Welcome to Jenkinjones, a small but historically significant locality in McDowell County, West Virginia. Founded in the early 20th century, this area rose to prominence thanks to the efforts of Jenkin B. Jones, a Welsh immigrant who played a pivotal role in the development of the coal industry in this region. Jenkin Jones was born in Glyn Neath, Wales, in 1839 and emigrated to the United States in 1863. After years of working in the coal mines of Pennsylvania, he moved to West Virginia, where his entrepreneurial spirit and hard work led to the formation of the Pocahontas Fuel Company in 1907.
The architectural landscape of Jenkinjones is characterized by the historic Pocahontas Fuel Company Store and Office Buildings. Both were designed by the notable architect Alex B. Mahood and erected in 1917. These structures were not only functional but also served as symbols of success and progress within the community. The company store, a two-story brick building with a stone foundation, housed a store and post office, and its Classical Revival style is exemplified by its brick cornice, concrete parapet, and entablature with dentils. The adjacent office building shares a similar architectural grandeur with its bold concrete cornice.
Jenkinjones thrived as a coal town, integral to the larger narrative of the Pocahontas Coalfield, renowned for its high-quality coal deposits. The establishment of these coal operations attracted workers and their families, contributing to the growth of the community. The coal extracted from Jenkinjones and surrounding areas was transported via the Norfolk & Western Railway, further connecting this locality to broader industrial networks.
Jenkin B. Jones was not only a businessman but also an active community figure, fostering industrial development throughout southern West Virginia. His legacy includes not just his contributions to the coal industry but also his influence on the cultural and social fabric of the area. Although he passed away in 1916, his impact is still remembered, with the community of Jenkinjones bearing his name.
Today, Jenkinjones stands as a testament to the industrious spirit that once fueled the American economy. While the coal industry has diminished, the historical significance of this locality endures, inviting visitors to reflect on its past and the stories of the people who built it.
