31 Ghost Towns in America That Are Hauntingly Frozen in Time

8. Thurmond, West Virginia: A Railroad Town Forgotten

Thurmond, West Virginia, is a ghost town with a rich railroad history. Founded in the late 19th century along the New River, Thurmond quickly became a vital hub for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. At its peak, the town boasted a bustling depot, hotels, and a thriving community of railroad workers and their families. However, as the rail industry declined and transportation shifted to highways, Thurmond's population dwindled, and the town was largely abandoned. Today, Thurmond is preserved as part of the New River Gorge National Park, with its historic depot serving as a visitor center. The town's well-preserved buildings and scenic location make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Thurmond's story is one of industry, innovation, and the changing tides of transportation in America. As a ghost town with a rich railroad legacy, Thurmond offers a unique perspective on the rise and fall of industrial communities.