Introduction: Where Time Flows Like the Mud River
Ensconced in the rolling hills of Lincoln County, West Virginia, the unincorporated communities of Griffithsville and Garretts Bend offer a poignant glimpse into Appalachian resilience and charm. Far from the state’s bustling urban centers, these quiet hamlets captivate visitors with their natural beauty, layered history, and tight-knit community spirit. This post explores their geography, heritage, and modern-day allure.
I. Garretts Bend: A River’s Embrace
Geography and Landscape
Garretts Bend curves along the Trace Fork of the Mud River in northeastern Lincoln County, where the Hayzlett Fork meets the Williams Fork. Its elevation of 682 feet places it amid forested ridges and creek valleys, creating a secluded, picturesque setting. The area is significant enough to lend its name to the USGS “Garretts Bend Quadrangle” topographic map.
Historical Evolution
- Early Settlement: Historic topographic maps from 1909–1978 show Garretts Bend’s transformation, with structures shifting along tributaries. A church marked in 1909 vanished by 1933, replaced by a schoolhouse that still stood in 1978.
- Community Anchors: The Garretts Bend Post Office operated from 1876 until 1965, when mail services shifted to Hamlin. Today, the Garretts Bend Community Center and hilltop Garrett Cemetery remain active landmarks.
- Transportation: County Highways 5 (Garretts Bend Road) and 58 (Toney Branch Road) weave through the area, linking Griffithsville to Sod.
II. Griffithsville: Crossroads of Community and Growth
Foundations and Development
Griffithsville serves as a commercial and cultural hub for surrounding communities like Garretts Bend. Key features include:
- Economic Drivers: Whispering Pines Fishing Lake draws anglers with catfish tournaments and a restaurant.
- Education: The new Lincoln County High School anchors community growth, with nearby real estate marketed for its convenience.
- Cultural Touchstones: The Lincoln County Bluegrass and Gospel Festival (August) and Festival of Lights (December) highlight local traditions.
Land and Real Estate Trends
Recent sales reflect Griffithsville’s blend of affordability and rural appeal:
- A 39-acre plot near the high school sold for $60,000, ideal for building or hunting.
- Secluded 8-acre parcels, like one off Sugartree Road, fetched $18,500, appealing for campsites.
- Renovated homes, such as a 1975 raised ranch updated with stainless appliances, commanded $144,000.
III. Shared Attractions: Nature, History, and Community
Outdoor Adventures
- Rivers and Trails: The Guyandotte and Coal Rivers offer float trips from Branchland to Salt Rock. Public access points feature boat slides and ramps.
- Sod Archery Range: Just minutes from Garretts Bend, this facility includes a bow shop and practice range.
Historical Curiosities
- Lock 4 (Coal River): Site of the infamous 1859 Mary Turley murder, now a historical relic.
- Disputed Jesse James Grave: Local lore claims the outlaw lived near Midway as “Charles Smith” and is buried locally.
- Tobacco Barns: A driving tour along WV 214 showcases 15 historic barns, including a rare red Mail Pouch Barn.
Culinary and Social Spots
- Kenny’s Hot Dogs (Branchland): Famous for 1950s-style curb service and secret-recipe sauce.
- The Bobcat (Hamlin): An old-fashioned soda fountain with Victorian décor.
- Garretts Bend Community Center: Hosts gatherings at its picnic shelter and playground.
IV. Modern Life: Resilience and Real Estate
Garretts Bend’s Quiet Renaissance
A recent property sale at 1949 Garretts Bend Road in Sod fetched $239,000, featuring updates like new HVAC and an apartment-ready garage. This signals growing interest in the area’s pastoral tranquility.
Griffithsville’s Balanced Appeal
The town blends affordability with amenities:
- Bargain land deals ($1,538–$2,312/acre) attract hunters and builders.
- Proximity to Hamlin provides access to schools, healthcare, and shops.
V. Visiting Today: Tips and Reflections
Getting There
- By Car: Garretts Bend Road (CR 5) connects Griffithsville to Sod, passing the community center. From Charleston, take US 119 to WV 214.
- Notable Stops:
- Cobb’s Creek Missionary Baptist Church (Sod)
- Lion’s Club Park (Alum Creek) for riverside picnics.
Why These Towns Matter
Griffithsville and Garretts Bend embody West Virginia’s spirit—adapting to change while preserving heritage. From Garretts Bend’s vanishing post office to Griffithsville’s evolving festivals, these communities honor their past without resisting the future. As one resident might say, “Here, you live with the land, not against it.”
Bibliography
- “Garretts Bend, West Virginia.” Wikipedia. Accessed June 11, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garretts_Bend,_West_Virginia.
- “Recently Sold Lincoln County WV Real Estate & Homes.” Homes.com. Accessed June 11, 2025. https://www.homes.com/lincoln-county-wv/sold/.
- “Lincoln County WV.” Trailsrus.com. Accessed June 11, 2025. http://www.trailsrus.com/westvirginia/lincoln.html.
As always, thank you for riding with me!
https://youtu.be/c5xs8nqUFQg
Visibility: Sunny
*GPS Coordinate Data Provided on bottom left corner with date and speed*
Destinations in West Virginia by appearance:
South Charleston
Kanawha Turnpike & Jefferson Road – South Charleston (15:00)
Southridge Center
Alum Creek
Trace Fork Road – Alum Creek (30:00)
Trace Fork Road – South Charleston (45:00)
Sod
Midway Road & Cobbs Creek – Sod (1:00:00)
Sumerco
Griffithsville
WV54/Holister Road – Griffithsville (1:15:00)
WV5/Garrett’s Bend – Griffithsville (1:30:00)
CR3/Straight Fork – Griffithsville (1:45:00)
Yawkey
WV3\7/Merrit Creek – Griffithsville (2:00:00)
Yeager Highway – Sod (2:15:00)
US119/Corridor G – South Charleston (2:30:00)
Ending: US60/MacCorkle Avenue – Spring Hill – South Charleston
Listen while you ride: My Spotify Playlists
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5FI2WfzKqFIz5dD0BOA1iw?si=4f12084e12b247ec – Mix
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5IWoDtlir7k6eww0PNVdGh?si=dca253ebf4e94ac1 – Chill
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4TNiUuJHvogwtk7ZxWoOpl?si=d4594c2bf5ff4328 – Upbeat
