Morgantown: The Heart of Appalachian Adventure

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez / no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun mee / mah bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Just fine. How 'bout you?
  [just 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 check out the menu, please
  [can i chek out the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i don't do meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [i'll set-tul up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [ring the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [i'm turned a-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [i'm feelin' un-der the weath-er]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to buy...
  [i'm look-in' to buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-sin']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [what's the dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can y'all do any better on the price?
  [can y'all do any bet-ter on the price]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYestiddy
  [yest-id-dee]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tom-or-ra]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [where's the]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point me in the right direction?
  [can you point me in the right di-rek-shun]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus comin'?
  [when's the next bus comin']
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ...)
  [a ticket (to)]

Morgantown was officially founded in 1785 by Zackquill Morgan, a pioneer and patriot who served in the American Revolutionary War. The settlement was initially a fort constructed to provide protection against Native American tribes in the area. The town was named after its founder and has since grown from a small frontier settlement into a bustling city.

West Virginia University (WVU) was established in Morgantown in 1867, just four years after the state of West Virginia was created during the Civil War. WVU has become the flagship institution of higher learning in the state, contributing significantly to the city's culture and economy. The university is known for its research programs and vibrant campus life, and it has profoundly shaped the identity and development of Morgantown.

Morgantown's history is closely tied to the coal industry, which played a pivotal role in the city's economic development. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of coal deposits in the region led to a boom in mining activities. The coal industry attracted workers from various parts of the country and Europe, contributing to the city's diverse cultural fabric. While coal mining has declined over the years, its impact on Morgantown's growth and heritage remains significant.

The Monongalia County Courthouse, built in 1784, stands as a symbol of Morgantown's rich history. The courthouse has witnessed numerous historical events, including trials, political gatherings, and community celebrations. It serves as a reminder of the city's past and its evolution over the centuries. The courthouse remains an active landmark, housing important county offices and serving as a focal point for local governance.

Mountaineer Field, originally constructed in 1924 and later replaced by the current stadium in 1980, is home to the West Virginia Mountaineers football team. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 60,000 and is a hub of excitement and pride for the community. WVU's athletic programs, particularly football and basketball, have a storied history and play a significant role in the city's culture, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate their Mountaineer spirit.

The Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, inaugurated in 1975, is a unique and innovative transportation system designed to connect the WVU campuses and the downtown area. The PRT was one of the first automated, driverless transit systems in the world and remains a model for urban transportation. It has become an integral part of daily life for students and residents, reflecting Morgantown's commitment to forward-thinking infrastructure.

Morgantown hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant community spirit and diverse heritage. The annual West Virginia Wine and Jazz Festival, held at Camp Muffly, attracts visitors with its blend of local wines and live jazz performances. Additionally, the MountainFest Motorcycle Rally, Morgantown Farmers Market, and various art and music festivals contribute to the city's lively cultural scene, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Morgantown, West Virginia, is accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest major airport is Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) in Pennsylvania, about 75 miles north of Morgantown. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Morgantown, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW) offers limited regional flights. For those traveling by car, Morgantown is conveniently located off Interstate 79. Greyhound and Megabus also offer bus services to Morgantown from various cities.

Morgantown offers several transportation options. The Mountain Line Transit Authority provides public bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. The Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, unique to Morgantown, connects the West Virginia University (WVU) campuses with downtown and various neighborhoods. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer driving, car rentals are accessible, and the city is fairly easy to navigate by car.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. ATMs are plentiful throughout Morgantown, especially near the WVU campus and downtown areas.

Morgantown is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any city, it’s prudent to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Neighborhoods around the WVU campus and downtown are typically safe, but it is wise to stay vigilant. High-crime areas targeting tourists are rare, but always be aware of your surroundings and safeguard your belongings in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Morgantown has several medical facilities, including WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available throughout the city. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but appropriately for the weather and activities. Morgantown has a casual vibe, especially around the WVU campus. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. There are various places of worship, including churches and mosques, so dress modestly if visiting. Public Transport: Do use the PRT and buses to get around. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. Locals are generally friendly and approachable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and visit local eateries. Don’t forget to tip; 15-20% is standard in restaurants.

To experience Morgantown like a local, take a stroll along the Monongahela River on the Caperton Trail, part of the Mon River Trails system. Visit the Morgantown Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, especially at WVU events, to get a sense of the community spirit. Don’t miss the chance to explore Coopers Rock State Forest for outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing. For a unique experience, catch a Mountaineers game at the WVU Coliseum or Milan Puskar Stadium.