HARTS, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Nestled at the mouth of Big Harts Creek, the town of Harts in Lincoln County boasts a rich history dating back to the early days of American settlement.
Named for Stephen Hart (Heart), an early settler or his father who met a tragic end at the hands of Native Americans, Harts has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, evolving from its humble beginnings into a vibrant community.
Richard Elkins, the first permanent settler, arrived in 1807 or 1815, marking the beginning of Harts’ settlement. In its infancy, the town found itself situated between Kanawha County and Cabell County until 1824, when it became part of Logan County and then later Lincoln County.
Among the prominent families who laid down roots in Harts were the Elkins, Adkins, and Toney families, shaping the fabric of the community for generations to come.
The Civil War era left an indelible mark on Harts, with nearly all local men serving in the Confederate States Army.
Post-war, the area continued to thrive, witnessing the establishment of Hearts Creek Post Office by Henry S. Godby in 1870, followed by subsequent post offices initiated by William T. “Bill” Fowler and Andrew D. Robinson.
However, it was not without its challenges, as evidenced by the Lincoln County Feud of the 1880s, which garnered national attention and headlines across the United States.
As the 20th century dawned, Harts saw significant developments, including the arrival of the C&O Railroad in 1904, heralding a new era of connectivity and growth. The railroad still runs through Harts hauling primarily coal from the southern West Virginia coalfields.
The LOOTPRESS Sky Cam caught a train rolling through Harts on Monday which can be viewed above.
Despite the discontinuation of various post offices over the years, including Hart PO in 1910, the community persevered, buoyed by the resilience of its residents.
The establishment of Harts Post Office in 1916, which continues to serve the community today, marked an important moment in Harts’ history.
Throughout the decades, prominent merchants such as F.E. Adkins, Herb Adkins, and P.B. “Fed” Adkins played essential roles in shaping the economic landscape of Harts.
Today, the Harts Creek community encompasses the Harts Creek District of Lincoln County and a portion of Chapmanville District in Logan County.
From Atenville to Whirlwind, these areas are steeped in history, with numerous families tracing their roots back to the early settlers of English origin.
