Matewan Floodwall
Matewan, WV
The town of Matewan has a unique feature that surrounds the entire downtown area – a floodwall. The exterior of the wall tells the history of Matewan through carefully placed vertical fluting that forms an etched mural. This feature is a must-see in town. Visitors walking the path see the art on the floodwall while enjoying the Tug Fork River.
The floodwall may spend the majority of its time as a piece of information art, but it also serves an important function. According to the former mayor of Matewan, Robert McCoy, the town was once described as having the most severe flooding problem in the United States. This label was well earned, as according to McCoy, by 1984, the town had faced severe, property damaging flooding in 33 of the prior 35 years. The most catastrophic floods occurred in 1957, 1963, 1977 and 1984. You can see the heights that these floods reached on the steps that lead to the river, and even as high as the floodwall.
Relief came in 1992 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began constructing the 2,350-foot long floodwall. Since the construction of the wall, there hasn’t been an instance of significant flooding within the downtown Matewan area.
Nearby Attractions:
Nearby Attractions:
Trip Inspiration
Fall Views are Better at These Almost Heaven Swing Locations
Some views are just better in the fall, and in West Virginia, it's nearly impossible to pick your favorite. With more than 30 locations wit...
Read MoreFall Color is Lasting Longer than Ever in West Virginia – Week of 10/31/24
As October comes to an end, West Virginia is experiencing some of the longest-lasting fall foliage ever. Every travel region in the Mountai...
Read MoreThe West Virginia Paranormal Trail Just Got Spookier with these 4 New Locations
With Halloween quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to check off new spooky spots on the West Virginia Paranormal Trail. From hau...
Read MoreThese 6 West Virginia Rail Trails Will Elevate Your Fall Spirit
Imagine a crisp, fall day with the sound of leaves rustling around you on a relaxing walk or bicycle ride. In Almost Heaven, you can turn t...
Read MoreDiscover Vibrant Fall Foliage at These West Virginia Destinations – Week of 10/23/24
Shades of bright reds, oranges and yellows can now be found in nearly every slice of Almost Heaven. With many spots at lower elevations soo...
Read MoreEnjoy a Cozy Cabin Getaway at these West Virginia Stops this Fall
Are you looking for the perfect, cozy fall getaway this fall? Consider booking a cabin getaway during your time in Almost Heaven. No matter...
Read MoreVisiting Mountaineer Country in West Virginia? Explore These Must Sees & Must Dos
Known for its college town atmosphere, Mountaineer Country is also home to stunning landscapes, outdoor adventure, exceptional dining and c...
Read MoreExplore the Spooky and Cryptic on the Brand New West Virginia Paranormal Trail
West Virginia boasts a wealth of cryptid legends and spooky tales that blend well with the Mountain State's natural features. Now, yo...
Read MoreWhere to See Jaw-Dropping Fall Foliage Right Now in West Virginia – Week of 10/16/24
Cooler temperatures are now settling into the lower elevations of Almost Heaven – paving the way for vivid shades of amber and scarlet to...
Read More