Historical Beverly: A Walk Through Beverly

This will be the first regularly-scheduled passenger train in Beverly for over 50 years. Trips run one Sunday a month through September, and every weekend in October. Trains depart from the historic Western Maryland depot in downtown Elkins, and travel about 35 minutes to Beverly. There will be a two-hour layover, with re-enactors demonstrating special themes throughout the town. The June 21 trip comes just after West Virginia day, the state's 148th birthday, as well as Lemuel Chenoweth Day, which celebrates a well-known Beverly architect of the 19th century. Activities include a Civil War encampment, living history demonstrations, and the unveiling of an exhibit on Laura Arnold, who lived in Beverly and sided with the Union cause against the views of her brother, Confederate General Stonewall Jackson. There will be live, local music, and refreshments will be available for sale to benefit area charities. Other trips will feature themes such as historic metalworking and textiles.

trains in beverly summer 2009

A special train will also arrive in Beverly on Friday July 10, with a longer layover to enjoy the historic town. This replaces the steam train trips previously scheduled for that weekend, which have been cancelled. The same weekend, volunteers will also be hosting a reenactment of the Battle of Rich Mountain on Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12. This event takes place near the old battlefield a few miles west of Beverly, and will feature a variety of events for all ages throughout the day. It is free to the public.

The Cheat Mountain Salamander will return to Beverly periodically for Sunday afternoon runs. A different theme will be offered for each occasion, complete with special demonstrations and living history events. Planned dates for Sunday runs include June 21, July 26, August 16, September 13, October 11, October 18, and October 25, 2009. Watch the Historic Beverly calendar for the latest information on themes and activities for each trip.

Activities in Beverly are sponsored by Historic Beverly Preservation, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the town of Beverly and its colorful history. Train runs are operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Rail Road.

Tickets can be reserved by calling 1-877-MTN-RAIL.

train in beverly 2009

Beginning Sunday, June 21, the historic town of Beverly, West Virginia will open its doors for a once-a-month train excursion. Train passengers and other guests will be treated to an array of historical demonstrations and tours. Beverly features a well-preserved, early 19th-century downtown with ties to old-time stagecoach travel, the industrial logging boom, and the Civil War. The town's museums and shops will be open; a highlight is the Beverly Heritage Center. This brand-new museum features exhibits on old-time turnpike travel, industrial-age political change, and 19th century mountain life. A variety of antique and specialty shops await travelers.