WHEELING, West Virginia—West Virginia is the only state in the United States that is located entirely within the 13-state, 423-county Appalachian region. Much of the beauty, sorrow, and challenges we think of when it comes to the region originated here, where isolation, a strong work ethic, and an ability to spin a good story are well-regarded characteristics.

Indeed, they are the beating heart of a state born during the American Civil War, when 55 counties split and formed West Virginia, giving rise to an independent, patriotic, and hardworking people who have been here for generations.

Because of the massive landmass of mountains and hollers, and the ancient customs shared by the early Scots settlers, the native Americans, and the influx of black people from the South, the people here are known for their backbreaking work ethic in coal mines and steel mills. But they are also known for their mystical storytelling tradition, which includes tales of ghosts, haunted hollers, and, of course, the “mothman.”

In fact, one of the enduring characteristics of a good Appalachian folktale is otherworldly storytelling. Social media has expanded upon this, offering great storytellers who embrace the culture and use new media to reach people across the........

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