Take a peek into Thurmond’s boom years

Virtually a ghost town now, Thurmond, WV is set to roll out the welcome mats to offer visitors a glimpse into its renowned history.
The fifth annual Thurmond Train Day is Saturday, July 21, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The event is being hosted by the National Park Service, the Thurmond Performance Team, National Coal Heritage Area and Operation Lifesaver to offer historic tours, rail safety promotions and fun family-friendly activities.
Established in the 1880s, Thurmond was a major source of revenue for the C&O railroad, producing more freight tonnage than Richmond and Cincinnati during that time due its service as a feeder line from the New River coalfields.
Now on the National Register of Historic Places, Thurmond is a hub for history lovers and a major put-in for whitewater enthusiasts.
Thurmond Train Day is a way to honor the town’s rich history.
Park Rangers will be on hand to give walking tours to celebrate the colorful stories of this historic coal boomtown and the railroad that built it. Tours will be given at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Meet a ranger at the Thurmond Visitor Center at the designated times for a half-mile walking tour.
Children also have an opportunity to try a railroad hand cart, while visitors can take advantage of the cart for a photo-op. Park interpreters will be on hand to help guests print their photos to commemorate their visit to Thurmond.
Operation Lifesaver will also be promoting the importance of rail transportation and rail safety.
And all children who attend the event will have opportunities to take part in activities to earn their Junior Ranger badge.
The event will also feature live music from What’s Missing and The Miques.
What are you looking forward to doing at Thurmond Train day?