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West Virginia, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, coal mining heritage, and rich cultural history, has more than a few bizarre tidbits that might leave you scratching your head. From record-breaking governors to unexpected lighthouses, the Mountain State is full of surprises that seem too weird to be true. Here are some of the strangest facts about West Virginia:

1. Cecil Underwood: The Youngest and Oldest Governor in State History

Imagine being the youngest person to ever be elected as governor of your state—then returning decades later to serve again as the oldest. That’s exactly what Cecil Underwood did. Elected in 1956 at just 34 years old, Underwood became West Virginia’s youngest governor. Fast forward over 40 years, and in 1996, he reclaimed the governor’s office at age 74, becoming the state's oldest to serve. It’s a mind-boggling piece of political history that seems more fitting for a Hollywood script than real life. But in West Virginia, it’s just another chapter in the state’s unique legacy.

2. A Landlocked Lighthouse? Yes, West Virginia Has One

When you think of lighthouses, ocean shorelines and coastal fog might come to mind—not the mountainous, landlocked state of West Virginia. But the Mountain State has its very own lighthouse in the small town of Summersville. Located near Summersville Lake, the Summersville Lake Lighthouse stands proudly, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. While it may not guide ships through rocky waters, this 104-foot lighthouse adds a touch of maritime flair to the hills of Appalachia. It’s a quirky landmark that seems out of place but only adds to West Virginia's charm.

3. The Bridge the Soviets Nearly Built on the West Virginia-Kentucky Border

In the midst of the Cold War, tensions were high between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Yet, in one of the strangest twists in West Virginia’s history, there was nearly a Soviet-built bridge connecting West Virginia and Kentucky. In the early 1970s, a deal was nearly struck for a Soviet company to construct the Big Sandy River Bridge, which would span the river between the two states. However, political unease and growing distrust between the nations led to the project being scrapped before construction began. Can you imagine a Soviet-engineered bridge in the heart of Appalachia?

4. Billy Mays: From Infomercials to WVU Football

Billy Mays, the beloved TV pitchman known for his enthusiastic delivery and iconic OxiClean ads, wasn’t always in the business of selling cleaning products. Before becoming a household name, Mays was a walk-on linebacker for the West Virginia University football team. Though his football career may not have taken him to the NFL, his booming voice and larger-than-life personality found a home in the world of infomercials. His transition from tackling opponents on the field to selling miracle cleaning products is just another bizarre yet true story connected to West Virginia.

West Virginia’s quirks and oddities may seem too strange to be true, but they are part of what makes the state so fascinating. From political oddities to unexpected landmarks, these true weird facts highlight the unique character of a place that never ceases to surprise. Whether you’re a native or just passing through, West Virginia’s weirdness is something to celebrate—and maybe even scratch your head over!