
Place
The New River Gorge & Preserve is rich in history, and its places tell the stories of a diverse range of communities and industries that once thrived here.
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Place Details
The park is rich in history, and its places tell the stories of a diverse range of communities and industries that once thrived here. Thurmond, a historic railroad town, stands as one of the few non-mining settlements, with remnants of its commercial row and buildings still visible today. The Nuttallburg mining town, with its tipple, coke ovens, and conveyor systems, offers a look into one of the region's most significant coal mining operations, while Kaymoor was once the largest coal producer in the area. In addition to these mining towns, Glade Creek/Hamlet marks the site of a former lumber mill and company logging towns, and Royal was the location of the first coal mining company in Raleigh County. The Trump-Lilly Farm and Richmond Hamilton Farm give visitors a glimpse into early Appalachian subsistence farming, showcasing the region's agrarian roots. Additionally, McKendree Hospital and the Prince Depot provide insights into the healthcare and transportation infrastructure that supported the communities throughout New River Gorge. These places, preserved throughout the park, offer a unique look at the intersection of natural beauty and industrial heritage in the New River Gorge.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
History & Culture
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