there and not want to come back. The opposite happened. I have a renewed appreciation for the outdoors here now. I’ve been going to the new river gorge or Babcock or Some park and hiking every weekend now and appreciating it more than ever.

[@michaelovers688]

Over the past 12 years I have ridden my motorcycle all over WV thousands of miles I never met a person that I didn't have a great time talking with you have a beautiful state

[@JoelRogness]

No matter the topic, I always enjoy the Op-Doc videos from the NYTimes. Thanks.

[@jcarter3238]

Joel Rogness me too! And I actually detest their print form and the articles therein and political games but I've been awfully impressed with their short docs on KZbin.

[@johntoothman4888]

The hills an hollars are part of everyone's soul that had to move out to find jobs. One day I also hope an pray to return to my beloved WVa!!

[@dorseykindler9544]

Love it! Live in NorCal but the Northern Panhandle will always be part of me :)

[@CJ_7519]

John, you're makin' me homesick😢!

[@johntoothman4888]

@@CJ_7519 If you're from WV you know what I mean!

[@CJ_7519]

@@johntoothman4888, of course!

[@johntoothman4888]

@@CJ_7519 NO place like hills!!

[@Gwynn1996]

I’m from Parsons, WV. As most of you know a very small town. I am 22 now living in Virginia in the DMV area. When that lady stated she couldn’t wait to leave and she was gone many years but continued to talk about our roots, I really felt that. After leaving the Army I still didn’t want to return home. But the mountains still call my name and I hope one day I can find the route to answer back, especially financially wise considering the poor economy there.

[@kaylanoe6773]

Born and raised in southern West Virginia and McDowell county will forever be my home.

[@Single.White.Female]

I'm a WV girl...love my state, but not so much the corruption, drug epidemic, & crooked politicians. Minus that it's a beautiful place. I live near Harpers Ferry and about an hour from Washington DC ♡ It's sad seeing documentary like this...times are always changing. I love to leave this state, but love coming home even more so.

[@marvinhess4616]

Tara Elizabeth White I thought you was in Denver glad to see your back home

[@kennethmckinney853]

I love and always will love West Virginia. I've been all over the country and parts of the world and there's no comparison.

[@TheWizxrdIsHere]

Best of luck and much love to West Virginia. Your state is beautiful and amazing, yet as energy demands change, I fear for the industry of WV. Good luck to all you great people!

[@YaBoiSig]

I live in West Virginia and I’m 20. It’s a gorgeous place to live, but you gotta realize that we got ourselves in a hole. We never grew with the times. In two years I’ll have my degree and in 4 I’ll probably go somewhere new. The reason why young people leave is because there’s no opportunity here. The streets are littered with drugs and crime because the only young people who stay are the one’s who are trapped financially, educationally, or by addiction. Nobody wants to stay here. The older generations like to blame us for the current situation here but we’re just making due with what we’ve been given. There’s not even homes to buy anymore that haven’t been utterly destroyed.

[@leonandrews7180]

I would love to go to West Virginia. The state looks beautiful and there has to be something that can be done with it, some type of tourism or economic opportunity.

[@brittany2250]

Hi from WV. It is beautiful here! And many of us are working on it; people are realizing we have to change or die. As for tourism - yep, worth a visit

[@guitarguru.3572]

There are quite a few tourist attractions here. Tucker County is a magnificent place, if you want to take in the true beauty of the mountains. There’s also a ski resort there. The other one is Snowshoe Mountain. It looks like a European village up there. I live in Elkins, and we have a train depot that provides an amazing ride through the state in a restored train. They stay booked many, many months in advance. However, there are a million other places here that aren’t so fortunate. Also, the drug crisis is really tearing us down.

[@buttercupj6208]

Me too 😊

[@nataleedenlinger635]

wear virginia has the nicest people and the most beautiful scenery. i wish it wasn’t failing

[@edwardprice140]

There are deep coal miners and there are mountain top strip miners. If you want to see WV stop/shop at Tamarack in Beckley. If you want to hear WV, check out Mountain Stage, on WV public radio. If you want to taste WV order a hotdog with chili+slaw+mustard&onions. If you want to smell WV, look for a chimney burning coal, very rare now.

[@carladams9345]

Not all surface mining is removing mountain tops.

[@chestermanifold9023]

Big Bill O'Reilly a lot of nations disagree

[@johnholland723]

But they support each other,... Any one of those deep miners of old would gladly hire on as a stripper or mountain top removal job. That has been part of the problem from the beginning. The mine owners/stock share owners create competition for jobs. Looks to me if the union was legit things would even out.... Instead of two men making 400000 a year , there could be 8 men/women making 50000 a year... The system is set up to fail but not before the top people make more money than they or their descendents could ever use. That has is capitalism CORRUPTED. Everyone one knows it. It is to the credit of the Appalachians that they have suffered this Wall street injustice since the early pioneers. The good ol boy and girl network of kickbacks,et al, is tolerated by the long oppressed for the sake of some peace!!! To treat mother earth in a sacred manner is understood by our indigenous ancestors. The attempted genocide of the American natives is at the crux of understanding the only just remedy:make amends. Open up the books of dirty dealings that were done and go from there. These large blocks of land that were gotten too often by deception/lies need to be returned to the people . Figure it out.

[@johnholland723]

Carl adams if it's on the surface, isn't that the top? Water and overburden still flow downhill. It goes somewhere, no? I am not sure what you mean.

[@johnholland723]

I love it, Edward, and though

[@kameronstout4847]

From McDowell and proud of it, sad to see what it's come to I live the next county over now, many people have left the county unfortunately but you have to cause it's so poverty ridden down there but I have much love for it down there.

[@glizzzerd]

kameron stout How is the school system there?

[@yolandaponkers1581]

I lived in Mercer, and was always amazed at the horrendous condition of McDowell when we had to drive out that way. I am glad you got out. Keep your good memories, but remember that it’s best viewed at a distance.

[@RockyOwl]

I live in Berkeley County, but I've visited McDowell County a good few times traveling around the state. McDowell has a charm to it that other places in the state don't have.

[@donaldscheufele4286]

i am from martinsburg w.va i live in florida now my mom still lives in martinsburg i got to get up to see her soon

[@michaelleeannspringer3247]

That veteran at the end and his smile! /sweet.

[@kathyvalentine1212]

My mother was raised in McDowell county WV & we lived there off & on throughout my childhood. It was TRULY "Almost Heaven" ... I've never missed any place MORE. My hubby was born there, he grew up in Fayette County where we lived for the 1st seven yrs of our marriage. We had to leave bc of my health, ALL of my transplant specialist were in Columbus OH. If not for my health we would still be there if it were up to me. We still support "Big Creek" monthly & pray for their regrowth daily ... plz pray for the good people of McDowell County. ✨🙏✨

[@heathercarter8312]

I am from MARTINSBURG WEST VIRGINIA, but I was locked up at Mount OLIVE prison and I was at the( BETTY SLAYTON WORK CAMP ) for almost a year until I went to the Charleston Work Release Program, but anyways I did alot of road crew details in that county. Beautiful place for sure.

[@jenniferodell9228]

My mamma work's at MOCF

[@Intrepidus.]

These videos by the NYT are some of my favorites. Keep them coming. Great Op-doc

[@brendah4689]

My father was born and raised in McDowell Co. In North Fork. Up in a hollow.

[@michaelop757]

Very loving people I wish I could work for a community like that

[@RickiLynn666]

Born and raised in Moundsville, WV (about 20min south of Wheeling). I've lived in South Carolina, Georgia, Kansas, and Ohio. I come back to Moundsville every time. 😊

[@forevergratefulministries4326]

McDowell County is heavy on our hearts.

[@ladee5o]

Excellent video! I'm living in LA, but I'm from Zebulon, NC (Johnston County). This op-ed made me miss home... and the south.

[@johnholland723]

I'm from Boston Massachusetts but the best 10 years of my life as far as I'm concerned with spent in Sutton West Virginia I love West Virginia people at least the good ones in there are many sometimes a few bad apples spoil the bunch it is so everywhere but I still love West Virginia every time I go down there my heart just jumps

[@brittany2250]

I grew up in Burnsville. Small world :)

[@jeri7881]

I was born in Gassaway. My grandparents lived in Sutton until recently.

[@abigailbenson1841]

Grew up in a holler in Coal City WV. On a piece of land four generations of our family had lived on and tended. When I was young all I could wonder was what was out there in the cities. I grew up, left, got married. And all I long for now is my home in the mountains. There’s no where in the world like those mountains. God bless my people.

[@amberduenas8745]

Instead of putting factories overseas they need to put these factories and other jobs in rural places like this in the USA

[@guesswho111]

West Virginia's has my Heart Wild and Wonderful.

[@rebeccacole3451]

Born and raised in West Virginia, so proud to be from there 💙💛

[@CJ_7519]

Even though I live in Brooklyn, NY now; I'll ALWAYS have WV in my blood 'til the day I die.

[@judya.shroads8245]

I LIVE IN WV AND LOVE. KEEP UP THE PRIDE.

[@thugTaters]

Beautiful state.. too bad it's not living to its full potential. I love living here yet I don't. It's hard to find a job and drugs run rampant. I love it's beauty and the people but hate there's no opportunities.

[@buttercupj6208]

Beautiful state and people I would love to live here myself with my kids.

[@Wubz_N_Dubz]

I know this video is extremely old, but it popped up in my recommendations so I had to read what was being said. I think it’s astonishing how everyone is saying the quality of life is so bad. I’m sorry to say but that is completely subjective to your opinion. What quality of life do you wish to possess?? I am born and raised in WV, I’m a very simple man, with a WV education, and a civil engineering degree. Are there a lot of jobs, no... Is there much to do, no... But this is my home and will always be that way. I’ll never leave WV, but then again I’m an outdoorsman. The hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking, four wheeling etc is abundant in our beautiful state. So, quality of life is determined by what you consider quality of life. Personally I think my ability to be in some of the most beautiful areas right in my backyard, is in fact the quality of life I want, and is why I have not left my home state. We don’t need new industries moving in to give temporary jobs and to use our state. We need to focus on what we have already been given, a beautiful state and landscape, tourism should be our focus. Build jobs around tourism not around industry. Since this video I know of many tourism projects our state, and local businesses have started. The problem is most of these communities have accepted defeat and aren’t willing to put the work in to turn these problems around, but the select few working on our tourism are making a difference. Anyway if you’re reading this and want to get a taste of some real adventure come to WV. If you’re ever in Southern WV go to Pipestem State Park, they are expanding and it’s already a gem.

[@Huntermaro]

You must be middle aged. Someone growing up there now would probably disagree and I wouldnt blame them. The drugs and crime have been out of control for well over 10 years. Why would a tourist want to visit that? Charelston was indeed a great city 25 years ago, I know because I was raised there but its nothing like it once was. Saturated with drugs, hookers, and thugs while roads and buildings are falling apart. Its pretty sad. I still have family there and wished they had been able to get out. The youngest of my family there have already fallen into the pit of drug addiction and some of the adults too. I would NEVER raise my kids there. Its some of the most beautiful land in the us for sure but thats about all it has going for it anymore. There are much safer places to visit and enjoy which is why tourism will never be much of a thing there like it was in the past. Even celebrities would vacation there back in the day, but no more.

[@Wubz_N_Dubz]

Mario Miceli I’m actually in my mid twenties, but I understand where you are coming from in regards to the drug and addiction problems in the area. I’ve had many family members fall into the same problems, but I don’t think it’s any worse than other parts of our country. They are in the process of working on the infrastructure of the interstate, and some secondary roads are getting work done as-well. The state has a 3 year plan for the interstate infrastructure, which has already started if you’ve driven in the southern part of the state. The tourism focus should be on the natural terrain and cater to people who love the outdoors. The idea isn’t going to fix all our issues I’m not trying to say that, but it would be a good step forward. The state has been in such turmoil for so long it’s not something that could happen over night of course, and all the goals I was talking about would be more of a 10 year scale. But yes, the drugs and addiction, along with the overwhelming need to repair our infrastructure are obvious problems which I think are starting to be addressed. I’m glad you took the time to read my comment and give your thoughts.

[@manchild4240]

I was born in wayne West Virginia and was raised there. Best times of my life.

[@emilydawson452]

I’m proud to live in West Virginia, I don’t necessarily associate with the coal in West Virginia but my Grandfather and Great Grandfather worked in the coal mines in Pennsylvania. But I’ve lived in West Virginia all my life, and it really is not a bad place.

[@chriscox7039]

I was raised in Wood County and still here. No matter what, West Virginia is home. Great people. Beautiful scenery. It is being destroyed by poor economic growth, drugs, etc. I do what I can to make everyone from this great state proud.

[@readysetgo1996]

That made me cry!!!

[@travis8415]

When I was in high school, I I couldn't wait to leave West Virginia. Of course I did leave after graduating, I ran and joined the Airforce. I enjoyed the military and places that I was stationed but after a while I couldn't wait to see the sign "Welcome to West Virginia", because there is nothing like home.

[@adalbertomodesusa]

2:07 You ain't messing up with grandpa, no sir!

[@bluegillgiggle8194]

Who else is from WV

[@CJ_7519]

Right here✋🏿! Born and raised in McDowell County!

[@guitarguru.3572]

Randolph County, born and raised

[@CJ_7519]

@@guitarguru.3572, right on👊!

[@MsJgreen77]

Such a beautiful place.

[@LoriFoster]

All those people and not a single one uttered those nasty words “Government should do this or that for us”. That’s what America is build it with Family and Neighbors.

[@chelelee6321]

I've lived in West Virginia nearly my whole life. I moved a couple times out to Va but it just didn't feel like home. I'm proud to be a part of this beautiful state and have high hopes for seeing it prosper once again. Too many of our young ones have no choice but to leave the state for better opportunities. I'm staying as long as I can just in case I'm needed in some way to help improve the conditions here.

[@ilovetaehyung2754]

I live in WV 💙 grew up in Logan

[@amyw7965]

I was born in the old Logan hospital

[@jessicaplymale]

Neighbor!! I live in Logan County! 💙💛

[@ilovetaehyung2754]

Jessica Plymale I still live in Logan! That’s great!

[@raymondparsley7442]

I grew-up in Mingo county, the small community of Sprigg a few miles east of Williamson. Returned in 1957, after two years in NYC with the Army.... My love for the hills was great indeed, really wanted to stay home and even though I knew a few important business people in Williamson, including the owner of the Daily news paper, the gentleman who owned a machine shop and even an ex-mayor.... having caddied for all of them on the golf course.... located in Sprigg. Even so, then just 18 years of age, not one of them would offer me a job... or any hope of finding one. My father having died after an accident (slate fall) in the Rawl mine, 1943... I vowed to never become a coal miner, and the N&W railroad wasn't hiring either.... Like so many others, I left home to seek my fortune and misfortune elsewhere.... A strong work ethic, that stems from childhood, has served me well, and now at 80 years young, I have no complaints. West Virginia will always be home and a part of me.... God bless all the good people still there... and I wish them well..always,

[@kimjaxson8671]

I grew up in Boone county WV. Really a great place to grow up then. One town drunk that was it. Lol We hiked and swam in the river. No crime

[@dollreemappmmk14]

Isint Boone County where the Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia are from?🤔🤔🤔🤔🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ErwinMassage]

Mountain Mama...