The district's bounds changed greatly over the years, but its last version focused on the capital city of Charleston and some safe Democratic territory running south of that city to Beckley.
The 6th district was formed in 1916 after a period of two elections where the state elected an additional congressman "at large" in addition to the districts formed in 1902.
It consisted of Kanawha, Boone, Raleigh, Fayette, Greenbrier, and Pocahontas counties.
In practical effect, it was the core of the previous 3rd district.
In 1934, Fayette, Greenbrier, and Pocahontas were removed and Logan was added.