© 2019 Rachel L. Shumate | All rights reserved.
Even as I was in the midst of self-doubt, I enjoyed the trip there and back. I had a sleeping kiddo in the back seat – that I wasn’t about to wake up – so I decided to take a drive. I figured it was a win/win: Olivia would hopefully take a longer nap, and I could go picture taking someplace I hadn’t been to in awhile.
It was a gorgeous day and spring was just making its debut. Budding trees were scattered along the roadside here and there, making for a scenic drive as I journeyed to and from my destination. The road to Thurmond is intertwined intricately with the river and railroad tracks. Together they weave a beautiful and breathtaking trail through the mountains with views of trees, waterfalls, bridges, cliffs, and the occasional fisherman.
I arrived at my destination and Thurmond was just as I remembered it: rather desolate. This once booming town is now hungry for visitors. Sadly, I don’t think it sees many… In an effort to preserve history and WV heritage, the National Park Service has revitalized the Thurmond Depot which is now their visitor center. On the outside it has been restored to its glory days, but inside it now contains exhibits and historic furnishings instead of the bustling foot traffic of travelers and the commotion and voices of people. Time seems to stand still here; suspended forever in the past.
The location is infinitely quieter than it once was in its prime, but Thurmond remains intriguing. I personally find the bridge captivating, and enjoy the history and character the location has to offer. This ghost town stands as a testament to the industrial revolution and the passing of time. It needs not to be forgotten.
