Poems about West Virginia: Celebrating the Mountain State's Beauty and Spirit

West Virginia, also fondly known as the Mountain State, is a place of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and resilient people. Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, this picturesque state has inspired countless poets to capture its essence through their words. In this article, we will explore a collection of poems that pay tribute to the majesty and spirit of West Virginia.

1. "West Virginia Hills" by Ellen King

One of the most beloved poems about West Virginia is "West Virginia Hills" by Ellen King, which serves as the official state song. This patriotic piece embodies the deep connection between West Virginians and their land.

West Virginia hills! How majestic and how grand,
With their summits bathed in glory,
Like our Prince Immanuel's Land!
Is it any wonder, then, that my heart with rapture thrills,
As I stand once more with loved ones
On those West Virginia hills?

2. "The Hills of Home" by Irene McKinney

Irene McKinney, West Virginia's Poet Laureate, perfectly captured the essence of the state in her poem "The Hills of Home." McKinney's words evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia for the hills that hold a special place in the hearts of West Virginians.

The hills of home are deep with shadows,
And the air is cold and thin.
Crows call through the trees,
And in the quiet, we can hear the river's song.
Oh, the hills of home, how we long for them,
For they hold our history and our spirit.

3. "West Virginia" by Marc Harshman

Marc Harshman, West Virginia's current Poet Laureate, offers a heartfelt tribute to his home state through his poem "West Virginia." Harshman's words paint a vivid picture of the state's rugged beauty, acknowledging both its challenges and its resilient people.

West Virginia, you hold my heart,
In your hills and valleys, I find solace.
From coal mines to flowing streams,
You have shaped us, toughened us.
Through hardships, we find strength,
In your mountains, we find peace.

4. "Mountain State Reverie" by Louise McNeill

Louise McNeill, West Virginia's first Poet Laureate, captures the enchanting allure of the Mountain State in her poem "Mountain State Reverie." McNeill's words transport readers to the heart of West Virginia, where they can experience the magic of its landscapes.

On ridges where the wind is singing,
And the sunshine is a scholar,
I walked upon the wildwood's carpet,
And the leaves were like a collar.
And the trilliums were my sisters,
And the ferns were like a cover.
And the rocks were like a story,
Telling secrets to each other.

West Virginia's natural beauty, rich history, and resilient spirit have inspired poets to create timeless works of art. Through poems like "West Virginia Hills," "The Hills of Home," "West Virginia," and "Mountain State Reverie," these writers have paid homage to the majesty and spirit of the Mountain State. Whether capturing the rugged landscapes, the deep-rooted connection to the land, or the sense of longing for home, these poems celebrate West Virginia in all its glory. So, take a moment to immerse yourself in these verses and let the beauty of West Virginia fill your heart and soul.