Before the arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century, the region that is now Parkersburg, West Virginia was home to several Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Mingo, and Delaware. These tribes had lived in the region for centuries, hunting, fishing, and farming the land. In the late 1700s, European settlers began to arrive in the region, and the city was founded in 1798 by a group of settlers from Virginia and Maryland. These settlers were drawn to the area by the abundant natural resources and the potential for trade and commerce.

In the early 19th century, Parkersburg became an important transportation hub, with the construction of the Northwestern Turnpike, which connected Parkersburg to other parts of the region. The city also served as an important trading center, with a number of new businesses and industries, including lumber and coal, flour mills, and blacksmith shops, establishing themselves in the area.

In the years following the Civil War, Parkersburg experienced a period of economic growth and development, with the construction of new factories and the expansion of the city's transportation infrastructure.

In the early 20th century, Parkersburg emerged as an important center for the oil and gas industry, with the discovery of significant oil and gas deposits in the region. The city's economy continued to grow and diversify, with the development of new industries, such as chemical manufacturing, and the expansion of existing industries, like timber and coal.

Today, Parkersburg is a thriving city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It is home to many historical sites and landmarks, including the Oil and Gas Museum and the Blennerhassett Museum, which explore the city's past and its role in the development of the region.

Located in the heart of the Mid-Ohio Valley, Parkersburg is known for its beautiful parks, excellent schools, and friendly people.

For potential home buyers, Parkersburg has a lot to offer. The city has a diverse range of housing options, and prices are generally affordable, with the median home price hovering around $150,000.

One of the main attractions of Parkersburg for homebuyers is its excellent school system. The city is home to top-ranked public schools, as well as several private school options. In addition, West Virginia University at Parkersburg is located in the city, providing residents with access to higher education.

Another major draw for potential home buyers is Parkersburg's strong sense of community. The city has several annual events, which bring people together and provide an opportunity for residents to get to know one another. There are also local clubs and organizations that provide residents with opportunities to get involved and make a difference in their community.

Another one of the city's major attractions is its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. City Park, located in the heart of downtown, is a popular spot for picnics, sports, and concerts. The park features a large pond, a playground, and several walking trails. In addition, the city is home to other parks, including Point Park and Fort Boreman Park, which offer hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnicking areas. The Mid-Ohio Valley region is home to several state parks, including North Bend State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating. In addition, the city is located near the Ohio River, which provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water sports.

Parkersburg is in close proximity to other cities in the region. The city is located within a short drive of several major cities, including Columbus, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh. This makes it easy for residents to take day trips or weekend getaways to explore the surrounding area.

Another great part of Parkersburg is its arts and culture scene. The city is home to several performing arts organizations. In addition, the city is home to a number of galleries and art studios, as well as annual events.

Parkersburg has many excellent restaurants and dining options. There are also several locally-owned coffee shops and bakeries, providing residents with a range of options for breakfast and lunch.

The city is home to many shopping options, including local boutiques and specialty stores, as well as larger chain stores. There are also farmers markets and outdoor markets in the area, providing residents with access to fresh, locally-grown produce and other goods.

Overall, Parkersburg is a great place to call home, with its affordable housing, excellent schools, strong sense of community, and beautiful parks. Considering a move to Parkersburg? No one knows our community better than our team of local, licensed REALTORS®. Contact us today to get started on your journey to a new home.