Which county in West Virginia is known for its historic coal mining industry?

McDowell County is renowned for its historic coal mining industry, which played a significant role in the county's development and West Virginia's overall economic history. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, McDowell County became one of the richest coal-producing areas in the state and the nation, attracting many workers and contributing to the growth of the coal mining boom. The county's geography is characterized by a rich supply of high-quality coal, and it was a key site for both surface and underground mining operations.

This historical significance is supported by the fact that McDowell County was once home to numerous coal camps and towns that were built to support the mining workforce. The legacy of the coal industry is still evident today in the culture and economy of the area. The other counties mentioned, while they may also have connections to coal mining, do not have the same level of historical association or prominence in that particular industry as McDowell County does.