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West Virginia Steam Trains
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Trains with steam engines have vanished in most parts of the country, replaced by diesel. But in parts of West Virginia, sounds of steam locomotive whistles can still be heard. In this edition of Lost and Found Sound, NPR’s Noah Adams said those sounds echo across the landscape like the sound of a century passing.
West Virginia steam train towns
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From the 1870s through the 1950's, steam locomotives pulled long trains through the mountains of West Virginia, trailing plumes of gray smoke. After most of the coal was mined, and the more efficient diesel electric engines arrived, many of the towns along the C&O line disappeared. But distant sounds of steam locamotive whistles can still be heard in some parts of the state. In this edition of Lost and Found Sound, NPR’s Noah Adams said those sounds echo across the landscape like the sound of a century passing.
Adams visited Thurmond, a legendary train town, that once had 500 people and now is down to seven. To hear one of the few steam engines still running, he traveled to the restored lumber town of Cass, West Virginia, for a trip up Cheat Mountain. Bill Deputy was along to record stereo sound, and Debra Schifrin to put the story together.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
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