Northern Panhandle - Definition and Overview

The Northern Panhandle is a region in the U.S. state of West Virginia. It is the state's northernmost extension, bounded by the Ohio River on the west and the state of Pennsylvania on the east.

The following counties, listed from north to south, are universally accepted as being part of the Northern Panhandle:

• Hancock County
• Brooke County
• Ohio County
• Marshall County

Most West Virginians also include Wetzel County, directly to the south of Marshall County, as a part of the Northern Panhandle, although it does not lie strictly within the northern extension.

Important towns within the Northern Panhandle include Wheeling, Weirton, and Moundsville. The region houses three four-year colleges—the public West Liberty State College and the private Bethany College and Wheeling Jesuit University.

In the late 19th century, the Northern Panhandle developed as a mostly industrial area. It still largely retains its industrial character, although many of its factories have closed down or fallen on hard times like others in the Rust Belt.

Example Usage of Panhandle