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Hidden Coal Tipple Foundations Of West Virginia’s New River Gorge

Published:

by Sioux Lemke

hidden-coal-tipple-foundations-of-west-virginias-new-river-gorge

Have you ever wondered about the hidden history beneath your feet? In West Virginia's New River Gorge, remnants of the coal mining era lie quietly, waiting to be discovered. These coal tipple foundations tell stories of a time when coal was king and the region buzzed with activity. Exploring these sites offers a unique glimpse into the past, where miners worked tirelessly to fuel America's growth. As you hike through the gorge, keep an eye out for these hidden gems. They serve as a reminder of the area's rich industrial heritage and the hard-working people who once called it home.

Hidden Coal Tipple Foundations of West Virginia's New River Gorge

West Virginia's New River Gorge is a treasure trove of history, especially when it comes to the coal mining industry. Scattered throughout the gorge are the remnants of coal tipple foundations, hidden gems waiting to be discovered by adventurous explorers. These sites offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the once-thriving coal industry that powered the region. Let's dive into some of these hidden foundations.

Thurmond

Thurmond, once a bustling town, now stands as a ghostly reminder of its coal mining heyday. The town's coal tipple foundations are still visible, offering a peek into the past.

  1. Thurmond Depot: This historic site served as a major hub for coal transportation. The foundations of the old coal tipple can still be seen near the depot, giving visitors a sense of the town's former glory.

  2. Main Street Ruins: Walking down the deserted main street, you'll find remnants of the coal tipple foundations interspersed among the ruins of old buildings. It's a hauntingly beautiful sight.

Nuttallburg

Nuttallburg is another hidden gem in the New River Gorge, known for its well-preserved coal mining structures. The foundations here tell a story of hard work and determination.

  1. Nuttallburg Tipple: The remains of the Nuttallburg coal tipple are some of the best-preserved in the region. The foundations are still intact, providing a fascinating look at the engineering marvels of the past.

  2. Conveyor System: The old conveyor system, used to transport coal from the mines to the tipple, still has its foundations in place. It's a testament to the ingenuity of the miners who worked here.

Kaymoor

Kaymoor, perched high above the New River, offers stunning views and a rich history. The coal tipple foundations here are a must-see for history buffs.

  1. Kaymoor One: The foundations of the Kaymoor One tipple are still visible, offering a glimpse into the early days of coal mining in the gorge. The site is accessible via a challenging hike, but the views are worth the effort.

  2. Kaymoor Stairs: The famous Kaymoor stairs lead down to the old tipple foundations. It's a steep descent, but the journey down these historic steps is an adventure in itself.

Red Ash

Red Ash, though lesser-known, holds its own charm with its hidden coal tipple foundations. This site offers a quieter, more secluded exploration experience.

  1. Red Ash Tipple: The foundations of the Red Ash coal tipple are hidden among the trees, offering a serene and peaceful exploration experience. It's a great spot for those looking to escape the crowds.

  2. Old Rail Tracks: The old rail tracks leading to the tipple foundations are still visible, providing a unique pathway through the forest. It's a reminder of the once-bustling activity in the area.

Sewell

Sewell, another historic town in the New River Gorge, boasts some of the most intriguing coal tipple foundations. The remnants here are a testament to the town's industrious past.

  1. Sewell Tipple: The foundations of the Sewell coal tipple are still standing, offering a glimpse into the town's coal mining history. The site is accessible via a scenic hike through the gorge.

  2. Sewell Company Store: Near the tipple foundations, you'll find the remains of the old company store. It's a fascinating site that adds to the historical narrative of the area.

Glen Jean

Glen Jean, a small town with a big history, is home to some hidden coal tipple foundations that are worth exploring. The town's rich past is evident in these remnants.

  1. Glen Jean Tipple: The foundations of the Glen Jean coal tipple are tucked away in the woods, offering a quiet and reflective exploration experience. It's a great spot for history enthusiasts.

  2. Old Mine Entrances: Near the tipple foundations, you'll find the entrances to old mines. These sites provide a deeper understanding of the coal mining operations that once thrived here.

Discovering History in the Gorge

Exploring the hidden coal tipple foundations in West Virginia's New River Gorge offers a unique glimpse into the past. These remnants tell stories of a time when coal mining was the lifeblood of the region. Walking through these sites, you can almost hear the echoes of the bustling industry that once thrived here.

Visiting these foundations isn't just about looking at old structures. It's about connecting with the history and understanding the hard work and determination of the people who lived and worked in the Gorge. Each foundation, each piece of rusted metal, holds a piece of the story.

Next time you're in the New River Gorge, take a moment to seek out these hidden gems. They offer a rich, tangible connection to the past that you won't find in history books. It's a journey worth taking.