Alta is an unincorporated community in Fayette County, West Virginia, United States. The settlement originated as a coal‑mining community in the early 20th century. A post office operated at Alta from 1906 until its discontinuation in 1918, reflecting the community’s modest size and activity during that period. Today, Alta is generally considered a historical locality, with little or no permanent residential population.
Geography
Alta is located within the New River Gorge region of Fayette County. Precise coordinates are not widely published in major reference works.
History
The community’s development was tied to the regional coal industry. The establishment and subsequent closure of its post office correspond to the rise and decline of local mining operations.
Current status
The area lacks incorporation and does not appear in recent census data as a distinct populated place. It is sometimes referenced in historical accounts of Fayette County’s coal towns.
References
- United States Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) entry for Alta, Fayette County, West Virginia.
- United States Postal Service records of post office operations (1906–1918).
