Bramwell and Bluefield: History and The Arts

This journey will take you from an old railroad city to a small town rich with coal baron history. Bluefield, WV is a growing art community with unique galleries taking up more and more of the city blocks. Bramwell, WV is known for once being home to more millionaires per capita then anywhere in the United States. The millionaires of Bramwell were coal barons and we invite you to come, pick up a walking tour brochure (at the depot) and spend the day viewing the well-maintained historic buildings. Twice a year in June and December these buildings are opened for a guided Tour of Homes. To learn about coal and how these ‘barons’ earned their riches a stop at the Pocahontas Coal Mine is in order.

Bramwell and Bluefield: History and The Arts

Trace the Tracks Straight Down to the Mines

Bluefield State University

Bluefield was once referred to as “Little New York” when coal tonnage was good and the market for coal was booming. Rich in coal and railroad history today Bluefield is the Gateway City into the state of WV and known as West Virginia’s Air Conditioned City. For a bird’s eye view, drive up to the East River Mountain Overlook.

Bramwell, WV

The coal boom brought coal barons who incorporated Bramwell in 1888. It was known as the “Millionaires’ Town” because more millionaires per capita lived there than anywhere else in the nation. Today you can take a walking tour of this historic town and view the mansions of the coal barons who once commanded the region.

Pinnacle Rock State Park

Opened in 1938, this park features a sandstone formation reaching 3,100 feet above sea level. There is an overlook area, hiking and biking trails, picnic shelter with stone fireplace, playground and access to Jimmy Lewis Lake.