Mason County, West Virginia, is located between the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River. The county seat is Point Pleasant, a city at the confluence of the Ohio and Great Kanawha Rivers. This place is known for its history, river culture, and relaxed pace of life.
The county is part of the Point Pleasant WV OH Micropolitan Statistical Area. According to the 2020 census, Mason County’s population is 25,453. It combines small towns, rural communities, and natural areas, including forests, hills, and coastal areas.
About Mason County
Mason County was founded in 1804 and named after George Mason IV, one of the authors of the Bill of Rights. Before West Virginia was formed in 1863, this territory was part of Virginia.
The county seat, Point Pleasant, is known for Tu Endie Wei State Park, the Mothman Museum, and the Mothman Statue. Mason County is also home to Hartford City, Leon, Mason, and New Haven. U.S. Route 35 runs through the county, connecting it to Ohio and other areas of West Virginia.
The county covers 445 square miles, of which 431 miles are land and 14 miles are water. Its proximity to the Ohio River and Kanawha River has historically made Point Pleasant an important river port.
Topics Covered on the Website
The Mason County and Point Pleasant website highlights key topics of interest to both travelers and residents of the region:
- The history of the Battle of Point Pleasant and Fort Randolph
- The Mothman Festival and Battle Days events
- Natural areas such as Tu-Endie-Wei State Park and the McClintic Wildlife Management Area
- Hotels and historic buildings, including the Lowe Hotel
- Events at the WV State Farm Museum
- Activities held at Point Pleasant Riverfront Park
- Cultural initiatives organized by the Mason County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)
We also publish information about events such as the Spring Fling Open House, Spring Engine Show, Antique Tractor Pull, and Rivers to Ridges Bridge to Bridge Bike Ride. Special attention is given to the Docking of River Boats and the Liberty Fest in downtown Point Pleasant.
History of Mason County
In 1749, French explorer Pierre Joseph Céloron de Blainville claimed the Ohio Valley for France. In 1774, the Battle of Point Pleasant took place at the site of the future Point Pleasant under the command of Colonel Andrew Lewis. The battle was part of Lord Dunmore’s War and helped shape the region. Point Pleasant received official city status in 1794. Hannan Trace Road, built in 1798, connected the area to Chillicothe, Ohio, and became an important transportation artery.
The 19th Century and the Civil War
Mason County was separated from Kanawha County on January 2, 1804. In the first half of the 19th century, the county developed as a river port. Goods were shipped down the Kanawha River and then on to the Ohio River and the Mississippi River. During the American Civil War, the residents of Mason County were divided in their views. More than a thousand people served in the Union army, while a small group joined the Confederate Army.
In 1867, the Silver Bridge connecting Point Pleasant and Kanauga, Ohio, collapsed, killing 46 people. Today, it has been replaced by the Silver Memorial Bridge.
20th Century and Modern Times
In the 20th century, the Marietta Manufacturing Company operated in the county, and during World War II, the West Virginia Ordnance Works was in operation. Later, this area became part of the McClintic Wildlife Management Area.
In the 1960s, Mason County became famous thanks to reports of the Mothman. Today, the Mothman Museum and the annual Mothman Festival attract tourists from all over the country. In 2004, the River Museum opened, but unfortunately, it closed after a fire.
It’s time to visit Mason County!
Mason County, West Virginia, is perfect for those interested in history, nature, and small American towns. Here you can visit Tu Endie Wei State Park, stroll down Main Street in Point Pleasant, see the Ohio River and Great Kanawha River, stay at the Lowe Hotel, or explore the McClintic Wildlife Management Area.
Mason County is easily accessible by car via U.S. Route 35. Its proximity to Ohio makes it convenient for residents of neighboring states. Whether you’re interested in the Battle of Point Pleasant, the Mothman Festival, or a quiet getaway by the river, Point Pleasant and Mason County offer a rich and accessible travel experience.