Huntington: 51,475

An editorial in a Charleston newspaper today mistakenly says Huntington's population slipped below 50,000 in the 2000 census.

Actually, the 2000 census counted 51,475 people here. Annual estimates made since then show the city's population as being below 50,000. But there is something important to consider.

The census count was made as of April 1, when Marshall was in session. The annual estimates are based on July 1, when Marshall is in summer school and enrollment is lower. Thus, the annual estimates (assuming they are accurate) would miss several hundred or several thousand Marshall students who are here in spring but not in summer.

That's why I don't get too upset about the estimates showing the city's population being a little less than 50,000.