MIDLMIDLANDAND TRTRAILAIL SCENICSCENIC HIGHWHIGHWAAYY February

Mom & Dad - What A great 2000 ride!!!! The kids were all eyes!- Plenty to see -- Put the Midland Trail on your list! Steve

Postostcarcardsds frfromom Frank- The New River -What a place TThehe - they raft into it, parachute Dear Cynthia -Forget the cathedral. into it and fish in it!!! Or just MMididlandland TTrrailail Let’s do it here -- the African Zion come here to Hawk’s Nest and Baptist Church. -Love Rodney look at it over dinner! Mom

Golf is great at the historic Greenbrier! Hallie- West Virginia has it all!!!! Send my things. I’m Poor Uncle Bill staying! See Ya’ soon. Bob. Corridor Management Plan Welcome to the Midland Trail February 2000 In Chapters One,Two and Four defines The Midland Trail and describes the Midland Trail and its intrinsic qualities. Scenic Highway Chapter 3 outlines our Vision for the Trail and our Goals. Association In Chapter 5, Trail Tales we use the sto- rytelling approach to make this research adaptable for public school use, for press Invites You to information, and to broaden the appeal and understanding of the Trail for our future Learn About Our Trail Trail Blazer group. Chapter 6 presents primary as well as Review Our Plans secondary projects. This Plan discusses major projects in detail, enabling readers to and understand why and how these Projects MMididlandland TTrrailail contribute to the Trail’s overall program and Join Us reflect upon our visions and goals.The sec- ondary projects are those which communi- Corridor Management Plan As We ty people expressed a desire to execute and which we hope to see realized in the future. Blaze New Trails! Chapter 7 & 8 gives a great deal of atten- tion to our marketing and management plans, since we believe these to be the basics to our movement’s success. We expand on the visions, goals and objectives of our membership and communities to explain how we intend to grow our Trail. In Chapter 9, we examine the Visitors Experience in Driving the Trail and speak to what needs to be done to protect and pre- serve these intrinsic qualities.We want our Trail pioneers to have an improved per- spective and an interpretation of the Trail, which makes these qualities even more valuable as time marches on. Finally, discussion of public participation, economic impact and conclusion bring the Midland Trail CMP to a close for now. It is our intent that this Plan be on disc, on paper by request, and on our Website.This planning process continues as a part of the life of our organization. We appreciate the Prepared By time you have taken to read it and we wel- come your thoughtful and constructive responses, which we know will improve Midland Trail Scenic Highway Association upon it. for United States Department of Transportation © 2000 by the Midland Trail Scenic Highway Association and QuikPage Publishing Company.All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part forbidden without express written authorization. Federal Highway Administration Unless unwise indicated all photography © QuikPage Publishing Company. All rights reserved. One time use only.Alice Hypes, Publisher 1.2 1.3 Corridor Management

To r eceive designation, the Corridor Management Plan for the byway must address 14 specific points. Here is a quick reference guide to locating these aspects of the Plan. DEAR READER ...... A map identifying the corridor boundaries, location intrinsic qualities and land uses in the corridor Maps in Chapter 4 pages 4.12, 14, 18, 22, 23

An assessment of the intrinsic qualities and their "context" (the areas surrounding them). Chapter 4 o be sure, the Midland Trail has its mile community and a centuries-old her- A strategy for maintaining and enhancing each of those intrinsic qualities. T scenic, cultural, and historic quali- itage sufficiently diverse in its make-up 4.28-31 ties. We will tell you about these. that it was difficult to work out some uni- However, we would be remiss if we failed The agencies, groups, and individuals who are part of the team that will carry out the plan, fying image.This Plan approaches the Trail includes a list of their specific, individual responsibilities. Also, a schedule of when and how to communicate the story of the Trail to as a community which defies the label of you’ll review the degree to which those responsibilities are being met. you in all its richness and diversity. It is the any single identity or image, but rather Chapter 7 addresses this in length. Association’s vision to create and develop treats the Trail as a many-faceted and an the image of the Trail as a living “commu- All-American Road. A strategy of how existing development might be enhanced and new development accom- nity” both in the minds of its residents Thus, we want to tell you the story modated to preserve the intrinsic qualities of your byway. and its visitors. Community is more than 4.26-27 through several media. In addition to words on a page and certainly more than straight, sometimes technical, narrative A plan for on-going public participation. strict narrative. It is the personal touch. It about marketing, management, road haz- Goal VIII Pg. 3.15 Also Page 8.10 is voices representing our past and future. ards and conditions, capital investments A general review of the road's safety record to locate hazards and poor design , and iden- It is people in the hospitality fields provid- and visions, you will read “letters” or tify possible corrections. 9.6-9 Including 9.6a chart recapping Accident Data and Rates ing visitor experience. Most importantly, it “postcards” that visitors to the Trail might springs from our identity and how others conceivably write to friends and family; A plan to accommodate commercial traffic while ensuring the safety of sightseers in small- see us. this is the visitor’s tale. Furthermore, you er vehicles, as well as, bicyclists, joggers, and pedestrians. Our readers come from all sorts of will hear the tales that the Trail has to tell its 6.15 9.5 9.8-9 backgrounds, cultures, and interests. Some guests and potential guests such as you; what A listing and discussion of efforts to minimize anomalous intrusions on the visitor’s experi- are the business owners along the Trail. you read here will represent only some of ence of the byway. Some are town officials from our many the stories which we can tell you. Goal 2 Enhance the Visual Experience Pg.3.9 Also 9.12 communities. Others are government This tale is not the end, but the beginning. planners, educators, students, and histori- The stories here are the Trail’s part of a con- Documentation of compliance with all existing local, state, and federal laws about the con- ans. Some rode the Trail to work this tinuous process of development and rein- trol of outdoor advertising. 9.4 morning. Others of you rode the beltway vention. or a subway. The Association invites you to spend some A plan to make sure that the number and placement of highway signs will not get in the During our planning, we struck around “intrinsic quality time”, to read and enjoy way of scenery, but still be sufficient to help tourists find their way. This includes, where for a way to tell our story. For many these postcards which the Trail is sending to appropriate , signs for international tourists who may not speak English fluently. routes, finding and developing an under- you, only these have no cancellation marks 6.8 9. 2-5 standable and unifying identity seemed on them and they don’t just wish that you Plans of how the byway will be marketed and publicized. clear.Some had a decidedly historic image, were here. Enjoy the postcards! Chapter 8 some were clearly cultural in make-up, and many clearly had the scenic and nat- With Best Wishes, Any proposals for modifying the roadway, including an evaluation about design standards ural qualities that fulfill the criteria for a and how proposed changes may affect the byway's intrinsic qualities. 9.9 Scenic Byway. And we looked for a new The Midland Trail way to tell the tale of an old route. Scenic Highway Association A description of what you plan to do to explain and interpret your byway’s significant How to tell our story? The Trail has resources to visitors. seen animal and human movement from Chapter 9 addresses signage Pages 9.10 & 11 discusses interpretation as a part of Visitor hooves to rubber tires for hundreds of Services, Chapter 8 pgs 8-21 addresses interpreting to specific market segments. years, and in that time has nurtured a 119- 1.4 1.5 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

1. INTRODUCTION 4.28 Maintaining and Enhancing 7. PRIORITIES 1 & 2: Management and 9. DRIVING THE TRAIL 1.4 14 Points Recap 4.32-36 Other Characteristics: Collaboration Strategies 9.2 Signage 1.5 “Dear Reader. . .” Industrial, Cemeteries 7.1 Phases of Implementation 9.6 Accident and Safety Data 1.8 Project Description 4.37 A Quick Look at MT and American 7.3 Partners in the Process 9.8 Traffic Conditions 1.9 Overview: W.Virginia’s Faces History 7.8 Staffing Recommendations 9.10 Visitor Services/ Accommodation 1.10 Executive Summary 5. TRAIL TALES: 7.10 Org Chart 9.12 Anomalous Intrusions 2. DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL I AM A TRAIL OF HERITAGE 7.11 Schedule of Responsibilities 10. ECONOMIC IMPACT 2.1 Location of The Midland Trail 5,4 Native American 10.2 Bottom Line 2.2 Location on Eastern Seaboard 5.5 Pioneers 8. MARKETING STRATEGIES 2.3 Location in West Virginia 5.6 African-American 8.2 Marketing Strategy 10.4 Travel Market Analysis 2.4 Routing and Mileage 5.7 Women 8.6 Creating An Image 2.5 Physical Description 5.8 Immigrants 8.7 Building An Identity 11. GEOLOGY OF THE TRAIL 2.6 Land Uses and Zoning 5.9 Prominent Personages 8.8 Marketable Assets 3. VISION AND GOALS 5.10 Resources 8.9 Positioning for the Future 3.2 Vision of the Midland Trail 5.11 Transportation 8.10 Building Partnerships 12. CONCLUSION & APPENDIX 3.3 Goals of the Midland Trail 5.12 Industry 8.11 Marketing Events 12.3 Conclusion Recap 3.5-6 5 and 20 Year Goals 5.13 War 8.12-21 Special Target Markets: 12.4-5 National Register List 3.8-15 Goal I thru VIII 5.14 Flora and Fauna 8.12 Women 12.6 Faces of Participation 4. INTRINSIC QUALITIES 5.15 Geology 8.13 African-Americans Collaboration and Review 4.3 The Five Intrinsic Qualities 5.16 Creativity 8.13 Foreign Visitors 12.8-11 Acknowledgements 4.4 An Inventory of Sites 6. PRIORITY PROJECTS 8.14 Elderly 6.2 Accomplished and Current Projects 12.12 Sources of Information 4.6 Context / Setting 8.16 Baby Boomers (born1945-64) 6.3 Collaboration and Review 4.8 Scenic Qualities 8.18 Generation X (born1965-75) 6.4 Top Eleven Priority Projects Industrial Inventory 4.12 Natural Qualities 8.20 Echo Boomers (born 1975-76) 6.5 Schedule of Projects Responsibility Letters of Support for Extension 4.14 Cultural Qualities 8.21 Millennial Gen (born 1977-94) 4.19 Historical Qualities 6.6 - 6.19 Priority Projects Outlines 4.23 Recreational Qualities 6.20 - 6.23 Secondary Projects 4.27 Development :Enhancement 1.6 and Accommodation 1.7 PROJECT OVERVIEW: WV’S FACES o some it is a place to raft, to others its the place where Dad DESCRIPTION or Granddad worked the chemical plants, to others its a T homecoming picnic or a visit with Grandma’ -- to yet others he Midland Trail Scenic Highway Association has produced this its a curvy scenic byway full of history and fun -- many faces... Corridor Management Plan in cooperation with the West Virginia T Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway The first face is history and heritage. characterize the entire Trail’s course, One of the oldest routes in the United Administration. This Plan also reflects the results of public participation especially in the Fayette segment. States, the Midland Trail was a chief path for In the east, one finds a face of and work with various public and private groups at the community level. pioneer movement westward over 200 charm, tradition, and historically-root- years ago. As such, it played a crucial role ed hospitality in heritage towns such In 1992, the Trail was designated as visitor type. Following these are the so- in the history of America’s settlement.The as Lewisburg and White Sulphur a State Scenic Highway, and is now in called “Trail Tales”; we have found it bene- Trail’s history is intertwined with colonial Springs. Lewisburg has become a cen- the process of developing its applica- ficial to tell the reader the many accounts history, the Civil War, the country’s immi- ter for arts, crafts, antiques, and fine tion for All-American Road status. of past life on the Trail from a variety of grant culture, African-American history, dining. The latter is home to the With this plan, the Association wants viewpoints. and America’s industrial past. world-famous Greenbrier Hotel. to develop the Trail as a heritage, a The Association contemplates this The western segment (Kanawha Don’t forget the most impor- natural scenic, a cultural, and an out- Corridor Management Plan to be multi- County) contains a long-standing industri- tant face on the Trail. It’s the one that doors recreation tourism destination purpose. Its primary goal is to notify gov- al culture which survives to this day; the welcomes you to a waiting bed in any route. ernmental decision-makers of the visitor sees it in the large industrial enter- one of our historic inns. The smiling The Association was active in the Association’s intention to seek designa- prises--coal, chemicals, salt-works, metals, one that serves you a home-cooked 1980s and early 1990s, and reactivated tion as an All-American Road or a agricultural products--of the Kanawha plate of West Virginian hospitality in in 1996. Its main goals are to preserve, National Scenic Byway and to inform Valley. This is West Virginia’s face to the any one of our roadside diners or develop, and interpret heritage, among them of the various qualities, marketing world: an industrial people. small-town restaurants. Behind the these the Trail’s industrial heritage; and management strategies, and projects In addition, the route contains some desk, the one that welcomes you to a preserve Trail natural and scenic beau- which establish the rationale for our of West Virginia’s most breathtaking nat- world of museums, historic homes, ty; preserve and develop green views request for such designation. Secondary ural scenery and unspoiled vistas in the and recreational pleasure. along the route; limit sign clutter; and goals include distribution to schools for middle segment (Fayette County). The Midland Trail is a represen- encourage economic development curriculum development and to libraries Greenbrier County offers views of pas- tative slice of West Virginia,presenting and business growth on the Trail for public use. ture farmland. to the tourist all of the things which fit through tourism. Finally, but not least important, this The Trail affords access to the out- the image of West Virginia in its most As a route, the Midland Trail has Plan is part of a larger scheme of synergy. doors recreational activity for which West positive aspects, but, interpreted in influenced history since the time of The Association sees a tremendous Virginia is well-known: whitewater rafting, new ways, will nourish a re-discovery the Native American.The Midland Trail opportunity for partnerships and collabo- biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, of West Virginia. played a significant part in pioneer rations. boating, skiing, and camping. Recreational movement, and contains breathtaking resources -- forests, rivers, mountains -- vistas and a multitude of outdoors activities. Along the Trail are a diverse The Midland Trail is a representative slice mix of natural, scenic, historical, cul- of West Virginia,presenting to the tourist tural, and recreational resources. This Plan will describe a long-term strategy all of the things which fit the image for development, preservation, inter- pretation, and management of those of West Virginia in its most positive resources. aspects, but, when interpreted in new Included in this Plan are a descrip- tion of its intrinsic qualities from the ways, will nourish a re-discovery of perspective of the potential visitor or 1.8 West Virginia. 1.9 Executive Summary

his Plan will accomplish three things for the reader: ollowing are projects which form the basis of discussion in 1. Present core ideas. this Plan.The Association will not prioritize these; rather, T 2. Describe particulars behind the Association’s goals and vision. F community action will determine priorities. 3. Provide a statement both as to the current status of the Trail and • Develop a consistent, coordinated, sus- Quincy to Montgomery from 2-lane its management and as to its future as an All- American Road. tained, and effective marketing plan and to 4-lane. Other plans discuss modifi- strategies. These strategies include pro- cations to ensure the tourist’s safety, jects such as the Destination Guide 2000, such as an alternate route for com- Respecting that you, the read- Just as this Plan resulted from a video of the Trail, and maps. mercial traffic in the Malden/Belle er, may desire a usable Plan, the area. community process, above all, this • Outline and describe future capital pro- Association aims for simplicity. Plan is intended to be a community jects and priorities (See chapter 6). • Improved services and accommoda- If the Association is to document both in execution and tions for the visitor.Among these is an achieve its objective of a shared usage. • A proposed extension of the Trail desig- expansion of Hawks Nest State Park vision for the Midland Trail nation westward from Charleston, and to include visitor convention facilities In 1988, a group of individuals eventual efforts to extend the Midland and lodging. through the efforts of all inter- from different towns along the Trail Trail name beyond West Virginia into ested parties, it is necessary that met to discuss the future of the other states. Synergy should develop the • Preservation and development of this Plan be plain and under- Trail as a multi-state, even multi-region, intrinsic qualities. Discussion includes Trail. These pioneers, or “trail blaz- tourist route with a coordinated effort protection of mountains in the Trail’s standable in both language and ers”, worked with the Department surrounding Ride Across The Virginia’s in view-shed from industrial activities content.Therefore, we have pur- of the Interior to shape a vision for spring 2000. (6.7) which would mar their beauty, e.g., posely avoided technical lan- the Trail. mountain-top removal, clear-cutting, • An Interpretive Center for Byway timbering. guage wherever possible and Since that time, public officials, pri- Studies, preferably located in Malden.This even adopted a colloquial, even vate decision makers, citizens, histo- Center will accomplish two broad pur- • Interpretive and informational pro- first-person, approach in some rians, and preservationists have cre- poses. First, it will research issues of jects, such as videos, kiosks, a women’s sections. scenic byways management, preservation, heritage center and interpretive park ated a groundswell of community interpretation, and development. at Malden, and a mitigation video pro- action, grassroots support for a Trail Additionally, it will study Trail history and ject from the U.S. Army Corps of This project is intended to be a which manages, preserves, and heritage. Engineers for the Eastern Kanawha tool for multi-purpose instruc- interprets the intrinsic qualities of area.This Plan also describes projects • A Heritage Center at Hico, where the in progress and accomplished. tion. one of America’s oldest routes. Trail intersects with Route 19.The Route We aim for a Plan which This process has been building 19-Midland Trail junction holds the • A River Museum and interpretive everybody can use: planners, for ten years. The Association has prospect for linking a proposed extension transportation project in eastern marketers, educators, school- of the Coal Heritage Trail with the Kanawha County. accomplished the work of five years Midland Trail. Such a Heritage Center children, historians, heritage in two; the next five to ten years could easily incorporate a proposed • Coordination with the New River preservationists, naturalists, and promises much positive change and Whitewater Hall of Fame. National Park and Heritage River pro- even the tourist. jects in Fayette County. growth, and we look forward to • Trail signage needs upgrades and devel- that. opment with a constant mind on serving • The move from all-volunteer to paid the auto or tour bus traveler and foreign professional staff administration. visitor. Growth and progress in projects and action has stretched volunteers to the Postcards From The Midland Trail The Midland Trail • A plan to modify road designs to encour- limit, and the Association must now age travel on the Trail, such as a proposed address this growth with a paid staff. 1.10 augmentation of the segment from 1.11 Midland Trail Corridor Management Plan It’s never been a trail for the weak of heart. It’s up and down, with hairpin turns and dramatic overlooks. Half of America’s population could be here in a few hours by car. It’s a morning’s drive from our nation’s capital. Description

Yet, while it is so near to everything, its rugged and demanding appearance make it feel far away and different. It’s up to us to preserve that individual look which characterizes the Midland Trail . . . 2.1 Location of Midland Trail The Midland Trail on Eastern Seaboard (Old U.S. Route 60, West Virginia)

One of the country’s oldest routes, the Midland Trail runs between the State Capitol at Charleston, the western “bookend”, to White Sulphur Springs, the eastern “bookend”, and on to the Virginia border. In all, the Trail compasses 119 miles of 2. 2 multi-faceted visitor experience. 2.3 Routing and Mileage Physical Description

MIDLAND TRAIL WV BYWAY or purposes of state designation as a Scenic Highway, the CORRIDOR ROUTING AND MILEAGE Midland Trail, U.S. Route 60, runs from Charleston, Mile-marker F 0 at the State Capitol, to the eastern border of West Virginia, ROUTE COUNTY BEG. END SEGMENT just east of White Sulphur Springs, mile-marker 119. REMARKS MP MP MILEAGE U.S. 60 Kanawha 19.00 20.83 1.83 The course of the current Trail runs stretches for miles through broad @ State Capitol; joins 1-77 through three counties of Kanawha, verdant valleys. The topography 1-77 Kanawha 95.34 97.13 1.79 Fayette, and Greenbrier, each with dis- here is limestone karst, with its follows 1-77 tinctive terrains, each with its differ- characteristic sinkholes. U.S. 60 Kanawha 21.97 23.19 1.22 ent viewshed and land uses. This In April 1998, the Association’s CR 60/12 (Old Midland Trail') CR 60/12 Kanawha 0.00 5.96 5.96 description moves eastward. Board voted to ask the state to rec- Midland Trail;WB from US 60 to CR 60/18 The Trail’s western segment fol- ognize a desired extension of the CR 60/18 Kanawha 0.19 0.45 0.26 lows the north side of the Kanawha Trail’s Scenic Highway designa- Midland Trail;WB from CR 60/18 to CR 60/20 River to its origin at the confluence of tion westward from Charleston to the New and Gauley Rivers at Gauley the Kentucky border; this exten- CR 60/20 Kanawha 0.00 0.51 0.51 Midland Trail;WB from CR 60/20 to US 60 Bridge. From Charleston it runs sion would add Route 60’s seg- CR 70 Kanawha 0.00 0.08 0.08 through the bottom of the Kanawha ments in West Virginia’s Putnam US 60 to CR 60/21 Valley, surrounded by wooded moun- and Cabell counties and would CR 60/21 Kanawha 0.00 0.41 0.41 tains on both sides the entire way. The pass through Huntington. CR 70 to CR 60/18 Valley’s width in these areas generally In addition to travelling the Trail CR 60/18 Kanawha 0.00 0.19 0.19 runs one-half mile to one mile. proper, tourists enter the Trail CR 60/21 to "Old Midland Trail" .S .60 Kanawha 29.86 37.34 7.48 Between Gauley Bridge (Fayette from I-77 and I-64, and Route 19. to Charleston Urbanized Boundary County) and Rainelle (Greenbrier through what we term Trail Kanawha 37.34 44.55 7.21 County) is a series of mountains: Gateways. Route 19, which inter- Gauley Mountain, Big Sewell, Little sects the Trail at Hico, (the current KANAWHA COUNTY TOTAL 26.94 Sewell. The Trail runs along the sides Trail center) delivers tourists from of the mountains in this area and on I79 to the North and from I77 U.S. 60 Fayette 0.00 46.06 46.06 Gauley Mountain overlooks the New Beckley area from the south. North County line to Greenbrier County line River Gorge. Here the viewshed of the Trail, Rt. 19 runs past the FAYETTE COUNTY TOTAL 46.06 stretches out to the horizon both at the town of Summersville, whose land Gorge and the plateau at the south uses are residential, commercial, U.S. 60 Greenbrier 0.00 15.18 15.18 foot of Big Sewell Mountain. recreational (Summersville Lake), County line to 1-64 @ Sam Black Church Throughout most of the course in this and heritage (Carnifex Ferry Greenbrier 15.18 35.19 20.01 segment, the Trail winds and curves, Battlefield). To the south, 19 links WV 63 @ Caldwell some places with tortuous, hairpin the Trail with Beckley and I77 and Greenbrier 35.19 43.80 8.61 turns. the tourists who visit this area for to 1-64 @ White Sulphur Springs From Rainelle to the Virginia bor- rafting and sightseeing at the New GREENBRIER COUNTY TOTAL 43.80 der, the Trail runs through flat, farm River Gorge Bridge. This vicinity pasture land and gently rolling hills would provide the link between and knolls; again, the viewshed the Coal Heritage and Midland BYWAY TOTAL 116.80 Trails. 2.4 2.5 Land Uses and Zoning

HAWKS NEST TO RAINELLE: RAINELLE TO VIRGINIA BORDER:: and use along the Trail is diverse, with the two trail-end L At the heart of the Trail, land use Land use is commercial, residential, gateways, Charleston and the Lewisburg/White Sulphur is commercial (gas stations, grocery industrial, and agricultural. Most of the Springs area, exhibiting the highest degree of development stores), residential, and recreational. area around Lewisburg contains farms anywhere on the Trail. Along the 119 miles between these Hawks Nest maintains a lodge, an over- or industry. Lewisburg is zoned resi- bookends, the intensity and degree of development tends to be look, a museum and gift shop, a tram, and dential and commercial. In White a boating dock at the floor of the New low. There are no housing developments; residences are gen- Sulphur Springs, the Greenbrier uses River Gorge. Ansted has developed hik- its land for lodging, walking trails, and erally single-family units. Land use is divided into eight cate- ing/biking trails which lead all the way to recreational activities such as horse- gories: commercial, residential, industrial, governmental, agri- Hawks Nest Park. Connecting with the back riding and golf; White Sulphur cultural, educational, recreational, and heritage preservation. Trail and extending southward within an also includes the recreational land use Description follows the Trail east. approximately 50-mile radius, the New of Greenbrier State Forest. River Gorge National Park is used for Connecting with the Trail at recreation. Caldwell is the 77-mile Greenbrier CHARLESTON AREA: MALDEN TO HAWKS NEST:: Currently, plans call for a green view River Trail, a Rails-to-Trails bike path. Charleston proper is divided into Land use is variously residential, com- of Hico and development of the Route commercial, industrial, governmental, mercial, educational, and heavy industrial. 60-Route 19 intersection as an area with recreational, and residential areas; There is one large shopping center,one of which to draw tourists onto the Trail and these are all within 500 feet of the only two situated on the Trail (the other is off the Trail to Carnifex Ferry State Park Trail. Right off the Trail is Daniel Boone in Rainelle). Two companies, DuPont to the north. The Fayette County Park; here the land usage is recre- Chemical and Elkem Metals, maintain large Commission is currently conducting stud- ational (picnic area, fishing, and boat facilities which use an integrated system ies as to land use and zoning which will access), recreational-commercial of road, rail, and river. Facilitating this best effect these goals. One of the (Sternwheeler cruises), and heritage movement is part of a series of river locks Commission’s plans contemplates (Craik-Patton House). at Marmet and London under the Army removal of abandoned, dilapidated struc- Outside Charleston, at Port Corps of Engineers. A coal company in tures in and around the intersection to Amherst, land use is industrial, using Cannelton maintains an active tipple create an aesthetically pleasing Gateway. rail and river transportation for chem- operation and storage facilities. icals, coal, and gravel. Montgomery’s land use is residential, MIDLAND & COAL HERITAGE TRAIL commercial, and educational (West CONNECTIONS: Virginia University Institute of From Mile Marker 42 at Chimney Technology). Glen Ferris / Kanawha Falls Corner to Mile Marker 53 at Hico the contains a public boating, picnic, and fish- Midland and Coal Heritage Trail (a desig- ing area at Kanawha which Elkem Metals nated National Scenic Highway ) becomes developed and maintains; several miles one road. At this writing a Corridor east, Elkem maintains a second fishing spot Management Plan for this section of the at its hydroelectric dam. Coal Heritage Trail is being developed. There ia a Complete Geology Additionally, these Scenic Byways are Report in the Appendix. Bordered by the New River Gorge National Park and the New River Heritage Area. In each instance Land Uses and Zoning will defer to The highest envi- ronmental and preservation standards governing the area. 2.6 2.7 Visions

OUR VISION We are an All American Road. We have been tested like those who have gone before us. The organization, the marketing both domestic and international and, the vision to reach out and invite Kentucky and Virginia in joining this movement are a part of the vision which continues to grow and be refined. THE MIDLAND TRAIL OUR VISION

VISION

1. As a nonprofit heritage development organization, the Midland Trail Scenic Created by both natural and man made forces the fascinating and beautiful Highway Association is dedicated to heritage preservation and to promotion and Midland Trail will be designated an All American Road providing travelers an enhancement of the Trail’s qualities for those who work , live and visit, now and in accurate glimpse of the challenges westward bound pioneers faced in pursuit of the the future. American Dream. The Midland Trail beginning with George Washington's vision of a road connecting the East with the West will help travelers to understand the American westward expansion. 2. Members of the Association will work to preserve a continuous , meaningfully connected, 119 mile visual explanation of pioneer movement westward, natural The Midland Trail will link together Scenic Byways within West Virginia which are scenic beauty, industrial history heritage and richness of culture along one of the North to South routes as well as the original Midland Trail in neighboring Virginia, country’s oldest historic routes. Kentucky and points west. This east to west Midland Trail will create a heritage cor- ridor known internationally as the road immigrant pioneers used in their search of the American Dream. 3. For guests to the Trail, the Association is committed to meaningful and memo- rable interpretation which enhances visitor experience and increases appreciation The Midland Trail will interpret pioneer settlement and the industrial economic for history and heritage. development of the salt, oil, gas, timber, coal, metals, and chemicals as a process and model which has become compatible with recreation, environment, historic preservation, and scenic byway development. 4. The Association will work to provide and preserve a meaningful aesthetic expe- rience for the visitor through unspoiled views all along the Trail. The Midland Trail will use its re-development and re-invention as a scenic byway and as a national and ultimately international model to advance the scholarship and study of this phenomena of rural micro-economic development through scenic 5. The Association is committed to enhancing visitors’ experiences with programs byways programs. which preserve recreational qualities and encourage environmentally-friendly recre- ational activity. The Midland Trail will be an environmentally-conscious advocate and leader for the small communities that create Appalachian culture in West Virginia.

6. In keeping with a broad and progressive outlook for the Trail, the Association is The Midland Trail will coordinate and partner in every way possible with other dedicated to developing links with other Trails and byways like, the Coal Heritage Scenic Highways, recreational, cultural, and historic organizations providing support Trail and the Highland Scenic Highway. as we foster a regional and statewide and sharing economic, community development, and market opportunities. approach to heritage development, interpretation, preservation and management. The Midland Trail will recognize the significance of the transportation histories of the river and rails running parallel to the Midland Trail and which played a large part 7. The Midland Trail is committed to the encouragement, development and preser- in American westward development. vation of viable business growth which has minimal or no impact upon the Trail’s environment. The Midland Trail will recognize the contributions of the diverse cultures which peopled the Trail and which are inextricably linked to the development of the Midland Trail and the westward expansion of this country.

The Midland Trail will act as a catalyst helping to market, focus, preserve and interpret the distinct history of the region.

3.2 3.3 GOALS OF THE MIDLAND TRAIL

IN FORMULATING GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE FUTURE OF THE * All-American Road designation MIDLAND TRAIL, WE FIRST LOOKED TO THE PAST.ESTABLISHING OUR ORGANIZATION ENCOURAGED MANY COMMUNITY PEOPLE ALONG THE TRAIL.SOME GOALS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME.OTHERS HAVE * Enhanced visitor services EXPANDED TO TAKE ON A LARGER VISION AND TO PROVIDE GREATER SERVICE TO TOURISTS.

* Westward extension to Kentucky I. THE MIDLAND TRAIL WILL BE CLEARLY IDENTIFIABLE AND WILL PROVIDE EASY ACCESSIBILITY AND AVAILABILITY OF VISITOR SERVICES. * Eastward extension through Virginia II. THE MIDLAND TRAIL WILL BE FREE OF VISUAL INTRUSIONS WHICH DETRACT FROM THE BEAUTY AND SCENIC QUALITIES OF THE TRAIL.

* Heritage preservation III. THE MIDLAND TRAIL WILL PROVIDE THE VISITOR WITH INTERPRETIVE OPPORTUNITIES TO INCREASE APPRECIATION AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE HISTORICAL AND HERITAGE CONTEXT OF THE TRAIL. * Preservation of environment IV. THE MIDLAND TRAIL WILL ENCOURAGE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WHICH IS AT LEAST IN PART TOURIST-DRIVEN, AND ANY DEVELOPMENT * Industrial history OR ACTIVITY WHICH PROVIDES MINIMAL OR NO DISRUPTIONS TO THE TRAIL’S INTRINSIC QUALITIES. * Pioneer history

V. THE MIDLAND TRAIL WILL WORK TO INCREASE REGIONAL, STATEWIDE, * Scholarship NATIONAL, AND INTERNATIONAL APPRECIATION OF THE TRAIL THROUGH PROJECTS WHICH ARE INTENDED TO ATTRACT SCHOLARSHIP.

VI. CREATE AND SUPPORT AN ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE FOR CON- TINUOUS AND ACTIVE OVERSIGHT OF TRAIL MANAGEMENT, DEVELOP- MENT, AND INTERPRETIVE ACTIVITIES.

VII. ENCOURAGEMENT OF DEVELOPMENT WHICH IS SENSITIVE TO THE TRAIL’S INTRINSIC QUALITIES.

VIII. FOSTER ONGOING COOPERATION AND COLLABORATION WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES, LOCAL GROUPS, LANDOWNERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, AND BUSINESSES IN ORDER TO PROMOTE ALL OF THE ABOVE GOALS.

3.4 3.5 FIVE -YEAR GOALS TWENTY -YEAR GOALS FOR THE MIDLAND TRAIL FOR THE MIDLAND TRAIL

• Achieve All-American Scenic Byway Status for the Midland Trail. • To develop community strategies which collectively enhance the Midland Trail Region and its qualities, creating national and international awareness of the area as a destination region. • To coordinate with and support all local and region-wide efforts at beautification and cleanup, as well as environmental protection. • To establish an academic base for multi-level scholarly study of industry, heritage and tourism individually and as an interconnected concept. • To promote and encourage high-quality arts and crafts design, development and marketing in the Midland Trail Region. • To develop and communicate a plan which establishes the Midland Trail Region as "the place" near the Eastern Megalopolis where one can find and experience histo- • Development of a Midland Trail Heritage Curriculum for use in West Virginia’s ry,recreation and relaxation. tourism and hospitality classes. • To implement environmentally sustainable strategies that preserve and protect the Trail’s scenic and natural qualities. • Completion of travel assistance programs like hospitality training, informational pull-offs with radio transmitted information, audio travel tapes, to assist travelers • Active encouragement to the public and private sectors, including non-profits, for and increase appreciation and understanding of the Trail among local communities. development of independent and interdependent vehicles which build the tourism and arts and crafts culture along the Trail. • To upgrade Midland Trail Web site with revenue-producing activities. • Develop working linkages between colleges and universities along the trail for advancement of design and development of traditional as well as contemporary arts • To develop volunteer opportunities for senior citizens and high school students. and crafts along the Trail.

• To extend the Trail to the western border of West Virginia and build partner- • To develop long-term revenue-producing strategies which will assist in the sup- ships with businesses, local governments and community groups necessary for suc- port of Midland Trail management and marketing functions and create a self-sus- cessful marketing and hospitality. taining organization. • Establish Heritage Centers along the Midland Trail which will serve as • To build name recognition for the Midland Trail nationally. regional/community informational, service, and support centers.

• To f oster and expand working partnerships between the heritage centers along the Trail which in part will be sustained by joint marketing, maintenance and plan- ning efforts which create an efficiency for both communities and visitors.

• To monitor and/or reduce the amount of outdoor signage, simultaneously creat- ing a coordinated visual signage message along the Trail.

• To develop a full service state of the art visitor center in Malden which promotes byways, rivers and trails in the Midland Trail Region.

• The Midland Trail will advance economic opportunities for its region through activities which encourage and promote economic development.

• Development and maintenance of a traveler- and user-friendly, environmentally appealing green Trail

• With support from local and regional groups, an active citizenry will provide ongoing protection of the Trail and its intrinsic qualities.

• Creation of a Trailwide video, with at least three distinct versions for regional vis- itor centers.

3.6 3.7 Goal I Goal II

Enhance Signage and Accessibility Enhance the Visual Experience

1. To identify all Visitor Information Centers with easily identifiable markers and 1. To limit use of billboard advertising in segments of the Trail where it might block TO MAKE THE provide informational signage as necessary and convenient, both from the road- or detract from views of natural beauty. TO REMOVE MIDLAND side and at Center locations. OR TRAIL CLEARLY 2 .To monitor and reduce the amount of outdoor signage while simultaneously 2. To furnish interpretive signs in English, French, Spanish, Japanese and German creating a coordinated visual signage message along the Trail. MINIMIZE THE IDENTIFIABLE where feasible and where such will not prove disruptive to the scenic qualities of IMPACT AND TO the Trail. 3 . To clear and control growth of vegetation which would block views, particular- OF ALL PROVIDE EASY ly but not exclusively at pull-off areas. 3. Education and training of all Visitor Center personnel,paid or volunteer, and VISUAL ACCESSIBILITY including secondary and collegiate-level students, in the best and latest methods 4. Discourage any business or industry activity which might prove disruptive to INTRUSIONS AND of hospitality service. scenic qualities or the tourist’s enjoyment of them, i.e.,“business-free” zones which restrict any use of disruptive, non-tourist-based business. Conversely, the WHICH MIGHT AVAILABILITY 4. Provision of informational kiosks which identify Visitor Centers,convenient Association will develop programs which publicize, recognize, and honor business DETRACT OF VISITOR lodging, convenient places of dining, convenient service stations, places of recre- and industrial activity which protects and preserves the Trail’s qualities. FROM SERVICES ation, and the Trail’s intrinsic qualities. 5. Working with local governments, to pursue aggressively a program to condemn THE 5. An ongoing visitor’s informational guidance program which will use all available all non-historic dilapidated buildings within the viewshed. BEAUTY media at its disposal for travel convenience.These include audio tapes, videotapes, and literature. The Association will publish a biennial destination guide starting in 6. Promote and coordinate with all community-based and region-wide efforts at AND 2000, including regional byway guides wherever possible. beautification and cleanup, as well as proactive efforts at environmental protection. SCENIC QUALITIES 6. A consistent usage of the Midland Trail logo in presentation, whether on the 7. Minimizing the distraction of satellite dishes for cell phones, radio towers, and road or in publication. power lines.Additionally, the spraying of herbicides constitutes harm to the scenic OF qualities of the Trail. THE TRAIL

8. Use of vegetative “green-screening” to decrease the impact of unsightly buildings or business and industrial operations. 83

3.8 3.9 Goal III Goal IV

Enhancing the Interpretive Experience Encourage Business Development

1. To provide interpretive roadside signs and interpretive panels at pull-offs 1. To develop and administer an active stewardship awards program which honors businesses that contribute to good quality of life and tourist experience on the TO 2. To establish new and support existing museums and interpretive centers all along Trail. ENCOURAGE the Trail. TO PROVIDE 2. A state, regional, and national “magnet” program which seeks to attract tourist BUSINESS THE VISITOR 3. To develop cultural events and programs such as festivals, arts and crafts shows, and environmentally-friendly business to the Trail. DEVELOPMENT and artistic productions which highlight the Trail’s qualities. WITH 3. Continue revenue-producing activities such as advertising of Trail business over AND INTERPRETIVE 4. To produce interpretive videotapes which present the Trail’s qualities in a posi- the Website and on Trail kiosks. ACTIVITIES OPPORTUNITIES tive light. 4. To support actively and aggressively the practice of “segmentation”, restricting WHICH ARE AT TO 5. To commission dramatic and musical productions which will showcase Trail her- the raising of billboards to specific areas on the Trail. LEAST IN PART APPRECIATE itage and qualities. TOURIST-

AND 6. To produce traveler’s audio tapes, in English, French, and German, which will DRIVEN UNDERSTAND explain and interpret Trail history and heritage.These tapes will serve not only the automobile traveler, but school curricular development and libraries. THE INTRINSIC QUALITIES OF 7. Operation and maintenance of a viable Midland Trail Website; expansion of ser- vices for advertisers, consumers, and researchers who visit the site; development TRAIL. of historical research for such site; and inclusion of scenic byways information for public use on the site.

8. Place and operate informational kiosks at strategic points along the Trail.

9. Promote and encourage high-quality arts and crafts design, development, and marketing in the Midland Trail region.

10. To develop a “Special Themes Tour” program which would highlight and show- case certain qualities of the Trail.

www.wvmidlandtrail

3.10 3.11 Goal V Goal VI

Encourage Scholarly Research Partnerships Establish an Administrative Staff

1.This plan contemplates a Center for Rural Byway Studies which will 1. Employment of an Executive Director who will act as spokesperson TO CREATE TO INCREASE conduct ongoing research into development, preservation efforts, man- for the Trail; direct fund-raising and grant-writing; promote business AND SUPPORT REGIONAL, agement, and interpretive opportunities on and along America’s scenic potential and growth which enhances and does not disrupt the Trail’s AN STATEWIDE, byways and highways. Additionally, the Center will act as a research intrinsic qualities; oversee resources management of the Trail; act as a repository for studies of the Midland Trail. liaison for the Board with governmental agencies; direct and oversee ADMINISTRATIVE NATIONAL Additionally, the Association contemplates creation of an interna- interpretive and development projects; oversee and assist local efforts STRUCTURE AND tional component of the Rural Byway Studies Center where foreign vis- at heritage preservation; oversee and direct activities of the Scenic FOR INTERNATIONAL itors may study best practices and “American style” rural tourism devel- Byways Center; direct publication of a Trail newsletter; and supervise opment. the Trail staff. CONTINUOUS APPRECIATION Perhaps most importantly, the Executive Director will work actively AND ACTIVE OF THE TRAIL 2.To develop a Midland Trail Conferences and Seminars Program with and continuously to maintain collaboration between governmental OVERSIGHT THROUGH special themes. agencies, local communities,Trail associations and citizens’ groups, busi- nesses, schools, and individual citizens. PROJECTS OF TRAIL 3.Involve all ages of students to participate in practical supportive pro- MANAGEMENT, INTENDED TO grams which benefit the Trail region, e.g., Tourism and Hospitality 2. Employment of an Interpretive Specialist who will generate plans for ATTRACT Education, a Trail junior interpretation through museums, roadside panels and kiosks, special DEVELOPMENT, associates program, and a Midland Trail Heritage Curriculum for high Trail events at selected venues, and multi-media projects. SCHOLARSHIP AND schools. AND 3. Employment of a Historian who will research Trail history, document INTERPRETIVE INTEREST 4.Develop volunteer opportunities for senior citizens. research, and maintain a public library of multi-media materials for his- ACTIVITIES torians. 5. Reactivate the Midland Trail Writers’ Project for positive coverage in the media and among scholarly journals. 4. Employment of a WebMaster who will maintain currency of Trail his- torical, business, recreational, and cultural information on the Trail’s Website. The WebMaster will also be responsible for developing rev- enue-producing activities on the site.

5. Tourism Specialist who will develop programs intended to build and enhance the Trail’s tourism potential and to promote tourism-based (in part or full) Trail businesses.

3.12 3.13 Goal VII Goal VIII

Encourage Collaboration Encourage Sensitive Development

TO 1. Oversight of construction of pull-off upgrades in the three counties 1. Support and encourage collaborative tourism and visitation among ENCOURAGE through which the Trail passes: 1 in Kanawha County, 2 in Fayette, and attractions of the Trail and the broader region, including the metropol- 1 in Greenbrier. itan areas of Charleston, Fayetteville, Oak Hill, and Beckley as well as the TO FOSTER DEVELOPMENT Huntington gateway to the Midland Trail. ONGOING WHICH IS 2. Promotion of a Midland Trail Heritage Parks Program which will SENSITIVE enhance the heritage and history of various historically significant sites 2. Encourage and develop cooperation among existing organizations in COOPERATION on the Trail. interpreting and promoting the Trail. TO THE AND COLLABORATION TRAIL’S 3. Promotion of a Main Street Program for towns whose main street is 3. Create a linkage for various agencies and programs along the Trail INTRINSIC the Trail. through the following media: a newsletter; personal communications; WITH LOCAL and computer Web site, e-mail, or other alternative electronic com- QUALITIES COMMUNITIES, munications methods. 4. Preservation and enhancement of “heritage core areas” which con- LOCAL tain more than one historical attraction within short, easy walking dis- tance of each other. 4. Serve as a liaison between member organizations and the U.S. GROUPS, Congressional Delegation, State Legislature, and regional and local gov- LANDOWNERS, ernmental bodies. BOARDS AND 5. Develop working linkages between colleges and universities along the COMMISSIONS, Trail in order to advance design and development of traditional, as well AND as contemporary, arts and crafts and other disciplines. BUSINESSES

6. In order to strengthen these objectives, the Association will actively TO promote self-help economic incentives among its board members and PROMOTE membership at-large.That is, it will provide guidance and information in ALL OF THE the form of informational training sessions which offer technical ABOVE GOALS expertise in fund-raising, development, promotional, and grant proposal activities.

3.14 3.15 intrinsic qualities Breathtaking scenery,unforgettable rafting, and spectacu- lar hiking will fill post- cards from the Trail. The cultural diversity and history of the Trail make letters and e-mail home absolute keepers as a current explanation of our American heritage. “When you’ve done this Trail you’ll pound your chest and say,”I understand what made this country great! INTRINSIC QUALITIES THE MIDLAND TRAIL HAS FIVE INTRINSIC QUALITIES: SCENIC AND NATURAL: Wooded mountains, farmland in broad valleys, waterfalls, and the New River Gorge. CULTURAL: Appalachian music, arts, crafts, and drama; African-American history and heritage; coal-camp mining; authentic sternwheeler. Includes WV Cultural Center at Capitol Complex, HISTORIC :: Carnegie Hall, Mountain Stage Old Stone House Musical Productions, and WV State Fair. HISTORIC :: Inns, the world-renowned Greenbrier Hotel, old churches, his- toric music and arts hall, Hawks SCENIC AND NATURAL: Nest Tunnel, Veterans’ Memorial, a Wooded Mountains Cold War-era government personnel nuclear bunker, and the State Capitol. Museums about African- American heritage, railroads, Greenbrier County, war history, and Fayette County history and one- room schoolhouse. CULTURAL: RECREATIONAL: Cabin Creek Quilts Whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, rock-climbing, camping, fishing, canoeing, hunting, kayaking, Ansted’s Annual Street Luge Competition. Three championship golf courses at Greenbrier and oldest golf course in U.S. (plays with 19th- century rules and equipment). Several parks and forests. 77-mile Greenbrier Bike Trail.

Other Qualities:: INDUSTRIALINDUSTRIAL HISTHISTORY:: Elkem Metals, DuPont Chemical, RECREATIONAL: Cannelton Coal tipple and storage Biking operations, Hawks Nest Tunnel, RECREATIONAL: Army Corps Locks at London, and 4.2 Whitewater Rafting Port Amherst railroad yard. 4.3 Intrinsic Qualities: An Inventory

SCENIC Belle RECREATIONAL Old Stone House (1810; one of oldest in Kanawha INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE Kanawha Valley, with Kanawha River Valley) Charleston Vista at Kanawha Falls/Glen Ferris/ Reynolds House (1840) Port Amherst Gauley Bridge (junction of New and Fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking. Railroad yards (site of construction of Gauley Rivers to form Kanawha River) Daniel Boone Park: boating, fishing, cycling, stern- world’s largest flatbed railroad car, 1970) Cedar Grove wheel cruises, picnicking. New River Gorge Virginia’s Chapel (1853) Inventory for each Hawks Nest Overlook (Ansted) Malden/Rand William Tompkins House (1844;Tompkins was first Glasgow category progresses Big Sewell Mountain Overlook man to use natural gas in industry; Mrs.Tompkins Dickinson Salt-Works (on private property) west to east. Greenbrier Valley-Big Levels was General Grant’s aunt, which saved he house City park with playground, basketball court, and even though she was a Southern sympathizer) playground; roadside park with picnic tables. Belle NATURAL DuPont Chemical Plant (developed Glen Ferris London nylon and antifreeze) Kanawha Falls Glen Ferris Inn (1853) Fishing, picnicking Marmet Locks New River Gorge Hydroelectric plant (ca. 1900) Hawks Nest Overlook Kanawha Falls/Glen Ferris London Big Sewell Mountain Overlook Gauley Bridge Public park with fishing, picnicking, indoor archery London Locks (Kanawha River had country’s Cathedral Falls (Gauley Bridge) Gauley Bridge Historical Society Museum (housed range (Bait Barn) first movable dams-- 1880s) in 19th-century restored railroad depot) CULTURAL Gauley Bridge Cannelton Hawks Nest Camping, picnicking; fishing at Elkem’s Cannelton Coal tipple and storage Charleston Hawks Nest Tunnel (considered West Virginia’s great- Hydroelectric Dam Facility WV Cultural Center est engineering feat of its time and site of state’s worst Hawks Nest Boomer Vandalia Gathering industrial tragedy) Fishing, boating, camping, hiking, biking, golf Coal company town Mountain Stage The Mystery Hole (unusual, kitschy roadside Ansted attraction reopened in 1999) Alloy Malden African-American Heritage Family Tree African Zion Baptist Church Elkem Metals (largest silicon metals Museum (housed in turn-of-century coal-camp Ansted producer in world) Malden Salt Village house) Hiking/biking trails, Annual Street Luge Cabin Creek Quilts Contentment Historical Complex (housed Competition Hawks Nest in antebellum home which served as Civil War Boomer Hawks Nest Tunnel and Hydro- headquarters) Hico electric Power Facility Coal camp town Halfway House (Tyree Tavern) Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking, camp- ing, fishing, hunting, rock-climbing, llama trekking Ansted Lookout Rainelle (whitewater company contracts with a separate Site of world’s largest hardwood lumber African-American Heritage Family Tree Lookout Baptist Church company), one campground Museum enterprise (lost site) Sam Black Church Rainelle CEMETERIES Clifftop Sam Black Methodist Church (1902) Meadow Bridge Roadside Camp Camp Washington Carver (African-American West Virginia maintains proud and deep-rooted Rupert family traditions; genealogy is popular throughout arts programs) Lewisburg Picnicking Old Stone Church (1796; oldest in continuous the state. use west of Alleghenies) Lewisburg Lewisburg North House Museum (housed in 1820 home- Charleston Rural arts education (Carnegie Hall) Roadside park with picnic tables, fishing, camping, Spring Hill Cemetery former tavern) hiking at the Greenbrier River. WV State Fair (Fairlea) Carnegie Hall (1901; built with philanthropic funds of Andrew Carnegie) Malden HISTORICAL Andrew Lewis Park (Andrew Lewis led expe- Caldwell Ruffner Cemetery dition to Pt. Pleasant, last great battle east of Trail-head for Greenbrier River Trail, 77-mile bik- Charleston Ohio River against Natives; some say he fought ing/hiking trail (Rails to Trails) London and Glasgow West Virginia State Capitol Revolution’s first battle) Memorial Gardens Holly Grove Mansion (1815) White Sulphur Springs Craik-Patton House (1834; builder was grandson Soldiers’ Barracks across from Andrew Lewis 3 championship golf courses, walking trails, biking, Ansted of personal physician and friend of George Park horseback riding at Swift Level Bed and Breakfast Springdale Cemetery (burial place of Washington; one owner was grandfather of Fort Savannah Inn and Greenbrier, tennis at Greenbrier, Oakhurst Stonewall Jackson’s mother) WWII General Patton) General Lewis Inn Golf Course (plays by 1884 rules). Greenbrier Ruffner Log Cabin State Forest, with fishing, camping, hiking, biking. Lookout Caldwell Jeanette Cemetery Malden Old Historic Inn John Hale House (1838; home of saltmaker, Lewisburg author, and historian John Hale) White Sulphur Springs Old Stone Church Cemetery Norton-Patton House (1840) Greenbrier Hotel Richard E. Putney House (1836) James Wylie House (possibly oldest inn on OTHER Kanawha Salines Presbyterian Church (one of the Midland Trail) Federal Fish Hatchery,White Sulphur Springs oldest in state, 1840; founder was eminent Congressional bunker at Green- P.A. Denny Sternwheeler, Charleston writer of anti-slavery treatise) brier Hotel African Zion Baptist Church (oldest black Art Colony at Greenbrier Hotel Oakhurst Golf Course (oldest in country) Veterans’ Memorial, State Capitol Baptist church in the state; Booker Battle of Dry Creek Civil War reenactment Washington was lifelong member. 1852) National Register listings in Appendix Ruffner Cemetery of Historic Sites 4.4 Salt Village (reproduction) 4.5 Intrinsic Qualities: Setting/Context

CHARLESTON TO GAULEY BRIDGE GAULEY BRIDGE TO RAINELLE RAINELLE TO WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS Generally, intrinsic qualities occur in Trail descends from Little Sewell into Generally, qualities occur in a site is of national significance for Native wooded mountainous area as Trail broad pasture lands of Greenbrier valley with a width from one-half American history. Valley suddenly widens ascends into Gauley and Sewell Valley’s farms. The karst (limestone) to one mile, including the Great into broad vista. Kanawha River has raging Mountains above the New River topography creates large bowl-shaped Gorge.At places,Trail courses the sides sinkholes, and limestone is visible Kanawha River and wooded waterfalls which empty into a large basin of mountains and overlooks Gorge; in through the top soil. next to a picnic area and public fishing cat- mountains on either side. Ridge- some spots, the Trail actually hangs pre- Rupert: broad vista of Greenbrier walk. Next to falls are an old hydroelectric top is generally undeveloped cipitously over the Gorge. Roads are Valley in small town. Sam Black facility and the historic Glen Ferris Inn. from mile-marker 1 (Daniel generally curvy, sometimes snaking into Church: Church sits at a bend in road Boone Park) to Gauley Bridge. Gauley Bridge: Vista continues to widen. hairpin turns. There are several pull- and surrounded by knolls and lightly- Power lines and radio towers New and Gauley Rivers join to form the offs for views of the Gorge. New River wooded area. Lewisburg: Actually are the only man-made features. Kanawha River. River makes a bend here Gorge is a river with wooded moun- ensconced in a large karst sinkhole. Tuckwiller Roadside park is in a Neon and telescoping signs visi- toward Glen Ferris. Cathedral Falls is in a tains on either side. wooded section several miles outside recessed pull-off area opposite the New ble. of town. North House, Carnegie Hall, River. Elkem Hydroelectric fishing access: and Old Stone Church are located in occurs right at dam on New River; visitor Charleston: in “context” of State a historical “core” in downtown in must walk down asphalt path and on a Capitol grounds and broad vista on . business section on main street and series of steps in wooded area. Hawks around an open area next to a resi- river bank. Daniel Boone Park has Nest: Broad vista to horizon over numer- dential section. Andrew Lewis Park Craik-Patton House, Log Cabin, stern- ous mountains as it overlooks New River and soldiers’ barracks are across the wheeler,and recreation site in two-acre Gorge, with railroad and iron truss bridge street from each other in business area on river. Malden: qualities form a on one side and Tunnel on other. Boat section of town. Caldwell: Trail heritage “nucleus”, all within 5 to 10 pull-off area at floor of Gorge. Ansted: descends outside Lewisburg for a few minutes’ walking distance of each other. Trail continues along the side of the miles into a small, fairly narrow Belle: DuPont Plant and Old Stone mountains. Contentment, on Trail, is in a wooded valley which is surrounded House adjacent to each other in resi- residential area. African-American muse- by hills and includes the Greenbrier um sits just off Trail in residential area with dential area. Cedar Grove: Chapel and River. The Greenbrier Trail begins similar style homes. Street Luge is just off Tompkins House across Trail from each here. White Sulphur Springs: After Trail on a road which ascends Gauley the wooded area, the Trail comes into other in residential area. Glasgow: Mountain from Ansted. Hico: Trail contin- an open area, less wooded, but still beside river, with hills and electrical ues on mountains and intersects with between hills and parallel to U.S. 64. plant. London: Locks span the River in Route 19. North American River Runners, Hotel is in a large sinkhole area and industrial area. Cannelton: tipple a whitewatering enterprise, sits right on surrounded by wooded mountains crosses Trail; operations right on Trail Trail, and runs adventure packages on and large, open golf courses. The in industrial area; includes silos and Gauley and New Rivers as well as cycling, Hotel’s grounds themselves have coal piles. Boomer:Trail divides a small backpacking and camping. Sewell interspersed trees and more concen- trated forests with walking trails. On residential area. Alloy: Large facility on Mountain Overlook: Road reaches a blind curve, and visitor has first view of broad toward the Virginia border, the vis- the river bank. Kanawha Falls/Glen Greenbrier Valley from pull-off area. This itor picks up Greenbrier State Ferris: Armstrong Wall archeological pull-off currently is site of the dilapidated Forest. Lee’s Tree Tavern 4.6 4.7 Scenic Qualities SCENIC QUALITIES

Locations Dear Folks: and saw the Kanawha River, with mountains on both sides. Lots of 1. Kanawha Valley, with Kanawha River Remember when we were talking beautiful forest land and moun- about your retirement plans last tains as far as the eye can see. 2. Vista at Kanawha Falls/ Glen Ferris/ Gauley Bridge Christmas? Remember that motor When we got to Kanawha home I dragged you down to see at Falls, we saw a raging waterfall, Honest John’s? Well, I found the per- 3. New River Gorge and Mom, you know how you fect trip for you. Beautiful scenery-- love waterfalls. Dad, be sure to and lots of it! pack a fishing rod--they fish at 4. Hawks Nest Overlook (Ansted) We were heading back home to the falls, too. Around the corner Roanoke from Cincinnati and some- from that the valley opened up 5. Big Sewell Mountain Overlook body at one of the Visitor Centers into a wide vista at the junction told me about a real scenic route, of the Gauley and New Rivers. the Midland Trail. I had some time, 6. Jackie was speechless. Greenbrier Valley-Big Levels so I took Jackie and the kids. You The kids were badgering us really need to come here. The fall to stop and eat, so we pulled off weather was just beginning to turn at another waterfall, Cathedral the leaves all up and down the sides Falls, and had a picnic. Mom, you of the mountains, and boy, what a better bring your camera! nature show! Passed up a mountain and SCENIC Went through the got some great views of the New Kanawha River. That’s the photos in the Valley envelope. Stopped at an overlook

: con’d) om M arriage of rivers!!! The m ississippi) Here near the town of Gauley Bridge the New River (only one of a few rivers that flows North) joins the Gauley River (best Whitewater rafting East of M join to create the Great Kanawha River-- mercial riverpath to the Ohio and com Mississippi Rivers.

4.8 4.9 at Hawks Nest and looked right down into the Gorge. One side has the old railroad that ran through the Gorge. Robbie likes trains, and Here in Greenbrier s and a he got excited when he saw a train Valley the terrain Watched real hawks diving cross the river. We caught a view of changes pleasantto rolling streamgentle pastures, waylife. of and soaring in the wind of the Hawks Nest Tunnel on the other , lodge the New River Gorge Valley side. You’d like it, Dad, with your s all w/ here at Hawk’s Nest State engineering background and all; Park. Diningeeting roomroomeg in conf they say it was a real feat of engi- and m neering. Check out the photos. The this view -- Ask M planning to call for rates! great thing is that there are a lot of pull-offs for that motor home you’re going to buy (hint, hint). Dad, I knew you were a real Civil War buff, so we pulled off and shot this view from Big Sewell Mountain. General Lee used to watch his troops from the mountain. Imagine seeing a whole army in that plateau idland (it’s also where he got Traveler). ake a Got into Greenbrier County and Look at this perfect view!! saw a lot of beautiful farmland. The The highest point on the M kids had never even seen cows and Trail --They really need to m horses up close. Maybe we spend nice pull-off here so travelers could too much time in the city. Jane enjoy theyTalk view to whileyour theygarden picnic! club! wants a horse now, but I told her that we don’t have space to keep one. Dad, you worked a lot of years, and you sacrificed a lot to send me to school, and you really helped us through a lot. You and Mom really deserve to spend some time on the open road and enjoy things. I think you need to pay another visit to Honest John’s, this time with your checkbook. there are some great places on the Trail for a second hon- eymoon. Jackie and I thinking about one ourselves. Just think about it. Jackie and the kids send their love.

Love, Rick

4.10 4.11 Natural Qualities NATURAL QUALITIES photos. Stopped at Hawks Nest, and got to see some fish hawks circling; they nest in Locations ary: M the rocks What a perfectiles out spot of ! idland on the Just 45 m Gorge. 1. Kanawha Falls Chas on The M bed Trail. After a great Birding 2. Cathedral Falls (Gauley Bridge) picnic we clim might be a the Cathedral Falls. good topic Must do it -- Feel like a kid again!!Sue for an arti- 3. Hawks Nest Overlook (Ansted) cle. They have an 4. New River Gorge overlook Mary: there that’s 5. Big Sewell Mountain Overlook Sorry I missed you a real pop- when you called. Bob ular spot and I just took a little for picture- day excursion, and we taking. kept on thinking about Maybe you NATURAL you. can do that We found this fall foliage charming little out-of- spread you the-way road that were talk- would be perfect for ing about-- that nature photogra- they say phy portfolio you’re it’s great putting together for Living Nature. up here. We stopped at this charming little town I hope you like the Cathedral called Lewisburg (they have some great Falls photo. Bob and I stopped there antique stores and galleries), then drove to eat and just watch the falls. He through some pretty farmland. It was really even took his shoes off and ran peaceful, and I could see Bob loosening up. through the creek barefoot. He hasn’t Perfect pastoral settings, relaxed, and no done that since we were dating. traffic jams (Bob can be a bear when it After lunch, we saw a beautiful view comes to driving in traffic). Just cows, hors- where the New River and the Gauley es, a few silos, and lots of rolling farmland River make the Kanawha River. And and forests. the mountains all unspoiled, just forest, Then we got into the mountains, and we and that’s the way it looked all the way saw some of the best nature we’ve seen in to Charleston. Like Bob says, “Mary a long time. Bob was so interested in it that ought to be here”. he almost ran off the road a few times. And Drop me a line. he kept saying, “Mary ought to be here!” We Love, Sue pulled off and saw the New River Gorge, 4.12 and Bob even took time just to shoot some 4.13 Cultural Qualities CULTURAL QUALITIES

Gathering on the State Capitol grounds. Locations It was Appalachian all the way: fiddlers and banjo players, a Liar’s Contest, arts 1. WV Cultural Center 7. Coal camp town and crafts, Joe Bundyashington portrays for story-telling, and old-fash- 2. Vandalia Gathering 8. African-American Heritage Family Booker T. W school groups and others. ioned country hen Booker was freedalden at food. All the 3. 9. W Mountain Stage Contentment Historical Complex the age of 8 he walked things you think the Trail to M of when you 4. African Zion Baptist Church 10. Camp Washington Carver where he learned to read and the rest is think West history! Virginia. They 5. Malden Salt Village 11. Carnegie Hall (Rural arts education) have other Appalachian 6. 12. festivals there too, like the Cabin Creek Quilts WV State Fair (Fairlea) Dearest Sandy: Rhododendron Festival. Glad to hear your trip is going great. Glad Something else,before I forget.I knew you enjoyed the exhibits at the Louvre and you loved folk music, so I booked a cou- CULTURAL the London Gallery. Loved your stories ple of tickets to an Arlo Guthrie concert about the concerts. My trip through Europe here the Sunday after you get back. Right years ago was a great learning experience. I on the Capitol grounds is a musical only wish I was with you, but the boss could- showcase area they call Mountain Stage. n’t let me get away.When you get back, I’ve Every Sunday they have a musical pro- got another little cultural foray for you, and gram--jazz, folk, blues, classical--and they we could easily do it in a weekend away. broadcast it on the radio all over the Last weekend the work was slow, so I country.I thought it might be kind of fun. went to West Virginia just to get out of the After that we can ride the P.A. Denny city. I was in Charleston at the Vandalia Sternwheeler, the only one on the Trail (authentic, too).

con’d

Broadcast nationally from right on the Trail, Mountain Stage, the live performance NPR radio show is renowned for its star studded and diverse performances.

4.14 4.15 Just for fun, I decided to head up Route one in New York).They 60 East. When I was a kid, I read about have arts programs all At Malden’s Fresh Start Booker Washington, but didn’t know a lot year-round. From the Salt Village, kids and adults about him. He lived outside Charleston in a brochure, I found out alike get a glimpse of the work-a-day little town called Malden,so that Carnegie Hall has a life of a freed slave in a replica of Booker T. I went to visit.They had an Washington’s boyhood cabin home.When model rural arts-in- freed, an 8-year-old Booker and his family old black church called the education program,one walked from the Burrough’s Plantation in African Zion Baptist of the largest in the Virginia to Malden. Here he learned to Church; standing in it, you country. You might tell ead, taught Sunday School at the African r can almost hear a hot sum- Zion Church and began his life as an that to your painter educator and spokesman. mer’s day inspired sermon friends. Maybe it all started when the Carnegie family funded this beautiful Carnegie Art as a preacher with a swel- Sending you a copy Center here in 1902 -- but somehow tering face delivers his mes- of the schedule at Lewisburg has become a haven for the sage to attentive men and Camp Washington Carver at Clifftop (they also have African- artistic – with everything done in a world class way --live local theater, galleries, local women who fan them- American cultural programs); maybe we can go to “Doo-Wop musicians, artists of all types. Carnegie’s selves in the oppressive Saturday” or “Old Time Days”. Also a brochure for the model rural arts-in-education program, one heat. It’s next door to a Greenbrier Valley Theater in Lewisburg. The “Greenbrier of the largest in the country ! salt-worker’s village that Ghost” play looks fascinating. recreates what it was like The Trail also has other arts and crafts festivals, like the for freed slaves to live in Upper Kanawha Valley Fall Festival at Quincy Shopping Center and West Virginia Day Malden after the Civil War. at Hawks Nest State Park.Want to go to those? Let me know. I know you’re always look- I guess we forget some- ing for new cultural experiences.Wish I was with you. times what a freed slave’s life was really like. I could XXXOOO, almost see Booker in it as a Mike little boy, his eyes full of thirst for books and words Legendary quilters in legendary home. and learning. The village Cabin Creek Quilter really brings home to you Pearl Nutter quilts in what Booker probably saw as a boy. front of historic home I headed through a town called Ansted, of John Hale, salt and stopped at a place called the African- industrialist and American Heritage Family Tree Museum.To great-grandson of Mary Ingles. My Dear Corinna– look at it, you wouldn’t know it’s run by an internationally-known poet/playwright, but Forget the cathedral. sure enough, it is. Norman Jordan and his Let’s do it here -- the wife Brucella (who has a doctorate in histo- AfricanChurch Zion Baptist ry) met me and showed me some great cul- tural memorabilia. His roots are in the -Love Rodney African-American mining culture in Ansted, and he showed me memorabilia, photos (his father was a pioneering photographer), and models. It was an interesting look into min- ing and black culture. I went on to a charming little place called Lewisburg. There was a musical production at Carnegie Hall (yeah, the same name as the 4.16 4.17 Locations HISTORICAL QUALITIES 1. West Virginia State Capitol 10. Ruffner Cemetery 17. Lewisburg Area Dear Mrs. Crump: Sam Black Methodist 2. Holly Grove Mansion (1815) 11. Salt Village I guess you could call this my “What I Did Church During My Summer Vacation” essay. Old Stone Church I remember that section we did on the Midland 3. Craik-Patton House (1834) 12. Old Stone House Trail, and, well, I got curious and spent a couple of North House Museum days getting personal with history, as you used to 4. Ruffner Log Cabin 13. Reynolds House Carnegie Hall ) say. Andrew Lewis Park I just took my camera, stuffed some clothes and 5. John Hale House (1838) 14. Virginia’s Chapel (1853) money (courtesy of the parents) in a gym bag, and Soldiers’ Barracks went for a couple of days.You were right: there is a 6. Norton-Patton House (1840) 15. William Tompkins House Fort Savannah Inn lot of history in this state to experience if we just take time to get out and see it. (1844) General Lewis Inn 7. Visited the State Capitol first. I didn’t know that Must see Richard E. Putney House (1836) Caldwell Historic Inn Cass Gilbert also designed Washington D.C.’s the collec- 16. World’s Largest Lumber White Sulphur Springs Treasury and Supreme Court buildings. I think you tion of h 8. Kanawha Salines Presbyterian Enterprise said that many people consider it the most beauti- torical dis- Church Greenbrier Hotel ful capitol building in the U.S. Went over to the (1840) and the Hale one of its owPatton H olls at C ouse. B raik- Veterans’ Memorial and saw my uncle’s name. The House (1838), where the grand ners w u James Wylie House fath as G ilt in other photo is Holly Grove, built by Augustus salt industrialist Dr. John it’s on er. T eneral P 1834, 9. African Zion Baptist Church e o he front is beau atton’s Hale lived. I was glad of th f the state’s best exam Ruffner. I like old brick homes. Also met some nice e G tifu ladies at the Craik-Patton House. Built in 1834, one you made us read reek R l –– evival style. ples of its owners was General Patton’s grandfather.The Follow the River,because HISTORICAL front was beautiful – it’s one of the state’s best Hale was Mary’s great-grandson. The folks examples of the Greek Revival style. at the Visitor Center took me over to see the I remember us talking about Malden, so I state’s oldest black Baptist church, the African stopped there, too. Went to the Norton House Zion Baptist Church (1872). That’s me ringing the bell; they let you do that. See that aisle? That was Booker Washington’s church, and he taught and got married in that aisle. In the back, they have a reconstruct- ed salt-worker’s village with a faithful reproduction of Booker’s cabin and a schoolhouse/church. There were even some pigs and chickens to make the scene complete. I finished up there by seeing one of the state’s oldest Presbyterian church- es, the Kanawha Salines Presbyterian (1840) (it was Booker’s first church), and an old Federal-style house across it called the Putney House (1836). The one with the ladies in costume is the Old Stone House, built around 1810 by Samuel Shrewsbury, a salt-maker. They showed me all around and told The Old Stone House was me lots of neat details. It’s all built around 1810 by Samuel stone, and they say it has a Shrewsbury, a salt-maker. unique shape: oblong. Ladies in costume showed I go to an old church, so it’s me all around and told me kind of fun looking at places lots of neat details. It’s all where people worshiped a long stone, and they say it has a time ago. Cedar Grove has a unique shape: oblong. sweet little brick church called Postcards From The Midland Trail (MM9) “Virginia’s Chapel”. William Tompkins built it in 1853 as a graduation gift for his daughter. 4.18 4.19 old stagecoach stop, and the man that built it was a the oldest church in continu- War of 1812 veteran and salt-maker, Aaron ous use west of the Stopped at Ansted’s Contentment Stockton. Alleghenies. General Lee’s men House, (circa 1830) an antebellum Just around the corner from Glen Ferris is Gauley used it for a hospital after get- home that was a Civil War head- Bridge. Piers standing in the river are the only ting sick in the rain. I saw the quarters for the Chicago Grey Dragoons.They remains left of the bridge after the Confederates Andrew Lewis Park (Battle of have a museum and a reconstructed one-room burned it (Carnifex Ferry is on up Gauley River). Point Pleasant; give me an A+) schoolhouse. Close by The Trail used to be a toll-road. I like trains, and and the old colonial-style bar- Halfway House, (circa stopped in an old restored railroad depot and saw racks for his men. My brother 1780), was known as a railroad museum. lives in better at his Army post. ree Tavern, a stage- Ty Hawks Nest Tunnel, one of the state’s greater Ended up in White Sulphur coach stop between engineering feats, built in the Depression with about Springs at the Greenbrier (no, I Lewisburg and 5000 workers as a source of water power for didn’t have that much money). Charleston. industry. They used black and immigrant labor to It’s been there since 1913, was build it. Greatest industrial tragedy, too; a lot died a WWII hospital, and had Lewisburg’s red brick North of silicosis and it led the way to national workers’ Presidents, kings, and states- House Museum (circa1820) compensation reform. As I stood there, I couldn’t men stay there. There’s even a cabin called used to be a popular tavern and is now a help wanting to know something about the lives and the “Summer White House” because Lee and museum with Revolutionary and Civil War the names of the men who built it. Hayes stayed there. Did you know about the memorabilia. The curator took me out to see Had a great time in Ansted.First, I stopped at the bunker? They’re leading tours through a one of the country’s best preserved examples Contentment House (circa 1830), an antebellum Cold-War era Congressional bunker; it even of the Conestoga Wagon. home used as Civil War headquarters for the has a picture of the Capitol so that TV Chicago Grey Dragoons.They have a museum and a broadcasts look like they still come from reconstructed one-room schoolhouse. Nearby the My folks just gave me a Parker pen.They were Washington. They could have housed up to Halfway House (circa 1780), was known as Tyree really nice, and let me stay for a while; there 1100 people for 6 weeks. It gives me some Tavern and used as a stagecoach stop between was an old cemetery around it, too. I didn’t creepy thoughts, but it is historical. I don’t Lewisburg and Charleston. know this, but the Trail used to end here, and play golf, but White Sulphur has the oldest There’s a neat little museum off the road called Cedar Grove used to be a boat yard for flat- golf course in the country; they still play by the African-American Heritage Family Tree boats, and they started on the river from 1884 rules--no caddies, no carts, and oak Museum. Housed in an old turn-of-the-century Cedar Grove, and they even built Lewis and clubs. coal-camp house. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan have coal Clark’s boats right here. Wow! Right here on Well, that’s what I did on my sum- camp memorabilia and photos.There were a lot of the Trail! If you look across the street, you see mer vacation, at least two days’ African-Americans in the mines up around Ansted, Tompkins’ Federal-style brick home (1844). He worth. I didn’t know there was this and the Jordans had a lot of old photos of them. My was the first man in the U.S. to use natural gas much history right down my own Uncle Joe was a miner; it kind of makes it all real for for industry.They told me something interest- backyard. Like you always said, her- me to see what he had to go through. ing; Mrs. Tompkins was General Grant’s aunt, itage can be right under your nose. Sam Black Church is both a white frame church and even though she was a Southern sympa- I was going to major in economics at and the name of the town, too. Built in 1902. thizer, that saved her family and the house. WVU, but I think now it’s going to Women raised money for it by selling gloves and History is kind of interesting, after all. Just wish be history. socks. Sam Black was a Methodist preacher who I’d paid more attention in Keep telling them about the Trail, rode on his ever-so-faithful steed Shiloh to preach your class. and show them this letter if they in six different counties. I couldn’t even make it It was getting around start falling asleep in your class. through one in my Miata before I get tired! lunchtime, and I stopped Lewisburg was great. Did a little shopping, some The Civil War was at the old Glen Ferris Inn Take care. browsing, and a lot of learning. So much history.The (1853).What a neat little fought along the the red-brick North House Museum (1820) used to be brick place! It was an Tommy Peterson Trail. Today, re-enactments remember a popular tavern, but now it’s a this aspect of Trail history at White Revolutionary and Civil War memora- P.S.: Do I get an A+,Teacher? bilia museum.The curator took me out Sulphur Springs and th Had to see one of the country’s best pre- e old lun near the Trail at (1853). T Glen ch at served examples of the Conestoga Ferris In travelers sinhey h n Carnifex Ferry and Wagon. Right near it is Carnegie Hall (I ave been veteran ce 1815, w serv Fayetteville. thought it was in New York), built in an ing w establish d salt-m hen W eary 1902 with money from Andrew ed aker A ar of 1812 Cu it as a stagaron Carnegie. Now, I did pay attention rrent ow Stockton Civ ners, th ecoach when you taught about him. He gave all il War book e H store acrossills, th also h stop. those millions of his money to libraries av Postcards From The Midland Trail e road e a and schools; it’s sweet--Greek Revival . Midland Trail style.That one photo is me in front of Corridor Management Plan 4.20 the Old Stone Church, built 1796 and 4.21 Recreational Qualities RECREATIONAL QUALITIES and stayed so we could do the rest of the package together. So we did Locations a day of kayaking, then rock- climbing and rappelling (he’s real- 1. Daniel Boone Park 8. Hico ly good), then a day of mountain biking, and just a day of hiking (it 2. City Park, Glasgow 9. Rainelle was a great view, but to tell the truth, I wasn’t just looking at the 3. Fishing, Picnicking at London 10. Rupert mountains and the rivers, if you know what I mean). The company 4. Kanawha Falls/ Glen Ferris 11. Lewisburg even got us a llama trekking trip through the New River Gorge. 5. Gauley Bridge 12. Caldwell Dear Fun-Hogs: And you all thought it was just rafting! Chris and I took advantage 6. Hawks Nest 13. White Sulphur Springs Hello from Outdoors Land, where the of the base camping at the compa- surf is white, the cliffs are are lovely, ny on our last night; they had a 7. Ansted and the guys are wild. Boy, are you shelter for steak dinners, volley- guys missing some fun out here ! You ball, and a cafe for beer. I also got should have taken that package deal the color photos and a video to show boss-man offered.Just didn’t want to you how hang with the real outdoors people, much fun I huh? Well, don’t worry--I’m thinking was having RECREATIONAL of you all chained to your desks and while certain those piles of paperwork while I’m other wimps out getting sun and breeze and surf. I know Went on the Lower New Monday weren’t (ha! and Tuesday the Lower Gauley. Met ha!) all sorts of people from all over the I really country; some of them said they wish you arrange their vacations just to drive guys had up Route 60 and whitewater. You’d come. But think everybody in a raft would be there’s West Virginians, but 95 percent come another chance: In October, they from out-of-state. That’s how I met open up the Upper Gauley for just this real cute guy from North Carolina six weeks, and they say it’s one named Chris. He’s an executive with a heckuva ride. Guides come all the textile company in Durham, so I might way from Colorado just to experi- be taking some weekend trips to ence it. Everybody get your bikes North Carolina in the near future. Our ready; we’re going on the group camped overnight together on Greenbrier River Trail at Caldwell the New (Chris is the gorgeous dark- next Saturday. haired one on my left). You guys See you guys in a week. would love the Gauley; whitewater rafters consider it one of the best raft- Love ya! Mean it! ing rivers in the world. Chris and I both fell out at a hole (I think destiny Cynthia is bringing us together). Chris was going back, but he changed his mind 4.22 4.23 Dear Mom and Dad:

Took this little trip up to West Virginia and am having a great time. Did whitewater- ing, kayaking, biking, camping, hiking, and llama trekking. Met this gorgeous, perky the outdoors. blonde who’s a lawyerv withes a big firm in Charleston and just lo I think I’m in love (this time I really mean it). Planning to go back this fall and raft the Upper Gauley.You too???? Love, Chris

Hello from the world class Greenbrier Resort!!!!! This place is fabulous - 3 champi- onship golf courses rated among the best in the world. Massage, 5- star food, the works -- must come for Christmas!!! Conference is over tomorrow, then on to L.A. Sure it won’t be anything like this!

Joe: Ron Pete Warth went up Route 60 Midland Trail last year and told me he had some of the best fishing he’s had in a long time. I didn’t believe him.You know how he tells those fish stories of his (no pun intended).Well, I got to thinking, what with my vaca- tion coming up, so I decided to check it out. there are some good places up there. Fished up at Daniel Boone Park. If you look behind me, you can see the State Capitol. Joe, you gotta come with me to Kanawha Falls.There’s a great fishing spot right at the falls right next in a public park, and sometimes they take their boats right up to the falls. Up about a mile or so east, I got to cast at the Elkem Hydroelectric sta- Camping is great fun on the tion; took a little getting to, but it was greatNew casting. River Gorge. Caught a whole boat full of 9- Midland Trail and you can inch bass and trout. Got some good ones at Hawks Nest down at the bottom of the even llama trek down the New River canyon. Some companies along the Trail can arrange guided fishing trips. Come with me next time. To m

4.24 4.25 Development: Enhancement and Accommodation The Association is committed to preserving the integrity of the Trail’s qualities while incorporating development which is minimally intrusive. Segmentation: Restricted Development Zones: Stewardship Awards: Joining together: An integrated The Association has gone on With a principle similar to “seg- As part of its current public aware- system. record as supporting “segmenta- mentation”, the Association can gen- ness campaign, the Association annu- The Trail continues to look for tion”, the prohibition of billboard erate a special plan which calls for the ally confers “Stewardship Awards” to ways to join and integrate different advertising in certain segments of prohibition or restriction of develop- businesses, groups, and individuals services and modes of transporta- the Trail where billboards would ment in specified segments of the who have shown a commitment to tion in areas when integration distract from the natural and Trail, including areas in and around preserving heritage, preserving beau- would serve tourist traffic more scenic beauty of the Trail. the following: natural attractions, ty, and developing quality of life along efficiently. For example, joining Segmentation would restrict bill- scenic view sheds, historic attrac- the Trail. railroad with boats and bus could boards to other segments of the tions, and recreational areas. potentially draw more tourism to Trail in which the distraction The advantage in creating these Watchdog Groups: places such as the Charleston- would have limited effect. zones is that the Trail populations Oversight committees will monitor Malden or Gauley Bridge-Ansted- Grassroots support already and their cultures have already natu- development at the county level, Hawks Nest areas. In the former exists. In early 1998, a group of rally divided land use on the Trail. working closely with county commis- instance, the transportation Lewisburg merchants successfully Essentially, the Trail’s diversity lends sions to limit disruptive changes to the already exists in the way of a stern resisted a move to place large bill- itself to creation of such zones. The Trail’s integrity and address ad hoc wheeling enterprise which oper- boards in pastures outside of majority of industrial operation is situations. Through an ongoing plan- ates on the Kanawha River. town. naturally localized to the Kanawha ning committee, the Association will Valley, and then industrial concerns work closely with communities and Main Street Programs: have confined themselves to certain developers to monitor mountaintop Lewisburg implemented a Main areas. Recreational usage which lends removal, chemical usage, and timber- Street Program some years ago. A itself to preserving natural and scenic ing. Charleston developer has already qualities seems largely concentrated implemented a “heritage street” in the middle portion. In the east, the Construction of docks for the pur- program; the Association has a majority of the people maintain a pose of promoting river tourism. variety of such designers and farm culture which naturally tends to Charleston has the Trail’s only authen- developers who could replicate discourage any disruptive develop- tic sternwheeler, which is available for these programs for other towns. ment. charters along the Kanawha River. This program would work well This sternwheeler is ideal for tourist in Ansted, Rainelle, Rupert, trips on the river between Daniel Lewisburg and White Sulphur Boone Park, Malden, Belle, Port Springs; the Trail is the main street Use of Existing Structures: Amherst, the London Locks, and for all five. In the Malden-Belle The Association wishes to enhance Montgomery. Docks are needed at area, the actual Trail is not the development with a West Virginia Malden, Belle, Cedar Grove, and highway which is normally called Interpretive Center and a Center for Montgomery for debarkation of the “Midland Trail”, but rather is Byway Studies by using available tourists to the various attractions in the secondary road which paral- buildings along the Trail as alterna- these spots. lels the Trail for four or five miles; tive to demolition. As such, the however, a program would bene- Association is open to renovation fit these towns, too. grants for buildings which can house Trail offices. 4.26 4.27 Intrinsic Qualities: Maintaining and Enhancing

The Association has committed itself to maintaining The Trail’s Pull-offs: Stewardship Awards: qualities and implementing programs which will enhance each of them. The Association has received federal grants As part of its current public awareness for the development of three pull-off areas, campaign, the Association annually Destination Guide,Videos, and Heritage Parks Program: two in Fayette County and one in confers “Stewardship Awards”to busi- Audiotape: In May 1998, Malden completed a salt- Greenbrier County. One such pull-off, the nesses, groups, and individuals who Some of the Association’s plans in this worker’s heritage park called the “Salt Sewell Mountain Overlook, now contains an have shown a commitment to pre- area have either been completed or are Village”. This park, which recreated the abandoned and dilapidated two-story cin- serving heritage, preserving beauty, in progress. world of Booker Washington, now serves der block structure which the Association and developing quality of life along the The Guide gives positive coverage to as a natural heritage adjunct to Booker’s supports removal so that the visitor can Trail. attractions and amenities; “We Have It church, the African Zion Baptist Church; enjoy the Overlook. Collaboration with Local All” points out all the intrinsic qualities the two are side by side.The “Salt Village” The potential exists for a variety of pull- Historical Societies: which make the Trail an unforgettable also blends well with the character of offs for industrial sites, coal history (such as There are at least three such soci- experience and helps to increase aware- Malden as an Historical District, since the towns of Boomer, Quincy, and eties--Greenbrier County Historical ness and appreciation of these qualities. historical old homes are located all Smithers), spots of Civil War interest, and Society, Fayette County Historical For convenience, the Guide corre- around the park and within a few min- Indian history (Lookout). Society, and the Upper Kanawha Valley sponds travel with the brown mile- utes’ walk of it. Historical Preservation Society. markers on the shoulder. The Association’s officers are working Demolition of Eyesores: Several are already housed in two An audiotape, first in English and then in cooperation with the Belle Historical The Trail’s view shed, and especially its homes which have historical qualities. in other languages, will present a histo- Society to assist in the development of shoulders, has a number of run-down build- ry of the Trail,will highlight qualities and the Old Stone House property in Belle. ings, particularly in the more rural sections. Collaboration with the West historical background of attractions, and Plans call for a heritage park with a WV Code permits a county commission to Virginia Preservation Alliance: will cover a majority of Trail towns. Like reproduction barn whose space can be enforce the demolition of abandoned and Some of the Association’s officers are the Guide, this audiotape will follow the available for events, a blacksmith’s shop, dilapidated eyesores. The Association also members of the Preservation course of the Trail. and other buildings which one would find intends to pursue this avenue to its fullest, Alliance, which is dedicated to heritage Five short videos will showcase the on an early 19th-century farm. The particularly through board members in the preservation and heritage tourism.With Trail’s qualities, and are intended for potential exists for a number of such pertinent counties. this collaboration, the Association will presentation in the Trail Visitor Centers. parks all along the Trail. be able to host and conduct Trail-wide Main Street Programs: Additionally, as living history has A West Virginia/Vandalia seminars, workshops, and conferences Lewisburg is a shining example of a Trail proven itself as a draw, the Association Interpretative Center: on preservation. town whose Main Street Program proposes a Trail-wide program to attract As a way of increasing appreciation and turned a town around. Their program living history re-enactors (which include understanding of the Trail’s qualities, the Collaboration with changed Lewisburg from just another colonial/Revolutionary-era encamp- Association proposes an interpretive cen- Environmental Groups: country town into a showcase town ments) to various attractions, including ter which showcases all of these qualities Its commitment to preservation of which draws tourists and shoppers the Trail’s heritage parks. with interpretive panels. scenic and natural qualities gives the from miles around to boutiques, antique National Registry, Historic District, Association an opportunity to team stores, galleries, fine restaurants, and and Landscape Nomination Interpretive Panels: with groups which work to maintain the quaint accommodations. Program: One of the Association’s strategies is the Trail’s areas of beauty, particularly as to Studies show heritage to be a top An early WV Division of Culture and production of artists’ interpretive and infor- the New River Gorge and mountain- draw for visitors; Lewisburg, also desig- History assessment suggested that the mational panels at certain spots of interest. top removal (a sensitive political issue in nated an Historic District, has devel- Trail contained many properties and dis- West Virginia at this writing). oped this concept with success. This tricts worthy of nomination for the Interpretive Programs: Collaboration will involve fund-raising example can be replicated in other National Registry or as Historical Use of living history re-enactors, drama, activities for soil erosion control, towns through which the Trail passes. Districts. (see appendix for Registry list) arts and crafts. Programs are already in stream quality preservation, tree planti- For instance, the Trail is Ansted’s main Some agricultural, mining, and timbering operation in Malden Historic District. ngs, and stabilization. street, and Ansted would be a prime sites are eligible for nomination as Expanded interpretive programs are Historic Landscapes. planned for 2000. 4.28 candidate for such a program. 4.29 The New Midland Trail Writers’ new ideas, and the Trail will prosper f. Bicycle Races or Tours k. Freedom Trek: An African- Project: In the 1930s, the Works with the introduction of unique or The Midland Trail once served as a bicycle American Trail Progress Administration paid writers even unusual themes. route.A competition or even group tours Tours, either stand-alone or in combi- to describe attractions along the Some examples follow: might be able to travel all or parts of the nation with other trails and routes, entire route. Resurrection of this a. Genealogy Trail. Also feasible would be a re-enact- could easily present a Trail which fig- Project could occur in several angles. West Virginia has maintained a culture ment of the late 19th or early 20th centu- ured in black history through slavery, First, the Association may offer lucra- deeply situated in history and family. It ry rides. A well-advertised bicycle race, the Underground Railroad, freedom, tive money prizes to outstanding mag- is common for researchers to visit the something on the order of the Tour de worship, education, and occupational azine and/or newspaper articles. Cultural Center and the numbers of France, would bring great public exposure opportunity. Additionally, there may be money cemeteries along the Trail. (see appen- to, and appreciation of, the Trail.May 2000 prizes available to secondary and col- dix) is planned a Ride Across the Virginia’s cel- l. Civil War Tours legiate-level students who produce ebrating Cycling and Heritage along the An ideal way to link up with Virginia outstanding essays or articles. b. Industry and Technology Trail concerns, forming a bi-state Civil War Since the Association is committed The Trail’s metal, chemicals, coal, and tour partnership; Route 60 links with to attracting and holding serious timbering enterprises offer a diverse g. A Trail of Many Cultures Tour I-64, which continues to Lexington,VA, scholarship about the Trail, the look at industry and its impact upon an Multi-culturalism, or cultural diversity, and this area connects with a larger Association can very easily produce a entire culture. has become a significant political and edu- network of roads to various sites all quarterly academic journal, similar to cational theme in the 1990s. Great poten- around Virginia. the type which issues for any academ- c. Teachers’, executives’, or tial exists for molding a tourist experience ic discipline. Articles could very well employees’ multi-site seminars which emphasizes Native, black, white, m. Follow Her Footsteps: feature historical, economic, and soci- The Trail’s historical sites offer an immigrant, and female themes, cultures, Re-tracing The Path of Mary Ingles ological analysis, to name but a few. opportunity to blend pleasure with and issues at all sites along the Trail. An ideal opportunity to highlight pio- business by busing groups from one neer history through the eyes and tra- Adopt-A-Highway Program: place to another and holding educa- h. Hands Across the Trail:Traditional Arts vails of Mary Ingles from southwest The Trail’s communities have a variety tional sessions for business, education, and Crafts of West Virginia Virginia to northeast Kentucky. of civic groups which easily could etc. seminars while enjoying a look at Combines educational, informative look at adopt and maintain sections of the the Trail’s diverse history, heritage, and traditional cottage industry, for which n. The Trail Tourist’s Ultimate Trail which have not been adopted at hospitality. West Virginia is famous, with opportuni- Scavenger Hunt this writing. ties for hands-on arts and crafts experi- An intriguing way to travel, learn, and d. Alumni Colleges and for-credit ences and with unique shopping activity. have fun. In this scenario, Trail busi- Hawks Nest State Park: college and high school classes nesses; historical, recreational, and cul- Public input has recommended an Colleges and universities offer classes i. On The Trail With Andrew Lewis Tour tural sites; and Visitor Centers are expansion at the Trail’s mid-point, for fun and networking to their alumni Ideal for military history buffs.Would run stops for a series of clues which lead Hawks Nest Lodge and surroundings. as a way to get them to come back. from Lewisburg to Point Pleasant, with the traveler to a “prize” at the end. Specifically, participants suggested These “colleges” include classroom special tours in time for the Battle re- Alternatively, the clues can be placed additional lodging accommodations, instruction, field trips, and, when avail- enactment around every October 10. at various stops and pull-offs along the development of the marina area in the able, living history presentations by his- Some historians claim that the Battle of Trail. A nationally-advertised scavenger New River Gorge at the bottom of tory scholars. Point Pleasant was the Revolution’s first hunt would make a Trail Scavenger Hunt the Lodge’s tramway, canoeing facili- Meanwhile, colleges and secondary armed conflict. the first of its kind in the U.S. ties and equipment in the marina, and schools may offer credit for classes j. From Mine to Market: Coal Industry paving of lots. which are at least partly history- and in West Virginia. heritage-oriented. Good way to combine the Coal Heritage Development of Tours with e. Nature Tours and Midland Trails into one bus tour. Start Special Themes: Ideal for retirees and students. on the Coal Heritage Trail for a look at Ingenuity can devise any number of Attractions include Greenbrier State the mining side and end on the Midland tour packages with special emphases Forest, a federal fish hatchery, the bird Trail for the refining industry perspective. that would enrich the tourist experi- life at Hawks Nest State Park, and ence. Kanawha State Forest. Interpretive activities will call for 4.30 4.31 Other Characteristics: Industrial SPECIAL HISTORICAL QUALITIES: Locations Industrial Heritage on the Trail

Johnny, Jr.: 1. Railroad yard 6. Coal company town Bet you didn’t expect to get a note from your old Pop, but this 2. Dickinson Salt-Works 7. Elkem Metals is to let you know that Mom and I fine and having a relaxing 3. time just getting back to nature. DuPont Chemical Plant 8. Hawks Nest Hydro Power Facility Shot these pictures on U.S. 60 Midland Trail, and thought 4. they might be of interest. At London Locks 9. World’s Largest Hardwood Lumber least they are to me. Both of Enterprise your grandfathers worked in 5. Cannelton Coal places like these, and I did as a young man and for about fifteen years after I came back from Japan in ‘46.It gave us a good liv- ing, so I’m interested in these things. I guess it kinda gets into your blood. INDUSTRIAL That one picture is Port Amherst, outside of Charleston. They transport chemicals and coal out of those rail yards. Port Amherst was the site of the largest railroad the U.S. I wish Bill had been here with us; flatbed car ever built in the U.S. he could’ve explained all the engineering A couple of miles down the road is to us. DuPont plant. If you look over to the right, That other large place is Elkem Metals, you see a large white structure used to man- the largest silicon metal producer in the INDUSTRIAL HISTORY: ufacture herbicides. I used to make those at world. I read that half of the world’s com- Elkem Metals AgriTech.For over 70 years, DuPont has been puter chips have silicon that comes from producing intermediates for final chemical Elkem. Silicon out of here goes into glue products, and it ships about 200 herbicide that binds the space shuttle’s panels to its products all over the world. This plant is body. where they developed nylon (remember My back was acting up, so Mom leaned Mom complaining about runs in her stocking) over and got those shots of the Hawks and antifreeze. DuPont was one of the indus- Nest Tunnel. We really could’ve used Bill tries around here that manufactured muni- to tell us about it. Elkem used to be part tions during the War (the Army gave it 3 of Union Carbide, and it built the Tunnel awards for service, and the Army assigned it a to generate hydroelectric power for its protection force), and I understand it used to silicon-making operations. 4 turbines that be the largest ammonia-producing place in generate enough electrical power to run the country. a small city like Charleston. A lot of men You can see the photo with the tipple that lost their lives constructing it, though; we crosses right over the road.That’s Cannelton were spoiled at SynTech,with all the safe- Coal company. Cannel coal is a hot-burning ty, safety, safety. coal for certain industrial purposes. Just wanted to share these things with Mom and I took a tour through the Locks you. Hope the family is well. at London. It’s part of a series of 9 locks up and down Kanawha River for coal barges. Love, Kanawha River had the first movable dams in Pop 4.32 4.33 Other Characteristics: Cemeteries Locations

1. Spring Hill Cemetery

2. Ruffner Cemetery

3. Memorial Gardens

4. Springdale Cemetery

5. Jeanette Cemetery

6. Old Stone Church Cemetery

CEMETERIES

4.34 4.35 A Quick Look: How the Trail Shaped the American Experience

The following is a thumbnail history of the Midland Trail. * Greenbrier Hotel, world-famous resort, * British General Braddock, later of * George Washington envisions a * Country’s first industrial trust at provides kings, presidents, and statesmen Revolution fame, directs the building route to the continent’s interior and Malden; salt makers signed an agreement rest and relaxation. General Lee stayed of Lewisburg’s Fort Savannah. southward to the Gulf of Mexico for to control prices and production. This there.The Greenbrier was a WWII hospi- settler traffic and commerce. business practice did not come into tal and a “Summer White House” for * Daniel Boone lives across the Washington procured 30,000 acres vogue until 70 years later. presidents. Under one wing was a top- Kanawha River from the Trail and of land grants in the Kanawha Valley secret nuclear bunker for the entire hunts on it. Serves as lieutenant- and bequeathed land to the public at * General Lee finds his famous horse Congress and their aides. colonel in Kanawha militia and com- Burning Springs. Traveler at Little Sewell Mountain near mands the defense of 3 forts in Rainelle during his 1861 Sewell Campaign. * Gauley River is considered one of the Lewisburg during the Point Pleasant * Staging area for last great white- He watched his troops from the famous world’s best whitewater rivers. campaign. Native battle east of the Ohio River, Lee’s Tree there. Traveler accompanied the Battle of Point Pleasant; Lewis Lee during the War and died and was * Plants at Alloy and Belle considered so * William Tompkins of Cedar Grove is marched westward in October 1774 buried at Washington and Lee University vital to national war efforts that the America’s first businessman to use from Camp Union, now Lewisburg, to in Lexington. Federal Government stationed troops at natural gas for industrial purposes. what some say was the first conflict them. DuPont invented antifreeze (ethyl- of the Revolution. * Lewis and Clark travel the Trail on their ene glycol) and nylons (world’s only * Ansted hosts the Annual Street luge famous journey to the Louisiana source in 1939-47). on Gauley Mountain, which draws * Largest hardwood lumber company Purchase.Their land travel ends at Cedar lugers from all over the world. This in the world. Rainelle’s Meadow River Grove, then called the “Boat Yards”, * African-Americans establish state’s event is even listed on the Internet. Lumber Company produced wood where their dugouts were cut. From mother church for all West Virginia black which built the U.S. Supreme Court there, the two set out on the Kanawha Baptists at Malden in 1872, the African * Construction of first Gatlin Gun at building, New York’s Waldorf-Astoria, River. Zion Baptist Church. Belle’s Camp Piatt. The Gatlin Gun and part of Yale University. gave the North a military advantage. * Only time in American legal history that * New River is one of earth’s oldest Future Presidents Hayes and McKinley * Childhood home of Booker T. a court accepted the hearsay evidence of rivers, and one of a few that flow north. stationed at Piatt and Kanawha Falls Washington. His years at Malden a ghost; this case was a murder. Today, The New River Gorge is millions of years during the 1861-62 Kanawha Valley taught him the values of hard work, Zona is a drama at Lewisburg’s old. Campaign. education, and self-respect which Greenbrier Theater. made him a leading spokesman for * Lewisburg earns the name “Western * Teenage future journalist, writer, and the post-Civil War black community. * In 1815, Captain James Wilson drills Cradle of Independence” because it is the biting social critic Ambrose Bierce sta- America’s first gas well. first stop on the pioneer’s route to the tioned at Gauley Bridge in 1861. * Andrew Carnegie’s philanthropic opening western frontier. Bierce later disappeared in 1913 while largesse gives Lewisburg Carnegie * Oldest golf course in country, dating covering the Mexican Revolution. Hall; today, in addition to hosting a from 1884, still operates in White Sulphur * Federal Government builds country’s variety of enriching cultural pro- Springs. Two Scots establish Oakhurst first movable dams on Kanawha River,rev- * National football star Randy Moss grams, Carnegie Hall has one of the Links, which still requires play by 1884 olutionizing river commercial travel. gets his auspicious start at Belle’s country’s largest rural arts-in-educa- rules. DuPont High School in 1990s. tion program. * Completion of Hawks Nest Tunnel in * In 19th century,Malden becomes largest 1930s. State’s greatest engineering * Legendary trek of Mary Draper single salt-producing town in the world, achievement of the time (creation of a Ingles, who escaped captivity and and John Hale the world’s largest salt- hydroelectric facility which still operates) walked through hostile Indian terri- producer. Full of iron impurities, its salt and worst industrial tragedy (workers’ tory along the Trail to Virginia. was red, making it prized among west- deaths of silicosis spurred national work- Bestseller Follow the River drama- ward-moving pioneers. Rest of country ers’ compensation reform). tizes Mary’s ordeal. “Mad” Anne looks to Salines for lessons in drilling; Bailey would later travel the Trail to “Uncle” Billy Morris perfects steel drilling * Cass Gilbert, designer of government bring gunpowder to besieged bit. structures in Washington, D.C., designs Charleston. State Capitol. 4.36 4.37 . joy, sadness, ales of the Trail tales along my paths. to tell my tale Time has come T MIdland Trail watched history unfold hopes, and disappointment. Since the dawn of time, I have Each one of my miles has a story of MIDLAND TRAIL: TRAIL TALES

Since the dawn of time, I have watched history unfold along my I AM A TRAIL Today, I’m a paths. Each one of my miles has a story of joy, sadness, hopes, route for the and disappointment.Time has come to tell my tale. OF HERITAGE visitor who I am a kaleidoscopic Trail. wants a different Schoolteachers: experience. My history is hundreds of his- Use this space for ideas and To some I’m a tories, and with each turn you will notes: route to charm discover something new and Native Americans and scenery. unique which falls into place only To some I’m a when you change your perspective. Pioneers path to great Over 200 years ago, I led buf- outdoor falo to salt and greener pasture, African-Americans recreation. and behind them the Natives that To many I’m the tracked and killed them. Women way to great I smoothed the way for the shopping, cultur- colorful Conestogas of pioneers al programs, and Immigrants who wanted to carve out pieces roadside cafes. To some I am of the wilderness for themselves. Prominent Personages the road grand- My natural resources, my riches, daddy and his brought riches to the enterprising, Resources daddy took to the risk-takers who brought work in the industrial and technological mines or the innovations to the country. Transportation chemical plants. But my industry did not bring My path is many opportunity to all. Human beings Labor and Industry paths. who endured the bitter fruit of slavery walked in chains over me. Civil War Time and again, I sped armies on their way to conquest, occupation, Flora, Fauna, and Geology victory and defeat. My industries helped bring down dictators who Creativity endangered our freedoms. Iwas partly responsible for West Virginia’s becoming a state.

5.2 5.3 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: Native Americans Pioneers I led the Native to plentiful game in the hunting-ground. I was a trail to fortune and freedom over 200 years ago, and Among the many tracks of my vanished past are moccasin that is why I’m one of the oldest routes in the United States. prints of peaceful Native hunters and proud Native warriors. If you yearned for a new life, I was the way to that life: a route to the open West. Some of earliest inhabitants were the as the Kanawha River. Meanwhile, the fierce mysterious Mound Builders, or Adena and warlike Shawnee lived in my Lower Before he became the father of your Virginia was limited. People, most likely Natives whose Kanawha Valley and had villages in present- country, your George Washington had In September 1774, in response ancestors were Asian and may have day Greenbrier County. I still remember grand plans for his first “son”: a route to the Native troubles, General migrated from the Mexico/Central Shawnees leading Mary Ingles and her party which would stretch from tidewater Andrew Lewis gathered 1000 Virginia American area some 2000 years ago. over my dust in 1755. Virginia to the Gulf of Mexico, leading to militiamen and marched them over They left behind hun- West Virginia had been a military prize, the heartland of the continent. I would be me to Point Pleasant. There he bat- dreds of mounds, the focus of a great contest for control by a route for pioneer movement and to tled and defeated a confederation of although few exist warring tribes. Eventually, however, the area southern markets. He convinced the braves under Chief Cornstalk. For today. The Builders’ became a common hunting-ground for Virginia Assembly to appropriate funds for this, they named me the Lewis Trail. mounds contained tribes.Tribes such as the Adena Culture set- my development. In 1786, they renamed me the Old numerous layers of tled me in the Kanawha Valley at least as far Immigrants from Europe normally State Road and, later, Koontz’ New tombs, complete as St. Albans, leaving large burial mounds; came to the Northeast, and many then Wagon Road, and I with jewelry, knives, Shawnee, Miami, Delaware, and Seneca gradually migrated down the Shenandoah became Western and tools which the inhabited my Greenbrier Valley. I led them Valley to my east.When the Valley ended Virginia’s first wagon dead would need in to salt, especially my rich brines at the pre- in the area of Lewisburg, they then turned route. I didn’t always their next life. They sent-day Malden area, where buffalo congre- west onto me. extend as far as I do. also cultivated beans gated to drink this necessity to life. That is I can still remember the tall, colorful My path used to end and corn on my fer- why Malden was first called “Salt” or “mountain ships” that carried their lives at Kanawha Falls, tile shoulders. “Buffalo Licks”. I led them to buffalo as well and possessions to destinations unknown. then at Cedar Grove Around 1650, I as other wild animals: elk, deer, fish, black Today you can see one of these at (they called it “Boat witnessed a new bear,wild turkey, and ruffled grouse. For this Lewisburg’s North House museum. Yards”), where flat- face, the Iroquois, reason, historians named me the “Buffalo To bring an end to the French and boats would begin who forced out the Trail”.The Natives were very economical in Indian War, the British signed a peace their journey west- Mound Builders and their harvest of each buffalo; they used treaty with the Natives, and wanted to ward on the Great became the predom- every part of the animal for some purpose, keep that peace.When they saw that I was Kanawha River. The inant Native in my Peaceable Kingdom and wasted nothing of it. leading too many pioneers west for their Virginia Assembly area. Iroquois formed a military alliance, This Cabin Creek I was one of a number of Native roads liking, their George III decreed the hired men to super- called the Five Nations, with the tapestry depicts the in Western Virginia. At Lewisburg, I cross Proclamation of 1763 forbidding any intend my develop- Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, time before 1750 where Route 219 stands now, where the movement or settlement west of the ment, and ordered and Seneca. In 1712, the Tuscarora when Native north-south-running Seneca Trail once Alleghenies. None of the pioneers paid my extension to joined after another tribe forced them stood. Americans were heed to the decree. Lexington, Kentucky. from the North Carolina area, creating I am a Trail of many peoples: black, attracted to the I welcomed them to the western fron- the Six Nations, the most powerful white, and Native. Before my European chil- banks of the Great tier, but not everyone greeted them with Karen Vuranch portrays Mary Ingles at Indian confederacy in America. dren hunted for freedom and subdued the Kanawha River for open arms. Many Native tribes were Booker T.Washington cabin in Malden. “happy hunting Between 1656 and 1672, Mohawks, wilderness, my Native children hunted food unhappy with the arrival of white settlers grounds” and our coming with guns which they received and waged battles for the right to my hunt- who cleared their hunting-grounds, drove Before the United States was natural resource - from the Dutch of New York, con- ing-grounds. away their food, and took their land. born, I led its citizens to lives salt. quered West Virginia. whose freedom and prosperity These were not the only ones to Certain tribes destroyed settlements and even killed settlers to keep back this are the foundations of the life have claims on my lands. The Georgia- which Americans still enjoy. based Cherokee had claim as far north white menace, but their hold on Western 5.4 5.5 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: African-American Women For the African-American, I was first a trail of tears, then a trail of hopes and economic I have been a woman’s trail, too.Women have distinguished themselves opportunity. For the African-American, I am Trail of hard history and cultural rediscovery. through various talents and feats of skill along my way. The first time I saw the African- Virginia not only to start a new life, but American, gangs of them, led by also to bring a father figure into her chil- The first white woman I ever saw was the manners and cus- white overseers, walked in chains to dren’s lives. Ferguson had escaped bondage Mary Ingles, a strong frontier woman who toms of my people. fuel the salt-furnaces at Kanawha and came to the Salines, then sent for Jane was physically robust, resourceful, and I told you about Jane Salines, now Malden, and along the and her children. The Washington family extraordinarily courageous given her cir- Washington. I watched Kanawha Valley. Western Virginians settled in Malden, and the boys and their cumstances. In July 1755, a band of as she braved a lot of Booker T.Washington were small, independent farm holders, new stepfather went to work in the salt- Shawnees captured her, her sister-in-law hardship to keep her depicted as a child in not tobacco growers, and didn’t need packing houses. One of the boys, Booker, Betty Draper, her two little boys, and her children together as Norton House histori- the great amount of human labor for grew up to be a leading spokesman for his baby (she gave birth along the way), and she brought them to cal murals. cultivation and harvest of product race and a leading black educator.I remem- took the entire party to Kentucky. They their second chance When they were freed which the Easterners did. ber when he rode a stagecoach over me to stopped at present-day Malden and her in the Salines. Jane’s at the Burroughs Hampton School in Virginia, spending captors taught Mary to boil the brines for fortitude stood for Plantation in Virginia,an Furthermore, the saltmakers could not their salt.That’s how she survived--making the strength of a eight-year-old Booker engage them for wage-labor. So the everything he had just to get to a school and his family walked salt-makers who lived beside me leased which would unlock the world for him herself useful. Mary escaped her captors lot of African- over 300 miles to set- African-American slaves from outside through education. by returning along my route, retracing her American women tle in Malden. Here he the Valley to meet their manpower Life in the decades after the Civil War way with the Kanawha and New Rivers like her. learned to read, taught needs. The Salines had one of the was hard for the African-American, but back to her Virginia home. It was cold, she Who can for- Sunday School and largest concentration of enslaved West Virginia offered hopes. Malden was was hungry and ill-clothed, and I heard the get feisty old married. African-Americans in the country, not the only place of opportunity. The old woman with her threaten to cannibal- “Mother”Jones, the woman who numbering as many as 5000. freedmen who found limited horizons in ize her. stirred West Virginia’s miners to stand After freedom came, many for- the South often migrated to the coal-fields, Mary is representative of the pioneer for their rights against exploitation? mer slaves migrated over my and many settled in Ansted. woman who endured hardship with her The mine owner’s strikebreakers took route to freedom and Tragedy is as much a part of history as husband so that she might build a life for this 80-year-old seamstress from opportunity, many to the success. Many African-American men gave and with her family after picking up from Chicago into custody and placed her new states out West. their lives in the building of the Hawks the familiar life she knew in the east and under house arrest at Pratt. There One day, as I recall, a Nest Tunnel which lies under me.As many transplanting to an unknown future. they isolated her, but that wasn’t family consisting of a as 500 to 600 died from breathing silica Maybe you’ve heard of “Mad”Anne enough to stop her from slipping mes- mother, a little girl, and dust, bringing a sobering note to the engi- Bailey. She wasn’t really mad; she just had sages back and forth under a trap several small boys came neering triumph which this feat represent- a lot of masculine habits, and that was door to the miners. along, pulling a wagon ed. hard for some people to accept or under- I’ve even been home to a famous with all their posses- Today, I am a route to an understanding stand. I can still remember her horse, poet, Louise McNeill, your State Poet sions. Jane Washington of African-American heritage. In Malden, panting and sweating as she sped to Laureate. She lived beside me, com- brought her family out of a you can see the oldest black Baptist church Lewisburg for ammunition and powder posing poems and authoring books of plantation in southwest in the state, claiming Booker as one of its when the Natives attacked Fort poems to her last days. Louise was members, and a Salt Village which remem- Clendenin (you call it Charleston). hailed as the greatest poet of this cen- This mural depicts to the time recently freed slaves stopped bers the life and values of Booker and his Actually, she repeated this feat later on. at the kitchen gate of Norton House Malden (circa 1840). tury to live in the state. race.Ansted’s African American Family Tree They say the natives cornered her at Come my way, and learn about House cook Mary, the Norton’s cook, declined their invitation Museum offers a glimpse inside African- Hawks Nest, and she and her horse had women who have shown bravery, to travel on to Ohio, but fed them her special blueberry jam American coal-camp culture. Camp to jump off the cliff in order to escape. strength, and talents since colonial and biscuits. Washington Carver, keeps African- And then there was the famous itiner- days. American cultural alive with a variety of ant journalist, Anne Royale, who traveled music and arts programs. my way and made extensive notes about 5.6 5.7 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: Immigrants Prominent Personages Shoes of history’s lights have trod my way, some even before they became famous. I have My people are two peoples. One comes to me and settles; the other tarries for a been a Trail to fame. moment, then vanishes.The one establishes the pattern and tempo of life for which I am known. No less important, the other leaves his mark on me in some unique George Washington owned land Congress to develop me for move- way before taking his own trail to other opportunities. patents in my Kanawha Valley, and even ment into Kentucky and for moving willed a plot of land to the public use for- produce and livestock to market. ever at Burning Springs. He had grand There have been other government You, reader, are an immigrant to on Gauley Mountain lies the famous plans for me: a route that led to the Gulf leaders on my path, such as your rus- my path. I have seen you come Hawks Nest Tunnel, built partly by a of Mexico. tic Andrew Jackson and your sophisti- from many places and many ages. large number of immigrants during Daniel Boone lived on my path for 10 cated Martin Van Buren, and your years before he moved west; for five years Horace “Go West, Young Man” My history is the history of the the Depression. My foreign children he lived on the Kanawha River at Greeley. Even commingling of many cultures and were Greek, Czech, Hungarian, Charleston, and I remember when his today, Presidents, ways of living. Romanian, Italian, Polish, and a dozen cave sat on my shoulder. kings, and states- Among my earliest settlers were other European and Eurasian nation- He wasn’t the only blazer on my trail. men come from Scotch-Irish and Germans alities and ethnic groups. Their labor Lewis and Clark came my way until they all over to stay at (Pennsylvania Dutch) who came to produced one of the state’s--and the stopped at Cedar Grove, built their my Greenbrier dugout at the “Boat Yards”, then continued Hotel. the Northeast and often traveled country’s--greatest engineering mar- to the west to explore for President Then there down the Shenandoah Valley, then vels of its time. Tragically, many died Jefferson. are my curious, west to Lewisburg. So many of of silicosis after working in an atmos- I hosted famous jurist John Marshall, such as your these flowed into the town that it phere of pure silica dust without any future Chief Justice of the Supreme naturalist and became known as the “Western protection. Today, this production of Court; he measured the height of the bird-painter Cradle of Independence” and an partially immigrant labor produces up New River Gorge at Hawks Nest, and John Jay unofficial capital of Western they named it Marshall’s Pillar in his Audubon and to 100 megawatts of power for Elkem honor. y our Virginia. Metals in Alloy. Many famous soldiers and one sol- Matthew Maury, father Many of these early immigrants I am a “multinational” Trail, a dier-horse marched on my dirt.You know of American oceanography, who plot- settled in my mountains and val- “Melting Trail” whose history was about General Andrew Lewis. I told you ted shipping lanes at Sewell Mountain leys, proud and fiercely indepen- rich with the faces, tongues, and cus- about future Presidents Hayes and while recovering from an accident. Malden’s dent in their customs and man- toms of dozens of nations and ethnic McKinley, who were stationed throughout I’ve seen industrial wealth and Norton House, ners. These emigrants from the Old my Kanawha Valley from Belle to Hawks industrial unrest. Mother Jones trav- groups, all intermingling and blend- Nest.Along with them marched Ambrose eled me in her crusade to improve the like many places Country became my small, inde- ing to create a uniquely “American” Bierce, an 18-year-old private who would lot of your state’s miners. In on the Trail, has pendent farmholders, my salt of route. one day become a famous journalist and Lewisburg, you can still the philan- seen the famous the earth which established a tem- writer and disappeared in 1913 while cov- thropy of 19th-century steel industri- come and go. per of simple, honest living that ering the Mexican Revolution. General alist Andrew Carnegie, whose funding Pictured (l to r): thrives even today. Lee rode me several times, and cam- built Carnegie Hall. State Poet Throughout the nineteenth cen- paigned at my Sewell Mountain and And there are the arts.Your State Laureate Louise Lewisburg area in 1861; at Sewell Poet Laureate, Louise McNeill, has tury, immigrants traveled my soil Mountain I gave him his famous horse lived on my side while authoring the McNeill, Pearl in order to put their architectural Traveler. poetry which brought her acclamation Buck, Horace signatures on my wilderness. I watched the life of Booker as the state’s greatest poet in the 20th Greeley, and Malden’s homes still bear their Washington from the time he walked as a century. A contemporary of hers, author John mark in the exterior and interior little boy to the Salines, as a college stu- Norman Jordan, lives in Ansted, and is Hale. dent to Virginia,and as the famous educa- an internationally known poet and personalities which my immi- tor and orator of Tuskegee. playwright. grants put on them. In Ansted, you He wasn’t the only orator. Senator My past is the country’s past; my can see the work of Italian builders Daniel Webster and his equally eloquent illustrious visitors have been your and artisans in 1890s-era homes. peer, Henry Clay of Kentucky, rode across country’s heritage. Below my mountainous curves me. Clay used his skills to persuade 5.8 5.9 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: Resources Transportation I’ve been a path to riches and enduring fortunes. I made men I am one Trail. I am many Trails. If it has traveled by land or 1815 wealthy with the resources of my valleys and farmlands. Share water, I led its way. I witnessed the development from the 1743 CAPTAIN JAMES the story of the commodities that made this possible. horse to the horseless carriage. Read my story. THE MIDLAND WILSON DRILLS The tale begins with salt brines, which TRAIL IS THE FIRST AMERICA’S FIRST ical industry based at first on salt compounds Long before your autos rolled on me, The world forgot about me in the later buffalo used at the so-called Buffalo Licks and an industrial base which has since PUBLIC ROAD GAS WELL thousands of cloven hooves of buffalo came 19th century. Collis Huntington built his at Malden and which Mary Ingles’ expanded to include metals, explosives, syn- to lick salt at my brines. railroads, and that became a preferable OPENED IN WV Shawnee captors taught her to boil for thetic fabrics, auto products, and agricultural Pioneer movement brought teams of oxen form of transportation. Gauley Bridge crystalline salt. When Mary returned to products. and horses which pulled the “mountain ships” was an old railroad depot for New York Virginia, word of the Valley’s brines spread A short distance from the Salines were that carried everything my emigrants pos- Central, and you can and attracted enterprising businessmen. bubbling pools of natural gas at Burning sessed. still see it from Hawks William Tompkins The Valley’s first salt-maker, Elisha Brooks, Springs.This area flowed with gas and oil, but Drovers used to drive thousands of sheep Nest Overlook. First industrialist in started boiling at his furnace in the the salt-makers regarded them both as nui- and hogs all along me.These drovers were my However, around America to use natur- Kanawha Valley in 1797. sances, throwing them into the Kanawha first “postmen”;since no organized postal sys- 1916, some people al gas for industrial David Ruffner, the first salt-driller in River. Instead, they stripped the Valley’s moun- tem existed, villages often asked these itiner- formed the Midland purposes. the Kanawha Valley, extracted after 18 tains for timber to fire their furnaces. Not for ants to deliver their mail for them (my “Trail Trail Automobile Club months of drilling into the rock strata long, though. In 1815, Captain James Wilson mail”). (imagine--a club named under me at the Kanawha Salines, striking struck America’s first natural gas in America, I used to end at Cedar Grove, so they after me!) because they rich brine in 1808. Salt-furnaces began and William Tompkins of Cedar Grove was ARMS, established a flatboat building port there. wanted a good traversa- operating at the Salines, named for its the first man in America to use natural gas for ANTIFREEZE,AND That’s why it was first called “Boat Yards.” ble paved trans-conti- brines, and eventually 50 grew throughout industrial purposes. Kanawha flatboatmen were the among the nental road, so I was AMMONIA the Valley. Entrepreneurs have also harvested my tim- best in the world, and ferried a lot of salt out paved. Bicyclers also DuPont and Elkem Salines’ salt had a unique color, called ber and my coal. My mountains have cannel of the Salines to Cincinnati and New Orleans. wanted a good bike tribute to America’s “that red salt of Kanawha” because it and splint coal, hot-burning coals which are Then I became a stagecoach route. Starting route. Flatboats were used to ferry Malden salt down the strength in war and became crimson during boiling. Red salt ideal for a number of industrial purposes. in 1827, companies started running between In 1988,West Virginia Kanawha River to Cincinnati and New Orleans. Below:Today coal, chemicals and other products are peace. became a valued commodity in the West Today, a tipple crosses over my road at Lewisburg and Charleston. Inns sprang up. gave me a new name, shipped by barge. because of its superior curing and pre- Cannelton. Fayette County’s mines figured Rides on my back weren’t very pleasant. I was the Midland Trail Scenic serving qualities and because of its pun- prominently, too. so bumpy and uneven in those days that the Highway. And there’s even a new club gent flavor. Even my rivers are valuable. In the stagecoaches were called “shake-guts” named after me: the Midland Trail Scenic Out of the salt industry grew a chem- Depression, Elkem Metals’ predecessor,Union because they bounced the occupants around. Highway Association. Carbide, drilled through Gauley Mountain and I must have cost them a pretty penny to diverted part of the natural force of the New build and maintain, because they made me River through four turbines which generate earn my keep with toll-gates. One of them hydroelectric power to run Elkem’s facility. was at Gauley Bridge.That was how I got my With this power, Elkem refines another spe- next name: James River and Kanawha cial resource: silicon metal which has uses in Turnpike. computers, home grooming and cold remedy My surface was so uneven that some products, and in special glue for the space argued for developing me. Old polished ora- program. tor Senator Henry Clay stood up in Congress Don’t forget my timber. My Rainelle once and argued that the government should fund contained the world’s largest hardwood lum- me. After all, he was from Kentucky, and I ber company. would help the movement in and out of there. I am a trail of resources, the riches of the In the 1840s, internal improvements were a earth, but the greatest resources are my peo- significant political issue. Many valued me. I ple and my heritage. followed the Kanawha and New Rivers, the Ihave been known by many names, Before a backdrop of lust forest, coal Kanawha Salines (Malden) was exporting salt, but I have been a timeless observer of piles at Cannelton Tipple awaiting pioneers were moving west, and people need- technological developments in travel. a barge for transport along the ed a way to move their products to market. 5,10 Midland Trail by river.. 5.11 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: Industry War I helped pave the way to America’s industrial greatness.The country and the world I am a Trail of victory and a Trail of defeat. I’ve seen men march boldly to have looked to my industries for material abundance in peacetime and protect battle; equally,I’ve seen them retreat with their torn banners, their tired eyes, democracy in wartime. and their beaten faces. Call me a “warpath”, a road to conflict. the U.S, also being the country’s first to In response to the frontier Native trou- out burning the bridge at produce ammonia from coal. DuPont bles, General Andrew Lewis assembled an Gauley Bridge. From his Hico served your country, too; the govern- army of militiamen in September 1774 and headquarters, Wise asked Lee ment stationed troops there and the marched over my virgin path to do battle to separate him from Floyd’s Army gave it three awards. Today it at Point Pleasant with a confederation of command, and at Sewell ships 200 lines to 40 countries. Natives under Chief Cornstalk. Lewis Mountain refused to retreat to There must be transportation for these defeated the eloquent and awe-inspiring Lewisburg to meet with Floyd. things, so an integrated system of river, Cornstalk in what some scholars argue I witnessed the 1862 Battle of rail, and road grew around me. My Port was the first battle of the Revolution. Lewisburg and White Sulphur’s Amherst is a railroad yard for chemical Several years later, my path became blood- Battle of Dry Creek. Rebel soldiers A memorial to all WV trains, and in 1970 built the world’s soaked when vengeful whites murdered found battling along the Trail miserable; veterans stands at the largest railroad flatbed car: 125 feet long, Cornstalk in retaliation for killings of my mountains and muddy roads made 12 feet wide, with a capacity of 150,000 western end of the whites. the journey slow and they slowly tons. Midland Trail on the © Paige Dalporto I was vital to the South in holding marched and pulled supply wagons Go east on my path, and you see State Capitol Western Virginia. Without me, they could over me during the rainy and snowy Elkem Metals at Night Cannelton Coal, with its working tipple. Complex grounds. In the years that the Salines pro- stand a chance of doing so. Jefferson Davis seasons. My muddy roads and many duced salt for young America’s west- Cannel coal is a hot-burning coal. Fayette ordered General Lee to hold the Kanawha mountains always slowed armies down. EARLY 1800s: ward-moving pioneers, the rest of the County also produces splint coal, which Salines saltworks at all costs. These coupled with Wise’s denial of Salt Industrialists country looked to the Kanawha is used in the metallurgical and ceramics For three years, I watched the landscape help to frustrate Floyd at Carnifex refine the art and Valley for guidance in drilling tech- industries. You’ll even see some of my change from blue to grey to blue again. Ferry. As a result of science of drilling niques. The Salines is also credited coal towns, such as the coal-camp hous- There were the Kanawha Valley Campaigns these factors, the pro- as the rest of the with being the site of America’s first es of Boomer (after “coal boom”). statehood movement industrial trust, an 1817 salt-makers’ A little east of that is Alloy and Elkem of 1861-2, when the Valley switched hands United States predominated. I was pact to control prices and production. Metals, a Norwegian multinational several times. looks tot he village part of the reason why Trusts would not become a common which is the world’s largest silicon refin- Your future presidents Hayes and for training in the South couldn’t business practice until the 1870s. er, and supplies metal to various indus- McKinley of Ohio were stationed along my drilling techniques. hold West Virginia; you Around the salt industry grew the tries, even the space program; one of the way. First, they quartered at Belle’s Camp could say I helped it natural gas wells that would furnish world’s largest aluminum producers; Piatt in order to protect the Salines. Piatt 1817: the gas to fire my furnaces. William and a leading producer of ferroalloy. was the site of the construction of the first become a state. America’s first Tompkins became the country’s first Like DuPont, it had a protection force in Gatlin Gun, which was so important in the I’ve been a industrial trust industrialist, in 1841, to use natural WWII, and receives its power from the Civil War. Later they quartered at Camp warrior in the cause of established at gas in his enterprise. Hawks Nest Tunnel on Gauley Reynolds across from Glen Ferris. freedom for you and Malden. My salt-industry gave rise to the Mountain. Because of its toll-bridges and its rail- your allies, making the world safe for The Civil War was Valley’s chemical companies, includ- And in Rainelle was once the world’s roads, Gauley Bridge was also a valuable democracy. See my “Industry” section fought along the the ing DuPont. Since 1926, DuPont has largest hardwood lumber mill. Timber military possession. for the stories of Elkem and DuPont. Trail.Today, re-enact- from Meadow River Lumber Company Then there were Confederate Generals ments remember this supplied the world with chemical I have been a Trail of war and destruc- Rainelle :World’s products and was America’s 2nd helped build parts of Yale University, Floyd and Wise, bitter political rivals who aspect of Trail history tion. Blood has fallen on my dirt and largest hardwood largest chemical plant; it was the New York’s elegant Waldorf-Astoria, held each other in mutual jealousy. When at White Sulphur dreams of conquest in my dust. I echo lumber company. world’s sole producer of nylon dur- and the U.S. Supreme Court Building. Floyd faced Yankee General Rosecrans at Springs and near the with the cannon’s roar and the cries of ing the War and became the world’s My furnaces burn hot and bright with coal, Carnifex Ferry, he was unable to gain a Trail at Carnifex Ferry the wounded and dying. first nylon-making facility, devel- metals, and chemicals; my industries burn clear advantage against Rosecrans; the defi- and Fayetteville. oped antifreeze, and has been the brightly with the enterprising spirit. I have ant Wise refused to reinforce Floyd, and largest ammonia-producing plant in left an industrial heritage for your country. Floyd was forced to fall back, but not with- 5.12 5.13 TRAIL TALES: TRAIL TALES: Fauna and Flora Geology My past has green roots, the bird call, and the animal track. My valleys and mountains are rich with plant and animal life: Look at my cliffs, my Gorge, my the state’s purest coals and cokes. valleys, and my mountains. Refinement creates a clean-burning FLORA fuel which is valuable for smelting FAUNA There you will find a tale as and domestic heating. As you TREES: ancient as the earth itself. I am travel eastward on my back, Black Bear PINES: Pitch,White, Scrub you will see pronounced folds HICKORYS: Shell-bark, Mocker-nut, millions of years old. I watched Deer Pignut, Bitternut eras come and eras go, building in the layers of my mountains. Fox HORNBEAMS: Hop,American Look at my New River BIRCHS: Black,Yellow, Red up layers of petrified history, Gorge, where the River,which is Rabbit OAKS: White, Post,Yellow, Red, Chestnut, only to wash them away to the Pennsylvania Era (300 million Skunk Scarlet, Black, Spanish years old and one of the oldest Rattle-snake ELMS: Slippery,American sea through erosion. CHERRYS: Black,Wild Red on earth) and exposes 340-mil- Bobcat SUMACS: Staghorn, Dwarf My Kanawha Valley is 300 million years lion-year-old Mississippian Era Beaver MAPLES: Striped, Mountain, Sugar, Silver, old, dating from the Pennsylvanian rock. Red Geologic Period. During that era, mud In this area, you see rust col- BASSWOODS: Basswood,White accumulated in flood plains between ors in the rock from iron seams LAURELS: Great (Rhododendron), streams and was compressed, forming which were exposed to air.The BIRDS: Mountain I am a ASHS: White, Red sedimentary layers of shale and sandstone Mississippian-Era Mauch Chunk which composed many of its historic Group shows it in even prettier “green” Trail. Fish Hawk Meadowlark OTHER TREES: homes and building brick. shades. Cardinal Bronzed Grackle Hemlock, Gingko, Red Cedar, Black Layers of dead plants compressed to Then you see my geological New River Gorge as seen from A nature” Robin English Sparrow Willow, Butternut, Black Walnut, Beech, Hawk’s Nest Park. Bluebird Chipping Sparrow Song form seams of coal which are a staple of diversity realized in Greenbrier Trail. I am a Chestnut, Chinquapin, Cucumber Tree, Kanawha’s industry. Today, industry County. Here you find karst Killdeer Sparrow Tulip Tree, Paw Paw, Sassafras, Sourwood, extracts rare cannel coals which yield Trail of many Quail (Bobwhite) Rose-breasted Grosbeak Opossum Wood, Witch Hazel, Sweet topography, which results from the Ruffled Grouse Purple Martin, Gum, Sycamore, American Crabapple, lamp fuel oil. dissolution of limestone, made of cal- As you tracks, both Mourning Dove Barn Swallow Shad Bush, Fringe Tree, Black Haw, My 300-million-year-old “Salt” or cium carbonate, by acidic rain water animal Cooper’s (Chicken) Loggerhead Shrike Cockspur Thorn, Common Locust, “Nutall Sands” are sandstone which sup- and the formation of sinkholes, valleys, travel my Hawk Catbird Flowering Dogwood, Black Gum, plied oil, natural gas, and brines to the and caverns. Dissolving limestone and and human. Sparrow Hawk Brown Thrasher American Holly, Sweet Buckeye, Hercules Salines. These three substances migrated easily erodable rock in Greenbrier Downy Woodpecker House Wren route, Club to the Salt Sands and infused their pores, County created wide fertile valleys Northern Flicker Brown Creeper enabling salt-makers to drill and extract Nighthawk, Kingbird White-breasted which serve as productive farmland. you SHRUBS: them for their furnaces. Bluejay Nuthatch Hazelnut, Benjamin-bush, Dutchman’s Near White Sulphur Springs, my shale Black Crow Black-capped Chickadee Pipe,Wild Hydrangea, Prickly Gooseberry, From Gauley Bridge to Rainelle, are 380 million years old, of the travel Red-winged Blackbird Wild Black Currant, Strawberry Bush, Fayette County, there is a large hump, or Devonian Era. Summer Grape, Chicken Grape, Lilac-col- arch, in my back which lifted the New My trail is a Trail through through FISH: ored Laurel, Purple Azalea, Flame Azalea, River Formation at the Gorge 500 feet tens of millions of years of Catfish Dangleberry, Late Low Blueberry, Arrow- upward. 200 million years ago, the colli- time. Trout wood, Hobble-bush, Button-bush, Pursh, sion of continents caused this arch, and history, a past of formation, Bass Common Elder, Red-berried Elder. created folds in my back which run from of building up, of wearing Carp northeast to southwest.The Nutall FOOD VEGETATION AND Sandstone extend into this area, and also away, all encased in sedimen- USEFUL HERBS AND PLANTS: FORMER FAUNA: contain gas, oil, and brines. I pass through tary rock, compressed coal, Ramps, ginseng, dandelion, mullen, poke Buffalo approximately one-third of West greens and folded layers. Virginia’s coal zones, which yield some of 5.14 5.15 TRAIL TALES: Creativity I am a Trail to artistic and creative exploration. I am a multi- media Trail:paint, clay, cloth, wood, glass, sound.The rich expe- rience of my 119 miles results from the work of many hands. Some patch or mold. Some strum and pick. Others use the brush or paint with cameras. Nature is not my only artist. From end to end, I am a Trail with a at Gauley Bridge. soul.Whether it’s music, oils, quilts, or Drama plays a large role in my artistic sculpture, my people continuously life. While Hawks Nest hosts a Dinner fashion a life of artistic adventure. Theater for its guests, Lewisburg’s Start with me at my Capitol Greenbrier Theater produces comedies, grounds. Every May you can hear the musicals, and period plays. traditional strains of banjo, dulcimer, Stop in Clifftop for Doo-Wop. Camp and guitar at my Vandalia Gathering. Washington-Carver is known for its musi- There’s more music; my cloggers beat cal productions, and cultivates African- time with their feet. State tradition American arts.This in addition to a variety lives on my shoulders.All of this with- of other musical performances, including in feet of another stronghold of state oldies at an annual Doo-Wop Saturday creativity: the Department of Culture Night. and History. Just as I wind through West Virginia’s I am a stage for mountain music. My valleys and mountains, I meander through Capitol grounds host the varied the heights and depths of my people’s self- repertoire of Mountain Stage, whose expression. crowds can listen to locals and greats alike. You can get anything you want; I’ve even hosted Arlo Guthrie. At Malden, my people keep alive the Appalachian tradition of quilting.West Virginian women still create a variety of patterns of quilts the old-fashioned way: by hand, with love and patience. Cabin Creek Quilts is known world- wide for quality West Virginia quilts; some have caught the eyes of the famous. I have several fine art galleries which feature the best of West Virginia artists’ work.There is the Midland Trail Gallery, whose owner tours guests through his pottery studio, and the Cooper Gallery. I have one thriving artists’ colony and another planned. Greenbrier Resort Hotel operates one presently, 5.16 and my people plan to create another PRIORITIES PROJECTS: Accomplished and Current CollaborationCollaboration andand ReviewReview

The Midland Trail Association has been very active the past few PUBLIC LOCAL GOVERNMENT years with projects that intend to preserve, interpret, develop, PARTICIPATION JURISDICTIONS and manage the Midland Trail. Before we look at the priorities for the future, let’s pause to examine our accomplishments and pro- Strategies and projects described in The Midland Trail passes through this Corridor Management Plan include three county government jurisdic- jects in progress. input from public and private groups and tions: Kanawha, Fayette, and individuals from all along the Trail. Greenbrier. Each county and incorpo- MAJOR PROJECTS 6. A Destination Guide, “We Have It All”, ACCOMPLISHED published and distributed beginning In September 1998, the Association rated town within the county is October 1998. Contains 64 full-color held three publicized open houses, one in responsible for providing services to Our top accomplishment: designation pages of photos, advertising, and text to each of the Trail’s segments, and invited its own residents and businesses. in 1992 as a State Scenic Byway. explain and interpret the Trail’s heritage the public to express its desires and opin- Incorporated communities along and amenities. Covers from Charleston to ions as to development, preservation, the Trail are as follows: White Sulphur Springs. 1. A strong broad community-based interpretation, and management of Trail organization has developed. In Kanawha County: February 1996, the Midland Trail reor- 7. Creation of a Web-site, with a Midland resources, qualities, land, views, business ganized and from that point the orga- Trail address designation, which links all opportunity and growth, heritage, and his- Charleston nization has grown, met quarterly and advertisers and supporters of the toric buildings. The Kanawha County Belle accomplished many projects. Destination Guide with the Midland Trail meeting was held at Malden, the Fayette Cedar Grove site. At this writing, the site is logging over1000 hits per month. County meeting at Hawks Nest State * 2. Placement of brown information- Park, and the Greenbrier County meeting Fayette County: al mile-markers, informational “Travel 8. Publicity piece in Spring 1999 West at Lewisburg. Montgomery Info” signs, and directional/informa- Virginia Quarterly magazine. tional signs to tourist attractions. Meetings were informal, and consist- Gauley Bridge ed of a presentation of the intention for a Smithers 3. Established three non-profit com- PROJECTS IN PROGRESS Plan. Attendees were asked to describe Ansted munity-based Official Visitor Centers. * 1. Interpretive and informational kiosks. their “wish lists” for the Trail in their area Centers are located in Malden, Gauley for the next 20 years. Discussion would Greenbrier County: Bridge, and Lewisburg. The Association is currently working to establish kiosks at three sites along the always begin with a certain town/area Rainelle 4. Kids’ Trek. Recreated 365-mile walk Trail. near the western border of the relevant Ronceverte of 8-year-old Booker T. Washington county, and proceed eastward, one town Lewisburg and his family as a team of adults and 2. An interpretive and informational vis- or area at a time; participants discussed White Sulphur Springs itor’s history audio tape for the car high school students walked from the intrinsic qualities, problems, solutions to Burroughs Plantation in Virginia to stereo. Called “Stagecoach Stops”, this freedom in Malden,WV and then on audio tape covers the Trail and is a com- those problems, and desired projects. to the State Capitol for the official panion to the Destination Guide. Covers Participation is ongoing, continuing WV Celebration and a welcome from the history of the Trail itself and highlights to the time of this writing. Although the Governor Underwood. U.S. Secretary the towns and industries along the way. Association’s board meetings are for busi- of Transportation Rodney Slater was ness, meetings frequently include input also represented. * 3. Determination of pull-offs. Grant money has already been allocated to from members and non-member guests * 5. “A Fresh Start” Village. Built the determine 3 pull-off areas for scenic view- alike. “Salt Village” in Malden, which recre- ing. ates the boyhood home of Booker T. Washington and interprets the worka- * 4. Interpretive videos. The Association day environment and living conditions has contracted with WV University of the post-Civil War African - Institute of Industrial History,Technology, American salt-worker and embodies and Archaeology, (WVUIIHTA) to pro- or helps teach children about duce interpretive videos of the Trail. Booker’s values. 6.2 * Funded in full or in part by USDOT and WVDOT 6.3 Top Eleven Priorities of the Midland Trail

1. Build the Midland Trail organization with a strong management team. Schedule of Project Responsibilities and Recommended Projects II. Build partnerships among Trail businesses, governments, and organizations. Legend III. Marketing the Midland Trail. ◆ Lead ▼ Secondary Time IV. Western Extension to the Kentucky border. Frame S Short Term (1 year) V. Strengthening the Trail’s identity. M Medium Term 2-5 Yrs) L Long Term (6-10 Yrs) VI. Enhance the Trail’s scenic qualities.

Priorities Schools, Non-profits Chemical or Coal Companies Corporate and Small Business WV Dept of Highways Visitors Centers Convention Bureaus Midland Trail Counties Midland Trail Municipal Midland Trail Governments Private Foundations WV Dept.Tourism of

VII. Create a Byways Study Center. Assoc Scenic Highway Trail Midland and Committees Board

S M ◆ ▼ ▼ ◆ ▼ ◆ VIII. Rural Roads and Visitor Center at Hico. I. Management Team S M

◆ ▼ IX. Bicycle program for the Trail and Trail region. II. Partnership Building S M L ◆ ◆ ▼ ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼

X. Create centralized management and marketing for historic properties in S M L ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼▼ ▼ Eastern Kanawha County. III. Marketing

▼ XI. Interpretive program for industrial heritage. IV. Extending Trail S ◆ ◆ ◆

▼ V. Strengthening Image S M ◆ ▼

Several of the priority projects of the Midland Trail Association have been "on the VI. Scenic Character ▼ S M L ◆ ◆ burner" since the mid l990's.These projects have simmered and have been incor- Enhancements porated into the organizations planning process. Some are presently underway or ▼ near completion. Some, such as the single identity Midland Trail Address or joint VII. Byways Study Center M L ◆ ▼ ▼ visitor Center may take many years to accomplish. While others such as the mar- keting, promotion, management, or extension of the Trail are moving ahead. VIII. Rural Roads & M L ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼ Rivers Center

IX. Bicycles S M ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼

X.Eastern Kanawha S M ◆ ▼◆ Management Program S M ◆▼

XI. Industrial History S M ◆ Program ◆

MTSHA Board of Directors will receive Quarterly Progress Reviews of CMP Priorities from appropriate committees at their regular meetings, with reports to participating agencies and organizations, as appropriate.

6.4 6.5 MANAGING THE MIDLAND TRAIL BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS

PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT and development. Continuing this involvement Participation among agencies, organizations nent, full-time, paid staff is needed to The Midland Trail Scenic Highway with a professional staff assures that projects in and municipalities using the Trail and sharing a meet the needs of the Association and Priority I Association has made tremendous strides progress can continue in an accountable and common vision will improve its interpretation Trail activity as it outgrows donated space as a voluntary organization. However, we and local development. A strengthened com- and services; the staffs and offices which effective way. More and better involvement munication program involving newsletter, have encountered management challenges we have been using can no longer accom- with the tourist industry and state and local press releases, staff and volunteer activities modate with time, money, or equipment. Priority II as the number of projects which need entities will result in better communication and will bring Trail partners together in ways attention mount and weigh on the shoul- coordination of all Trail projects, maintaining which strengthen the overall effectiveness of COSTS ders of a limited number of volunteers over volunteer spirit while involving professional the organization and the Midland Trail Region. our 120-mile stretch of mountains. It is support. Partnerships of this nature will assist with * Salary and benefit package for staff critical that MTSHA move from an organi- supporting projects of the Midland Trail and * Office equipment and supplies zation of volunteers to one with profes- RESPONSIBILITY: The volunteer leadership of its partners. It will smooth the transition * Rent, utilities, insurance sional guidance as soon as possible. the MT will have top responsibility of ensuring from a volunteer-managed to a professionally * Office location near Charleston To accomplish this transition, the availability of funds for hiring management. managed organization. Partnering with other * Vehicle (circuit ride for Scenic Byways Association must bring together a team Local and regional government must be aware organizations on marketing, management, business) BUILD THE with professional leadership that under- of the effectiveness of a regional approach, Visitor Centers, and support of the Trail's * Graphic Design and publishing capability stands the complexities of funding sources that is, WV Scenic Highway leadership should projects will be necessary. Greenbrier, Fayette, Kanawha Counties, MIDLAND and is capable of accomplishing the plans be involved in resource development. RESPONSIBILITY outlined in this document. Suggestions for with the proposed addition of Putnam and BUILD TRAIL Cabell Counties, will form the new Midland Responsibility for successful manage- management development and marketing ALTERNATIVE STRATEGIES Trail.An approved extension means five sepa- ment and partnership building belongs PARTNERSHIPS ORGANIZATION are discussed in chapters on management rate county commissions, two of the state’s with the Executive Trail Manager, who and marketing. Additionally, this Plan pre- Start-Up Cost-Sharing Model largest cities, and a score of city councils, may- works in cooperation with the Board of AMONG sents strategies for developing a fully paid WITH Establishing an office with computers, ors, and other elected officials. Three sepa- Directors to oversee operations. The TRAIL professional staff which works with other telephones, utilities, and meeting and working rate and independent regional planning bodies Manager,working hand-in-hand with com- A STRONG byways in a circuit-riding manner. Student spaces requires a significant investment. A serve these areas. Dealing with competition munity-based groups and committees, can BUSINESSES, interns and cost-shares are alternative phase-in may involve a project partner in the between jurisdictions and forming effective watchdog a variety of functions. MANAGEMENT routes towards full professional manage- area which accommodates an incubator or partnerships is an essential element for reach- Standing Board committees include the GOVERNMENTS, ment until the Association has resources in cost-sharing concept for convenience to both ing Association goals. following: Communications, Finance, TEAM place to achieve this project. ends of the Trail until such times as it can or In order to accomplish these tasks, the Marketing, Nomination, Membership, AND Association must attract and retain qualified Environment.The Association can devel- MTSHA has won considerable credibil- chooses to be completely independent. ORGANIZATIONS ity in recent years by accomplishing several professionals who are able to continue build- op others as needed. ing the organization and remain with it until it Trail-wide projects, including a Destination Student Interns Staff Supplement Guide, "We have It All", and its accompany- is established enough to move into a more BENEFITS WVU Tech, University of Charleston, mature and independent phase. A profes- ing publicity campaign. The Trail has also West Virginia State and Marshall University all sional must be able to manage multi-faceted * Strong links with and physical proximi- Please See accomplished a number of successful com- can provide student interns that benefit start- programs involving government, tourism, ty to state government, media, business, Chapter 7 munity-based projects. up projects. Riverside High School Learn and business and non-profit sectors. This individ- and tourism-related organizations for details The Association has learned from expe- Serve may be extremely helpful here. ual, together with a centralized professional * A "showcase" presence in a historic rience.We have found that access to state staff (see management plan section), will work district with industrial, cultural, racial and government, media markets, travel and Scenic Byway CVB Consortium with boards and related organizations in artistic diversity at the Kanawha segment tourism organizations, and good graphic The Trail, the Coal Heritage Trail, the partnership with the Trail and intersecting and * Close links between management, design and marketing professionals are all Highland Scenic Highway and CVBs in partnering Trails and groups. board and governmental agencies. integral to the organization’s momentum. Charleston, Oak Hill, Beckley or South The ability of Trail organization(s) to part- A location close to Charleston and its Charleston all can gain from successful coordi- ner with organizations which can provide resources, together with a circuit-riding nation and cooperation. Coordinating with the rent, utilities, equipment, vehicles, storage, staff, is most advantageous for accomplish- state Tourism and Scenic Byways Offices could taxes, insurance or any other overhead cost ing our goals. will prove an important benefit. Funding pro- result in creative management solutions. vided through federal or state government is BENEFITS regularly delayed. As such, it would aid the We expect to realize many benefits for Virginia-West Virginia Connection organization’s activities to have a line of cred- Association activities from paid manage- At Buena Vista,Virginia the U.S. Forest it that meets payroll and other necessary ment. Our work as a volunteer organiza- Service and Buena Vista CVB share staffing expenses. tion has generated enthusiasm and involve- responsibilities for a visitor center on Virginia’s Over the last thirty-six months the orga- ment not only from within, but also from Trail. Extending the Midland Trail Scenic Byway nization has used the equipment and supple- outside; government officials from local to concept into Virginia could provide an impor- mental staff of Cabin Creek Quilts federal levels have expressed support, busi- tant model and location; whitewater rafting, Cooperative, West Virginia Quarterly Magazine ness supported the Destination Guide, and canoeing, hiking, camping, biking are all available and the law office of Larry L. Rowe, who local citizens’ groups have embraced the here.The addition of information on the West serves as MTSHA's President. All of these MTSHA’s platform of heritage preservation Virginia Trail at a location such as this will help. organizations are located in Malden four miles 6.6 from the State Capitol. However, a perma- 6.7 MARKETING THE MIDLAND TRAIL Expand the Trail to WV’s Western Border

1. A single address for the Midland Trail Horace Greeley visited the Norton across Virginia from Atlantic Ocean to is a community-based goal which will pro- House on the Trail in Malden. His famous “Go Mississippi. RESPONSIBILITY vide marketing benefits and visitor assis- West, Young Man” quote reminds us of the The Corridor Management planning Priority III The Midland Trail Marketing Committee has tance at no cost once it is in place. A opportunity, adventure and entrepreneurial process will provide an important body of Priority IV name-place address which is recognizable done a significant job thus far. Together with benefits the West represents. The Midland knowledge to those western communi- regionally as well as nationally for what MTSHA’s board and staff, the Committee will Trail Scenic Highway Association sees a west- ties which join the Midland Trail.As such, and where it is will be very valuable to continue and expand upon this work. ern extension to the Kentucky border a vital it will catalyze similar processes in our group. As an organization, we must Cooperative agreements with the WV key to the Trail’s future development. Virginia and Kentucky once they see the acknowledge that many changes require Department of Tourism and Transportation The Association has evidence of strong benefits of a program which connects our time, and this is one which clearly will opened up available grants which have been community support for this extension with borders. require a local initiative involving continu- invaluable towards making campaigns success- letters of support from over 50 community The historic, recreational, scenic, and ous reminders of the benefits. At this ful. leaders. George Washington first embraced natural attractions along this stretch will time less than 25% of the Midland Trail Continuously broadening the base with the concept of an inland route which would gain a higher community priority, which uses its name as its mailing address. connect the mid-Atlantic region with the Gulf from all indications is precisely what com- MARKETING cooperative agreements and collaborative 2. Continuation of the highly success- arrangements will expand further the Midland of Mexico. At this time, the Midland Trail munities desire. This planning process will THE Scenic Highway, as designated, ends in front of build upon community pride and encour- ful "We Have It All" campaign into its sec- Trail message. Marketing nationally and inter- the State Capitol in Charleston. Without the age preservation of intrinsic qualities on MIDLAND ond phase for the first 3-5 years of the nationally will strengthen the Association’s extension, we lose an opportunity to show- other segments of the Trail. TRAIL millennium. This campaign will drive relationship with the State and Federal offices home the concept of the Trail’s wide vari- case several properties listed on the National Gateways will prepare travelers for the of international development.The Association Register. The Western Gateway at the opportunity to use the Midland Trail. Chapter 8 ety qualities. “We Have It All” will accom- can expand those Trail materials which details plish its goals through a mix of strategies: Kentucky border provides an excellent These “doors” to the Trail, located in presently feature sections in French and opportunity to introduce the eastbound I-64 Hico, Beckley, Martinsburg, Parkersburg, Marketing German for foreign markets. traveler to the Trail and other Scenic Trails in Huntington, Charleston, White Sulphur recommendations and * New and expanded Destination Guide, Horace Greeley with new Gateways. West Virginia which intersect or sit near the Springs, and Lewisburg, are entry points implementation BENEFITS Midland Trail. The Association’s vision is to for tens of thousands of new visitors. Professional marketing materials are indis- connect communities on its route from coast * Videos and audios which can be used in MIDLAND and from the automobile as well as at home. pensable for projecting the message of the to coast, offering an important pioneer- RESPONSIBILITY Also used in visitor/reception center set- Association--"We Have it All". All of these themed option to Route 66. In anticipation of the Trail extension, TRAIL’S tings or broadcast over TV or radio, materials, combined with the efforts of a pro- Extending the Midland Trail to the West the Association’s Board at its 1999 annual “GO WEST active Trail membership, will make the Trail’s Virginia's western border accomplishes sever- meeting voted to create additional seats * Promotional tours, Treks, bicycle and marketing efforts successful. al things. First, it completes the story of on the board to accommodate members YOUNG special events which targeting markets westward pioneer movement across the from Putnam and Cabell Counties as well MAN”: Materials and programs will also raise money Alleghenies both visually and experientially as a members of the Coal Heritage Trail * Advertising campaigns in magazines,TV through advertisements and other revenue- for the tourist, demonstrating the physical and Highland Scenic Highway GO WEST 2001 challenges that pioneers faced in their west- Associations. and radio generating sources. ward movement. In this way,the Trail becomes The WVDOT and municipalities along 3. Brochures, maps, and presentations. a living portrait of the colonial-age pioneer’s the proposed extension of the Trail will Communicating with foreign visitors in their route. Moreover, extension provides an be extremely important to this effort. Includes brochures called “Trail Tracks” native tongues is the first step towards listing attractions for specific areas of expanded story of the Trail’s symbiotic rela- extending them a welcome. Multi-lingual signs interest such as whitewater sports, biking, tionships between river, road and rail trans- BENEFITS: also communicates to all who see them that photography, Civil War sites, arts and portation. Third, it expands the original east- • Completes Statewide Scenic the Midland Trail region is looking to attract crafts, and scenic beauty. west corridor proposed by George Byway Corridor foreign visitors. The culture of hospitality will Washington and further opens the possibility • Important Western Gateway access 4. Hospitality training for volunteers and take deeper roots with this acceptance and of connecting Virginia, Kentucky and points staff in visitor centers and for those expectation. west with West Virginia's piece of the Trail. In COSTS working in our business partners along Huntington the Midland Trail will meet the * Consultants or staff for Corridor the Trail Ohio River Scenic Route providing a near Management Plan continuous route from the Virginia border to * Extension 5. Expanded international market base the Mississippi River. A bicycle trip in Spring * Signage through a selection of materials produced in 2000 will proceed from Hampton, Va., to * Transportation Publications French and German for Canadian and Huntington, WV, further linking the states’ * Publications European markets which are just beginning Midland Trails in spirit.It is our hope this joint effort would offer the opportunity to extend 6.8 to explore the Trail. 6.9 Strengthen Identity and Visitor Communications SCENIC CHARACTER ENHANCEMENTS

SIGNAGE place at the Malden Visitor Center. Similar signs Trail requires a standardization of designs, Priority V Signs are the main means of communicat- will go up at the Centers at Lewisburg, Hawks construction, wording and location. This ing between the Trail and its auto travelers. Nest, Gauley Bridge and White Sulphur Springs in Capitalizing upon the visual qualities of the will benefit the traveler and ultimately the Community people along the Trail consistent- the near future, and greeting signs in Spanish and Midland Trail's scenery enhances visitor expe- overall appearance of the Trail. Since WV ly indicated a need for an improved signage Japanese are forthcoming for all. Meanwhile, pull- rience. The Association will address and mon- DOH enforces signage on-and off busi- program. Trail-traveling is not as clear-cut as offs and Gateways will offer foreign language wel- itor intrusions and distractions along the Trail, ness premises, their policies and the West Priority VI superhighway travel.This signage must be clear comes. particularly those in the industrial or mining Virginia Code will be referenced in ques- and must incorporate into its design what the areas. An active effort underway in all three tions pertaining to this matter. visitor will experience. BROCHURES AND DESTINATION GUIDES counties seeks to remove derelict and dilapi- Midland Trail members agree that signage MIDLAND Plans call for expanded as well as new destina- dated properties from the Trail and to screen RESPONSIBILITY along the Trail is a priority and needs improve- TRAIL tion guides linking the Coal Heritage Trail and the unattractive industrial or storage sites with To gether with the WVDOT and dis- ment. The Trail is not clearly signed in both Highland Scenic Highway with the Midland Trail’s rows of evergreen trees. trict DOTs, MTSHA can take a coopera- Charleston and White Sulphur Springs and large western extension and with the existing Trail. IDENTITY --- Volunteer groups have worked on pull-offs Gateway-typed arched signs would clearly Targeted travel brochures for African-Americans, tive approach in working with truck dri- STRENGTHENED explain entry onto the Midland Trail region. Women, Native American and other specific inter- and overlooks development in the last year. vers, coal companies, timber companies, Public meeting participants also felt that exits on est travelers are part of the marketing scheme. This effort will continue and step up to unions, and state and local law enforce- Please See Chapter 9 I64 should provide sufficient information for con- include ten (10) overlooks and viewsheds and ment officials.With cooperative measures ENHANCE for Signage details venient access to the Trail; at present, they do accompanying trash disposal, picnic benches and Chapter 8 for VIDEO by all parties, including travelers, new and full Marketing Plan not. A video is presently in production. An addi- and interpretive signs. repeat users of the Trail can experience SCENIC Existing signage along the Trail needs main- tional video will promote the Trail’s qualities and Roadside parks at Cannelton in Kanawha safety and comfort in their visits here. tenance and upgrading. The Association will educate the traveler about the western sector of County, at Rainelle, and Lewisburg (Tuckwiller The Association will refer to the QUALITIES establish a Signs Standards committee respon- the Trail and the Coal Heritage sector. Park) will receive further Association support West Virginia Code of the WVDOT in sible for reporting on the conditions of Trail for maintenance and upgrades. questions pertaining to this matter. signage, such as for interpretive signs and pull- ELECTRONIC KIOSKS off markers. Radio-controlled or electronic kiosks and new SAFETY UPGRADES outdoor traveler technology will figure promi- Industrial Area Signage- HAZARDS!!! GATEWAY MARKERS nently as a cost-effective means of communicating These should incorporate the Midland Trail the Trail’s message to travelers. While new tech- Identification of Trail areas with heavy coal, BENEFITS Logo and greet visitors to the Trail. Other nology, this equipment will be useful in the future. timber or trailer truck traffic, as well as other The inherently challenging and even directional information should provide travel- potential hazards, is an Association priority. potentially dangerous aspects of the Trail ers information in a cluster format. Existing COSTS The increase in visitor traffic to the Trail are part of the thrill of traveling the Trail. signs which compete with these signs should ^ Signage--new and replacement has presented safety issues as it relates both Freeway rush hour traffic, unfamiliar eventually be replaced. ^ Brochure production and printing to particular hazards in specific areas and to inner-city traffic, tunnels or detours all ^ Video production inherent characteristics of the Trail. present challenges. ROUTE AND MILE MARKERS ^ Visitor Center operation Unregulated auto and truck traffic in the These signs should identify the Midland Trail Cooperation between the Association ^ Pull-off maintenance Malden Historic District presents safety con- name along with the logo for the Trail.Used at and its partners will lead to successful cerns to school groups and tourists at cul- intersections, markers can inform travelers management and monitoring of such chal- BENEFITS tural sites on the Trail there. that they are on the Trail. Mile-markers assist •Continuity of message lenging conditions. travelers in using the destination guide as well •Increase name recognition as other information on the Trail.These signs •Building of sense of community between busi- BUSINESS SIGNS Chapter 9 Business signage on and off premises are reg- will need regular and periodic maintenance nesses and centers along the Trail Driving the Trail and upgrades. If the Trail is extended west the ulated by the WV DOH for size, height, num- Enhancing the Visitor Experience Mileage Marker signs will need adapting RESPONSIBILITIES ber and type and limited to a size which is Design, color, material use, and placement of necessary to identify and direct people to Details our Plans in this area PATHFINDER IDENTIFICATION signs should be in accordance with West Virginia points of interest or warn of hazards Also Visitor Information Centers, Gateways, and Department of Transportation standards. needed are signs that explain points of culture pull-offs are examples of locations where clus- MTSHA’s Signage Committee should work with or local history. In general, signs should be as tered pathfinder signs will help travelers nego- the state and county offices of the Department of small as possible, but consider the traveler’s tiate the Trail with ease. All signs should be Transportation to ensure that signs meet DOT coordinated with the services of the West distance and speed. It is desirable to entice guidelines. Trail representatives from each county the reader to stop and visit the attraction. Virginia Department of Transportation. can serve on the committee and work in cooper- Once the traveler adjusts to smaller signs and ation with their respective county highway depart- Foreign Language Signage ments. slower speeds, large intrusive signs are unnec- Welcomes in French and German are in essary. The variety of signs needed along the 6.10 6.11 ENCOURAGE TOURIST-RELATED DEVELOPMENT Create a Byways Study Center

In its commitment to attract serious developing as a heritage preservation scholarly study of the Trail,the Association town and with an important legacy of envisions the creation of the nation’s first diversity, education, and cultural Priority VII center for the study of scenic byways and tourism. highways.The goal of such a Center would be research into improvements in her- Responsibility itage preservation, tourism development, There exists the potential of con- interpretive projects, and management of siderable academic support from four byways and highways. Scholarly study of institutions: Montgomery’s West byways, rural roads, rural road mainte- Virginia University Institute of nance and related sustainable economic Technology, located on the current development projects along Byways will Trail, and University of Charleston, also be the focus of this national and across the Kanawha River on the international Study Center. The hallmark viewshed of the western end of the CREATE A of the byways movement is diversity, and current Trail. Two others are on the the Association has developed projects proposed extension to the Kentucky BYWAYS which interpret a Trail diverse in culture, border: Marshall University in STUDY terrain, and socio-economic status. Huntington and West Virginia State The expertise and resources involved College in Institute. CENTER in this effort will facilitate long-range West Virginia planning, and national byway goals. Costs (10 yrs: 2000-2010) The legacy of this Center will be its abili- ty to encourage a new type of traveler Funding is expected to be broad- back onto old historic routes. Traffic has based, with a lead commitment from bypassed many of these roads because of the USDOT and with assistance for interstate travel, resulting in decline and the state of West economic struggle for Trail communities. Virginia from such Using West Virginia as a laboratory, the organizations as WV Association will develop a strong interna- Tourism, the WV tional focus. The Trail's location, develop- Development Office, ment stage and size are ideal for examina- private foundations, tion by developing nations. We have WV Roundtable, and learned this fact from experience; the the Appalachian Association will be able to look at tourism Regional Commission from an international perspective. This Tourism Program. focus enhances West Virginia's global per- This center will not spective. The Study Center will also sup- overlap roles with the plement byways development, data, and National Scenic study in West Virginia. The number and Byways types of professionals which can address Clearinghouse. the development of Scenic Byways will be significantly greater. Norton House in Malden, possible The ideal location would be in Malden, future site of nation’s first Center for West Virginia.First, Malden is close to the Rural Byway Studies. state government and its resources in 6.12 Charleston. Furthermore, Malden is 6.13 RURAL ROADS AND RIVERS VISITOR CENTER BICYCLES ON THE MIDLAND TRAIL The Midland Trail Scenic Highway Whitewater Hall of Fame.These partner- Each county on the Trail contains areas for Partnering with these groups, the Planning Committee and the Fayette ships are believed to be an important step hiking/biking trails, each in a different stage of Association’s Bicycle Committee can lead Priority VIII County Planning Committee have towards collaborating and viewing travel development. West Virginia’s Rails-to-Trails in Trail development. Priority IX identified the intersection of Routes in a regional manner. Program has developed a beautiful Trail along 60 and 19 at Hico as a high-priority the Greenbrier River from Lewisburg to BENEFITS area. The 60-19 intersection joins the COSTS Cass. In Fayette County, a developing Trail will As a recreation and health option, biking Midland, Coal Heritage and, potential- * Land Acquisition allow bikers and hikers to go from the middle reaches a broad base of the population. ly, the Highland Scenic Highways. * Building of Ansted to the bottom of the New River Further development of this important Additionally, it is located at the center * Furnishing Gorge, where they can catch the Hawk’s Nest opportunity will be a boost for residents of the whitewater industry near * Operational Costs State Park Tram back to the top of the moun- as well as travelers. Bicycling on and off Hawks Nest State Park and the New tain.The Tram will have bike racks. the Trail provides a close link to rafting, River Gorge National Park. The BENEFITS: In Kanawha County, the development of a climbing, hiking and skiing enthusiasts RURAL Association envisions attracting * Efficiency of joint operations for tour- Share The Road bicycle path between the whose participants regularly cross over ROADS AND tourists to the Trail with a ists and organizations State Capitol and Riverside High School to other sports. museum/visitors center which will * Stronger presentation on rural roads VISITOR would open up bicycling opportunities for COSTS interpret the qualities of West Virginia opportunities CENTER AT people of all ages and abilities. This flat Ansted-Planning, design, construc- itself and for which the state is known: * Preservation of a strategic intersection twelve-mile ride can be an important new HICO tion and promotion costs recreation; industry; resources such as on Highways recreational addition for potential commuters Eastern Kanawha - Planning, design, BICYCLES coal, timber, chemicals, and glass; farm- * Hico is presently the geographic center or visitors to the Valley. Innovative solutions acquisition of land easement between of the Trail ing; Appalachian arts and crafts; and include pigmented or raised roadways; Share Malden and Port Amherst; river ON the state’s history. * Hico is the center of the whitewater industry in West Virginia The Road signs would be welcome to the access and upgrades at Malden and THE most seasoned riders who now use this Belle; and marked bike and hike At this time, this interchange is still * Hico is six miles from the New River MIDLAND route. routes between the Capitol building a pastoral and ideal setting for the Bridge and New River National Park * Fayette County Planning identified the MTSHA will serve as an advocate for rid- and Malden Historic District, with a TRAIL interpretation of both rural roads and Hico interchange as very significant to ing opportunities both on and off Trail. To later extension along Route 60 to the AND rivers. This location would be a joint "green" development on the Trail highlight these opportunities, the Association venture of National Scenic Highways new Riverside High School at Quincy; IN THE * The Midland Trail,Coal Heritage Trail and will sponsor a May 2000 bicycle ride across promotion for the Coal Heritage Trail, the the nearby National Highland Scenic the Trail.“Ride Across the Virginias” will begin MT REGION Highland Scenic Highway, and the Trail. Highway all can be serviced from a joint at Hampton University in Virginia and traverse AREA Whitewater rafting contributes a interpretive center. Also, partnerships in the Trail’s entire length through both Virginia great deal to the recreational life and such an interpretive center would benefit the whitewater industry. and West Virginia over a two-week period. the economy of the region. This site Booker T. Washington's 125th Anniversary would be ideal for an accompanying RESPONSIBILITY graduation from Hampton will serve as the starting-point at the May 14th Hampton grad- * The Midland Trail, being the lead Scenic uation. Bicycle clinics at school and public Highway in this effort, has the leadership facilities will emphasize safety, maintenance responsibility. This role is one of facilita- and bikable routes on and around the Trail. tor,which will set the tone for the success RESPONSIBILITY of other collaborative efforts and the success of future partnerships. The Scenic Ride Across the Virginias - A committee of the Highways, Fayette County, the whitewater Trail which co-sponsored the l997 Kids industry, the New River National Park and Freedom Trek from the Booker T.Washington CVBs all play an important role in devel- Memorial in Virginia to Malden on part on the oping this joint center. Midland Trail will lead in organizing this 400- mile ride. Celebrate West Virginia Foundation, the State Bicycle Tourism Coordinator, Rails to Trails and the West Virginia Trails Association will all be involved. Broad-based support will come from businesses, banks, 6.14 bicycles, community groups and schools. 6.15 Capitol Heritage Area EASTERN KANAWHA HERITAGE AREA MANAGEMENT CONCEPT HOLLY GROVE Joint marketing, maintenance, manage- ment and fundraising for historic buildings steps during the development of this plan MANSION Priority X and projects in the Upper Kanawha Valley to raise the importance of the industrial continues strong at this writing. Through identity by holding an Industrial Heritage PRESERVED the CMP process, these independent Tourism Conference on the Trail at community voluntary groups came Montgomery’s WVU Institute of together for the first time and acknowl- Te chnology. The Association has worked edged their shared challenges. Discussion actively to recognize the roles of the his- has moved in the direction of coordinat- toric heritage areas within the Trail’s east- ing marketing, maintenance, management ern segment. Here historic homes were Daniel Boone Park built in areas of great coal, timber, and salt CREATE of tours, and other common expenses and responsibilities in new cooperative reserves. Large industrial concerns such as Heritage Area CENTRALIZED ways. the DuPont and Elkem facilities have joined Some of the most significant historic MTSHA as partners. CRAIK- PRESERVED MANAGEMENT preservation and heritage efforts in West Virginia have taken place east of the COSTS PATTON HOUSE FOR HISTORIC State Capitol on the Midland Trail in PROPERTIES IN Kanawha County. These designated her- * Staffing itage areas include the following: Daniel EASTERN Boone Park, Malden Historic District, * Marketing Belle Heritage Area and Cedar Grove Malden Heritage Area KANAWHA Heritage Area. This industrial region can * Fundraising claim several pre-Civil War homes, cab- AFRICAN ZION COUNTY ins, churches, cemeteries and historic BENEFITS RESTORATION IN industrial sites. The interpretation of BAPTIST PROGRESS this multi-faceted and historically-lay- * Coordination ered region has challenged the develop- CHURCH ment of a marketable industrial/histori- * Joint Maintenance, Marketing, Presentation cal identity in this area. The Association took important * Shared staffing, which reduces costs* RESPONSIBILITY Belle Heritage Area Craik-Patton Board, Cabin Creek Quilts Cooperative, Belle Historic Society and Old OLD STONE Stone House Board,Virginia’s Chapel Board of Trustees, and Cedar Grove Mansion HOUSE RESTORATION IN Properties are all important players in man- PROGRESS agement. MTSHA will be the leadership org- anization, with active participation from Executive Committee members in each heritage area. Cedar Grove Heritage Area Old Stone House CEDAR GROVE RESTORATION IN HOUSE PROGRESS 6.16 6.17 INDUSTRIAL HISTORY INTERPRETATIONS FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW

The discovery began a parade of Jones was a noted visitor and activist discoveries of other natural resources along the Trail. PRIORITY XI along the Trail. Following salt came One of the Association’s priorities is the discovery of new technologies and the preservation and development of the industries. Other resources included Trail’s industrial heritage, particularly vital oil, gas, timber, coal, chemicals and in the face of the increasing popularity of metals.This is a story of the building of industrial tourism among travelers. America in the twentieth century.The DuPont’s Belle facility currently seeks Midland Trail's version accounts for designation as an American Chemical pioneers in the development process Society National Historic Chemical of a Trail and its resources. However, Landmark. Furthermore, the Association as a reinvention it accommodates supports nomination of the entire INTERPRET both industry and tourism. Kanawha Valley as a Create an Locating an Industrial Heritage “Chemical Valley” Historic Area. INDUSTRIAL Interpretive Center/Museum, possibly Industrial near the Montgomery area, site of COSTS AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY * Heritage area industrial interpretive HERITAGE West Virginia University Institute of NATIONAL HISTORIC CHEMICAL Heritage Technology and Elkem Metals could kiosks and equipment displays LANDMARKS PROGRAM * Interpretive kiosks, radio-controlled DUPONT PLANT BELLE: WV promote the Kanawha Valley as one of Interpretive the nation’s foremost industrial communication transmissions "Pioneering High-Pressure Synthesis" tourism regions. Among the area’s * Marketing industrial tourism (first high- pressure synthesis of ammonia from coal in the US, April 1, 1926) claims to fame is the development of Center/ BENEFITS Nomination submitted. chemicals to make antifreeze and Target Celebration Date: April 1, 2001 nylon, a branch facility for the world’s * Strengthened relations with chemical, Museum coal, and metallurgical industries largest silicon-producing multination- MALDEN SALT WORKS: Site of the * Balancing environmental relations al, the first high-pressure synthetic largest 19th-century salt-works and last ammonia production facility in between citizens and industrial job devel- surviving example of 19th-century salt America, and a whole host of prod- opment from brine wells. Development of ""jar" ucts which reach world-wide markets. * Participation by industries in tourism drilling bit. In addition, the Valley’s industry manu- process--contributions to process Nomination planned 2000. factured steel, chemicals, and explo- * Education regarding role of industry sives for the nation’s war efforts. At ELKEM METALS, UNION CARBIDE: No nomination at this time the eastern end of the Valley is the RESPONSIBILITY Industrial leadership and participation has Hawks Nest Tunnel, con- Responsibility sidered a great industrial been included on the Association’s board. The concept of Industrial Heritage Dupont Chemical Historical Society has engineering feat, but also assumed leadership of the nominating Tourism grew in viability as a result of a deemed the site of the process for the Belle Plant. Malden could state’s worst industrial 1998 MT Industrial Heritage Conference. easily develop nominations for the tragedy. The Trail must continue to be the lead Dickinson Company or related industrial The Tunnel’s fascinat- organization in this effort, soliciting partic- supporter. Union Carbide and Elkem ing history brings into ipation from an active industry-communi- Metals would be responsible for the focus another significant ty-citizen triangle and working closely development of their own nomination aspect of Trail history: with Chemical Heritage organizations on materials and expenses. All sites are on the Midland Trail. labor. The Trail and its surroundings the local as well as national level. Labor were home to some of America’s unions should be included in future orga- most violent labor conflicts. Mother nizing efforts. 6.18 6.19 SECONDARY P ROJECTS

The secondary project list includes proposed concepts from communities along the • Specialized Craft and Outdoor compensation reform in sixteen Trail. Although these proposals have survived rounds of reviews, neither the Products: states. resources nor the leadership are available to move them at this time. During the Programs and/or services which present past several years, the Midland Trail Association has actively pursued projects that Trail products, foods, crafts, and services • Hawks Nest Conference Center intend to preserve, interpret, develop, and manage the Midland Trail and its many on-line, on the shelf, and in print. Expansion Project: Expanded din- ing room, meeting and sleeping rooms. intrinsic qualities. The Association may raise a project in this category to a prior- • Interpretive Panels Along the Trail Legislative Digest funds allocated in ity project in the future. As we complete the first round of projects and resources Panels at designated pull-off areas will tell Phase I development become available, we will bring some of these forward for review. the stories contained in the “Trail Tales” • Women’s Interpretive Park in • Acquisition and Development • ARMSTRONG WALL with artistic renditions and text and even Malden: of Overlook at Lee’s Tree Tavern Located within the viewshed of the audio messages that can be received thru car radio. Celebrate the achievement of early The Association greatly needs to Midland Trail at Falls View, this nationally pioneer women such as Jane acquire the highest point on the and internationally significant relic is a • Golf at Hawk’s Nest State Park: Washington (Booker T.Washington's reminder of the earliest period of human Midland Trail and to transform it into Golf on Eastern Kanawha mountaintop mother), Mary Ingles, Mother Jones a beautiful scenic overlook. This pull- activity in America. Private ownership by along the Trail. and Anne Bailey, all who traveled the off sits near the border between timber and coal companies poses a chal- Trail. The Association contemplates Fayette and Greenbrier Counties and lenge to interpretation and protection. A • Mountaintop Hang-Gliding Into erecting a series of panels in the overlooks the broad vista of the kiosk, signage and diligence in watchdogging the Valley Booker T. Washington park in Malden. Greenbrier Valley. Scenic in quality, the this premier archaeological attraction are At this writing, Celebrate West overlook is also a historic point of very important. • Sunday Road Backway: Virginia Foundation is coordinating a interest; General Lee’s troops quar- Signage and surface upgrades for this pro- sales campaign for engraved bricks tered here in the 1861 Sewell County • Drama Along the Trail posed backway. which will form a display in the Park. Campaign, and Lee found his horse Commissioned skits to be staged in flexible and movable situations and high- • Visitor and Interpretive Center Traveler at this spot. However, the old • Gauley Bridge Information and lighting the Trail’s history. Complex and Safety Upgrades Tavern stands as a derelict distraction Arts Center: Civil War interpretive site. Recommendations have proposed com- for Historic Malden: at the pull-off. missioning interpretive dramatic produc- • Artists’ Colony in Gauley Bridge : This planned project builds upon the tions for presentation along the Trail. The Midland Trail has several outstanding cultural and heritage tourism base at • ARTS CORRIDOR TRAIL SHOPS Public input has suggested several themes galleries, a fine art gallery in Lewisburg Malden. A Visitor’s Center at Cabin AND A Trail Fair/Festival for Trail dramas: Civil War, the Hawks and a gallery near Hico, and the Trail is in Creek Quilts; the African Zion Baptist Program, with annual rotating Nest Tunnel, and Zona (the “Greenbrier the position to offer something which Church; “A Fresh Start Salt Village”: venues. This program envisions cre- Ghost”) in Lewisburg. captures the artistic spirit and impulses of Re-Creation of Booker T. ation of a Pioneer’s Festival or its people. Gauley Bridge’s proximity to Washington’s Childhood Home; two Pioneer’s Fair which showcases quali- •Establish “Pioneer’s Week”. Hawks Nest State Park makes it an ideal restored homes, Historic Norton House and Hale House; Kanawha ties of the Trail; such qualities include Pioneer’s Week would start at one point half-day shopping and learning jaunt. Salines Presbyterian Church; Malden Appalachian arts and crafts, drama, along the Trail and move east or west. and industrial exhibits. •Boat Hotel in Gauley Bridge. Tw o Baptist Church; and a private “garage Could include a Civil War re-enactment, museum” which contains buses and arts/crafts fair, dramatic production, one- factors make this concept a good one. First, public input has indicated a shortage old cars are all part of this Historic • Income-Producing Project for day community open house program, of lodging on the Trail. Additionally, an District. The Association can expand Trail Association Combined with tours through area attractions, unusual accommodation such as this, with the complex to include tours with his- Tourism/ Training Project Sternwheeler Day, Lewisburg’s Taste of effective advertising, would add a patina of torical characters, food service and In conjunction with Trail high Our Town, etc. curious experience for the visitor. other amenities necessary to the school or university tourism and/or development of an ongoing tourist business classes. Motel or bed and Conduct Study With Courtesy • Monument for Hawks Nest Tunnel destination. breakfast with restaurant and gift shop Patrol Program as possible element of This Tunnel was both an engineering mar- Malden needs a traffic light to modeled after Inn and Student our developing rural economic tourism vel for its time and a great industrial improve safety on the Trail for visitors Industries at Berea College or Davis & program. tragedy whose deaths caused workers’ to its various historic sites. 6.20 Elkins College. 6.21 SECONDARY P ROJECTS

• African Zion Baptist Church • A River Museum The Midland Trail, • Bike and Hikeway from Historic • Eastern Kanawha Pull-offs on Needs upgrades to roof, in electrical and in particular the Kanawha River, has a Malden to the State Capitol: Bike the new 4-Lane service, and to hvac. rich transportation history dating back racks and bike shop desired on Trail. Land With interpretive kiosks (2) over 200 years.The Kanawha River was a easement between Malden and Port • Welcome Sign at the Western chief route to the western markets of Amherst, river access and upgrades at • Cedar Grove Heritage Area End of the Trail: Cincinnati and New Orleans. Even today, Malden and Belle, and marked bike and Tompkins House and properties The Association would like a sign on coal barges are a common sight on the hike routes between the Capitol building Kanawha Blvd. at 35th Street Bridge River, and this body of water is still home and Malden Historic District. A later • Virginia’s Chapel overpass that reads “WELCOME TO to a number of sternwheelers. The extension would terminate at the new Slate roof and shutters THE MIDLAND TRAIL” as well as Kanawha River contained the country’s Riverside High School at Quincy. other signage around the Capitol first movable dams (1880s). Currently, the • Develop School Programs to Complex to guide visitors onto the closest such museum is in Marietta, Ohio. • Temple of Traditions: Located in educate children about Trail history Trail from Greenbrier Street in The rise in popularity of industrial and tourism possibilities Charleston. tourism argues for a River Museum in the Eastern Kanawha County, yet accessible Kanawha Valley. to a statewide and national audience, this West Virginia-made building will be a • Hospitality Training for business- • Old Stone House (Belle) es and visitors centers Heritage Park. • Riverboat Access: Create river access home for the increasingly popular tradi- tional mountain music and dance. At this writing, the Belle Historical for tourism development for the area of • Connect with universities and Society, which serves as the home’s Malden, Belle, Cedar Grove, and colleges caretaker umbrella, has purchased an Montgomery; access would benefit small- • Athletic Greats of the Midland Trail adjacent defunct business, razed it, and er power boats for small parties as well as Recognizing Randy Moss, Jason Williams, • Educate elected officials (contin- leveled space for a parking lot. canoes and rowboats.Tours of the histor- Jerry West and other Upper Kanawha uous) Clearing of tenant trailers around the ical areas could be offered by river. Valley standouts in the field of sports at house will create an area for develop- the new Riverside High School. ment of a heritage park which con- • Entertaining River Interpretation / • Clear obstructive vegetation to templates a mock well, reproduction Tourist Transport: • Lewisburg Historic District open up more scenic views barn (which would serve as a form of Flatboat similar to Spirit of Kanawha used Interpretive Center: community center for local activities), to celebrate Kanawha Bicentennial; the A community multi-purpose interpre- • Adopt A Highway Program reproduction carriage house, and flatboat would explain early transporta- tive center with the following: Further the develop this existing blacksmith’s shop. tion and could serve as a ticket office at • Development of horse-and-carriage national program. Daniel Boone Park. Small powerboat stagecoach concept • Daniel Boone Roadside Cave models for small party pleasure trips • Pull-offs • Plantings along the Trail to hide Interpretive signage marking the for- would include any of the following: large • Park and Interpretive Center eyesores and create more inviting mer site of hillside cave overlooking Indian canoe, flatboat, packetboat, and • Stables for the town’s horse-drawn spaces. Midland Trail at milemarker 3 above sternwheeler. carriages and bicycles for rent. Daniel Boone Park, where Boone • Hospitality Training and Expanded • Fayette County Land Use Study actually slept. Highway development Marketing Research • Camp Shaw-Mi-Del-Eca Fayette County has a county-wide removed the cave. Who will be are new partners on the A 90-acre riverfront site on the Midland zoning and is in the process of a existing & expanded Trail How do we best Trail and Greenbrier River Bikeway. Once county wide land use plan. We need • Marmet Locks Visitor Center. reach our target markets? Which sites an Indian camp site and later a summer study to identify dilapidated buildings The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers has are most important to highlight on the camp, this park and interpretive site and plan for the use of land in key plans for a visitor’s center at this lock existing and expanded Trail? Which infor- affords the Trail direct access to both the tourist areas. on the Kanawha River. mation will be shared & how? Market Greenbrier River and the Greenbrier Bike research is and hospitality training are Trail, which is presently unavailable to Trail two high priorities as we develop inter- visitors. 6.22 pretative and marketing materials. 6.23 Priorities One and Two Management of the Midland Trail Building Partnerships, Participation and Collaboration Experience tells us that management by volunteers of a 120-mile and partners. It is likely that the lenge local communities and the pri- and growing road encompassing three counties, fifteen incorporat- Association will acquire, manage, and vate sector to do the same. It will be deepen its involvement in greater tourism necessary that this confidence contin- ed municipalities, and 12 unincorporated villages, and serving a planning and economic development pro- ue and increase in order for MTSHA region of over 250,000--approximately 8 %--of our state’s popula- jects. to reach its vision and goals. tion is difficult.We've tried and we've succeeded to this point; how- ever,it is not effective or feasible over the long run.Yet,viewing our THE MIDLAND TRAIL It is only logical that the organize- BOARD OF DIRECTORS ational structure evolve out of the development village by village, city by city, and county by county present Midland Trail Scenic Highway does not work either. Management, with all of its challenge, works Providing guidance and oversight to the organization. However, we should best when we treat the Trail as a region and operate as one “com- Executive Director and serving as an note that the Association now has the munity” with each individual community’s respect for another as extension and support of the Executive opportunity to revitalize and refresh Director's efforts will be the primary the organization. The evolution of this one would a neighbor. function of the Board of Directors. Equally new management organization for the The structure of the organization talent, energy and leadership to the as important will be the Board’s role in Midland Trail Region repositions the that will manage, organize, and market region. Interests of these members fundraising efforts.We will be accomplish Association with a new and expanded the Midland Trail Scenic Highway should be regional. this function either by assisting the orga- mission, image, and higher-profile Region will be both public and private nization in achieving its fundraising goals Board of Directors as it takes on new and will form a partnership. A combi- FIRST PHASE FUNCTIONS: 2000-2001 through corporate, personal, foundational challenges. nation of local and regional organiza- Success in organizational development or public gifts or by influencing others to tions, together with many volunteers, involves good planning as well as offering participate or partner in the Corridor’s A STAND-UP KIND OF ORGANIZATION will support these efforts.The Midland something to our diverse membership. programs and activities. Trail Scenic Highway Association will During the initial or first phase (the orga- The MTSHA has emerged rely on financial contributions and nization has been in position since 1996) To achieve these things the Board must because there was a need for what it support from both public and the pri- we have proven to our membership that itself be visionary. Making a commitment has to offer. It has gone on to distin- vate sector, using its designation as a as an organization we have something to to the Management Plan is a step. This guish itself as a regional body which 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. offer. We provide marketing, planning, does not mean that the plan cannot be can manage diverse and varied politi- The responsibility of this not-for-prof- grant writing, fundraising, public relations, altered. It can and should be altered cal, social, and economic interests.This it-management organization will be to and promotions. We also offer strategic whenever necessary. ability makes it an ideal leadership implement and coordinate the com- planning, event planning, legislative repre- organization within West Virginia. The prehensive 20-year management sentation, and even international connec- During the Trail Blazer marketing peri- Association’s Board of Directors sees action plan. This Association’s gover- tions and coordination. Through these od (l999-2001), when emphasis is primar- the opportunity for linkages and con- nance falls under a Board of Directors services, we have begun to help member ily on local/educational efforts, a consis- nection with other Trails. In the first which reflects the partnership of, as partners to understand what is possible tent and clear identity of the organization instance, the Coal Heritage Trail and well as the commitment of voluntary through membership in MTSHA. is important. This period will create the Highland Scenic Highway are logi- services to, the organization. An impressions as to future leaders’ involve- cal candidates for a tourist’s regional Executive Director will be responsible In developing this orientation of ment and the effectiveness of the organi- Trail network. However, there is for implementing the operating plans service, we have positioned MTSHA as zation. Thereafter, programs, events and always room for developing partner- for the Corridor. "the organization" to represent a diverse activities will form and enhance the image ships and collaborative efforts with The management organization range of groups with a unified vision and a of the region as a destination for tourists. other scenic highways and trails in the should evolve and grow over a 10- "management organization".This body will The Midland Trail Association will require future. year period. This growth begins with provide professional services in planning, a broad range of support not only from the Board of Directors, which pro- fundraising, marketing, promoting, inter- participants in the Trail region, but also vides oversight, direction, and guid- preting, and preserving. We also speak a from educational, business, governmental, ance to the management of the staff. coherent agenda of recreation, preserva- and foundation leaders. The Board will be representative geo- tion, open-space, and greenbelts and view- graphically of this region; furthermore, shed preservation. As the organization From its beginning, the public sector has as a group, it will serve as a resource grows, it continues to mature. We offer responded with vision, enthusiasm, and resources, signs of support which chal- 7.2 from which to provide the top tier of new and different services to members 7.3 at Malden’s Booker T. Washington Cabin the Midland Trail in Kanawha County PARTNERS IN THE PROCESS: and other sites along the Trail in Kanawha will be encouraged to participate in County. volunteer and Service Learning Opportunities at the Midland Trail INDIVIDUALS- Year-round as well as ON VOLUNTEERS Visitor Center at Malden as well as VOLUNTEERS AND SUPPORT- seasonal residents of the Midland Trail The long-term success of the Midland the Washington Complex next door ERS Region should be involved in the Trail requires that an active functioning to the Visitor Center. Training in the Association. As tourism continues to cadre of volunteers of all ages and from all use of the Association’s Trail Website, PUBLIC develop, seasonal Trail residents will wel- backgrounds be involved. This network www.midlandtrail.com, as well as come the opportunity of involvement in will be one of the key components in opportunities for service as tour FEDERAL - The Federal Highway and updates on activities of the Trail. positioning the Association for long-term guides and interpreters, are examples Administration, National Park Service, While we have begun with a diverse pop- management success. Within the Midland of future service positions for sec- Environmental Protection Agency,The ulation of MT residents, we must continue Trail there are a number of organizations ondary students from Riverside. Army Corp of Engineers, the to draw upon niche groups, including the which we must convince of the mutual Department of Agriculture, and The African-American population and travel benefits of coordination and cooperation INTERNATIONAL National Endowment For the Arts. associations which serve this group as as it relates to the MTSHA. A partial list CULTURAL DIVERSITY well as whitewater enthusiasts, skiers, of these organizations and businesses STATE - WV Department of climbers, artists, cyclists, industrial work- includes coal haulers, timber companies, Both in 1997 and 1998 study tours Transportation, WV Department of ers and unions, to mention a partial list. and coal operators. from Slovakia visited West Virginia. A Culture and History,WV Department total of 15 mayors from that country of Education, WV Department of PROFESSIONAL GROUPS - We TOMORROW’S TRAIL have visited here in extended stays Tourism, WV Department of Natural must remember that professionals of all TOURISM LEADERS along the Midland Trail, examining all Resources, and WV Department of sorts have a vested interest in the devel- aspects of our rural tourism and Safety. opment of the Trail. Members of cham- Youth’s appreciation of the Midland development programs. The visit, in bers of commerce, historical societies, Trail as "their" tourism/heritage region is a part under the sponsorship of the COUNTY - County Commissions, environmental groups, parks, and various necessary first step towards developing a United States Agency for International County Highway Departments, clubs should be involved. culture which welcomes outsiders. Rural Development, was extremely popular County and Regional Convention and West Virginians are suspicious by nature. and well received, with a follow-up Visitor Centers, and Conservation EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL While we will obviously not eliminate this visit, including two visits by a member and Planning Authorities. ORGANIZATIONS - The Boards of tendency, we must create a hospitable and of the Association, who has been Education in Kanawha, Fayette and accepting environment for visitors. involved in providing technical advice LOCAL- Cities, Municipalities, Greenbrier Counties should be drawn Inclusion of the Trail into mainstream in Slovakia and Poland. Midland Trail Zoning Boards, School Boards, and deeper into this project.There has been a educational curricula is an important Board members, Trail mayors, and local improvement associations strong interest by social studies teachers step towards improving the hospitality elected representatives have met with at the fourth- and eighth-grade levels culture in our state. these groups and learn from these vis- PRIVATE where West Virginia History is taught. itors as well. West Virginia Tourism Education pro- Fourth- and eighth-grade level stu- FOUNDATIONS, CORPORA- grams are an additional important source dents study West Virginia history, which HERITAGE TOURISM STUDIES TIONS,ASSOCIATIONS- of support for the program. precedes elective opportunities for sec- PROMOTES UNDERSTAND- Benedum Foundation, Greater ondary students in Community Service ING AND BUSINESS Kanawha Valley Found-ation, Clay Riverside High School in Kanawha Learning and West Virginia Tourism class- Foundation, Greater Beckley County serves the entire Midland Trail es. Students who elect the Tourism class, West Virginia and MTSHA are Foundation, and Hawks Nest Area of Kanawha County. Newly-opened of which there are over eighty programs ideally positioned to host a Center Foundation. Conservation, environ- in fall 1999, this school will focus its in the state, will be taught a section on the for the Study of Rural Tourism both mental, historical, recreational, and Tourism Education program on the Midland Trail. They will also be taught a nationally and internationally.The tim- interpretive organizations in the Kan- Midland Trail. A strong curriculum empha- cultural diversity model based on Malden ing for this development is perfect awha, Fayette and Greenbrier county sis involves students in local volunteer and its work with Booker T.Washington given our stage of development, size, areas. MTSHA maintains a complete activities at the Midland Trail Visitor on the Midland Trail. Students at the new diversity and connections to potential list of these organizations. consolidated Riverside High School on funding sources. 7.4 Center as well as in service as tour guides 7.5 This concept grew after the travel over the Trail, then in the mid- We need historians who are trained to of a better coordinated scenic byways Association was involved in hosting l980's, with its rebirth following the open- interpret history for all age levels. Also, system in WV. the aforementioned study tours. Also, ing of Interstate 64. This interstate open- historians who have the ability to develop Midland Trail members have provided ing injured the MT's economy just as the copy for brochures, script videos, or inter- consultation services in an interna- railroad did in the l870's. pret resources are rare in rural West RUNNING ON ADRENALINE tional arena for the VOCA through Virginia. Archaeologist and geologist skills the United States Agency For However, it is worth acknowledging for interpretive purposes have been rarely The MTSHA organization has rested International Development. In here that this same hardship served as an applied to rural West Virginia tourism pro- heavily upon volunteer support, its December l998, a group of interna- important catalyst for change. Without jects. executive committee, and staff at The tional travelers met with the Board this asphalt competitor, the Trail might Midland Trail Visitor Center based at and with area business leaders as they otherwise have continued to take a great Specialists in other areas such as Cabin Creek Quilts, the law offices of traveled the Midland Trail. deal for granted.We are learning to appre- Interpretation, Folklore Coordination, Larry L. Rowe, and the staff of WV ciate and protect the intrinsic qualities Marketing Coordination, and Open-Space Quarterly magazine, all in Malden. An American Rural Tourism Center identified by the U.S. Department of Coordination could be used. Given the While this has been workable to this for the Study of Rural Tourism and Transportation, a process of identification needs in these areas statewide, MTSHA point in the organization’s history, it it Heritage Roads would: which now motivates our organization. recognizes the value of contracting ser- has reached its limits. A new organi- For reasons of development and econ- vices to other Scenic Byways and coordi- zational structure based on perma- 1. Advance scholarship in the field omy, the Association proposes an expand- nating and cooperating wherever possible nent staffing must be in place in order ed program. This program will function to improve our statewide system of that the Midland Trail Scenic Highway 2. Provide a base of support for pro- efficiently and effectively by significantly byways. Association might continue its growth posed staff who are practitioners in expanding its staff. This staff will be avail- and development. the field. able to other tourism regions and Scenic Management advantages anticipated Byway areas in a “circuit rider” fashion. As from this approach: 3. Create a forum for creativity and we expand and extend ourselves and our advancement in the field participation into new areas with staffing, 1. Lower startup costs for MT we will bring together the network of 4. Serve as a laboratory for the study Scenic Byways which are completely iso- 2. Greater coordination of programs and and practices in the field. lated from one another at this time. This services with other Scenic Byways coordination will advance tourism and To accommodate this vision of a minimize the expense of specialized staff 3. Utilizes, expands, and develops a limit- national and international Center, the which are unaffordable to most scenic ed skill and knowledge base in these tech- Association proposes that a staff areas in the next decade. nical areas. which is already credentialed to meet the challenges of a national-interna- CIRCUIT-RIDING SPECIALISTS 4. Broadens and enhances the organiza- tional center be folded into this pro- tion’s public perception as a professional ject. There will be specialized staffing needs organization, strengthening its support for Interpretive Experts in coal mining, and donor base AN EXPANDING MIDLAND recreation, transportation, and in small- TRAIL structure museums, as well as open-air These advantages position the MANAGEMENT ORGANIZA- interpretive museums. Folklore experts Association for the challenges which are TION will be needed in Appalachian, African- ahead in the first two decades of the American, and immigrant cultures; inter- twenty-first century. It will be extremely The MT organization is envisioned pretive themes will include Appalachian important to have a representative and as one which will expand. It will serve music and dance. In some cases, this visionary Board of Directors. A qualified a much wider geographic area and expertise is already available and under- staff capable of carrying out development expand its mission into areas which utilized. In other instances, professionals steps is essential to success. are completely new. The MT has had are not available in our state because of a presence in the region as early as the limited demand for their services. Services of all professionals could be l920's, with the surge in automobile available to other organizations as a part 7.6 7.7 will include management of the Corridor’s SUPPORT STAFF (3) PERFECT - WORLD STAFFING PATTERN greening and cleaning programs and con- ($13,000 - $18,000/year for each) servation, preservation, and advocacy In anticipation of extending the Trail an variety of sources during this period will efforts. Developing open-air parks and These key support positions provide additional 60 miles to the western border, figure significantly in building a local mar- pull-offs and promoting their use will important administrative and business we see staffing of the Trail not only as ket for the Trail. Following this first phase, come under this position. services for the organization. During important for the development of the the job will shift from local to the startup phase, the Historian, the CMP,but also for marketing and interpre- regional/national/international, and the HISTORIAN / PLANNER Interpretive Coordinator, and the tation of the Trail as a whole. Additionally, skills may well change with this transition; (Half-time $12,500 a year for 36 months) Folklore Coordinator will generate as the state’s only east-west scenic byway, as such, the Board should be prepared for large quantities of work. The ongoing the Trail has the opportunity to staff these circumstances. The position may Besides developing informational Corridor Manager, Development, and cooperatively with other byways, offering well be advertised or presented as a tran- brochures, scripting videos, and writing Marketing Coordinator positions will important advantages of coordination, sitional or startup one which will termi- copy for pamphlets, the Historian will also have significant responsibilities marketing, professionalism and economy. nate at the completion of a specified date coordinate and expand upon the “Trail which necessitate staff assistance. or at the completion of certain startup Tales” as introduced in this Plan. As a tasks. In addition to the Corridor This management team would cover speaker, the Historian will work with the ORGANIZATION Manager, the following positions are rec- several hundred miles of scenic byways. marketing and development coordinator The Trail contains at least three recog- ommended: in preparing presentations and ensuring The Midland Trail Scenic Highway nized Historic Districts, thousands of historical accuracy. Association (MTSHA) is under the acres of land, and over a hundred or more MARKETING COORDINATOR management of its Board of Directors. historic sites. As proposed, this staff faces (Full time: $25,000 - $35,000 per year) COORDINATOR OF By recent vote, the Association a long-term mission and a vision that has INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS opened seats for a member from the developed with this CMP. Management of This position will work directly under (Half-time $12,500 a year for 36 months) Coal Heritage Scenic Highway and for the Trail will be impossible for volunteers the Corridor Manager and will implement members from areas on the western without professional help. the Corridor Marketing Plan. Activities This position will work closely with extension. such as the reprinting of the Destination other partners within the Trail region to Building towards a full-time profession- Guide, development of Metro-Trail coordinate interpretive projects, pro- Our organization will rely upon its al staff over a thirty-six-month period will Guides, or Connecting-Linking Backways grams, and activities. At present, there are membership, community planning enable the MT to ramp-up, absorb the and Bikeway Guides, creating public rela- forty fairs and festivals along the Midland bodies, committees, volunteers, and services, and work towards developing tions activities and events and generally Trail.With unifying themes such as “Lights partners to implement the strategies self-sufficiency over a sixty-month period. increasing the visibility of the Trail will be Along the Trail” at Christmas, extreme developed in this Plan. Attached you It also provides a suggested timetable and the Marketing Coordinator’s responsibili- adventures, or foliage activities in the fall, will find two organizational charts. a framework which is adaptable based ty. Executing a signage program and mark- the Coordinator would package and mar- Chart A represents the startup orga- upon a variety of scenarios. ers which extend and connect the Trail ket programs jointly as Trail concepts. nization for this initial phase; Chart B into new areas would also be part of the represents the full staffing pattern 2001-2005: Funding for this Plan might position’s responsibilities. FOLKLORE COORDINATOR once the organization is operational. come from the WV Parkways Authority, (Half-time $12,500 a year for 36 months) Flexibility is key here. We see an the U.S. DOT, the Benedum Foundation, DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR efficiency and professionalism possible or the Appalachian Regional Commission. (Fulltime: $26,000 - $38,000 per year) This staff position would coordinate for the development of our western Following is the proposed staff structure with the coordinators of interpretive sector CMP as well as for other for implementation and realization of this This individual will provide grant and programs and marketing to manage and important activities along the Trail Plan: technical writing skills and assistance to develop activities which are already in (see page 7.10). It is the intent of this MTSHA and associate members. The operation as well as new ones. The pro- organization that phase A be in place CORRIDOR MANAGER Development Coordinator will work on fessionalism of this individual will add a in 2000 and operational through 2002. ($40,000 - $50,000 per year) funding strategies at the Federal, State, great deal to existing activities, providing a The full Midland Trail Organization will and community levels as well as with cor- level of authenticity and excitement which be operational by 2003. porate, individual and foundation contrib- For the first two to five years, we will presently can be lacking in community The Center for the Studies of utors. need a manager with the ability to create fairs, festivals and programs. The work of Scenic Byways or its related proposed consensus and raise funds from a wide the Humanities Council Scholars’ WV International Study Center will be range of sources.The organization will still OPEN-AIR COORDINATOR History Alive program is one of many part of this scheme. be very dynamic during this phase. The (Half-time $12,500 for 36 months) such programs which offers opportunities ability to promote, to build awareness, and in new promotional ways. to utilize volunteers will be critical. The This individual will provide leadership Manager’s ability to market the Trail and and support in coordinating all open-air 7.8 to develop strong relationships with a activities along the Trail. Responsibilities 7.9 CHART A - PHASE ONE ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Schedule of Project Responsibilities and Recommended Projects Midland Trail Board of Directors Legend ◆ Lead Executive Committee ▼ Secondary Time Frame S Short Term (1 year) Coordinator M Medium Term 2-5 Yrs) L Long Term (6-10 Yrs)

Priorities Schools, Nonprofits Corporate and Small Business WV Dept of Highways Chemical or Coal Companies Visitors Centers Convention Bureaus Midland Trail Counties Midland Trail Municipal Midland Trail Governments WV Dept.Tourism of Private Foundations Midland Trail Scenic Highway Assoc Scenic Highway Trail Midland and Committees Board

Bookkeeper; Visitors ▼ ▼ ◆ ▼ ◆ Contracts I. Management Team S M ◆ Consultants Support Staff Centers ◆ ▼ II. Partnership Building S M L ◆ ◆ ▼ ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼

S M L ◆ ▼ ▼▼ ▼ CHART B - PHASE TWO ORGANIZATIONAL CHART III. Marketing S M L ▼

▼ IV. Extending Trail S ◆ ◆ ◆

▼ V. Strengthening Image S M ◆ ▼ Midland Trail Board of Directors VI. Scenic Character S M L ▼ ◆ Enhancements ◆ Executive Committee ▼ VII. Byways Study Center M L ◆ ▼ ▼

VIII. Rural Roads & Exec Director Support Staff M L ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼ _ __ _ Bookkeeping Rivers Center Corridor Manager Clerical IX. Bicycles S M ◆ ▼ ▼ ▼ _ X. Industrial History S M ◆ ◆ Program Development Visitors Marketing Coordinator Coordinator Services CMP Coordinator MTSHA Board of Directors will receive Quarterly Progress Reviews of CMP Priorities from appropriate committees at their regular meetings, with reports to participating agencies and organizations, as appropriate.

Interpretive Folk Lore Visitor Historian Open-Air Coordinator Coordinator Coordinator Centers 7.10 7.11 Marketing MarketingMarketing StrategiesStrategies WWee HaveHave ItIt AllAll Packaging this mix of attractions must address the varying lifestyles, atti- and attributes can be confusing. The tudes, and interests of people from coun- Midland Trail has one of America’s ty to county. While increasing tourism greatest resorts, the Greenbrier and economic development is a general Hotel, and others are in the develop- goal of the CMP, not every attraction When you ment process. It’s gifted with unparal- wants or is capable of accommodating leled whitewater rafting, skiing, fishing, crowds of visitors. rock-climbing and bicycling. It has a “have it all”, strong mix of arts and crafts, long- Together with this marketing plan, standing and deeply-rooted industrial the Management Plan focuses upon heritage, Civil War sites, and natural staffing needs to meet marketing goals. In as the scenic beauty. Whether visitors start a perfect world the Trail would have a full- or finish at the State Capitol Building time marketing person working coopera- or the Greenbrier Hotel, “grand” is tively with the Trail’s Manager and Midland Trail the only word to describe the journey. Interpretive Planner to reach goals estab- In a league with the Blue Ridge lished by this CMP. does, Parkway, the Natchez Trace, and the Pacific Coast Highway. Midland Trail- The “We Have it All” marketing You Have It All! campaign must seek resources through the tourism, economic development, historic Principles of collaboration and preservation and recreation in a holistic In October 1998, a diverse representative group inaugurated the Midland Trail’s We synergism as a 119-mile “community” marketing approach. The following are Have It All campaign on the steps of the state Capitol at Charleston before travel- challenge form the starting-point in developing examples of types of goals for the devel- the “We Have It All” marketing con- opment of marketing strategies: ing the Trail in convertibles across the Trail. Promotions of the Destination Guide cept for the Trail. included living history characters and a dedication of a new tourist’s park. of GOALS we hope to earn a leadership position for First, we will outline and describe A successful marketing pro- the Association in the region. strategies and methods by which gram must connect the various the- 1. We must show the links between the the Association will market and presenting matic concepts which link the Trail Trail and the specific sites, places, people 5. We will create an awareness concern- publicize the Trail. together for its travelers. Marketing and stories which compose the Trail’s dis- ing the Trail and its assets and encourage efforts must simplify what might be a tinct regions and interpretive areas. exploration of its attractions by local, yourself is We will look at how to target cer- complicated process, making it at once regional, national and international visi- tain segments of the traveling compelling and interesting to the gen- 2. We will establish a clear identity for tors. great. eral public. the Trail through consistent use of the population which require differing mile-marker system as well as through 6. We will build partnerships at all levels approaches in marketing and As a product, the Trail is com- graphic design and effective placement of to allow for expanded market opportuni- interpretive strategy:: plex in nature. Route 60 brings the Midland Trail name. ties through collaboration on advertising * Women together a diverse group of organiza- and promotional themes. * African-Americans tions and interests; it contains tourist 3. In expanding west to the Kentucky * The Elderly draws from the absolutely luxurious border,we will remain consistent with sig- 7. We will be innovative in involving part- * “Baby Boomers” to the absolutely kitschy. Its players nage and markers. ners in mutually beneficial programs. * Foreign Visitors are giant corporations and “mom and pop” businesses. We involve National 4. We will present the Midland Trail Scenic 8. We will provide quality visitor services Finally,, we will outline and and State Parks as well as independent Highway Association as a strong advocate and information through a network of vis- describe the ways in which the camp grounds. Complicating matters for the Trail’s historic, natural, scenic, and itor centers which partner in interpreting Association intends to interpret from a marketing standpoint is the recreational qualities. Advocacy will the Midland Trail story. Association intends to interpret long linear geographic distance which address preservation, sensitive develop- and market its intrinsic qualities. the Trail spans. Because the Trail cov- ment, effective management, and mean- ers at least three regions, marketing ingful interpretation. Through advocacy, 8.2 8.3 TRAIL PIONEERS with those individuals who protect and Market Development Strategy Phase III (2005-10) volunteer at these sites.Their involvement in the planning and marketing of the Trail By 2010, automobile travel will be some- are indispensable to creating a successful Effective marketing campaigns are directed and targeted to a specific audience. what different from what it is today. Cars will marketing plan. For this reason, we will tar- The Trail’s marketing plan will occur in phases, beginning locally and building region- have computers with modems (“palm pilots”); get the first phase of marketing toward the ally, then globally.While the Trail’s audience will ultimately be global, marketing must “pilots” will have the ability to access infor- Trail Blazer group. Blazers will promote and begin with local development, which provides an opportunity to involve and edu- mation if it is available. Drivers will be even foster one-on-one the character and per- cate at the community level; starting at the local level is an essential element if the older than they are today.Very strong graph- sonality of the Trail. Special awards and tourist industry on the Trail is to flourish and take on a culture of hospitality and ics and large directional signs will be impor- community recognitions will enhance the appeal, since individuals and organizations will begin to see ways in which they may tant.Accessibility will be more of an issue than appreciation for these individuals, whose Markets become involved. it is today for buses and automobiles; as such, services are priceless. design considerations will play a significant Capital investment projects will drive part in projects in the next five years. marketing to both the Trail Explorers and TRAIL BLAZERS: TRAIL EXPLORERS for the Phase I (1999-2001) Phase II (1999-2003) This tourist market of vacationers, con- Trail Pioneers.This will result in the phas- vention attendees, and recreation enthusiasts ing in of various activities as we develop Midland Trail This market represents people who live These individuals are not only from the includes people from around the country and resources, partnerships, and materials and on the Trail itself. It would include orga- community and region, but within 300 miles the globe. Even there are visitors from Japan, tools. nizations, local businesses, community or six hours’ driving time of a Trail gateway. Canada, Germany, or as far away as New While some communities such as are three leaders and interested residents of all The population of this market exceeds 30 Zealand or Australia who visit the Trail area. Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs are ages. million people and is extremely diverse, play- Recent studies have shown that a growing further along in their development and This market is particularly important ing well with the Trail’s “We Have It All” theme. number of travelers are visiting historic sites, their readiness for tourism, there will be ever-widening because it focuses on the individuals and buildings, and districts. Furthermore, statistics overlapping as image-building activities organizations which will meet face-to- This population may also include individuals show that these visitors, with interests in his- and themes move people from region to face with future travelers. It is vital that from outside the Trail area who are visiting for circles of this population understand the Trail’s whitewater rafting, conventions, golf, skiing, or tory, stay an average of a half-day longer and region along the Trail. Golf and relaxation marketing plans and be helpful in achiev- business purposes who can be lured to spend an average of $70 more than travelers may start people on the Trail, and Civil ing goals of the Corridor Management explore the Trail for a day or two. It will also who do not visit historic sites. War history or crafts may pull them into “target Plan. By creating this awareness and part- be tourists responding to the Promotional The Trail will ultimately want to capture another community or region; industrial nership in promoting the Trail, the Scenic Byways Program of the U.S. Department tourists by working in partnership with tourist history can turn into a two-day whitewa- Association can achieve a momentum of Transportation as a National Scenic Byway or bureaus. However,as a follow-up to this Plan, the ter trip or backpacking. categories”, which is necessary for moving forward All-American Road. Trail will want to examine its longer-term ability As a marketing campaign,“We Have It with the Plan and with marketing. Through the cultivation of Trail Explorers, we to accommodate a large influx of people and All”can begin as an image-builder focused then living up to their expectations. Having a toward local residents and cross over each with Phase I is off and running! As the can increase significantly Trail-travel to areas large amount of guests can present as big a prob- into other audiences. Ongoing marketing Association garnered local support for where there is only local traffic at this time.The the Midland Trail Destination Guide, this industrial heritage themes of the western end of lem as not having enough tourists if we cannot efforts should reach other markets at dif- its own Phase got in full swing! the Trail would appeal to mature travelers with or will not meet their expectations. In order for ferent times and levels, which the backgrounds in engineering, coal, chemicals, oil, tourism marketing to succeed, the attractions Association should maintain for at least 5 Another aspect of this first phase gas, timber, glass, or river transportation. Civil and sites must be prepared and equipped to years. time-frame involves a winning back of local travelers. War buffs and art and antique enthusiasts will meet visitor needs. Accommodation means sig- Nearly 50% of the western end of the find small attractions rich in detail. Increased nage,parking restrooms,marketing materials,and Trail’s tourist traffic comes from day trip- tourism resulting from regional marketing and creating a good first impression. There are a for directed pers from the Charleston-Huntington- coordination with existing tourism in the area number of sites along the Trail where one bus at Parkersburg area. The speed and conve- a time could reach or exceed capacity, leaving niences of I-64 East & I-77 South toward will expand the market, spilling over into com- other visitors who cannot park at these sites marketing Beckley and Route 19 have lured away munities where very limited tourism exists many of these travelers from the scenic today. unhappy with their visitor experience: Craik- back road of Trail.Through reinvention of The “Trail Tales” section of this Plan represents Patton House, Booker Washington Cabin, Old image, we can bring back these family or in concrete form part of the Association’s mar- Stone House, Virginia’s Chapel, and retiree visitors, with their house guests, keting strategy for this Phase, as they market Contentment. to the Trail. “stories” and themes. The rich cultural assets of the Trail should be developed carefully and in cooperation with While local traffic is the primary tar- community volunteers who are their protectors. get in Phase I, national and international Synergy begins at the earliest stages with the magazine features are already appearing, Association’s forming good working relations 8.4 setting the stage for Phase II. 8.5 Creating An Image & Identity BUILDING ON THE IDENTITY

ImageImage BuildingBuilding Building On the Trail’s Strategies Identity Fragmentation of the Midland Trail by The Midland Trail organization is known to geographic, social, and economic differ- varying degrees in communities along the 1. Consistent and continuous use of the 12. Promote the Trail as a multi-faceted ences is one of the greatest challenges Trail. Our campaign began with integrated Midland Trail logo and theme. Directional and heritage region. Fairs and festivals which which the Association faces in its plan to image-building both within the communities work and think as a unified body. From informational signage must be easy to read feature traditional arts and crafts; re- which it serves and the region itself.Together the start, marketing activities should work and must be able to point the guest’s way to enactments of historical Trail events, espe- with membership development, creation of a to develop an image of the Trail that cre- any spot he desires to visit. cially Civil War battles; and living history ates an awareness and an interest among positive and vital image has renewed interest portrayals all enrich the traveler’s visit to local people. Being consistent with the in the Trail. 2. Maintenance and additions to WV DOT any corridor as rich in sensations as the logo, theme, and signage are the first The primary objective for this stage of mile-markers and use in conjunction with a Trail. Promotion should include the important steps. Consistency will lay the marketing is to create a familiarity with Trail proposed Visitor’s Guidebook; however, sig- numerous histories and cultures which groundwork for future activities and build communities from within and from outside nage must be distinguishable from DOT inhabit the Trail’s past. a solid, united image. the region. This phase involves both re-edu- markers. cating those who regularly use the Trail and tying together community-based priorities 3. Develop local partnerships with business- such as the four-lane development between es and community leaders. Charleston and Montgomery or Gauley 4. Create a marketing-based orientation by Logo: Midland Trail Bridge. The Midland Trail “We Have It All” cam- including local citizens, building from a grass- Theme: We Have It All roots level, from the campaign’s inception. Signage: Mile posts along byway paign has captured the imagination and sup- coordinate with mileposts in port of membership, creating the sense of a 119-mile linear community, and has generat- 5. Strengthened area Midland Trail Visitor Color: Rich Heritage Brown Centers, with brochures, maps, audio tapes, ed activities such as the following: (Pantone 1805cv) and hospitality training. --Booker T.Washington Cabin/”Fresh Start” Salt 6. Improvement of community-based orienta- Village at Malden:Trailwide African-American tion through Corridor Management Plan Theme efforts, magazine features, schools, civic groups’ speakers’ tours, and open houses. --Midland Trail Visitor Center at Malden and signage on I-64/77 7. Develop a Trail newsletter and activate community-based spokespeople. Page83 15 --Louise McNeill Festival at Malden 8. Reissue a Memorandum of Understanding --Industrial Heritage Conference at WVU which reconfirms and creates new partner- Institute of Technology in Montgomery, March ships between Trail citizens’ groups. 1998 (included a bus tour of Trail industry) 9. Build on industrial identity which the --Audio and video tapes in foreign languages Association introduced through Spring 1998 Industrial Heritage Seminar. --Caravan Day across the Trail (October 14, 1998) that promoted the Destination Guide. 10. Continue the Association’s partnership with WV Preservation Alliance community development project. --Carriage rides in Lewisburg 11. Spearhead Bike Trek Across Trail 2000 which --Annual October Street Luge in Ansted links the Virginia and West Virginia segments (event draws lugers from around the world). 8.6 of the Midland Trail. 8.7 MARKETABLE ASSETS: POSITIONING THE MIDLAND TRAIL WHAT WE OFFER THE TRAVELER FOR THE FUTURE

The Midland Trail has many marketable intrinsic qualities.The We Have Native It All theme is real. While Chapter 6, “Trail Tales” features with great Hawks Nest, which was originally called Moving forward with the “We Have Americans detail the many features we can market, these six are the primary “Marshall’s Pillar”. There were authors, It All” marketing concept and using the focus of our initial marketing efforts. such as Pearl Buck and Ambrose Bierce. In Midland Trail logo as a support are peacetime, General Lee traveled the Trail important concepts in building an Pioneers and remarked on its exceptional scenery; image and grabbing a share of the 1. CIVIL WAR HERITAGE: populations. African-Americans made a in wartime, he occupied the Sewell Plain tourist market. Consistent use of The Midland Trail figured signifi- large contribution to the life and economy and obtained his warhorse Traveler. these by all members and partners African- cantly in the course of the Civil War, of the Trail in the Hawks Nest Tunnel and Educator and orator Booker Washington adds to the campaign efforts. Americans especially in the first half and particu- area coal mines. spent his boyhood and young adulthood larly in the course of the War in at Malden, and Mother Jones brought her Promotional brochures and direc- Virginia. Every town along the Trail, 4. WORLD-CLASS OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: labor gospel here. At its roadside,“Father tional advertising by businesses and Women including the trailheads, has a rich Civil The Trail’s mountains and rivers lend of Oceanography” Matthew Maury drew organizations along the Trail should Immigrants War connection; these connections themselves to West Virginia’s finest and shipping lanes at a Fayette County inn include the Trail’s logo. The promo- include several future presidents; most exciting recreation and adventure while recovering from a stagecoach acci- tional slogan “We Have It All” provokes famous journalist and author Ambrose opportunities. Whether it’s the Gauley dent. Explorers Lewis and Clark began thought. In the first instance, it asks Prominent Bierce; General Lee, General Grant, River (classed among the world’s best their westward journey in a dugout con- that we take inventory of what we Personages and several other noted generals; and rafting rivers and attracting extremes structed on the Trail at Cedar Grove. Lest have.Then it assumes that we have the the Gatlin Gun. lovers from as far away as Australia), the we think the Trail’s influence is past, confidence to make such a statement. 70-mile-long Greenbrier River Trail,or the remember our newest additions: athletic There is also an element of mystique Resources 2. INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE / greens at the Greenbrier, the Trail is a greats Randy Moss and Jason Williams, in that something exists which the tar- NATIONAL DEFENSE: recreation destination that already entices both of the Kanawha Valley and Rand’s get groups have overlooked in their Transportation The Trail, especially but not exclu- guests from the four corners of the globe. own DuPont High School. traveling. sively the Kanawha Valley, has provided crucial goods in wartime and better 5. PERSONAGES: 6. NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE: Before To develop a stronger understand- Labor and quality of life for the world in peace- Because the Trail is one of America’s European settlement, Natives used the ing of the possibilities of this campaign Industry time.Trail industry developed synthet- oldest routes, it has been at the center of Trail to track buffalo, to their favorite and positioning-line, we recommend ic ammonia and chemicals to manufac- American history for over 250 years.As a hunting-grounds, and for trade. From pre- that discussion groups occur with ture antifreeze and nylon (at one time frequented pioneer and commercial thor- historic times, Natives settled different leaders and individuals in the market- Civil War the world’s only source of nylon), and oughfare, the Trail has served decades of areas of the Trail. In the Kanawha Valley, place. Schoolchildren present a unique produced materiel so vital to war historic and eminent traffic. the Adena Culture settled at present-day opportunity, which is to become efforts that several facilities required Its inhabitants and guests have come Flora, Fauna, Kanawha City, Mound-builders left their involved through inventorying the Trail government troops. Rainelle was from every field of human endeavor and burial-mounds at various spots, and tribes and determining if the positioning-line home to the world’s largest hardwood of the human experience. There were settled in the area of St.Albans. Shawnee, is accurate.Weekly newspapers might Geology lumber company; its wood built the Presidents, such as Washington (a land- Miami, Delaware, and Seneca frequented cover inventories of intrinsic qualities, U.S. Supreme Court, parts of Yale grant holder) and Jackson; future and inhabited the Greenbrier Valley, and which would develop this line of University, and New York’s Waldorf- Presidents, such as Hayes and McKinley; the Trail crosses the Seneca Trail, now thinking. Astoria. and would-be hopefuls, such as Greeley Route 219, at Lewisburg. and Clay.The halls of Congress rang with 3. AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE: eloquent arguments for Clay’s “American The Trail’s saltmakers used many System”, which included development of slaves to tend the furnaces at the the Trail in order to move goods and peo- Salines. Kanawha Salines had one of ple between Kentucky and the Atlantic. antebellum America’s largest black Noted jurist John Marshall sojourned at 8.8 8.9 BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS Marketing Events Activities & Attractions

A Community partnerships enable the Trail to respond to a. Bridge Day--Bridging the Trail and the try for their reenactments of the Civil War. Market-Based Orientation needs that no one single individual can. This Gorge: Also museums are Contentment, Lewisburg Corridor Management Plan process provides Each October, parachute and bungee jumpers Hawk’s Nest and Carnifex Park. a unique opportunity to bring together part- converge on the New River Gorge Bridge to f. Museum-Trail Synergy: Probably the most important reason ners in image-building activities which involve enjoy its long, thrilling drop. Bridge Day and its Public input has recommended a close con- that the initial thrust occur at the com- movers and shakers in the communities. The weekend are ideal times at which to capture this nection between the West Virginia Cultural munity level and with local residents is enthusiasm and support of these individuals throng of adventurists for the region’s other Center’s culture and history exhibits and that there develop a deeper sense of play an integral role in repeat visits and devel- special extreme physical experiences. the Trail, suggesting a tying together of the place and pride. The Trail is the road to opment of the Trail. Whitewatering and luging are potential partners two.This idea would translate well into the work, to church, to school--to every- The support of service organizations, for weekend-long combination adventure pack- programs and exhibits of all museums age tours for the Trail’s athletically-inclined guest. where in the region. There is limited regional planning bodies, governmental orga- across the Trail. A “Trail-athlon” can be an alluring event for ath- understanding of heritage and pride relat- nizations, and other groups with strong mem- g. Multi-Attraction Tours: letes from around the world; we have the river for The potential for these is unlimited ing to the Trail. Local residents are the bership bases will be important to the long- the swimming event and the mountains and throughout the Trail. A movement in the hospitality committee that greets tourists term development and strength of the organi- asphalt for biking. Charleston metropolitan area favors a com- at business and service establishments. zation. Involving local leaders is key to advanc- Having a sense of tourists’ needs is a key b. Lights Along The Trail (Holidays) bination tour which includes the Craik- ing the concepts of the Trail as well as pro- Spectacular seasonal display continues to grow to success. Patton House and Ruffner Cabin at Daniel tection of heritage resources. each year. Currently each town on the Trail par- Boone Park, would segue into a charter In developing this market-based ori- Seeing the growth of the Midland Trail ticipates. Sponsors include towns, communities, sternwheeler ride up the Kanawha River to entation, we will need the assistance of Association as a linear development program and organizations all along the Trail. Shop win- Malden for visits to its sites, then finish with hospitality training programs at vocation- may be the partnership which is vital to dows, individual homes, parks, including state a trip to Belle’s Old Stone House. al schools. CVBs and universities will also development of resources for this economi- facilities, roadside rests, community and city Great potential exists for such towns as play a significant role. In any travel experi- cally-strapped geographic region. Through parks all work together to create a display Ansted, Lewisburg, and the area of ence, the visitor remembers more than a regional efforts and collaborations, we can throughout the Trail.This is becoming an attrac- Lewisburg/White Sulphur Springs. Rail one- majestic overlook, a site of historical sig- implement cost-effective ways of developing tion for which tourists drive the Trail! There are way and “bus-back” trips offer sites of inter- nificance, a recreation location, or a spe- themes as disparate as environment and drive thru displays at Daniel Boone Park, and est up and back. cial event. What a tourist takes home as industry, Tools and Toys, scenic views, and Hawks Nest State Park and in the towns of This concept would work well with bus much as memory is the treatment he or impressionistic hues.The whole idea involves Gauley Bridge, Ansted, Rainelle, Lewisburg, tours of schoolchildren, retirees, and con- she experiences. A bad experience by an pooling resources, creating regional partner- Glasgow, Cedar Grove and along the Kanawha ventioneers. Other opportunities, often outspoken tourist at one attraction can ships, and building a stronger case for tourism Blvd. (Rt. 60) in Charleston. overlooked, are markets to the now-popu- c.Whitewater Weekend result in a negative impression of the in the region. In this way, we will accomplish lar “alumni college weekends”, to college More than 38 white water rafting companies entire Trail and turn away potential guests. this process efficiently, effectively, and imagina- classes which favor some out-of-classroom join efforts to introduce and promote the finest practical experiences, and even to corpo- tively so that government and foundations river activities in the world. This event as been rate groups which might take advantage of welcome the opportunity to work with the Promotional Partnerships visited by dignitaries, including vice presidents, team-building or educational seminars in a Midland Trail. senators and congresspersons. More than variety of venues. Following are some additional specific vehi- Whitewater, golf, skiing, cycling, and 100,000 people raft each year and countless These programs need not be solely his- cles for partnerships: rock-climbing have a connection with his- numbers kayak, canoe, rock climb and enjoy a torical in nature. Package deals could toric preservation, crafts, antiquing, and full array of outdoor activities. include a variety of recreational and shop- 1. CVBs, Charleston and Beckley industrial heritage. Decisions about mar- d. Family Reunions ping activities. keting must accommodate a range of West Virginia’s Homecoming 1996 launched a h. The Charleston Sternwheeler 2.Whitewater and skiing enterprises renewed interest in Homecomings and family interests; the “We Have It All” concept Regatta. reunions. MTSHA has continued to promote accounts for this variety of interests and Potential exists for making this river-cen- 3. Greenbrier Hotel guests small town visits and introduce the Governor’s tered summer event more heritage-orient- partnerships. current Celebration 2000 program. Malden was ed. The foundation is already there. The The success of the Trail depends to a 4. Charleston convention visitors the first unincorporated community selected to Regatta’s namesakes are the chief attraction; large degree upon the development of participate in Celebration 2000 and Midland they are themselves pieces of floating, strong partnerships with state and local 5. Bringing Charleston, Huntington, and Trail is first region selected. churning history. Additionally, a Funeral business and community leaders, the Parkersburg day-trippers back onto the Trail e. Historical Reenactments Parade brings in a little of New Orleans tourism industry, operators of attrac- Battles of both the Civil War and Revolutionary culture. tions, hotel and motel operators, artists War were fought along the Midland Trail. and crafts people, restaurant owners, and Lewisburg, Fayetteville and Carnifex Battlefield 8.10 political leaders. These combinations of State Park draw visitors from across the coun- 8.11 3. To enjoy leisurely meals at restaurants, history”, we mean not merely the use Special Target Markets more than do men. Pleasant ambience is of characters dressed in costume, but important. This characteristic suggests enacting certain events, such as signif- that women not only tend to value their icant historical events, or activities, Tourism marketing is not an travel experiences more than do men, but such as those which people would amorphous collection of cold value them more on an emotional and perform as part of everyday living psychological level than men do. (cooking, sewing, weapon-making). statistics. One cannot pigeon- hole available markets into “one- 4.To show greater concern for ensuring a III. FOREIGN VISITORS memorable travel experience for their size-fits-all” compartments. Each children. Additionally, they tend to show We cannot disregard foreign travel to tourist is a flesh-and-blood being great concern that “child-friendly” pro- the Midland Trail. Canadians, Japanese and Europeans have shown the most with his or her individual desires, grams and activities exist for their chil- dren at the destination location. Concern interest in visiting West Virginia. As needs, and expectations. extends to the desire that the activity be the Trail grows, it must look to con- In the past, conventional wis- exciting and entertaining, maybe even centrating marketing campaigns inter- educational. nationally to these areas. dom tended to ignore the differ- With this thought in mind, the Trail’s One Trail inn has counted guests ences and diversity among seg- I.WOMEN marketing should not only emphasize the from 30 different nations, many from Europe, and its Internet site has “child-friendly” nature of its visitor expe- ments of the traveling public. At this writing, Malden is planning a received inquiries from as far away as rience, but also direct this aspect of mar- Women’s Park, to be situated in the Taiwan. However, improvements in buy- keting to the mother. Booker Washington Park. The Women’s ing power and economic status Park will feature a series of interpretive 1. Canadians pass through West 5. To emphasize price and good value in among these segments, changes panels which afford a look at the out- Virginia and cross the Trail at Hico as their shopping choices. in political and social attitudes, standing women of the Trail and of West they travel between Canada and the the southern US. WV is about a Virginia. As women increase in social and II.AFRICAN-AMERICANS and increasing mobility in economic power, the tourism market halfway point for those traveling to American society and the world must change to meet the needs of the Florida. Tamarack reports significant This segment’s buying power is increasing, business from Canadian tourists. itself necessitate a heightened woman traveler. and with it the desire for some kind of The number of women-owned busi- awareness of the needs and heritage experience.Additionally, any kind 2. The Trail may find fertile marketing nesses is increasing; as such, the Trail of heritage experience should include ground within the wealthy, developed desires of these diverse ele- should be sensitive to the economic with it a sense of discovery. That is, the nations of Western Europe, if the ments. power women wield. visitor should have the opportunity to nascent economic partnership and As a group, women tend: power of the European Community While the Midland Trail is a “discover” certain things about history and culture. prospers financially and politically, as stable physical region of 119 1.To favor shopping as part of their travel Characteristics of this type traveler are the Community’s plans intend. In fact, experience.This experience includes bou- miles, it becomes a multitude of as follows: the Community’s single currency, the tiquing, antiquing, and arts and crafts shop- ecu, may become strong against the regions to different eyes, values, ping. In the 1990s, African-Americans have U.S. dollar, and stronger currency exhibited a growing desire to rediscover tends to encourage spending, travel, and mindsets. Following are 2. To desire clean, comfortable, aestheti- and recapture their heritage, their cultur- and tourism. looks at these special markets, cally-pleasing surroundings, whether in al roots. They are not alone; both adult Moreover, since WV has estab- restaurants or even in restrooms. This with psychological profiles and and child visitors of the 1990s, whether lished a trade office in Germany, a tendency seems to be more prevalent black or white, tend to be rather cut off marketing campaign within Germany strategies for catering to these among women than men. and isolated from any education about itself would benefit the Trail. At present, the Trail not only lacks suf- markets. their country’s or particular culture’s past, ficient restroom amenities, but also seems and seem to gravitate toward activities 3.Several Japanese companies have to lack sufficient clean rest-room areas. which include “living history”. By “living located in West Virginia and with WV 8.12 8.13 having a trade office in Nagoya there is ful to have clearer signage indicating Industries is impressive. How interest- plant varieties, an attractive indoor a potential for courting this trade. the Veterans’ Memorial, Cultural Center, ing a tour of that site might be! garden shop, and creatively designed and Capitol Building. Moderate walking Next, we followed the Trail into his- display gardens will appeal to both the 4.The Australian market has potential, capabilities will suffice to tour these toric Malden. We veered slightly right off seasoned and the amateur gardener too. Many Australian adventure lovers areas, all accessible by ramp. The the Trail--approximately two blocks--to alike. The shop is accessed by steps, travel for thousands of miles just to friendly receptionist at the Cultural visit Kelly Bratton’s auto museum and but the display gardens and most raft the state’s whitewater rivers. Center was familiar with the Midland Greyhound (the bus, not the dog!) flower and plant varieties can be Trail Destination Guide, but had Memorabilia mecca. This attraction is the seen easily by traversing level 5. There is desire to see “the real none on hand that day to share with result of an avocation handed down from ground. Note:An access ramp to America”, not just a travel package of us. I think these are a must at the father to son. It will be of interest to the shop is available at left of the sanitized tours. The Trail’s strength Trail’s start. We did not check the visi- antique car buffs and Greyhound bus afi- stairs. lies in its character and personality tor’s stop at the Capitol. Hopefully, the cionados. Mr. Bratton possesses possibly The next point of interest along the (from the normal to the quirky). Guide is available there as well. Touring the largest collection of Greyhound sou- Trail is the Marmet Locks, to the right these areas could easily take two-plus venirs known to the world. He will hos- off the highway. With luck, you will IV.THE ELDERLY hours. pitably invite you to peruse his interesting arrive in time to see a coal or chemi- As we left the Cultural Center parking array of antique vehicles, all in varying cal barge proceeding through the “The Midland Trail-- lot, my companions asked me how states of refurbishment. One of my com- locks. River travel buffs will appreciate For The Mature Traveler”, anyone new to the area would know panions was particularly drawn to a this stop. by Karen Glazier, how to proceed along the Trail. Franklin automobile that is currently The huge white tank of DuPont’s Good Living Homes, Malden Midland Trail signage with a direc- being renovated. Mr.Bratton enjoys show- Belle plant soon comes into view. tional arrow would be helpful at ing guests around and is present most Wartime production was critical to Several travel companions Greenbrier and Washington Streets, every day. You can park next to the the World War II defense effort. go on their quest as well as at the intersection of building, and there are no steps Veterans and those who appreciate for visitor experience Greenbrier and Kanawha Boulevard. required in order to gain entrance. the technological history of this area (A Quest For The Holy Trail) A coal-laden barge plied the waters of Back onto the Trail! Other “must-see” will be impressed by this stop. [Note: certain helpful hints and mention the Kanawha River as we headed east stops in Malden included Cabin Creek Ironically, the next stop along the of desirable services and amenities have along the Trail. Daniel Boone Park is the Quilts, the internationally-acclaimed Trail takes you back through history been highlighted for the reader’s conve- next stop. The Craik-Patton House, an woman-owned quilting cooperative. to a simpler time. The Old Stone nience] 1834 structure, is open for tours April Parking is available and a ramp pro- House at Belle is just off the Trail at Bright blue skies smiled down upon through October, but does require vides easy access into the main shop. mile 10.You can park nearby and visit delighted daffodils as my two compan- some step-climbing. The P.A. Denny Tours of the nearby (1 1/2 blocks) recon- on third Saturdays of each month, May ions and I set out on our Midland Trail Sternwheeler docks at the park with easy structed Booker T. Washington boyhood through October and by appointment. Senior Adventure Tour! Our mission-- access.The park is a perfect spot for a pic- cabin are available, by appointment, From there we drove into the town of Belle, which offers another stop for to view the Trail’s offerings through nic, with numerous picnic tables, public through the cooperative. Across the casual dining or a convenience gas the eyes of and with the physical capa- restrooms, and an accessible fishing dock. street from Cabin Creek Quilts we noted station. Leaving the Belle area, we felt bilities of the older adult. My two trav- If you wish to picnic nearer the river, on that a traveler could seek quiet that additional signage would be eling companions possessed the nec- the lower bank, some walking will be respite at the Booker Washington helpful for indicating a return to essary age credentials. Additionally, a required, as you must park your car in Park. A poem by former state Poet the four-lane highway. To y our left, combined total of more than one hun- the upper lot. Again, we felt that over- Laureate Louise McNeill, commemorating dred years in the field of professional as you get back onto the highway, is a head Midland Trail signage as one the great black educator’s achievements, Dairy Queen at Witcher, which might geriatrics proved a common bond leaves the park would be helpful in adorns a brick wall at the entrance to the between us. be a wise stop for a cool treat! steering him correctly back to the park. Two small grocery stores along the Our next stop along the Trail was The Midland Trail provides the Trail and up onto the four-lane high- main street through town afford an leisure traveler with excellent day-trip Virginia’s Chapel in Cedar Grove. Built way. excellent opportunity to replenish by an early settler, William Tompkins, possibilities. We started at our begin- As we proceeded, we noted several snack supplies before continuing along as a graduation gift for his daughter in ning, cruising first into the Cultural casual dining spots, in case you forget to the Trail! 1853, the Chapel is listed on the Center parking lot at the State pack the picnic lunch! We counted three We drove through the village proper National Registry of Historic Places. Capitol. My companions, both out-of- possibilities between the park and Port and next found ourselves at Terra Salis You can park next to the church and staters, noted that it would be help- Amherst.The view of Port Amherst Coal Garden Center outside of town. Unusual tour the small chapel and the small 8.14 8.15 cemetery that surrounds it.As we vis- THE “BABY BOOMER” ies have shown, has turned his or her eration vacation”. ited, we learned of possible plans to attention away from destination locations restore the Tompkins homeplace This generation, born during the period such as Disneyland and the beach toward 8. More than ever, amenities play a sig- 1945 through 1964, represented a period across the road. If so, this will be adventure travel which allows some sense nificant role in choice of lodging. For never before seen in this country’s histo- another good tour stop in years to of discovery and growth in experience. example, many “Boomers” desire effi- ry; the “Baby Boomer” was born into a come. This attitude manifests itself in part as the ciency accommodations. country which emerged from WWII as The London Locks at mile 24 was weekend or overnight “communing with the world’s (perhaps even history’s) rich- our last major stop of the day.You can nature” or “roughing it” even while enjoy- 9. Look forward to retirement as a pull into the parking area and easily est and most materially prosperous nation. As one expert put it, this genera- ing comfort and amenities. In West time to travel and to enjoy them- see the locks from the comfort of Virginia, this discovery comes through selves.The “Boomers” began reaching your vehicle. Or you may wish to tion was unlike any other which it fol- lowed. The “Baby Boomer” grew up and such leisure activity as whitewater rafting, middle age in 1995, and will begin stretch your legs a bit. A small picnic mountain biking, and rock-climbing. reaching the nationally accepted area beside the locks offers a pleasant lived in a time of material abundance, and this abundance formed the Boomer’s retirement age of 65 in 2010. spot for viewing river activities while 5. Material prosperity brought about a enjoying a bite to eat. Three picnic thinking. Characteristics of this generation are materialistic outlook toward life. He or 10. Advances in education and mater- tables all afford good views, one of she likes the best in goods and services. ial abundance, as well as the post- which is situated beneath a shade as follows: The “Baby Boomer” enjoys travel which WWII growth of individualistic atti- tree. Restroom accommodations are 1. Usually desires some instant or imme- includes acquisition, namely, shopping. tudes, fashioned the “Boomer” into an in the form of three portable toilets, diate results in his or her travel experi- educated, savvy consumer. This con- one of which is handicap-accessi- ence, especially in provision of goods and 6. Usually possesses substantial disposable sumer knows what she wants and ble, and all can be reached by a hard- services. Essentially, instant gratification is income. The “Baby Boomer” generally how and when she wants it. As such, top pathway (be sure to bring your significant to any visit. Relevance should own supply of Wet Ones!) looked not only to family, but also to she will be particular in her choice of From the London Locks we pro- be immediate and applicable to everyday career and occupation, for fulfillment and goods and services. ceeded to Gauley Bridge. Off to the living. satisfaction. Emphasis upon advancement Additionally, unlike his forebears, left we pulled into a McDonald’s for a and growth at work has brought about he does not have brand loyalty; factors hot (watch that cup!) cup of coffee 2. Normally very individualistic in his or increased purchasing power. such as price, fashionability, and conve- before turning back toward the Trail’s her approach to life. This generation was Emphasis upon Boomers’ spending for nience override those of brand names. start. We all felt that this portion of taught the importance of self-help and enjoyment constitutes, as one Boomer the journey was one good full day of self-growth. Additionally, he or she researcher called it,“spending their inher- 11. Favors having all amenities and touring.We decided to save the rest of absorbed growing cultural attitudes itance now”. experiences in one area. Convenience the Trail for another day’s outing. We toward independence in thinking and act- is significant in the “Boomer’s “ choice had pleasant memories enough for ing. The “Baby Boomer” likes a travel 7. A more “family-oriented” generation of destination and amenities. For one day! experience in which he or she can be than any previous generation in America. example, the “Boomer” who rafts may “spoiled” or pampered, perhaps experi- Families are closer-knit. The “Baby like to have lodging and restaurants THIS REPORT WAS PREPARED ences which allow some self-indulgence. Boomer” parent, raised with individualis- either on the rafting company’s WITH THE KNOWLEDGE OF AN tic and independent thinking, tends to grounds or within easy traveling dis- EVER-GROWING NUMBER OF 3. Usually concerned with youth, physical include his or her children into plans for tance.This personality aspect is part of OLDER ADULTS WITH LEISURE exercise, health, and diet. Post-WWII life vacationing, and in several ways. First, their the motivation and argument for TIME AND ADEQUATE RESOURCES saw advances in medicine and quality of children have more input in the family’s casting the Trail as “having it all”. WHO ARE INTERESTED IN HER- life that emphasized “good”, healthful liv- decision-making as to how and where to ITAGE TRAILS. THE MATERIAL IS ing.“Baby Boomers” tend to be very sen- spend the family’s leisure time. Moreover, 12. Because they pursue careers and INTENDED TO BE HELPFUL TO sitive about the issue of aging, so they the “Baby Boomer” parent tends to look usually do not have much time for THOSE WHO MIGHT MARKET TO address it with activities which are for “child-friendly” activities. This mani- leisure, Boomers usually want vaca- THAT GROUP. GERIATRIC PROFES- healthy, wholesome, and invigorating. fests itself either as an emphasis on activ- tions which include everything that SIONALS FROM THE FIELDS OF ities which the family can do together or they can get into those limited vaca- SOCIAL WORK, NURSING, AND 4. A generation with individualistic atti- as activities in which the children can par- tion days.The slogan “We Have It All” MEDICINE WERE INVOLVED IN tudes tends to favor activities which are ticipate separately from the adults. takes on added significance here. As THIS TRIP. “meaningful” and “significant” to self- Grandparents also tend to bring their such, he or she will try to receive growth.As such, the “Baby Boomer”, stud- grandchildren, leading to the “three-gen- more value for the dollar spent. 8.16 8.17 computer researcher. experiences in places which do not Package deals are particularly attrac- device) as an educational tool, but have tive. also become technologically savvy. have a great deal of development, but 5. Unlike previous generations, educated 13. Presence of the corporate vaca- With the ability to arrange travel at the same time the desired ameni- more toward preservation and protection tion. This class of vacation can have a through the home computer, the market- ties. At skiing resorts, for example, of the environment. Schools emphasized double purpose: leisure and business. place will likely see a shift in travel arrang- Xer, Echo Boomer, and Millennial this part of education more than in previ- In some instances, the corporation ing away from the traditional visit to the males tend to enjoy snowboarding. ous times. Essentially, environmentally- wants to build co-workers as teams travel agency and more into the home. conscious and -educated. and to network. Remember: convenience. Additionally, 8. Starting with this generation, and Travel experiences would benefit by whereas the travel agency often served as becoming even stronger with the fol- incorporating some communion with and VI.“GENERATION X” the “middleman” in arrangements, now lowing ones, the enjoyment of games appreciation of the environment. the traveler can design his or her travel of all sorts. The abundance of video Material abundance, increased directly, without an agent. Essentially, the and computer games has given these 6. Also unlike previous generations, has goods and services provider will educate younger generations the desire-- emphasis upon individualism and inde- more tolerance toward, or at least greater not the agent, but the traveler, as to offer- indeed, an appetite--for all sorts of pendence, and the penetration of acceptance of, multi-culturalism and cul- ings. games, especially ones which contain technology into the home has created tural diversity as a pattern of everyday life. The emergence of this generation as a excitement, action, and a quest for a a second-generation educated con- Factors such as integration in public technical power in the marketplace prize. sumer. “Baby Boomer” attitudes have schools; growth of political influence and necessitates certain shifts in approach. Potential exists for integration of helped shape the Gen-Xer into an economic status among African- The Midland Trail would benefit by devel- games of all kinds into heritage expe- educated consumer. Born during the Americans, Asians, and women; introduc- oping an integrated computer system rience. tion of cultural diversity into school cur- period 1964 through 1975, this gener- which links each Visitor Center with each ricula; and these segments’ desire for ation, at 2000, is now moving into place of lodging, recreation location, his- rediscovering and establishing their spe- 9. Continuous, accelerating technolog- positions of influence and significant toric site, and business within one cial heritages and roots have shifted ical change and a shift away from tra- purchasing power. Website and allows the traveler to design American educational and heritage ditional, conservative methodologies Many of their characteristics are his or her own travel at home. themes away from predominantly white in the classroom and even in the similar to those of the “Boomers”. Additionally--and something not usual- and male toward more diverse approach- workplace has habituated and ly observed or understood--this genera- exposed Generation X and their 1. Materialistic outlook toward life. es to heritage education. tion is less oriented toward the written As such, the Xer is liberal on social younger counterparts to a significant However, this perspective does not word than to visual and graphic represen- issues, but fiscally conservative. amount of novelty in their lives. seem to play as important part in trav- tations in learning and reasoning. Marketing strategies may include Unlike previous generations, which el as it does with the “Boomers”. Videotapes seem to be just as important events which showcase the cultural diver- may not be as tolerant or accepting of as textbooks in the educational process. sity and multi-cultural aspects of the novelty, those 30 and under at this 2. Educated consumers who look less As such, the Trail would benefit by devel- Midland Trail, such as the contribution of writing are accustomed to constant to brand-name reliability than to fash- oping short film vignettes for play on its African-Americans to Trail coal mining, to newness and almost mind-numbing ionability, i.e., which tends to make a Website, e.g., instead of writing about his- the economy, to Appalachian life in gener- change in the world about them. Rapid “statement”. torical re-enactments, the Site could play change has become accepted as a pat- actual tapes of such events. al. European immigrants, including those from Italy and East Europe, also made tern of life.As such,Trail planners,gov- 3. Like the “Boomer”, the Xer seems Considering the emergence of the contributions, and there is rich potential ernment bureaus, and businesses have to favor amenities and travel experi- educated consumer and the ability to for development of immigrant themes, the continuous opportunity to intro- ences in one area or within easy trav- design travel conveniently at home, this such as their part in industrial develop- duce novel sensations and creative el distance of each other. generation also has the opportunity to conduct a great deal of research with the ment, e.g., the Hawks Nest Tunnel, and in programs into their goods and ser- fashioning an architectural style along the vices to this young consumer. 4. This generation grew up with the Internet without leaving the home. Again: Trail in its varied homes. Additionally, while the Trail is computer and, like the succeeding convenience. Moreover, with the Internet, The “Trail Tales” portion of this Plan is steeped in the old and historic, mar- generations, usually grew up with it in we have seen a shift away from the cus- the classroom and at home. As such, tomary trip to the library to research at a concrete example of the marketing keting should be able to emphasize the Xer and the younger generations home; the computer has become the which will set the Trail apart for its future the “New Trail” as well.This approach have become not only comfortable growing medium of choice for research. visitors. can balance new with old.That is, busi- with the computer (unlike his fore- The Trail would benefit by supplying nesses and service-providers can details about its experiences for the home 7. Tends to favor adventure/outdoors combine history and heritage with 8.18 bears’ fear of or reluctance to use this 8.19 current and developing political, social, and economic powers in the mid-2000s, The Trail is forging an identity as one com- ing emphasis in the schools during this and cultural themes. likely around 2005. munity even as it persists in rich diversity. 17-year period: tolerance, multi-cul- turalism, and heightened social aware- Characteristics: Accordingly themes along the Trail should 10. This generation does not value consider multi-culturalism and diversity as ness. According to research, the money as the key to happiness and ful- 1. Like the Xers, computer-smart. a necessary and tonic part of the motif of Millennials are more liberal on civil lib- fillment as much as older generations, Increased tendency to rely upon the com- community. erties than are Xers. but seek these things through job sat- puter for research and inquiry. Use of 2. Millennial females have penetrated isfaction, meaningful experiences, etc. computer graphics and film vignettes to 4.The theme of “community” is becoming once male-dominated areas, and Even more, a career is not valued as educate about visitor experience. significant and will increase in significance. women now outnumber men in the key to happiness as much as it was Computers and interactive screens at Older generations tended toward more American universities and colleges. with the previous generations. numerous sites and museums along the “local community” thinking, sometimes Trail themes must focus significantly As such, programs and activities Trail would blend computers with inter- even a little isolationism. Starting with on female heritage. should focus on meaning and pur- pretation successfully for the “Echoer”. Generation X and increasing with the poseful activity. younger generations is the perspective 3. Termed the “first high-tech genera- 2. However, a de-emphasis in past years beyond the immediate town as “communi- tion”.Attractions at Trail sites of inter- 11. However, Generation X in the on heritage and history have tended to ty”. Multi-cultural (cultural diversity) stud- est would benefit with the use of tech- next 5 to 10 years stands to receive leave the younger generations heritage- ies in the school, increasing interracial nology. an overall substantial windfall in the alienated, without a past and without a acceptance and coexistence, increasing form of their Baby Boomer parents’ future. Reasons for these are many; use of the global “community” of the 4. With any advance in technology inheritances. As such, we should increasing pace of life and advances in Internet and e-mail, the rise of political comes a hunger to rediscover the expect this generation to have dispos- technology have habituated America to philosophies which encourage communal past.The next 20 years promises great able resources for travel enjoyment in favoring the novel over the traditional, assistance to the less fortunate and dis- opportunities if the Trail offers redis- their later years, likely starting around public schools seem to be diminishing the courage individual profit-making, and liber- covery of the past--especially if it uses 2005. importance of history in their curricula, al philosophies in the church have exposed technology in that rediscovery. and American society’s emphasis on the today’s youth and young adults to the idea 12. Wise, even cynical, toward the “useful” over the “theoretical” have of the world as one large “community”. 5. Described as ambitious, optimistic, media. According to research, they undermined and perhaps even called into As such, the younger generations may and altruistic. be amenable to programs and activities on present a difficult market to pene- question the need for heritage studies. 6. Highly significant for planners, this the Trail which encourage and educate trate. Advertising will need to shift its These younger generations seem to favor generation sees lifelong learning as a about the “community” aspects of Trail approach. Descriptions include a gen- living history through such media as indi- priority. Trail planning might consider heritage and history. eration which is distrustful and careful vidual and group re-enactments, arts and multiple opportunities for learning about consumer products, contracts, crafts festivals, and drama as a way to and education at its different sites. and advertising. Religious beliefs tend reconnect themselves with something VIII.THE “MILLENNIAL to be non-traditional; rather, they are which was lost. GENERATION” 7. Preservation of the environment is described as developing their own Re-enactment programs, such as the a priority. Publicity which targets this Born between 1977 and 1994, this gener- unique religious beliefs. West Virginia Humanities Council’s Living group should take into account that ation comes--and will come--of age as the This enhanced marketplace History Program, the Mary Ingles Trail calendar switches over to the 21st centu- the Trail: wisdom underscores the need for Associates in Winfield, and Prickett’s ry. Planning for this group should take into a. Has preserved its environment in trained “information providers” who Fort’s re-enactors, are proof of the popu- account that it will emerge as a financial such a way that it remains unspoiled. are well versed on Trail offerings, her- larity of living history. Colonial power starting around 2007. b. Is a place of natural beauty itage, and intrinsic qualities. Williamsburg has developed their pro- This group is known to share many which offers an ideal get-away. gram to a high degree of success. characteristics of the preceding two gen- c. Offers something of a “return to VII.THE “ECHO BOOMER” If the Trail is to survive and grow as a erations. nature”. tourist destination, this element will have This generation, born in the mid-70s, to play a significant part in Trail visitor 1. More racially and ethnically diverse than 8. Family, not money, is the key to hap- any generation preceding. One description exhibits much of the same character- experience. piness. As such, Trail tourism planning delineates them as highly accepting of should consider family themes and istics as their generational predeces- diversity.Successful themes might focus on 3.As with Xers, greater tolerance toward family activities. sors. The “Echo Boomers” will begin three values which have received increas- 8.20 emerging as one of the nation’s social multi-culturalism and cultural diversity. 8.21 Driving the Trail Junk- uctures challenge Enhancing the Visitors Experience yards, large billboards and dilapidated str and undermine visitors’ satisfaction experience. with their Trail MTSHA strives to lead a variety of interests towards a unified vision of peaceful green. Billboards upstage beautiful breaking the mountain scenery, relationship with traveler’s nature. Coal and timber trucks bigger than houses and with dusty wakes travel sections of day and night. the Trail Signage Except for mile-markers, signage along the Trail is rather incon- sistent and needs attention. Signs fall into four categories: directional, informational, interpretive, and advertising. I. DIRECTIONAL: Signage in this class is adequate, and marks out the number designation as well as cardinal directions. The Trail also displays prominently brown mile-markers which indicate the dis- tance traveled from the State Capitol at Charleston; this signage is consis- tent throughout the Trail’s 119 miles.

II. INFORMATIONAL: Mile markers Since its designation as a Scenic Highway, the Trail has displayed easily recognizable brown indicating the background signs with white lettering and the Trail logo. These signs fall into three cate- distance to and gories: A. General informational signs that indicate from the State that the visitor is traveling the Midland Trail. Capitol provide B. Specific informational signs which indicate Midland Trail vis- some point of interest, such as a museum or historic home. itors with a C. Location of the Tourist Information foothold for Centers. directions.The Signage in this MT Destination category is not Guide uses these consistent and Mile Markers to some areas have little or direct visitors to none. points of interest and services. Some points of interest are not indicated with the specific mark- er.One such site is the Old Stone House in Belle. Although there is a posted sign, there is no clear signage which directs the visi- tor to the appropriate turn-off for the house (see above). In cases such as this one, the Association has intentions of correct- ing deficiencies either in absence of signage or inadequate sig- nage. Signage does not indicate all points of “intrinsic quality” interest and visitor services Above: Towns along the Trail have like restaurants, lodging and comfort facilities. taken their own signage initiative 9.2 with artistic signs such as these. III. INTERPRETIVE: Historical markers placed by the WV Division of Culture and History are limited. While these signs are long-lasting, they are often not visible or easily readable from the car. The drawing to the right is an example of the updated recommended interpretive signage.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GATEWAYS: Public input has also recommended “gate- way” signage in certain areas such as the entrance to the Trail at the western (Charleston at the State Capitol) and at the eastern (White Sulphur Springs/Virginia bor- der) gateways. Sam Black Church is another potential location. 9.3 Outdoor Advertising IV. ADVERTISING: The Association is on record as opposing the use of any large bill- board advertising, espe- cially any advertising in open vistas which will If we must have obstruct or distract from the scenic quali- billboards, ties of the Trail. At least one town’s citizen’s companies group along the Trail successfully opposed a should be plan to place billboards outside the town. encouraged Although there are a few large billboards to provide signs along the Trail, this occurrence is limited. Most advertising is restricted to small, unobtrusive separate which feature a billboards or those which are attached to business buildings or are standing mar- quees on business properties. “heritage look” The Association is also on record as supporting “segmentation”, the restriction of outdoor advertising to designated segments of the route. The West with lattice and Virginia Commissioner of Highways, by Order dated 11/30/98, prohibited addi- tional outdoor advertising on state byways except in identified segments. other period

type features.

9.4 Signage Plans The Association’s plan for “Midland Trail” westward from placement and number of Charleston to the Kentucky border. If placement and number of the extension is approved it will nec- highway signs builds on an essary to renumber the route starting 9 already established signage at the Virginian Border and marking system. the mileage to the Kentucky border. system. The Association is considering the At present, the traveler has direction- alternative of a “0” mile-marker at the al signs, informational signs, and mile- Virginia border. markers which cover the entire Trail from Augmenting this signage system will Charleston to White Sulphur Springs. be the use of roadside kiosks which Except for mile-markers, signs tend to be provide information, direction, and situated in one place, in a vertical row, interpretation. rather than scattered. Additionally, and significant especially in the less developed Signage will actually serve two natural scenic areas, these signs and mark- Midland Trails, one for cars and one ers are colored brown, which permits the for bikes. Our program also contem- traveler to gather information while plates signage for biking paths which allowing the sign to blend with the sur- parallel the road. Signs can indicate Example of how roundings, thus minimizing distraction. In distance and length of the proposed the Milemarker some instances, small travel information bike route; locations of bikers’ picnic was adapted into a signs are appended right underneath the areas, rest spots, and entrances to logo for use in the state’s green informational/ mileage signs. other bike and/or hiking paths; direc- Destination The Association is committed to tional information and historical infor- MIdland Guide. attracting the foreign visitor, and, in par- mational markers for points of inter- Visitors coordi- ticular, knows that the state of West est; and potential crosswalks (see nate the Guide Virginia is trying to attract Canadian below). Informational kiosks would with the Mileage tourists; many of these use the state’s enhance the biker’s mini-trip. Marker Road Signs Route 19, which intersects with the Trail to easily locate at Hico. Studies show that European points of interest. tourism is growing in the United States; As The Trail the highest European tourist population is expands west German. Plans call for signs in French, ward, the mile- German, and Spanish. The 1998-99 marker signs will Destination Guide includes welcomes in require renumber- French and German. ing to include the Interstate 64/77, Route 19, and Route extension. 219 are all major gateways onto the Trail. It is recommended that Interstate 64/77 become a Gateway, as it intersects with the Trail at Charleston. The Association intends to place signs on these as well as the Trail for guidance on and off the Trail. Gateways will be clearly defined. Signs such as this one are necessary In April 1998, the Association voted to for proposed Trail biking routes. request extension of the designation 9.5 MIDLAND TRAIL UPGRADES TO REDUCE HAZARDS

Speed Changes with Road Share the Road Signage Changes From the state Capital to Riverside High Eliminating surprises and offering a School (a total of 14.5 miles) good cycling predictable driving and travel experi- opportunities with the addition of signage ence over the Trail is a goal of the to “ Share the Roads with a Bicycle.” Association. The Trail itself has gone Piedmont Road and new route 60 runs Through periods of evolution on its within feet of the Midland Trail offering western sector in Kanawha County cyclists access and views of the original where three and four lane sections Trail. have been added atop the original Trail. In these situations a drivers Planned Trail Widening speed may change significantly over short distances. The role of good sig- The Midland Trail Scenic Highway nage to protect drivers from hazards Association has gone on record as is key in these situations. being supportive of the widening of the Trail from Shrewsbury to Montgomery. Hazards for Foot Traffic It has also indicated that historic proper- In some cases on the Western ties and personal safety of citizens and Sector in Malden, Rand, Dupont City, tourists must be considered and accom- and Belle, the Trail runs through com- modated in any road modification. munities where sidewalks are limited or non-existent. Safety and Traffic lights in Tourist In these situations road speeds need areas to provide for the inclusion of tourists who are The addition of the Midland Trail Travel Unfamiliar with traffic and slower Information Center at Cabin Creek speeds are needed in these situations Quilts in Malden, Booker T.Washington’s particularly in the community of Cabin, The Salt Village, and the Women’s Malden in Kanawha County. Park has resulted in increased foot traffic. Visitors from the Midland Trail Beware Roadside Vendors Information Center must cross this heavy traffic area without the aid of a traffic Traditionally, roadside vendors light. have been a part of the ambiance of the Midland Trail. This may take the form of garden produce or velvet Elvis paintings. In any event these vendors provide a color, flavor and culture to the Trail reminding us of An earlier time. However, it is important that pull offs for roadside marketing be designated and signed to assure safety to travelers wishing to experience this roadside phenomena. 9.6 TIME FRAME

Short Term or Immediate Within Five Years --- 2005 Improvements -- 2001 Truck Lanes should be provided or Areas know for hazardous conditions widened as needed. such as a coal preparation plant where trucks enter and leave as well as sec- Shoulders should be upgraded at sev- tions frequented by timber haulers should eral points along the Trail. be clearly marked for travelers unfa- miliar with the Trail. Underpass entrances and exits at Belle and Malden which regularly need Foot traffic along the Trail should be pro- upgrades. vided with walkways. Walkways which presently exist such as the one from the Capitol to Daniel Boone Park need upgrading and maintenance. Long Term --- 2010 Signage in high accident areas should be reevaluated. Development of businesses which are compatible with the long Pavement markings should be reeval- range vision uated along the entire length of the Trail For the trail as well as discour- aging starts which detract from the Entrance and Exits to parking areas development should be well defined where possible. Objectives of the CMP and its supporting interest groups. Object hazards should be protected by guard rails.

9.7 Accident Data U.S. Route 60 (Midland Trail) Charleston to Virginia Line,10/1/95 - 9/30/98

Number of *Accidents *Accident Highway Section Length Accidents Per Year Rate

Kanawha County U.S. 60 (Charleston to Malden) 3.19 128 42 245

Kanawha County 1-77 (U.S. 60 follows 1-77) 1.14 26 9 45

Kanawha County CR 60/12 (Malden to Belle) 5.97 92 31 253

Kanawha County U.S. 60 (Belle to Fayette Co./L) 15.37 326 109 171

Fayette County U.S. 60 (Co./L to Greenbrier Co./L) 46.06 320 107 136

Greenbrier County U.S.. 60 (Co/L to 1-64) 43.80 479 160 221

Greenbrier County 1-64 (U.S. 60 follows 1-64 to Virginia) 2.57 24 - 8 77 ______

Totals 118.1 1,395 465 179 (All Sections Combined)

Legend *Accident Rate = Number of accidents per 100 million vehicle miles "Accidents Per Year = Based on yearly average from 10/1/95 to 9/30/98

9.6a Accident Rates

WEST VIRGINIA DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS STATEWIDE AVERAGE ACCIDENT RATES, 1995-1997

HIGHWAY TYPE *ACCIDENT *INJURY *PDO *FATAL

TOTAL INTERSTATE (Combined Urban and Rural) 68 38 43 0.97 RURAL INTERSTATE 63 37 39 1.03 URBAN INTERSTATE 80 36 55 0.53

TOTAL PRIMARY (All U.S. & State Numbered Routes) 213 122 133 2.30 RURAL PRIMARY 193 124 113 2.98 RURAL PRIMARY - TWO LANES 199 RURAL PRIMARY - TWO LANES 16-17' 272 RURAL PRIMARY - TWO LANES 18-22' 212 RURAL PRIMARY - TWO LANES OVER 22' 192 RURAL PRIMARY - FOUR LANES 106 RURAL PRIMARY - FOUR LANES CONTROLLED ACCESS 88

URBAN PRIMARY (All U.S. & State Numbered Routes) 326 153 225 1.20 URBAN PRIMARY - TWO LANES 319 URBAN PRIMARY - FOUR LANES 328

COUNTY AND LOCAL ROUTES OVER 5010 ADT (State Maintained Urban & Rural Combined) 253 139 158 2.05 RURAL COUNTY ROUTES OVER 500 ADT LESS THAN 16' 253 RURAL COUNTY ROUTES OVER 500 ADT 16-17' 283 RURAL COUNTY ROUTES OVER 500 ADT 18-22' 264 URBAN COUNTY ROUTES OVER 500 ADT - TWO LANES 171 COUNTY ROUTES LESS THAN 500 ADT 577

STATEWIDE TOTALS 271 134 181 2.25

*3 YEAR ACCIDENT RATE PER HUNDRED MILLION VEHICLE MILES MT 1997 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING DIVISION Traffic Conditions The Association is committed to creating and maintaining safe roads for all visitors both in autos and as pedestrians.

The Midland Trail is the only route for tourist, commercial or industrial traf- fic along several stretches of the Trail. At mile-marker 6, clear signage and informational materials will aid plea- sure-travelers on the Trail.

TIME AND SPACE A second strategy is restriction of Slow-moving coal trucks pull onto the hours of operation, for example, to Midland Trail from the coal tipples like daylight hours. Additionally,the poten- this one at Cannelton. tial exists for restriction of certain segments to non-commercial traffic SAFETY UPGRADES only where alternate routes exist; Industrial Area Signage- HAZARDS!!! such places include Charleston and Identification of Trail areas with heavy coal, Malden, the Hico/Route 19 intersec- timber or trailer truck traffic, as well as other tion, and Lewisburg. potential hazards, is an Association priority. The increase in visitor traffic to the Trail THE ANSTED SOLUTION has presented safety issues as it relates both to particular hazards in specific areas and to Ansted is already addressing the inherent characteristics of the Trail. problem of providing safe paths for Unregulated auto and truck traffic in the joggers, walkers, and cyclists with sev- Malden Historic District presents safety con- eral miles of hiking/biking trails cerns to school groups and tourists at cul- through the Hawks Nest State Park tural sites on the Trail there. Cannelton’s mining tipple, with coal trucks forest. entering the Trail, has seen many accidents; a recent one was fatal. The continuous move- ROADSIDE PATHS ment of large trucks at this mining prep site The potential exists for develop- to and from the Trail presents a special hazard both to locals and particularly to the tourist. ment of separate walking/biking/in-line Also, these trucks are sprayed with water to skating paths which run close along keep dust down before they enter the Trail, the Trail’s shoulder. One such place is which creates wet and potentially perilous in Charleston between the State road conditions. Autos and coal, logging and Capitol (MM 0) and Daniel Boone transport trucks use the extremely winding and hilly route of Gauley Mountain, between Park (MM 1) and Malden (MM 4). At mile-markers 39 and 45. Strengthened warn- the other end, space permits another ings in this area would prepare travelers for such path between White Sulphur potential hazards on this stretch of the Trail; Springs and downtown Lewisburg and many of the Trail’s snaky curves border on which would pass The Greenbrier high, precipitous cliff-like drops which over- look the New River Gorge. Clear markings at Resort and start at the trailhead of a train crossing near Glen Ferris and timber- the Greenbrier River Trail in Caldwell. ing areas of Fayette and Greenbrier counties would permit travelers to use additional cau- 9.8 tion for these conditions. The Trail: Modifications and Design

Following are proposals for modification of the roadway, evaluations of the design standards, and how these changes will affect the Trail’s intrinsic qualities. THE MALDEN/ BELLE PROBLEM

In at least the past three years, heavy traffic connected with DuPont plant. rains have temporarily flooded both the This area would divert trucking from Malden and Belle underpasses. These the Malden area and the Old Stone underpasses are the only entrances and House and pose no change to, but exits to the Trail which parallels U.S. 60 at rather an enhancement for visitor these locations. Traffic is either trapped experience at, the intrinsic qualities in with no way out or must drive through this area. deep water.The only alternate route out is a dirt road on private property, which A FOUR-LANE HIGHWAY connects Malden Drive and U.S. 60. Even with this alternative, Malden and Belle face Just east of Quincy Mall, a new a critical problem: flooding or destruction bridge connects the Trail with I-64/77 of these underpasses could prevent the across the Kanawha River.The imme- provision of basic services to both towns diate area around the Trail side of the in emergencies such as a likely chemical Bridge is 4-lane. The Association has leak from the Belle facility. gone on record as supporting an The Association endorses the concept extension of this 4-lane ten miles east of creating another paved connecting to Montgomery in order to draw route with the highway. tourism eastward onto the Trail.It has Such a route could actually enhance also been suggested that new high- visitor experience in Malden. Presently, ways be planned for the tops of the Malden Drive has no traffic control mountains, saving scarce flat land in devices, and not only do accidents occur the Kanawha Valley for other purposes. frequently in Malden, but traffic tends to speed through the town. Adding traffic control and an additional route would permit visitors increased safety as they walk about town to visit the town’s intrin- sic qualities. Trucks which use Malden Drive/DuPont Avenue can endanger visi- tors who wish to visit Malden and the Old Stone House in Belle. The Association endorses a design of alternate pull-on/ pull-off areas at Belle for commercial 9.9 Visitor Services

I. TOURIST INFORMATION II. Lodging: SERVICES: The greatest amount of lodging is available A. TOURIST I NFORMATION CENTERS: at the gateways of Charleston and The Trail has three official Centers, Lewisburg/ White Sulphur Springs, and one each at Malden, Gauley Bridge, includes a number of historic inns, bed- and Lewisburg. Visitors can also and-breakfasts, two motels, chain hotels, receive information and guidance at full-amenity cabins, and campgrounds.The Hawks Nest State Park Lodge and the State Capitol. world-famous Greenbrier Resort Hotel sits at the White Sulphur trailhead. Two B. DESTINATION GUIDE: state parks, Hawks Nest and Babcock, also The Association has produced a 64- contain lodging in the form of cabins and page, full-color Destination Guide lodge rooms. Other chain motels are which indicates all visitor amenities planned for the Smithers and Quincy area and experiences along the Trail. within five years. The Association works actively with Public input has indicated a greater the state Department of Tourism by need for lodging, campgrounds, and RV making the Guide available to the pull-offs. Department’s toll-free tourist infor- The Association can encourage travel mational hotline, 1-800-CALL-WVA. with a replication of Europe’s Youth Hostel Program with a Midland Trail C. AUDIOTAPE: A history informational audiotape Hostel Program. for the car stereo is in progress. III. DINING: D. A WEBSITE: Restaurant options include everything Potential tourists are able to visit the from “mom-and-pop” concerns to recog- Trail in cyberspace at www.wvmidland- nizable chain names to a number of road- trail.com. The WebSite follows the side cafes. Fine dining includes the formal format of the MT Destination Guide experience of The Greenbrier; a handful and will in its second phase have of very nice restaurants in Lewisburg; fine opportunity for all advertising sup- and casual fare at the Glen Ferris Inn and porters of the Destination Guide to Hawk’s Nest, and numerous restaurant link with the Association’s address. options in Charleston. Surveys consistent- ly show that this area is underserved in E. KIOSKS: The Association is is building several restaurants, even in Charleston, which has informational kiosks, along the Trail. the most options. Often the problem Recommended: In the future we hope along the Trail is signage; passing tourists to enhance these billboards by adding do not realize, for instance, that there are audio-information which tourists will dining options at the rafting companies or be able to access on their car radio. even at Hawks Nest State Park.

F. LOCAL LODGING TELEVISION INFO CHANNELS: (Recommended:) Local TV could carry continuous information regarding current and local events and broadcast to all local hotels, motels, and campgrounds. 9.10 and Accommodations

IV. RECREATION: VII. ENTERTAINMENT: Plenty of opportunities, including white- Limited, but what exists provides the Sections water rafting, hiking, biking, golf, nature visitor with some unique experiences. of the walking (trails at Ansted), camping, horse- Includes movie theaters and night spots Midland Trail back riding, and fishing. There are a num- at the trailheads, Greenbrier Theater, ber of public accesses to recreational riverboat cruises in Charleston, Fairlea’s lack basic areas and a number of parks.The Trail also West Virginia State Fair, Hawks Nest services and runs by several state forests, Kanawha and dinner theater, and Mountain Stage’s amenities. Greenbrier, and connects with a 70-mile- musical productions. long biking path, the Greenbrier River Some places Trail. VIII. RESTROOMS: have no There is a great need for more restaurants, V. CULTURAL/ HERITAGE restrooms across the entire Trail, and HISTORY/ EDUCATIONAL: souvenir particularly in Fayette and Greenbrier Numerous opportunities for enrichment shops, or Counties. in these areas.The Trail has museums, his- The Trail has a few gas stations and core businesses toric homes, historic churches, a salt- which would worker’s heritage park, historical drama, one state park with public restrooms. musical productions, traditional arts and Visitor Centers provide this amenity, but draw and crafts festivals, and arts programs. See these are only open during business support the “Intrinsic Qualities” section. hours and have no roadside signage influx of The Trail’s vision also contemplates an indicating this amenity. artists’ colony at Gauley Bridge and the tourists which state’s first women’s interpretive park at we desire. Malden. As part of its management VI: SHOPPING: The Trail offers the visitor exceptional strategy, the opportunities to purchase specialty items Association is handmade in the Appalachian tradition: committed to two fine art galleries in Lewisburg and a gallery in Lookout; arts and crafts shops; attracting and at least three shops which feature hand- keeping made quilts and crafted items; at least four businesses food specialty item stores; several flea whose goods markets; antique stores, mostly in Lewisburg; variety shops; the indoor fine and services shopping section at the Greenbrier Hotel support in White Sulphur Springs. tourist traffic and encouraging new business growth. 9.11 Anomalous Intrusions

The Trail’s main anomalous intrusions are unsightly industrial operations and dilapidated structures.

In the Upper Kanawha Valley, some industrial operations detract from views of the river and the moun- tains.The Association has embraced the concept of vegetative screening. One enterprise, a junk reclamation facility, breaks the landscape and a view of the Kanawha River with heaps of materials which rise above a fence. One solution to this intru- sion is the planting of pine trees and establishment of a roadside At a curve overlooking the Sewell Plateau park with shelter and picnic tables. stands the dilapidated, abandoned Lee’s On segments of the Trail, Tree Tavern, a two-story cinder block especially in Fayette and Kanawha structure, intruding on the Trail’s natural Counties, are derelict structures beauty. which intrude on the Trail’s natural beauty. At a curve overlooking the Sewell Plateau stands the dilapidat- ed, abandoned Lee’s Tree Tavern, a two-story cinder block structure. Discussion has called for demoli- tion so that the area can become an official Trail pull-off. The Tavern obstructs a view of the Greenbrier Valley which is scenic for its expan- sive vista and its historical signifi- cance to Civil War tourism. In Greenbrier County, a quar- rying operation very close to the Raleigh Junk a junk reclamation facility, in Trail needs a vegetative screen. the Upper Kanawha Valley, breaks the While pines have been planted, landscape and a view of the Kanawha more and larger trees are needed River with heaps of materials which rise to conceal this site effectively. above a fence.

9.12 Economic Impact

A Canadian couple stopped at the these Canadians were out of West Midland Trail Travel Information Center Virginia. The potential impact of at Malden, located four miles above the tourism is tremendous and its benefits Capitol at Cabin Creek Quilts. They said are obvious daily to front-line travel they had been on four-lane highways for information staff. too long and were looking to begin their vacation as soon as possible. They relaxed This story illustrates possibilities; and looked a bit at the quilt display until what happened for this couple can the wife declared that she had found a happen for thousands of others. The perfect gift for their daughter, who would Midland Trail’s potential to create sus- be married next spring.Twelve hundred tainable economies where none had dollars later, the couple was thrilled to previously existed is excellent. The have found a high-quality handmade benefits of the Midland Trail’s market- American quilt. A few phone calls and ing efforts are known throughout the they were booked into one of the two region. Lewisburg, White Sulphur riverside suites at the Glen Ferris Inn, Springs, Fayetteville, Ansted, Gauley with whitewater rafting planned for the Bridge, Montgomery, Malden and next morning. When they saw pictures of Charleston all have indicated good Lewisburg and its antique shops and gal- results from the first Destination leries, they booked two nights at the Guide and the “We Have It All” cam- Greenbrier Hotel. paign. The second Guide is presently The couple had spent nearly in the works, and will integrate $3500 in West Virginia within one hour. Gateway additions throughout the State into its design. Without Travel Information, a $3.75 Turnpike Toll, gasoline and a lunch would have been the net tourism profit before THE BOTTOM LINE

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF RESTAURANTS AND GIFT SHOPS ECONOMIC IMPACT A DAY ON THE TRAIL Greenbrier County has the best selection of YEAR 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 The Charleston Area Visitor Bureau esti- restaurants along the Trail. Lewisburg is renowned mates that the average daily expenditure of a for its range of restaurants, gift stores, antique VISITOR visitor to the city is $98.00. Since visitors to shops and galleries. White Sulphur Springs has DAYS 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 the Midland Trail may add one more day to several restaurant choices and is developing its their stay to take in attractions along the east- main street selection of gift shops. Operating VISITOR ern end, these figures will be useful. The inside the Greenbrier are a variety of shops for the SPENDING $ 90.00 $ 90.00 $ 90.00 $ 90.00 $ 90.00 Fayette County Visitors Bureau estimates the discriminating guest. PER DAY average daily expenditure to be $93.00. In Fayette County has several restaurants. Hawks Greenbrier County, the estimate runs at Nest Lodge and Glen Ferris Inn, along with a IMPACT $1,800,000 $2,700,000 $3,600,00 $4,500,000 $5,400,000 $89.00. small assortment of fast-food restaurants, make up the selection in Fayette County. Gauley Bridge Total annual accumulation based on average two day stay. This daily allowance is divided between lodg- Crafts and Visitor Center, Hawks Nest Lodge $90 includes accommodation, food, gas, and gift/souvenir purchases. ing ($40.00), food ($25.00), gasoline ($8.00), Visitor Center and Crafts Shop and Restaurant, and the balance between admissions to and the Midland Trail Gallery are the main shop- events, gifts, and miscellaneous expenses ping and eating opportunities. North American ($20.00). These estimates correspond closely River Runners offers food and whitewater-related METHODOLOGY between each of the three counties in the gifts at Hico. Just off the Trail, several other white- Midland Trail region. water companies offer food and sport-related gifts. In making estimates of economic impact, the MTSHA has chosen ambitious figures; yet, Kanawha County, outside the city limits of we believe these numbers to reflect a realistic assumption of increase in the tourism market. We are Multipliers used by economists provide us Charleston, has a limited number of restaurants planning on an additional 10,000 visitors each year over the next five years. Thus, if we receive with the estimates for employment in a and gift shops. Cabin Creek Quilts Cooperative is 20,000 visitors in 2000, then by 2004 we expect an additional 60,000 visitors. These numbers are region. The total employment along the an internationally-known producer of handmade based upon information received from other scenic byways. Midland Trail is both a result of direct as well quilts located in the Malden Historic District. Determination of our estimates of impacts on the Midland Trail Scenic Highway Region as indirect influences of tourism upon local Shoney’s and a fast food restaurant are being resulted from use of economic base theory and standard tourism economic assumptions. This theory and regional economies. developed. Local regional restaurants rather than is accepted as one of the most practical means of establishing the direct and indirect impacts of the chain type will add to the character of the Trail. tourism industry upon the region. HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS

At the present time, the Trail is tremen- dously underserved in terms of motel, hotel and bed-and-breakfast accommodations. A number of motel and hotel development pro- jects have been suggested; however, develop- ers have been reluctant to move forward, pre- ferring to take a “wait and see” approach to tourism developments along The Trail. Our indicators would support development proposal for 100 plus additional rooms along with expanding meeting facili- ties at Hawk’s Nest State Park.

HOTELS, MOTELS, AND BED-AND- BREAKFAST ROOM COUNTS: Eastern Kanawha 68 Fayette 96 Greenbrier 835 (includes 745 at Greenbrier Resort) 10.2 10.3 T ravel Market Analysis Study according to National Travel lodging, and sundries for every $1 they shipments, which increased 14% in l998 Monitor conducted by the firm of expend for attending or visiting an attrac- and are expected to increase another 3% Yesawich, Perrdine, & Brown and the tion. These results spell out one in l999. Since most of West Virginia’s trav- Yankleovich Partners. inescapable conclusion: creating new elers still arrive by automobile, this trend attractions and preserving and enhancing has significant impact on the Midland INTERNATIONAL existing ones on Route 60 will result in Trail’s economy and number of guests. ECONOMIC IMPACT economic benefits for Trail merchants. WEST VIRGINIA OVERNIGHT LEISURE TRAVEL According to the U.S. Department of HISTORIC AND CULTURAL TOURISM Commerce, nearly 48 million interna- The total number of overnight leisure tional visitors to the United States In l997, a TIA TravelScope Survey showed travelers who visited West Virginia fell 3% spent more than $73 billion in l997, that 65.9 million, or 25% of U.S. adults, from l997 to l998. The total volume of excluding air fare. took a trip which involved an historic overnight leisure person-days increased a place, museum, cultural event or festival. noteworthy l0%, growing from 22.9 mil- *The average overseas visitor spent These travelers spent an average of $15 lion person-days in 1997 to 25.2 million $101 per person per day (excluding on their trips compared with $425 for person-days in 1998. When we measure air fare); Brazilians were the big other travelers. The historic and cultural these person-days in actual time spent, spenders at $172 per day. Asian traveler stayed an average 4.7 nights in the length of stays for visitors has spending has dropped 10% as a result hotels and B&B’s and a whopping 47% say increased from 3.4 to 3.6 days in the peri- of the economic problems in the Far they “love to shop”. od l997-l998, even though the number of East. Japan tops the list in overall people is down. spending in the US. Japan’s Toyota Out of nearly 200 million people traveling Plant and other West Virginia interests 50 miles or more, 92.4 million included TOP ORIGIN MARKETS provide an important link with that cultural activity in their itineraries. Of that FOR WEST VIRGINIA market. number, 61% added a half-day to their trip to enjoy this activity. The majority of West Virginia’s market *Canadian arrivals to the United was regional for overnight stays. These States are expected to drop slightly by GAMING visitors (74%) came from the surrounding 2001. However, Canada is still an states of Ohio, Virginia, Maryland, North important market for the Trail. Like it or not--believe it or not--90% of Carolina, Pennsylvania and South U.S. adults support casino gambling as an Carolina. Many of these visitors (47%) GETAWAYS entertainment activity. Within this cate- indicated that they were traveling to visit gory,for West Virginia,could fall bingo; this family or friends. North Carolinians travel The number of weekend getaways activity has seen tremendous growth at to West Virginia just to enjoy skiing at which Americans took increased a one location along the Midland Trail. such resorts as Winterplace. huge 70% between l986 and l996.The Midland trail is PERFECTLY posi- SPORTS EVENTS From l997 to l998, there were several tioned to take a portion of this mar- noteworthy shifts in travel from some of ket. A survey conducted by Wiese Tw o-fifths of American adults are sports West Virginia’s top origin markets. The Research for Embassy Suites deter- events travelers. The Midland Trail needs most noted increase was from Ohio (up mined that 86% of adults took a to keep this fact in mind. from 14% to 18%). North Carolina was weekend getaway trip in l996. up from 14% to 18%; South Carolina’s Recent studies indicate that RV TRAVEL contribution was up 9% from 6%. even those who make one-day or one- Kentucky, Michigan, and Tennessee each evening trips on highways or sec- The Recreational Vehicle Industry dropped approximately 1% for a total ondary roads spend $2 on gas, food, Association reports a 20-year high in RV market share of approximately 12%. 10.4 10.5 appendix Geologist Report Overview of the Midland Trail’s Geology

SECTION 1: CHARLESTON Over the last 300 million years, the the late 1800s and early 1900s (White). The Midland Trail is a prime brine has migrated to these sandstones The Kanawha Formation also contains example of the tremendous effect TO GAULEY BRIDGE known as the “Salt Sands” (Ludlum).The oil some relatively rare cannel coals used (MILE 0 TO 38) and gas, formed from decomposed marine for extracting lamp fuel oil. By the mid- mineral resources and geology plants and animals mixed in with sea floor 1800s, petroleum had replaced them as Geologist have had on West Virginia. The The Kanawha River Valley’s ancient histo- sediments, has also slowly migrated to these lamp fuel (Workman). As a result of ry is the foundation for its cultural history. rocks.At Burning Spring Creek, gas bubbling their high quality, the Kanawha Claudette Trail is richly endowed with coal, Charleston and the other communities built through the spring was believed to have Formation coals have been extensively oil, gas, limestone, sandstone, along the Kanawha owe their existence to been recognized by Native Americans and mined east of Charleston to the Gauley Simard offers an the area’s 300-million-year-old history. perhaps used for fuel (Eggleston). Bridge area. shale, salt, sand and gravel overview of the At that time, known as the Pennsylvania Technology developed by the Ruffner At Shrewsbury, mile 15, these coals because of its 380-million-year- Geologic Period, North America was near brothers to drill brine wells in 1806 was are being mined and the tipple is still geology of the the equator, ferns were as big as trees, and essential equipment for drilling for oil and active. I recommend this site as an ideal old history. The conditions were dragonflies had three-foot wing spans. The gas later in the century (Eggleston). Oil and pull-off area for signs to describe how Trail perfect for depositing the miner- sandstones that dominate the Trail’s road- gas, which were considered a nuisance by coal formed and its impact on the econ- cuts and cliffs are the remains of sandy the salt-well drillers, were wasted to the omy. Today, the majority of these and and als, then later exposing them for streams meandering across a low-lying extent that the Kanawha River was long other West Virginia coals are burned in easy access. As these minerals coastal area next to an inland sea. Plant known as “Old Greasy” by boatmen power plants like the Glasgow Power recommends fossils give proof that these were stream (Eggleston). In 1841, the value of gas was Plant (mile 20) to supply electricity for were discovered and extracted, rather than beach sands. In places, the first realized commercially when it was used homes and industry.West Virginia is the ways to enhance they attracted people and indus- streams were separated by flood plains to evaporate brine in the Dickinson area nation’s leading exporter of electricity. where mud accumulated and was later (Ludlum). Not until 1826 was oil used for The Kanawha River’s wide flood our scenic try to this area. This had a pro- compressed into thinly layered shales. In lamps in workshops and factories plains provided some of the rare flat other places, swamps were teeming with (Eggleston).The Kelley Creek Oil Field near land for building trails, then, later, roads, attributes. found impact on the culture and luxuriant tropical-like plants that thrived in Chelyan (mile 14) and the Cabin Creek Oil communities, and industry. The River history of the heart of West this hot equatorial climate. The plants died Field near Cedar Grove (mile 18) are has always been a vital transportation and piled into layers that formed peat and important gas producers for the area link to the Ohio River for people and Virginia--the Midland Trail. An were eventually compressed over time into (Gulley, et.al.). Today, Kanawha County is commerce. It has been and still is an increasingly important aspect of coal. Limey mud would settle in large lakes one of the state’s larger producers of gas important water source for local com- or a shallow arm of the ocean would cover and lesser amounts of oil. munities and industry.The Marmet Lock the state, its scenic beauty, is the area and deposit thin layers of what is Coal,West Virginia’s most valuable min- and Dam (mile 8) and London Lock and directly related to the underlying now limestone. Over time, the inland sea eral worth more than $4.5 billion annually, Dam Number 3 (mile 24) maintain a drained and these rock layers were uplifted, was first used commercially in 1817 when it constant river level for barge trans- rocks and processes that shaped then worn down to their present heights replaced charcoal as fuel at the Kanawha portation of products such as coal on them over time. above the Kanawha River. These rocks are River salt furnaces (Eggleston). By 1840, the Kanawha. Flood control dams at typical of the sedimentary rocks (made of 200,000 of the 300,000 tons of coal pro- Bluestone, Summersville, and Sutton In this report, the Midland particles or sediments) found in 99 percent duced that year were used at the Kanawha hold back flooding water that would Trail has been divided into four of West Virginia. salt furnaces (Eggleston). In 1997, 13 million normally inundate communities on the The sandstones have been quarried over tons of coal were produced in Kanawha Kanawha flood plain. I recommend signs parts based on changes in geology the years for decorative building stone and County, ranking it 5th among 28 coal-pro- at the dams to explain the role that the expressed in the landscape. Each crushed stone for making roads. (Haught). ducing counties, a distinction it has held for river plays in the lives of its inhabitants. From the early 1800s to about 1980, some at least the past 30 years (Ludlum; WV The Kanawha Falls Park is an excel- section includes recommenda- of the shales have been used to produce the Department of Mines). West Virginia com- lent place to showcase the scenic beau- tions for pull-off areas and signs tile, building brick, and road brick so com- petes with Kentucky every year for the ty in view of Kanawha Falls and to mon in the area (Haught). position of second leading coal-producing describe the vital role geology plays in to explain the essential role geol- At Malden, the sandstones are a source state. the development of the Falls, the New ogy plays in the available mineral of oil, gas, and brine that have, in places, filled West Virginia’s southern coal fields River Gorge, and the most valuable the tiny pore spaces between the sand formed under ideal conditions to make coals of the state, the New River coals. resources, history, and scenic grains.The brine, or ancient sea water, was them the best low-sulfur coals in the world I also recommend a geologic/scenic sign beauty of the area. instrumental in attracting Indians and, later, (Workman). The low-sulfur “smokeless” for the Kanawha Falls park at the Glen settlers, industry, and workers to the area. coals were premium steam coals sought Ferris Power Plant, mile 36. 11.2 after for steamship and locomotive fuel in 11.3 SECTION 2: GAULEY BRIDGE TO RAINELLE SECTION 3: RAINELLE TO WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS (MILE 38 TO 73) (MILE 73 TO 120)

In this section, the Midland Trail County produced close to four million At the Fayette/Greenbrier County line, at Alta (mile 95),have a definite north- leaves the Kanawha and New River tons of coal in 1997, ranking it 15th of 28 mile 73, the rivers and streams have cut east-southwest orientation from the Valleys to traverse the ridge-tops. The coal-producing counties (WV Department through the younger Pennsylvanian-age folding.The folding has also raised the Trail climbs a large arch in the rock that of Mines). New River and Pocahontas Formation layers rock layers higher and cracked them, has lifted the New River Formation’s Lookout, at mile 58, is at the center of to expose Mississippian-aged rocks below. enabling erosive forces of water and Nuttall sandstones from 700 feet the arch in the rocks that lifted the New In 1997, 500,000 tons of New River wind to wear the younger under the surface at Dickinson to a River Formation’s sandstones and coals to and Pocahontas coals in Western Pennsylvanian rock layers away 1270-foot elevation at Hawks Nest the surface.This uplift and subsequent ero- Greenbrier County’s hills were produced, completely. This left the older, (Ludlum). sion created the area’s spectacular scenery This tough sandstone is the same and made the valuable New River ranking it 24th out of 28 coal-producing once-buried Mississippian layers at one that produces gas in this area and Formation coals accessible. The arch was counties (WV Department of Mines). At the surface for the rest of the route. brine and gas at Dickinson (Ludlum). folded when the continents collided about one time, all of the coal mined in this At mile 94 is the Boxley Greenbrier Numerous small cascades grace this 200 million years ago. During this collision, county passed through Rainelle (Heck), Limestone Quarry that produces section of the Trail as they flow over rocks in eastern West Virginia were folded making it a booming town as shown by crushed stone mainly for use in building the edge of the resistant sandstones. into northeast-southwest trending ridges. the historic King Coal Hotel at mile 75. roads. Boxley quarries Greenbrier The Trail clings precipitously to the Rock layers closer to the collision point According to Heck, more than 1.5 million Limestone, the limestone that yields New River Gorge’s edge as it winds its (those in eastern West Virginia) were more tons of coal traveled through Rainelle 60% of the state’s production. way to the top of Gauley Mountain. En severely folded than those farther away annually during the 1930s.This is the last Greenbrier County, West Virginia’s route, it passes through thirty of the (western part of the state).As a result, the leading limestone-producing county, 100 coal zones in the state, 20 of which Midland Trail will pass through more and coal seen on the Trail driving east,because are worked commercially somewhere more severely folded rock layers as it tra- the rest of the Trail is in older quarries almost three millions of the in West Virginia (Ludlum). The New verses eastward. Mississippian-aged rocks which do not state’s fifteen-million-ton total. West River Formation coals of the area “fur- Babcock State Park, about three miles have any mineable coal. Virginia’s limestone is mainly used in nish some of the purest coal and cokes from the Midland Trail on Route 41, is The communities from Rainelle to Sam the state’s roads, although some is of the state,” according to I.C.White. another recommended geologic/scenic Black Church are on the wide flood plain sold to other states. I recommend a geology/scenic sign stop. Glades and Mann’s Creeks have of the Meadow River and its tributaries. The Greenbrier Limestone contin- at Hawks Nest State Park or one of carved a 1000-foot gorge on their journey These streams have worn through ues westward to underlie the younger the scenic pull-offs before the park. to the New River.The gorge slices through Mississippian rock that is much easier to Pennsylvanian rock. Along the Trail, it From any of them, West Virginia’s the Pennsylvanian-aged New River and ranges in thickness from 600 feet in name, the “Mountain State”, will be Pocahontas Formations to expose the erode than the tough New River sandstones strikingly obvious from the scenery, Mississippian-aged rock (approximately downstream. As a result, the streams have this county to 200 feet at the Ohio rugged topography, and geology typical 340 million years old) below. used their erosive energy to cut unusual- River (McCue, et.al.).The Greenbrier’s of the greater part of central West The distinctive rust color of the rock ly wide valleys through this area. The thickness and marine shell fossils are Virginia. The spectacular view of the along the Trail from mile 60 to mile 94 is Meadow River and its tributaries meander proof that West Virginia was under the New River 510 feet below (Ludlum) from iron in the rock that rusted when lazily across it and pond into numerous ocean for an extended period of time will be a perfect backdrop to explain exposed to air.The color occurs in some of wetlands. I recommend a geologic/scenic about 340 million years ago. The the rock’s effect on the river, the histo- the Pennsylvania rocks, but is even more sign at Rainelle to explain this interesting Greenbrier Limestone below the sur- ry of the river, and how Union Carbide pronounced in the older Mississippian- feature. face has been one of the state’s lead- harnessed its energy to produce aged Mauch Chunk Group of rocks from ing gas producers and a less significant hydroelectric power. Rainelle to just beyond Clintonville. One of The dividing line between the rock In the past, beehive coke ovens at the Mauch Chunk sandstones that is slight- layers that are horizontal and the layers oil producer (Avary). Ansted, Boomer (Gulley), and many ly iron-stained into a beautiful pink and yel- that are folded is at Clintonville, mile 91. From Richland, at mile 99, to other parts of the state burned coal to low color is quarried and cut into building From Charleston to a few miles west of Lewisburg, the Midland Trail traverses concentrate the fuel. The result is a stone near Alderson. Scenic view areas this point, the rock layers appear to be prime examples of land features clean-burning fuel used in smelting iron near mile 69 would be ideal places to flat. From this point east, they are inclined unique to limestone. Because lime- and steel and for domestic heat explain the role which the area’s ancient or dipping at an angle from the folding stone slowly dissolves from rainwater, (Ludlum).The Sewell seam of the New history plays in creating the terrain, espe- that occurred during continental collision which is naturally slightly acidic, it River Formation coals, which is com- cially since the highest elevation on the about 200 million years ago.The ridges on often contains caves, sinking creeks, mercially mined almost exclusively in Midland Trail is nearby. the rest of the journey, like Brushy Ridge sinkholes (depressions on the land), Fayette County, was mined for coking 11.4 as well as other uses (Ludlum). Fayette con’d 11.5 and springs. Numerous fine examples In summary, geology is the of these land forms can be seen on foundation of the Midland Trail. either side of the Trail toward Because of the ancient history Bibliography Lewisburg. More spectacular examples enroute, coal, oil, gas, limestone, include the very large sinkhole that AVARY, K.West Virginia Geological Survey, Morgantown,WV, personal Lewisburg is built in and Lost World sandstone, shale, water, sand and communication, 1998. Caverns located about three miles gravel are present and accessible to north of town. Because limestone is maintain life throughout the Trail CROSS,A.T. and SCHEMEL, M.P.“Economic Resources in Geology and slowly dissolved over time, it forms Economic Resources of the Ohio River Valley in West Virginia,” and West Virginia. They have been Part J, West Virginia Geological Survey,Vol. 22. wide fertile valleys that are prime agri- instrumental in attracting people cultural land, a bonus for this county. I and industry to the area and EGGLESTON, J.R.“A Bicentennial Story: History of West Virginia’s recommend a scenic/geologic pull-off Mineral Industry”, West Virginia Geological Survey, December news- with signs near Richland or Lewisburg profoundly influencing the culture, letter, 1975, pp. 23-33. to explain these interesting features. history and economy of the heart of At the eastern edge of Lewisburg, the state. The Trail’s exquisite FRIDLEY, H.M.“The Geomorphic History of the New-Kanawha River close to mile 106, the Midland Trail scenery lies on the backbone of its System”, West Virginia Geological Survey Report of Investigation,No. 7, 1950. travels on Greenbrier Mountain, geology. The story of how geology has which was formed from the resistant sandstones of the Mississippian set the stage for life on the Midland GULLEY, G.M., R.E SHERRILL,AND P.H.PRICE, Log of pre-convention field trip,American Association of Petroleum Geologists’ mid-year MacCrady and Pocono Groups. At Trail can only add to the traveler’s meeting, West Virginia Geological Survey, 1937. mile 108, the Trail crosses the enjoyment of this Scenic Byway. Greenbrier River, which drains the HAUGHT, O.L.“Geology of the Charleston Area”, West Virginia Geologic- eastern half of the county and flows al Survey, Bulletin 34, 1968. into the New River at Hinton. From Caldwell to the Greenbrier Resort in HECK, E.T. Log for West Virginia 1939 trip, field conference of Pennsylvan- White Sulphur Springs, the Trail is built ia Geologists, West Virginia Geological Survey, 1939. on Howard Creek’s flood plain, which was carved through the oldest rock KESSLER, F. Barboursville Brick Manufacturing Company, Barboursville, WV, personal communication, 1998. en route, the 380-million-year-old Devonian shales. The world-famous LUDLUM, J.C. Description of the area and log of field trip for Antony Gap White Sulphur Springs emerge from and return,American Petroleum Institute, Eastern District Spring these shales (Ludlum). The medicinal Meeting,White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia Geological Survey, waters of the springs and the mild 1954. summer temperatures have attracted tourists to White Sulphur Springs McCOLLOCH, J.S.“Springs of West Virginia”, West Virginia Geological since the mid-1700s. Survey V-6A, 1985. McCUE, J.B., J.B. LUCKE,AND H.P.WOODWARD.“Limestone of West RECOMMENDED ACCOMPANYING Virginia”, West Virginia Geological Survey V-12, 1939. PHOTOS Shrewsbury Coal Tipple WEST VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MINES MINERS’ HEALTH, SAFETY, London Lock and Dam Number 3 AND TRAINING,Annual Report, 1997. Waterfalls of Kanawha Falls by Glen Ferris Park WHITE, I.C.“Levels Above Tide True Meridian’s Report on Coal”, West Hawks Nest Overlook on Route 60 Virginia Geological Survey,Vol. 2, 1903. Wetlands near mile 83 by Rupert, with stream bends WORKMAN, M.West Virginia University Institute of Technology and View of Teays Valley showing its river valley form Industrial Archaeology, personal communication, 1998. Ohio River flood wall from 11th Street mari- na in Huntington 11.6 11.7 CONCLUSION IN CONCLUSION

The Midland Trail has always been a road In Chapters One, Two and Four that went somewhere. Since its beginnings, defines and describes the Midland Trail it has been a great American road that led and its intrinsic qualities. to dreams, schemes and plans that changed Chapter 3 outlines our Vision for the lives and made American history. In that Trail and our Goals. great tradition and spirit, we look forward In Chapter 5, Trail Tales we use the to moving this plan ahead. storytelling approach to make this research adaptable for public school Development of sustainable economic use, for press information, and to entities along the Midland Trail continues to broaden the appeal and understanding provide tremendous economic and social of the Trail for our future Trail Blazer benefits to the Midland Trail region and to group. West Virginia.The challenge to be imagina- Chapter 6 presents primary as well tive, to take risks, and to create new pro- as secondary projects.This Plan discuss- jects on a continuing basis characterizes the es major projects in detail, enabling American spirit and the Midland Trail itself. readers to understand why and how To this driving personality we add a strong these Projects contribute to the Trail’s commitment to preservation and to pro- overall program and reflect upon our tection of our intrinsic qualities, solid man- visions and goals. The secondary pro- agement and relentless marketing. jects are those which community peo- ple expressed a desire to execute and These characteristics are visible in the which we hope to see realized in the internationally-known whitewater recre- future. ational industry, located at the Trail’s center. Chapter 7 & 8 gives a great deal of Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs in attention to our marketing and manage- Greenbrier County on the eastern end ment plans, since we believe these to be offer a national rural model for preserva- the basics to our movement’s success. tion and culture. On our western end, an We expand on the visions, goals and unprecedented collaborative partnership objectives of our membership and com- exists between the Trail Association and the munities to explain how we intend to chemical, coal, metal, and river industries.All grow our Trail. along the Trail, the cultural diversity of our In Chapter 9, we examine the African, Native American and European his- Visitors Experience in Driving the Trail tories illuminates the “melting pot” nature and speak to what needs to be done to of the Trail and our nation over the last two protect and preserve these intrinsic centuries. qualities.We want our Trail pioneers to have an improved perspective and an Our time as a community group in devel- interpretation of the Trail, which makes oping this plan offers important experience these qualities even more valuable as and benefits to our Association. We time marches on. designed this plan to be both practical as Finally, discussion of public participa- well as visionary. We intend for it to be a tion, economic impact and conclusion multi-purpose document which can be bring the Midland Trail CMP to a close revised and updated as needed. We appre- for now. It is our intent that this Plan be ciate the support of the U.S. Department of on disc, on paper by request, and on our Transportation, the West Virginia Website. This planning process contin- Department of Transportation and the ues as a part of the life of our organiza- community volunteers who have been inte- tion. We appreciate the time you have gral to this process. taken to read it and we welcome your thoughtful and constructive responses, 12.2 which we know will improve upon it. 12.3 APPENDIX A Fayette County

Kanawha County “Contentment”(Col. George Imboden House), along U.S. 60, Ansted (12/31/74) [1] NATIONAL REGISTER LIST FOR WV - MIDLAND TRAIL “Halfway House”(Tyree Tavern), just off old U.S. 60, Ansted (12/18/78) [1] Samuel Shrewsbury, Sr. Mansion (Old Stone House), 1810, 310 Stubb Drive, Belle (11/2/78) [1] Page-Vawter House, U.S. 60 (8/21/85) [1]

“Little Brick Church” (Virginia’s Chapel), 1853, 75 miles east of Kelly’s Camp Washington-Carver Complex, CR 11/3, Clifftop (6/20/80) [6] Creek on U.S. 60, Cedar Grove (12/16/74) [1] Gauley Bridge Railroad Station (C&O Station), off SR 16/39, Gauley Bridge “Cedar Grove” (Tompkins House), 1844, just north of junction of U.S. 60 (5/15/80) [1] and Kanawha And James River Turnpike, Cedar Grove (3/10/75) [1] Glen Ferris Inn (Stockton’s Inn), U.S. 60 overlooking Kanawha Falls, Glen Craik-Patton House, U.S. 60, 1834, Daniel Boone Roadside Park (8/12/70), Ferris/Kanawha Falls (5/25/91) [1] Charleston Moved and Renominated (4/16/75) [1] Main Building, WV Institute of Technology Campus, Montgomery (6/25/80) [1] East End Historic District, roughly bounded by the Kanawha River, Bradford, Quarrier and Greenbrier Streets, and Kanawha Boulevard from California Avenue to East Avenue, Charleston (4/20/78) [400] Greenbrier County

Holly Grove Mansion, 1815, on the State Capitol grounds,1710 E. Kanawha Boulevard, Charleston (8/28/74) [1] Elmhurst (Caldwell Place), U.S. 60 (6/15/75) [1]

United Carbon Building, 1018 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston Elmhurst Boundary Increase, US 60 (12/20/90) [4] (7/15/94) [1] Confederate Cemetery at Lewisburg, Maple St. and U.S. 60, Library Park (2/2/88) West Virginia Capitol Complex, Kanawha Boulevard East, and Greenbrier [1] Ave., Charleston (12/31/74) [5] Lewisburg Historic District, along U.S. 60 and U.S. 219, (7/7/78) [400] African Zion Baptist Church, 1872, 4104 Malden Drive, Malden (12/27/74) [1] Supreme Court Library Building (Greenbrier County Library & Museum), U.S. 60 W and Courtney Drive, Lewisburg (2/23/72) [1] Malden Historic District, Roughly bounded by railroad tracks, Kanawha River, George's Drive and U.S. 60 (7/18/80)[100] “Morlunda” (Col. Samuel McClung Place), northwest of Lewisburg on CR 40 (3/25/77) [1]

Tuckwiller Tavern, 2 miles northwest of Lewisburg off U.S. 60 (3/4/75) [1]

“The Greenbrier”, off US 60, NR (10/9/74) [34], NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK, White Sulphur Springs (6/21/90)

“Mountain Home” (Robert Dickson House), southwest of White Sulphur Springs on U.S. 60 (11/28/80) [1]

12.4 12.5 Midland Trail “Historical Characters” gather at the newly re- constructed Booker T.Washington cabin and Salt Village. & acknowledgements participation

Ann Berry,Treasurer and long time member. Above: MT President Larry Rowe shares industrial history along the Midland Trail.

Vice President Chuck Denham Founding Members Guy Dooley (left) and Kid’s Trek - MT supporters re-traced the journey Above: We Have It All Below: Larry Washington Ann Skaggs (right) of 8-year old Booker T.Washington and his family - MT supporters from by walking the 360- mile trek from the Burrough’s (grandson of Booker T. stay the course in business,state and local Plantation in Va. to Freedom in Malden,WV. Washington) and daugh- supporting the Trail! government, historical ter Amanda join characters, hikers, bikers Governor and Mrs. Cecil ,rafters and gathered Underwood at State at State Capitol and Capitol at end of Kid’ caravan across the Trail Trek walk. to promote our new MT Guide.

President Larry Rowe, Publisher Alice Hypes and Publicity chair Jean Nutter presents MT Guide CMP Plan Author James Thibeault outside historical MT Board members reviewing the Corridor Management Plan at to Hawk’s Nest State Park Superintendent and Norton House in Malden. 12.6 one of many public hearings and reviews. Board Member, Tom Shriver. MIDLAND TRAIL PROJECT PARTICIPANTS CONTACTS & SUPPORTERS

Convention & Visitors ACE Whitewater Ltd. Pat Fetty Eddie A. Long, Mayor, Smithers George Sinely Midland Trail Board of Directors Bureau African-American Heritage Richard Fidler Senator Shirley Love Nancy Skaggs Larry L. Rowe, President Family Tree Museum- Norman Jordan Nancy Fitzwater Madd Jacks Campground Paige Skaggs, Jr. Chuck Denham,Vice President Chris Walker Jim Alvis Carrol Flanagan Main Street WSS Stephen S. Smith Marilyn Cooper, Secretary Charleston CVB Appalachian Power Malden Floral, John Shdeed Sunset Terrace Motel Anne Berry,Treasurer William M. Flanagan Jean Nutter, Public Relations 200 Civic Center Drive Appalachian Wildwater Greenbrier National Bank Malden Fas Chek Bob Surbaugh 800-733-5469 Paul Breuer Jack Clark Dave Arnold, Betty L. Fox Malden Po Boy Market, Troy Donald Steele, Steve Davis Guy Dooley Kim Cooper Class VI River Runners Craig Fox Holbrook Allstate Overnight Campground Charlie Friddell Phyllis Gray Lewisburg CVB Fred Arthur Jr. Kent Gandes Beverly McBride General Lewis Inn Garrett Jeter Rip Johnson 105 Church St. Mark Ashley, Ridge Rider Gauley Bridge Crafts Center Adair McClung The Riverman, Inc. Herald Prather Anne Skaggs Lewisburg,WV Bait Barn Gauley Bridge Historical Ronnie McClung James Thibeault Geoffrey Skaggs James Thibeault 800-848-TOUR Bandy's Inc Ray and Anna Gilbert R.W. McCormick Steve and Vicki Thomas Tom Bell,WVU Tech Gillespie Flowers Marsha McCoy Mike Tincher Project Team Sharon Cruikshank James Thibeault,Project Manager New River CVB Belle Hyper Historical Glasgow United Methodist Church Brenda McVey To wn of Ansted 310 Oyler Ave Belle Maytag Granny’s House Restaurant & Sleeper Charles Meadows Auto Sales To wn of Belle Alice Hypes Managing Editor, Oak Hill,WV Te r esa Bennett Motel Fred Miller To wn of Glasgow Meeting Facilitator, Design 304-456-5617 Ann Berry Ginos/Tudors Thomas Morgan Mary Ingles Trailblazer Print and Web Publisher Julia Beury Phyllis Gray Cora Morrison Margaret Tucker,Village Store Garrett Jeter Writer, Historian, Marge Carte Gordon Billheimer Mountain River Tours,Inc. Carson Turner, White Sulphur Springs CVB W.L. Gilkerson Meeting Assistant, Copy Editor 34 E. Main St. James Billings Glen Ferris Inn New/Gauley Expeditions, Inc. White Sulphur Springs Nursery Meg Mannion Graphic Assistant Jean Nutter UKV Chamber of Commerce White Sulphur Springs Blue Ridge Outdoors Glenn Studios Jean Nutter Meeting Assistant Blue Smoke Specialities Good Living Retirement Home New River Club USA Raft 1-800-284-9440 Proof Reader Cabin Creek Quilts Go Mart Corp Open Book, Inc. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Midland Trail Visitor Centers Cooperative, Malden Graham House Sophie Osborne Christina Valdez Dr. Billy Joe Peyton, Historian Cabin Creek Quilts Martha D. Cole Grandpa's Restaurant Paddlers Paradise Virginia Chapel Foundation, Inc. Claudette Simmard Geologist 4208 Malden Drive, Malden Passages to Adventure Guy Dooley Proof Reader 304-925-9499 Llewellyn S. Cole Grandma Restaurant West Virginia University Institute Bob Linkoes Homes Greenbrier Valley Flea Market Karen Patterson, Rupert Floral of Technology Karen Glazier Contributing Writer Hawks Nest Lodge Dr.Ann Cavalier Greenbrier Theater Shirley Patton J.D.Waggoner Ansted,WV C&E Corporation Greater Greenbrier County Chamber of Pennington Funeral Home Walker Machinery Photo Credits 304-658-4212 City of Lewisburg Commerce Leonard Persinger Beverly Walkup Dr. Gary Cooper City of White Sulphur Springs Greenbrier Mountain Biking and Hiking Center, Laura Piper Bill Wallace Chris Risk Gauley Bridge Visitor Center Herald and Jean Prather Hall Walls Gauley Bridge Craft Shop City of Ronceverte Inc. Jurgen Lorenzn Gary Preast Nora and Edwin Warfield Gauley Bridge,WV City of Belle Cheryl Griffith, Cabin Creek Quilts Mark Caldwell James Wylie Bed and Breakfast Charlotte Pritt Robert Weed 304-632-1284 Garrett Jeter Cheat River Runners Thomas Hall, Rainelle Dairy Queen Quality Forms Printing Westvaco Lewisburg CVB Peggy Coleman Ralph Hanna PA Denny Riverboat Bud & Mark White Paige Dalporto 105 Church St. Dr. Frank Collins Virgil Hanshaw Riverside High School John Whitt Robert Gates Lewisburg,WV Comfort Inn Rainelle Dairy Queen Wild Water Expeditions Philip Wilson 800-848-TOUR Hawks Nest State Park Colonial Court Motel Hillcrest Motel Paul & Veera Ramsey Buddy Windon Andy Crockett David Cramer Historic Brock House RC Bottling Company Douglas M.Wood Stephen Shaluta Jr. Elected Officials Lewis Crawford Historic Fayette Theater Arnold Samuels Jonathan Wright Dave Fattaleh • Cecil Underwood, Governor Days Inn Charleston John Hill Katheryn Sampson Dr. Bob Eagleclaw Parkins Sherri Sierra • Robert C. Byrd, U.S. Senate Darlenes Variety Shop R. Brent Hill, Center Chevrolet Bill Scott • John D. Rockefeller, U.S. Senate Bain Photography Dorothy Davila Hillcrest Motel Darrell Shaffer John Nicely,WVU • Nick J. Rahall, II, U.S. Congress Garland Simms • Robert Wise, U.S. Congress Patricia E. Davis George Hodges WV Quarterly Magazine • Shirley D. Love,WV Senate Virginia Dent Don Hoffman, Greenbrier Limousine Jim Simpson • Brooks McCabe,WV Senate Diane Dinkins Bob Holliday • John Mitchell,WV Senate F.B. Dobbins Virginia Hudkins • Vic Sprouse,WV Senate Dodson-Hager Ford Sales, Inc. Alice Hypes U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WV DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION • Martha Yeager Walker,WV Senate EIDupont Garrett Jeter FEDERAL HIGHWAYS ADMINISTRATION WV DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS • John Amores,WV House of Delegates Guy Dooley, Jr. Rip Johnson • Mark A.Hunt.WV House of Delegates Steve Eades Johns Meat Market Rodney Slater, Secretary of Transportation Secretary of Transportation Samuel Bonasso • Larry L. Rowe,WV House of Delegates Edith’s Health and Specialities Johnny Johnson, Glasgow Pharmacy Robert Draper, National Scenic Byways Team Leader Commissioner Samuel Beverage, WV Highways • Bill Laird,WV House of Delegates Louise Edwards Sharon Hurt Davidson, NSB Marketing Manager Norman Roush, Deputy Commissioner Highways • Tom Louisos,WV House of Delegates Lee E. Jones • John Pino,WV House of Delegates Elkem Metals Inc. George Jordan, Camp Washington Carver Jeannie Simms, FHA Transportation Specialist Kenneth Ferguson Karen Ebert Allen Jerry Elswick Alice H. King , Region 4 Economic Planning Other Scenic Byways Staff Harold Simmons Barry Warhoftig • Sharon Spencer,WV House of Delegates Embassy Inn Dean Leftwich, Kroger,Gauley Bridge Epeck Co William Laird, Montgomery General Hospital Fayette County Historical Society Lewisburg Merchants and Professional Assoc. Kenneth Ferguson Jane Lively,Thelma’s Family Restaurant 12.8 12.9 The Midland Trail Scenic Highway Association expresses its appreciation to Academic & Community Support

those who assist us in blazing new trails West Virginia University President David Hardesty U.S. Department of Transportation Dr. Emory Kemp WV Department of Transportation Dr. Billy Joe Peyton Office of Governor Cecil Underwood Dr.William Workman Office of Commissioner of Commerce West Virginia Scenic Byways Program West Virginia University Institute of Technology WV Department of Tourism Dr. Karen LaRue WV Legislative Digest Dr. Otis Rice WV Parks and Recreation Dr.Ann Cavalier WV Division of Natural Resources Dr. Diane Lorden WV Division of History and Culture Dr. Ron Alexander Region III Planning Council Dr. Ron Brown Region V Planning Council Fayette County Historical Society National Parks Service Greenbrier County Historical Society Mr. Don Briggs Kanawha Valley Historical Preservation Society New River Gorge National Park Malden Historical Preservation Society Superintendent Pete Hart Ansted Improvement League Belle Historical Society West Virginia Preservation Alliance WV Preservation Alliance WV Trails Coalition Karen Payne and Rebecca Willis, Coordinators Trail Convention and Visitor Bureaus Learn and Serve - Riverside High School Volunteers Kanawha County Library WVU Institute of Industrial Technology New River National Park Midland Trail Original Incorporators and Board of Directors Hawks Nest State Park Midland Trail Visitor Centers Ray Gilbert Violet Sanford Lewisburg Merchants Association Original Board of Directors Upper Kanawha Valley Economic Development Council Charles Keenan Darrell Fixx Kanawha, Fayette, and Greenbrier County Commissions Bobby Zickefoose John Hill WV Chamber of Commerce and local Trail Chambers Peggy Coleman Pat Fetty All Midland Trail businesses Fred Miller Kim Johnson Butler All Midland Trail museums J.D. Brackenrich Charles Mundy WV Quarterly Magazine Sarah Lee Neal Luther Payne QuikPage Publishing Company Ray Estep Bob Holiday Cabin Creek Quilts Lewis Crawford Ralph Hanna Good Living Homes, Malden,WV James Walsh Marshall Sanford Larry L. Rowe Law Office Bill Wallace Richard Key Booker T.Washington Association Guy Dooley Frank Collins Laura Piepar Donna Fitzwater

12.10 12.11 Sources of Information For This Plan Industrial survey

SIMARD, Claudette,“Overview of the Midland Trail’s Geology”, Rock Renditions, Morgantown,WV: 1998.

Community Guide to Planning and Managing a Scenic Byway,Federal Highway Administration (U.S. Department of Transportation).

BROOKS,Alonzo B. West Virginia Trees. McClain Printing Co., Parsons, appendix WV: Copyright 1920.

JOHNSTON, I.H. Birds of West Virginia. State Department of Agriculture: Charleston: Copyright 1923.

HALE, Dr. John P. Trans-Allegheny Pioneers. ,3rd ed. Raleigh, NC: Derreth Printing Co., 1971.

HALE, Dr. John P. History of the Great Kanawha Valley. Gauley Bridge,WV: Gauley & New River Publishing Co., 1994 (1st printing, 1891).

AMBLER, Charles H. West Virginia: Stories and Biographies. Rand McNally and Company, Copyright 1937.

DODRILL,William C. Moccasin Tracks and Other Imprints. Lovett Printing Co., Charleston,WV: 1915.

AMBLER, Charles H., and Dr. Festus Summers.West Virginia: The Mountain State. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc., Copyright 1958.

The Oracle,West Virginia State College’s Institutional Research News- letter, ed., Pamela Sturm, article “Generations”,Vol. I, Issue 1, April 1999, Institute,WV.

12.12 Midland Trail Industrial Survey Recorded By: BJP/MEW Date: 6/17/98 Continuation Form__ of __ Inst. for the History of Technology & Industrial Archaeology Individual Site X Industrial Complex Site Name: Amherst Industries Photo No: 1-4 ASA No: 400 Address: Port Amherst Frame No: Lighting Conditions: Partly Cloudy Site No: 3/1 (mile/site) Roll No: 1 Negative Repository: Map Location No: Charleston East Photographer:M.Workman Historic Name: Amherst Industries Historic Products: Coal, sandstone, etc. SIC No: Current Name: Amherst Industries Current Products: trans-shipment SIC No: Owner’s Name & Address: Assessor’s No: Builder/Architect: Amherst Industries Surroundings: Kanawha River Year Built: 1950 Acreage: less than 5 Use Status: In Production In Use x Idle Vacant Abandoned Other: Type Condition Wall Fabric: Roof Fabric: Windows & Doors: No. of Stories: Overall Building Dimensions: Structural System or Significant Engineering Feature:

Modifications & Additions Dates Reasons Description of Outbuildings: Mostly storage for equipment, stone, material

Similar to large sheds or warehouses

USGS Quad Name: Charleston East Scale: Sketch Map Photograph Architectural Description with Significant Stylistic or Decorative Features

Corporate History / Ownership Chronology

The first industry in this area was a salt furnace run by Elisha Brooks on land leased from Joseph Ruffner around 1797. The success of this furnace led to the construction of 52 such furnaces by 1815. After the Civil War, this area became a shipping point for area coal companies such as Campbell Creek. The Hatfield family purchased Campbell Creek and named it Reed after General Manager Reed Hatfield. Amherst Fuel Co. bought the Hatfield/Campbell Creek Coal Co. in 1950 and in 1956 the name was changed to Amherst.

Technological Significance / Products Description

The salt industry in this area developed industrial “slips” or “jars” which made deep drilling possible. This techniques was employed in the first oil well in Titusville, PA.

Bibliography / References Midland Trail Industrial Survey Recorded By: BJP/MEW Date: 6/17/98 Continuation Form__ of __ Inst. for the History of Technology & Industrial Archaeology X Individual Site Industrial Complex Site Name: Ruffner Cemetary Photo No: 5-8 ASA No: Address: Malden Frame No: Lighting Conditions: Partly Cloudy Site No: 3/2 (mile/site) Roll No: 1 Negative Repository: Map Location No: Charleston East Photographer:M.Workman Historic Name: Ruffner Cemetary Historic Products: Graves SIC No: Current Name: Current Products: SIC No: Owner’s Name & Address: Assessor’s No: Builder/Architect: Surroundings: Amherst Industries property/fence/trees Year Built: Acreage: less than half Use Status: In Production In Use x Idle Vacant Abandoned Other: Type Condition Wall Fabric: Roof Fabric: Windows & Doors: No. of Stories: Overall Building Dimensions: Structural System or Significant Engineering Feature:

Modifications & Additions Dates Reasons Description of Outbuildings:

USGS Quad Name: Charleston East Scale: Sketch Map Photograph Architectural Description with Significant Stylistic or Decorative Features

Corporate History / Ownership Chronology

Graves of Henry, Lewis, and David Ruffner, born 1790, 1797, and 1767 respectively.

Technological Significance / Products Description

This family made numerous advances in the salt-making industry of the Kanawha Valley. They sank deeper and more efficient wells that allowed them to produce more salt and sell it at lower prices.

Bibliography / References