Discover the Coldest Place in West Virginia (-37 Degrees Fahrenheit!)

Welcome to Lewisburg, West Virginia! This small mountain town has a big secret – it is officially the coldest place in the state. Come prepared with heavy coats, as temperatures can dip well below freezing during winter. At Lewisburg on December 30, 1917, the thermometer dropped to 37 degrees below zero, West Virginia’s lowest official temperature.

Located in Greenbrier County and nestled between two ridges of the Allegheny Mountains, this charming community welcomes the winter season with open arms. With an elevation of 2210 feet, Lewisburg should definitely be on your list of places to explore and enjoy! Let’s learn more about the coldest place in West Virginia.

History Of Lewisburg, West Virginia

Lewisburg was named after Andrew Lewis, who, in 1751, founded a camp behind the present courthouse near the natural spring. Since that time, this spring has been called Lewis Spring.

Matthew Arbuckle, Sr. was the first settler when Lewisburg was formally laid out in 1780. A Revolutionary War commander, Col. John Stuart, was among Lewisburg’s first trustees and considered the “Father of Greenbrier County”. Stuart donated the land on which Lewisburg’s first county courthouse and the Old Stone Church are located. In 1782, the Virginia General Assembly formally established Lewisburg.

The 1862 Battle of Lewisburg was one of many battles fought in West Virginia during the Civil War. In fact, you can still see bullet holes and markings in some of the town buildings that both sides used during this conflict. In addition, there is a section of wall with soldiers’ graffiti preserved at the Virginia Supreme Court Library in Lewisburg, which served as the Greenbrier County Library until 2008.

There were several summer camps for children in the Lewisburg area during the mid-20th century. In 1929, Camp Shaw-Mi-Del-Eca was established on the river as a boys’ camp. Camp Ann Bailey was located on the Greenbrier River (named after Anne Bailey, a Revolutionary War scout). Activist Elizabeth Harden Gilmore led the effort to integrate this Girl Scout camp in the 1950s. A National Register Historic District was also established in 1978 on 236 acres of land in the heart of Lewisburg.

Fun Facts About Lewisburg

Lewisburg might be small in size and population, but it comes with tons of surprises for visitors. Let’s have a look at a few of them:

• A drive-in restaurant still exists in Lewisburg, one of the few remaining in the country.
• The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine is located in Lewisburg and is one of just two medical schools in the state.
• Located just outside of town, Lost World Caverns is a must-see and a favorite tourist destination.
• Lewisburg is surrounded by spectacular scenery. Drive through farmland and rolling hills to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty.
• Despite its small size, Lewisburg is a foodie’s paradise. From wood oven pizza to fine French cuisine, there is something for everyone.

Average Temperatures In Lewisburg

Lewisburg, West Virginia, has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences warm, humid summers and cool winters.

The average high temperature in Lewisburg during the summer months is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average low temperature in the summer is in the high 50s.

During the winter months, the average high temperature in Lewisburg is around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average low temperature is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

It rarely drops below 8°F or rises higher than 88°F throughout the year, as the temperature usually ranges from 23°F to 81°F. The warm season in Lewisburg lasts for three to four months between May 25 and September 18, and the cold season lasts for three months between December 1 and March 1.

The highest temperature ever recorded in the city of Lewisburg was a whopping 102°F on July 21, 1934. While a frigid -37°F, on December 30, 1917, is the lowest temperature ever recorded in the entire state of West Virginia.

The temperature in Lewisburg can vary widely depending on the time of year, so it is crucial to be prepared for both hot and cold weather if you plan on visiting. When traveling to Lewisburg, it is a good idea to bring layers of clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for protection from the sun.

Population Of Lewisburg

According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Lewisburg, West Virginia, as of 2020 was 3,930. It is known for its small-town charm and friendly community and is often listed as one of the best small towns to visit in the United States.

On the city’s coldest day in 1917, there were only 1200 residents. And by the time this town had its hottest day ever in 1934, the population had only grown to 1350 residents.

Wildlife In Lewisburg

Lewisburg, West Virginia, is located in the Appalachian Mountains and is home to diverse wildlife. Some of the animals that can be found in the area include:

1. White-tailed deer: These animals are common in forests and fields and can often be seen grazing or foraging for food.
2. Black bears: These beautiful bears are native to the Appalachian Mountains and can occasionally be seen in the forests surrounding Lewisburg.
3. Raccoons: Raccoons are common in the area and can often be seen scavenging for food or raiding garbage cans.
4. Wild turkeys: They are often seen in the fields and forests of Lewisburg, especially in the spring and fall.
5. Red and gray foxes: These animals are common in the area and often hunt for small mammals and birds.
6. Chipmunks and squirrels: These small mammals are common in the forests and gardens of Lewisburg and can often be seen gathering food.
7. Songbirds: Lewisburg is home to various songbirds, including robins, bluejays, and finches.

Where is Lewisburg Located on a Map?

Lewisburg found in Pennsylvania is a city 30 miles south of Williamsport and 60 miles north of Harrisburg. It used to be the commercial center for a fertile gran and farming region but that has lessened over the years. It 2020 the population was 5,158.

Here is Lewisburg on a map:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Wirestock