Michigan Native Henry Ford Once Owned Entire West Virginia Town

Photo byWest Virginia State Archives

DETROIT, MI - Nuttallburg, WV, a historic coal town nestled in the New River Gorge, holds a unique place in American industrial history due to its connection with Henry Ford.

According to the National Park Service, established in the late 19th century by English entrepreneur John Nuttall, the town thrived as a coal mining community, producing high-quality coal that fueled the expanding industrial revolution.

In the 1920s, Henry Ford, the iconic automobile magnate, saw potential in Nuttallburg's coal. Seeking to control the supply chain for his Detroit factories, Ford purchased the town and its mining operations, according to the National Park Service.

Under Ford's ownership, Nuttallburg experienced significant improvements, including the modernization of mining equipment and the implementation of more efficient methods for coal extraction and transportation.

Ford's investment aimed to ensure a steady supply of coal for his burgeoning car manufacturing empire, reducing dependency on external suppliers.

Despite Ford's efforts, the Great Depression and the rise of alternative energy sources led to a decline in coal demand.

By the 1950s, Nuttallburg's mines ceased operations, and the town gradually faded into obscurity, according to the National Park Service.

Today, the remnants of Nuttallburg, including the restored tipple and conveyor system, are preserved by the National Park Service as part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Visitors to Nuttallburg can explore the historical site and gain insight into the once-thriving coal town that played a crucial role in America's industrial past and bore witness to Henry Ford's ambitious vision.