Map of Wise, Virginia

Wise is a city in Wise County, Virginia, United States. The population was 5,026 at the 2010 census.

The city is located in the southwestern part of the state, along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River. It is the county seat of Wise County.

Wise was founded in 1850 and named for Henry A. Wise, the sixth governor of Virginia. The city was incorporated in 1874.

Wise is home to the Wise County Courthouse, which was built in 1895. The courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Wise is also home to the Wise County Museum, which houses exhibits on the history of the city and county.

The city is served by the Wise County Airport.

Wise is located about 50 miles south of Roanoke, Virginia.

II. History of Wise, Virginia

Wise, Virginia was founded in 1858 as a mining town. The town was named after Henry A. Wise, the Governor of Virginia at the time. The town grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, due to the mining industry. However, the town declined in the late 20th century, as the mining industry declined.

III. Geography of Wise, Virginia

Wise County is located in the southwestern part of Virginia, in the Appalachian Mountains. The county has a total area of 494 square miles (1,280 km2), of which 493 square miles (1,270 km2) is land and 1 square mile (2.6 km2) (0.2%) is water. The county is bordered by Dickenson County to the north, Buchanan County to the east, Russell County to the south, and Tazewell County to the west. The county seat is Wise.

The terrain of Wise County is mountainous, with the highest point being Whitetop Mountain at 5,520 feet (1,680 m). The county is drained by the North Fork of the Holston River, which flows through the county from north to south. Other major rivers in the county include the Powell River, the Clinch River, and the New River.

The climate of Wise County is humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature is 53.3 °F (11.9 °C). The average high temperature in July is 83.9 °F (28.8 °C), and the average low temperature in January is 22.6 °F (-5.3 °C). The average annual precipitation is 45.9 inches (1,165 mm).

IV. Demographics of Wise, Virginia

The population of Wise, Virginia was 5,212 at the 2010 census. The racial makeup of Wise was 95.4% White, 2.7% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.5% of the population.

The median household income for Wise was $37,583, and the median family income was $41,458. Males had a median income of $35,139 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for Wise was $16,619. About 14.7% of families and 18.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.3% of those under age 18 and 13.5% of those age 65 or over.

V. Economy of Wise, Virginia

The economy of Wise, Virginia is based primarily on the service industry, which accounts for about 70% of jobs in the city. The largest employers in Wise are the City of Wise, the Wise County School District, and the Wise County Hospital. Other major employers include manufacturing companies, such as American Woodmark Corporation and Shenandoah Furniture Company, and retail businesses, such as Walmart and Lowe’s.

The service sector is also supported by the tourism industry, which is based on the city’s natural beauty and historical attractions. Wise is home to several state parks, including the Natural Tunnel State Park and the Breaks Interstate Park, as well as the town of Big Stone Gap, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The economy of Wise has been relatively stable in recent years, with unemployment rates below the national average. However, the city is facing some challenges, including a declining population and a lack of economic diversification.

VI. Culture of Wise, Virginia

The culture of Wise, Virginia, is a blend of Appalachian and Southern traditions. The city is home to a number of museums and historical sites, as well as a variety of festivals and events that celebrate its heritage.

Some of the most popular cultural attractions in Wise include the Clinch Valley Historical Museum, the Mountain Empire Arts and Crafts Center, and the Wise County Courthouse. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Wise County Apple Festival, the Mountain Empire Bluegrass Festival, and the Wise County Christmas Parade.

The people of Wise are known for their hospitality and their strong sense of community. They are also known for their love of music, food, and family.

Wise is a great place to live and work. It is a safe and affordable community with a strong economy. The city is also home to a number of educational institutions, including a community college and a four-year university.

If you are looking for a place to live that offers a great quality of life, Wise, Virginia, is a great option.

VII. Education in Wise, Virginia

The Wise County School District is the public school district that serves Wise, Virginia. The district has 11 schools, including seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. The district also has a vocational-technical school and a community college.

The Wise County School District has a total enrollment of approximately 5,000 students. The district’s schools are accredited by the Virginia Department of Education.

The Wise County School District offers a variety of programs and services for its students, including gifted and talented programs, special education programs, and after-school programs. The district also offers a variety of extracurricular activities for its students, including sports, clubs, and student government.

The Wise County School District is committed to providing its students with a quality education. The district strives to provide its students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and in their careers.

Notable people from Wise, Virginia

This is a list of notable people who were born or raised in Wise, Virginia.

• John W. Davis (1873-1955), lawyer and politician, 28th President of the United States
• Robert Byrd (1917-2010), lawyer and politician, longest-serving member of the United States Senate
• Bonnie Blue Butler (1916-2013), actress
• David M. Potter (1910-1971), historian
• Larry Sabato (born 1949), political scientist
• Daryl Worley (born 1969), country music singer

IX. Tourism in Wise, Virginia

Wise, Virginia is a small town with a population of just over 5,000 people. However, it is home to a number of attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. These include:

• The Mountain Empire Museum and Cultural Center, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region.
• The Wise County Courthouse, a historic building that was built in 1896.
• The Wise County Historical Society Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Wise County.
• The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• The Appalachian Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Wise, Virginia is also home to a number of restaurants, shops, and hotels. It is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

X. FAQ

Q: What is the population of Wise, Virginia?

A: The population of Wise, Virginia is 5,468 as of the 2020 census.

Q: What is the median income in Wise, Virginia?

A: The median income for a household in Wise, Virginia is $51,216.

Q: What are the major industries in Wise, Virginia?

A: The major industries in Wise, Virginia include manufacturing, mining, and healthcare.

Maybe You Like Them Too

• St Huberts Island, Australia A Pristine Island Paradise
• Szczuczyn, Poland A Visual Guide
• Vilada, Spain A Map of the Charming Catalan Town
• Wiri, New Zealand A Detailed Map of the City
• Waimalu, United States A Detailed Map of the City