[5] Originally known as "California," Spencer was chartered in 1858, and named after Spencer Roane (1762–1822), a distinguished jurist from Virginia, who served on the Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, and for whom Roane County was named.

[2] Spencer is the home of the annual West Virginia Black Walnut Festival.

[8] Points of interest include Charles Fork Lake, Chrystal Water and Power Company-Spencer Water and Ice Company, the McIntosh Mansion, and the Robey Theatre.

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

There were 1,180 housing units at an average density of 936.5 per square mile (361.6/km2).

37.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

There were 1,154 housing units at an average density of 973.6 per square mile (374.4/km2).

35.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.