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

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 มิ.ย. 2013
  • 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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ความคิดเห็น • 703

  • @kenbroo7305
    @kenbroo7305 5 ปีที่แล้ว +640

    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
      @tammywines9789 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Thank you . God bless .

    • @jinafromwv6391
      @jinafromwv6391 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      We love U!

    • @kenbroo7305
      @kenbroo7305 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@tammywines9789 good morning Tammy

    • @tammywines9789
      @tammywines9789 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@kenbroo7305 God bless and good morning sweety.

    • @kenbroo7305
      @kenbroo7305 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

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

  • @f00kiebookie
    @f00kiebookie 5 ปีที่แล้ว +317

    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
      @drew_lucas 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      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
      @andrewthemastercards9402 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Drew Lucas I currently
      Live in Huntington

    • @f00kiebookie
      @f00kiebookie 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

    • @drew_lucas
      @drew_lucas 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

    • @blaze.eliana
      @blaze.eliana 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @Alex Austin That's just a stereotype.

  • @melindabelcher9850
    @melindabelcher9850 5 ปีที่แล้ว +143

    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
      @smug8567 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ever been to Preston County?

    • @durag4208
      @durag4208 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same

    • @poppybell8217
      @poppybell8217 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, Melinda!

    • @melindabelcher9850
      @melindabelcher9850 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      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

  • @TheMrscrawford09
    @TheMrscrawford09 7 ปีที่แล้ว +192

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

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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
      @robinhager1989 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      TheMrscrawford09 I am proud to be from WV also!

    • @robinhager1989
      @robinhager1989 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      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
      @ethansalyers4515 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

  • @poppybell8217
    @poppybell8217 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

  • @krich8143
    @krich8143 5 ปีที่แล้ว +39

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

  • @EdgeOfEntropy17
    @EdgeOfEntropy17 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    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!

  • @michaelashley4446
    @michaelashley4446 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

  • @liz-qt3st
    @liz-qt3st 5 ปีที่แล้ว +27

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

    • @buttercupj6208
      @buttercupj6208 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @kimbranham1515
    @kimbranham1515 5 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    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.

  • @JanetTweedie
    @JanetTweedie 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @cindyfitzgerald4500
    @cindyfitzgerald4500 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @carrieadams
    @carrieadams 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    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.

  • @meaganmuladore6431
    @meaganmuladore6431 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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! ❤️

  • @poppyneese1811
    @poppyneese1811 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    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.

  • @jamiecook7319
    @jamiecook7319 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @JUSAGUYNKY
    @JUSAGUYNKY 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @dauseanadoingme3824
    @dauseanadoingme3824 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    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
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Me too!

  • @brittanychristine3450
    @brittanychristine3450 7 ปีที่แล้ว +115

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

    • @garryjoseph5837
      @garryjoseph5837 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

    • @mjreikiriot3302
      @mjreikiriot3302 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@garryjoseph5837 yup.

    • @mjreikiriot3302
      @mjreikiriot3302 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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
      @robinhager1989 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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.

  • @myesenc
    @myesenc 5 ปีที่แล้ว +17

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

  • @tbrown9222
    @tbrown9222 5 ปีที่แล้ว +22

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

  • @lindagore6527
    @lindagore6527 5 ปีที่แล้ว +46

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

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      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
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @toynazi
    @toynazi 6 ปีที่แล้ว +190

    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
      @theuglykwan 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

    • @DH-ib9xc
      @DH-ib9xc 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

    • @matthewbeaver5026
      @matthewbeaver5026 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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
      @veronicam2942 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dhproductions 👍

    • @theminuteman6211
      @theminuteman6211 4 ปีที่แล้ว

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

  • @yukograce
    @yukograce 6 ปีที่แล้ว +124

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

    • @mjreikiriot3302
      @mjreikiriot3302 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It is sociologically considered a third world country.

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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
      @johnwhite5306 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Suffering for their homes lol.

    • @acman0926
      @acman0926 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      WV

    • @kellyheidenreich3514
      @kellyheidenreich3514 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@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!

  • @karenmiller1156
    @karenmiller1156 5 ปีที่แล้ว +54

    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
      @smug8567 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Are you related to them Millers from Preston County?

    • @kathey1981
      @kathey1981 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      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.

  • @michaelleeannspringer3247
    @michaelleeannspringer3247 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

  • @wythetrumpet6419
    @wythetrumpet6419 8 ปีที่แล้ว +177

    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.

    • @paulod27
      @paulod27 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Capitalism sucks!

    • @jakespradling7842
      @jakespradling7842 7 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      no hassle no sir, it does not.

    • @edpayne3613
      @edpayne3613 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      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
      @wandalllither2452 6 ปีที่แล้ว +7

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

    • @amazingdany
      @amazingdany 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

  • @doccreed658
    @doccreed658 5 ปีที่แล้ว +187

    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
      @007mia7 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

    • @Hooverpixie24
      @Hooverpixie24 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

    • @doccreed7182
      @doccreed7182 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@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
      @TheBikemaster94 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      "big john" and "16 tons" were right

    • @buttercupj6208
      @buttercupj6208 3 ปีที่แล้ว

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

  • @jcarter3238
    @jcarter3238 7 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    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!

  • @jenniferodell9228
    @jenniferodell9228 5 ปีที่แล้ว +46

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

  • @Moving_Forward247
    @Moving_Forward247 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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
      @dollreemappmmk14 4 ปีที่แล้ว

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

  • @kyiamcgill9144
    @kyiamcgill9144 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    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
      @kelleyannethomas5372 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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

  • @user-rh5yf2wz8l
    @user-rh5yf2wz8l 6 ปีที่แล้ว +39

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

    • @truhill3986
      @truhill3986 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      ZOLTAR we are :)

    • @robinhager1989
      @robinhager1989 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Tru Hill yes we are!!

    • @brittany2250
      @brittany2250 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We are :)

    • @robinhager1989
      @robinhager1989 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Jeffrey Scott yes they are

    • @tammywines9789
      @tammywines9789 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      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!!

  • @cathymullins3833
    @cathymullins3833 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    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.

  • @bethanyhenderson1374
    @bethanyhenderson1374 5 ปีที่แล้ว +17

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

  • @deborahdaniels3838
    @deborahdaniels3838 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @sahayla12
    @sahayla12 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

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

  • @indieauthorjasonblayne7511
    @indieauthorjasonblayne7511 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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.

  • @ashlieh
    @ashlieh 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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.

  • @bobberguy1
    @bobberguy1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +40

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

    • @buttercupj6208
      @buttercupj6208 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Amen 🙏

    • @mr.dakamd5444
      @mr.dakamd5444 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The backbone of our country is addicted to heroin and meth

  • @sailorxmars
    @sailorxmars 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

  • @wds179
    @wds179 5 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    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

  • @readysetgo1996
    @readysetgo1996 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That made me cry!!!

  • @kaylanoe6773
    @kaylanoe6773 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @seanjunkins8986
    @seanjunkins8986 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @ryanking3775
    @ryanking3775 7 ปีที่แล้ว +27

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

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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
      @matthewbeaver5026 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      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
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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
      @matthewbeaver5026 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@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)

  • @MsJgreen77
    @MsJgreen77 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Such a beautiful place.

  • @tishajacquet8116
    @tishajacquet8116 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @kennethmckinney853
    @kennethmckinney853 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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.

  • @michaelop757
    @michaelop757 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @judya.shroads8245
    @judya.shroads8245 5 ปีที่แล้ว +16

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

  • @brittany2250
    @brittany2250 5 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    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
      @justinwilliams7181 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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
      @blaze.eliana 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@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
      @justinwilliams7181 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      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
      @carolholmes6352 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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
      @blaze.eliana 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      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.

  • @JoelRogness
    @JoelRogness 11 ปีที่แล้ว +8

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

    • @jcarter3238
      @jcarter3238 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      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 TH-cam.

  • @wvjon75
    @wvjon75 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @inthevault9603
    @inthevault9603 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    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.

  • @lorimollette3970
    @lorimollette3970 5 ปีที่แล้ว +62

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

    • @ryanbostick1915
      @ryanbostick1915 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That's Right! :)

    • @codyratliff8302
      @codyratliff8302 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You still around here cutie?

    • @eratoisyourmuse659
      @eratoisyourmuse659 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Good song.

    • @CJ_7519
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @lulzface5366
    @lulzface5366 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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

  • @adalbertomodesusa
    @adalbertomodesusa 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @kathyvalentine1212
    @kathyvalentine1212 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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. ✨🙏✨

  • @rebeccacole3451
    @rebeccacole3451 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @michaelovers688
    @michaelovers688 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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

  • @abigailbenson1841
    @abigailbenson1841 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @RickiLynn666
    @RickiLynn666 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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. 😊

  • @susankitts139
    @susankitts139 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @manchild4240
    @manchild4240 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

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

  • @brendah4689
    @brendah4689 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

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

  • @RosemarieHunter
    @RosemarieHunter 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    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
      @CreatorCade 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @hillsonn
    @hillsonn 11 ปีที่แล้ว +46

    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!

  • @johntoothman4888
    @johntoothman4888 6 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    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
      @dorseykindler9544 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

    • @CJ_7519
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      John, you're makin' me homesick😢!

    • @johntoothman4888
      @johntoothman4888 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

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

    • @CJ_7519
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@johntoothman4888, of course!

    • @johntoothman4888
      @johntoothman4888 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@CJ_7519 NO place like hills!!

  • @ladee5o
    @ladee5o 11 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    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.

  • @RockyOwl
    @RockyOwl 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    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
      @donaldscheufele4286 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      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

  • @Gwynn1996
    @Gwynn1996 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @ronaldmercer9616
    @ronaldmercer9616 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The gentleman's Union 76 hat is a classic

  • @heathercarter8312
    @heathercarter8312 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    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.

  • @nataleedenlinger635
    @nataleedenlinger635 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @forevergratefulministries4326
    @forevergratefulministries4326 7 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    McDowell County is heavy on our hearts.

  • @walshsun3289
    @walshsun3289 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just moved to West Virginia six months ago from Washington DC. I love the great people and beautiful mountains!

    • @livingminimumwage6359
      @livingminimumwage6359 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Looking to do that within the coming months. It really is gorgeous. I love the outdoors but I want an affordable, minimalist lifestyle. Seems like the perfect state for that. Every other outdoors rich state seems expensive (OR, WA, , AL, CO) or too secluded (WY, SD, ND, Montana). WV is within a few hours ride of some big cities. Incredibly underrated place. I'll do whatever I can to stick around and only support local shops.

  • @guesswho111
    @guesswho111 6 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    West Virginia's has my Heart Wild and Wonderful.

  • @Witchofthewoods.
    @Witchofthewoods. 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    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
      @marvinhess4616 4 ปีที่แล้ว

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

  • @kameronstout4847
    @kameronstout4847 7 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    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
      @glizzzerd 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      kameron stout How is the school system there?

    • @yolandaponkers1581
      @yolandaponkers1581 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      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.

  • @Intrepidus.
    @Intrepidus. 11 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

  • @paulettaphillips3659
    @paulettaphillips3659 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Born and raised in West Virginia and yes left for school and ended up in Central KY and never went back to live but love my time I get to come home and spend time with my family. The people are amazing. Yes if you are from West Virginia it is always Home!

  • @johnholland723
    @johnholland723 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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
      @brittany2250 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I grew up in Burnsville. Small world
      :)

    • @jeri7881
      @jeri7881 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

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

  • @ilovetaehyung2754
    @ilovetaehyung2754 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I live in WV 💙 grew up in Logan

    • @amyw7965
      @amyw7965 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was born in the old Logan hospital

    • @jessicaplymale
      @jessicaplymale 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Neighbor!! I live in Logan County! 💙💛

    • @ilovetaehyung2754
      @ilovetaehyung2754 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @judya.shroads8245
    @judya.shroads8245 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

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

  • @dorascott8286
    @dorascott8286 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My very best to you all....

  • @idleearth4346
    @idleearth4346 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This place will always be home

  • @chriscox7039
    @chriscox7039 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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.

  • @amberduenas8745
    @amberduenas8745 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

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

  • @rasputinsghost
    @rasputinsghost 11 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    wonderful, i wish these folks all the luck in the world

  • @LVXMagick
    @LVXMagick 5 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    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. 🖤😊

  • @OUTLAW1983
    @OUTLAW1983 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I'm from Ritchie county WV and iv found my next vacation spot it's beautiful there

  • @bluegillgiggle8194
    @bluegillgiggle8194 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Who else is from WV

    • @CJ_7519
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

    • @guitarguru.3572
      @guitarguru.3572 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Randolph County, born and raised

    • @CJ_7519
      @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@guitarguru.3572, right on👊!

  • @leonandrews7180
    @leonandrews7180 5 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    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
      @brittany2250 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      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
      @guitarguru.3572 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      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
      @buttercupj6208 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Me too 😊

  • @mikeruben6971
    @mikeruben6971 6 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Very well done.

  • @muhammadnaeemlone8460
    @muhammadnaeemlone8460 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Visited WV last year ,stayed at Morgantown ,beautiful place, nice friendly people, I love WV❤

  • @CJ_7519
    @CJ_7519 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

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

  • @gerryjones131
    @gerryjones131 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm from Williamson my father was a truck driver and he used to go to Welch all the time I love West Virginia to but there's nothing there and you have to live God bless West Virginia . They are some of my best memories of a child and some of my worst

  • @orvillesluss8538
    @orvillesluss8538 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I was born Sept. 11, 1947 in Anawalt, W.VA. My Dad worked at Gary #14; at the age of two we moved to Mudfork (Tazewell Co., VA. to a farm my Dad owned next to my Grandpa Sluss. My dad worked at Gary until he retired in 1962. In 1966 I joined the Army and never returned to Mudfork (Tazewell Co.) other than family visits, church homecomings and high school reunions. West Virginia is a beautiful state and we love visiting there and exploring its history.

  • @kimwagoner1147
    @kimwagoner1147 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was born and raised in Boone County West Virginia. My Daddy was a coal miner for 20 plus yrs for Wharton #4. My grandparents, uncles were all coal miners. Weve been hungry wore hand me downs, if we was lucky, but ya know I miss those days. I had to move 3 yrs ago to Nebraska, and i miss home so bad. The mountains creeks the people . Some day i hope to move back to Boone County. My familys there, my parents buried at Drawdy. Boone County has the best people. My heart is always there. Home. 💙😊