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Secrets Of Abandoned Company Towns In West Virginia

Published:

by Clarice Person

secrets-of-abandoned-company-towns-in-west-virginia

Have you ever wondered about the hidden stories behind abandoned company towns in West Virginia? These ghost towns once thrived with bustling communities, driven by coal mining and other industries. Today, they stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the past. Exploring these forgotten places can feel like stepping into a time machine, where you can almost hear the echoes of daily life. From the remnants of old buildings to the overgrown streets, each town has its own unique tale. Ready to uncover the secrets of these fascinating locations? Let's dive into the history and mystery of West Virginia's abandoned company towns.

Secrets of Abandoned Company Towns in West Virginia

West Virginia's rugged landscape hides many secrets, including abandoned company towns. These places, once bustling with life, now stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. Let's explore some of these forgotten gems.

Thurmond

Thurmond, once a thriving town, now feels like a ghostly movie set. Nestled along the New River, it was a major hub for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway.

  1. Thurmond Depot: This historic train station still stands, offering a glimpse into the town's bustling past.
  2. Main Street: Walk down this eerily quiet street, where buildings remain frozen in time.
  3. Thurmond Hotel: Once a luxurious spot for travelers, now it’s a haunting shell.

Nuttallburg

Nuttallburg, founded by John Nuttall, was a significant coal mining town. It’s now part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

  1. Conveyor System: The remains of the conveyor system, used to transport coal, still dominate the landscape.
  2. Tipple: This structure, where coal was sorted and loaded, stands as a testament to the town's industrial past.
  3. Mine Entrances: Explore the old mine entrances, now sealed but still visible.

Kaymoor

Kaymoor, another coal mining town, sits high above the New River. It’s known for its extensive mining operations and the dramatic setting.

  1. Kaymoor Miners Trail: Hike this challenging trail to see the remains of the town and mining structures.
  2. Kaymoor One Mine: The ruins of this mine offer a stark reminder of the town's primary industry.
  3. Kaymoor Coke Ovens: These ovens, used to produce coke from coal, are still partially intact.

Sewell

Sewell, located along the New River, was a bustling lumber and coal town. Today, it’s a quiet place with remnants of its industrious past.

  1. Sewell Bridge: This old bridge, now abandoned, once connected the town to the outside world.
  2. Lumber Mill Ruins: The remains of the lumber mill highlight the town's dual economy.
  3. Company Houses: These dilapidated houses once provided homes for workers and their families.

Prince

Prince, though not completely abandoned, has many relics from its past as a coal town. It’s still accessible by train, making it a unique spot to visit.

  1. Prince Depot: This train station, still in use, offers a glimpse into the town's history.
  2. Old Coal Tipple: The remains of the coal tipple stand as a reminder of the town's mining heritage.
  3. Historic Homes: Some old homes still stand, showcasing the architecture of the era.

Glen Jean

Glen Jean, once a bustling town, now has a few remaining structures that tell its story. It was a key location for the Virginian Railway.

  1. Glen Jean Bank: This old bank building, now abandoned, once served the financial needs of the town.
  2. Railroad Depot: The depot, though no longer in use, stands as a relic of the town's railway past.
  3. Company Store: The remains of the company store, where workers bought their supplies, still stand.

Red Ash

Red Ash, a lesser-known town, has a tragic history due to a mining disaster. It’s now a quiet place with few remaining structures.

  1. Mine Disaster Memorial: A memorial stands to honor the miners who lost their lives in the disaster.
  2. Old Mine Entrances: The sealed entrances of the mines are still visible, marking the town's primary industry.
  3. Abandoned Homes: A few homes remain, offering a glimpse into the lives of the workers.

Hidden Stories of West Virginia's Abandoned Company Towns

West Virginia's abandoned company towns hold a unique charm. These places tell stories of hard work, community, and change. Visiting these towns offers a glimpse into the past, showing how people lived and worked in the coal mines. The old buildings and quiet streets create a sense of mystery and history. Exploring these towns can be a moving experience, connecting you to the lives of those who once called them home. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these hidden gems are worth a visit. They remind us of the resilience and spirit of the people who built them. So, next time you're in West Virginia, take a detour to one of these forgotten towns. You'll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the state's rich history and the stories that shaped it.