The
Cass Scenic Railroad has deep roots. The West Virginia Pulp & Paper
Company began harvesting the red spruce and eastern hardwood trees in
the early 1900’s. A logging railroad was built into the forested
mountains to bring the timber to the company town of Cass, where housing
for workers, a commissary for provisions, a school, and even religious
facilities were provided. Tracks to the timber were laid on grades up to
9% with switchbacks to achieve elevation. After 60 years of operation,
the company closed the mill, the town, and the railroad in June, 1960.
The railroad was sold to a scrap dealer.
Thanks
to the actions of railfans and local communities, the railroad was
saved for tourism and became Cass State Park in 1963. In addition to the
state of West Virginia, today’s Cass Scenic Railroad is supported by
the Mountain State Railroad & Logging Historical Association, which
sponsors the annual Railfan Weekend each year, rain or shine, the
weekend before the public season begins. Railfans armed with a vast
array of camera equipment and rugged clothing descend on this remarkable
mountain railroad. Our program documents the three-day 2013 Railfan
Weekend, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Cass Scenic Railroad.
The
incredible beauty of the mountains of West Virginia, the variety of
weather conditions, along with the sight, sound, and scent of four
coal-burning Shays, is truly an amazing experience to share with you.