Beckley: The Heart of West Virginia’s Appalachian Wonders

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fine. how 'bout yuh]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I ain't get-tin' it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [can I see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to pay, please
  [I'd like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call the doc!
  [call the doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin']
• How much is it?How much is that?
  [how much is that?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [that's too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do it for less?
  [can ya do it for less?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Beckley was founded on April 4, 1838, by Alfred Beckley, a brigadier general in the Virginia militia. Named after his father, John James Beckley, the first Librarian of Congress, the town was originally intended to be a central hub for the surrounding rural community.

During the American Civil War, Beckley found itself in a strategically significant position. Both Union and Confederate forces occupied the area at different times, and the town's location made it a valuable asset for controlling the surrounding region. Skirmishes and small battles occurred, contributing to the tumultuous history of the area.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw an explosion in the coal mining industry in Beckley and the surrounding Raleigh County. The arrival of the railroad in 1905 facilitated the transportation of coal, leading to rapid economic growth. Beckley became a bustling center for miners and their families, with a rich cultural tapestry woven from the diverse backgrounds of the mining community.

In 1962, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine was established, preserving the history and heritage of the coal mining industry. This unique attraction allows visitors to tour an actual underground coal mine, offering a glimpse into the lives and conditions of miners. The site also features a recreated coal camp, providing an immersive historical experience.

Opened in 1996, Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia, located in Beckley, is a premier arts and crafts center showcasing the state's finest handmade goods. Tamarack has become an iconic cultural institution, offering visitors a chance to experience the artistic heritage of West Virginia through its galleries, studios, and unique dining experiences.

Designated as a national park in 2020, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has had a significant impact on Beckley. As a gateway to this natural wonder, Beckley has seen an influx of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, boosting the local economy and highlighting the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Beckley is located in southern West Virginia and is accessible by various means of transportation. The closest major airport is Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW), located about 10 minutes from downtown Beckley, with limited regional flights. For more extensive options, Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, WV, is about an hour's drive away. Beckley is also accessible by car via Interstate 64 and Interstate 77. Amtrak's Cardinal line stops in nearby Prince, WV, providing rail service from major cities like New York and Chicago.

Within Beckley, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The New River Transit Authority operates a limited bus service within Beckley and to surrounding areas. For those who prefer cycling, the city has several bike-friendly trails. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the downtown area, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

The official currency in Beckley, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case you visit more rural areas where card payment options might be limited.

Beckley is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard safety precautions are always recommended. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. The downtown area is generally safe, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in less populated neighborhoods. Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places, to prevent petty theft.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Beckley has a well-equipped police department and medical facilities, including Raleigh General Hospital and Beckley ARH Hospital. It's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually. Beckley has a laid-back vibe, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs if you visit any churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Beckley residents are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local West Virginian cuisine. Don't leave large tips; a 15-20% gratuity is standard in restaurants.

To experience Beckley like a local, visit Tamarack, a cultural center showcasing West Virginia artisans and craftsmen. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking the trails at the nearby New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Engage with locals at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine to learn about the area's coal mining history. Don't miss the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and homemade goods.