History of the Town of Clinchco

Clinchco got its start as an old coal mining town in the late 1800s. From the very beginning, Clinchco was rich with cultural diversity, as the mines attracted workers from all over the world. Some of the original structures from the first coal camp in Dickenson County are still standing, including a bath house and a coal mining family's open fireplace.

Clinchco was originally known as Moss, VA. Historians debate whether the town was renamed for the Clinchfield Railroad, or if the name was intended as a contraction of the Clinchfield Coal Co. Regardless, our residents embrace the uniqueness of our name and the colorful history it represents.

Clinchco is located in northern Dickenson County, in the valley of the beautiful McClure River. Our town is accessible via Virginia State Routes 63 and 83, which pass through town.

Famous Residents

Shifty Powers

Clinchco was the birthplace of World War II hero Staff Sergeant Darrell C. "Shifty" Powers. He learned to shoot from his father, who was an excellent shot with his rifle and pistol. Powers spent a lot of time outdoors hunting game in the Clinchco area before joining the Army and volunteering as a paratrooper.

Powers was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in the 101st Airborne Division. The Battalion is more commonly known as "Easy Company." In 2001, HBO debuted a miniseries based on the history of Easy Company.

Earl Gilmore

Born in 1924 Earl Gilmore was a musician and coal miner, devout Christian who came out as gay towards the end of his life. He led his church choir, performed with renowned musicians and traveled internationally until his death in 2000. Learn about an upcoming documentary on Gilmore at BecauseImHere.com.

Trazel Silvers

Trazel Silvers was a basketball player at Ervinton High School. He later played professionally, first for the Harlem Globetrotters, and then for several teams in Europe.