Braxton County, West Virginia
Braxton County sits in the heart of West Virginia and has one seriously unusual claim to fame. Ever heard of the Flatwoods Monster? According to local legend, a strange object landed near Flatwoods in 1952, sparking stories that people still talk about today.
Sutton, the county seat, is known for its historic buildings and relaxed small-town atmosphere. Gassaway once played an important role as a railroad community, and traces of that past can still be seen around the old depot.
Gentle, rolling hills cover much of the county, creating beautiful scenery throughout the year. When autumn arrives, the hillsides burst into brilliant colors. The Elk and Little Kanawha Rivers also meet in the area, while Sutton Lake attracts anglers looking to cast a line. It’s the kind of place where slowing down and staying awhile feels just right.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Braxton County |
| County Seat | Sutton |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Sutton, Gassaway, Flatwoods, Burnsville, Frametown |
| Interstates and Highways | I-79, US-19, WV-4, WV-5 |
| Etymology | Named after Carter Braxton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence |
| FIPS Code | 54-007 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 516 sq mi (Land: 511 sq mi; Water: 5 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 38.6961° N, 80.6675° W |
| Major Landmarks | Sutton Lake, Burnsville Lake, Flatwoods Monster Museum |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Lewis County (Northeast), Webster County (Southeast), Nicholas County (South), Clay County (Southwest), Calhoun County (West), Gilmer County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 13,000 |
