Clendenin is a town in Kanawha County, West Virginia, United States, situated along the Elk River.

In 1846, one of the first cannel coal veins was discovered at Falling Rock (only a few miles from Chilton/Clendenin) and became a rich source for manufacturing artificial gas.

[6] In 1893, the Coal and Coke railroad was built running through Clendenin, paralleling the Elk River and allowing the logging industry to set up residence.

Other chief economic staples included timber, coal, gas, oil, and salt.

[8] Town elections (including the office of mayor and city council) occur every two years.

Recent efforts have been made by 25045-A New Clendenin (a non-profit corporation based in Clendenin) and the Business and Industrial Development Corporation (headquartered in Charleston) to enhance economic and cultural development in the town.

[9] The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.

The racial makeup of the town was 98.7% White, 0.2% African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.7% from two or more races.

Herbert Hoover High School was located just outside of Clendenin town limits until it was destroyed in the June 2016 floods.

The new Herbert Hoover High School is located on Frame Road in Elkview and has an opening date of August 2023.