Oct 7

Mountain State Monday: Nuttallburg

I apologize that most of my posts reference the Summersville/Fayetteville/Pocahontas areas but I can’t help myself — those counties are my favorite and if I had the resources to pack up and move to one of them, I would do it in a heartbeat.  However, I do try to visit them and share with you their treasures as often as possible.  Like today, for example, as I share with you the long-forgotten mining town of Nuttallburg.

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The restored tipple at Nuttallburg

Located along the banks of the New River lies what is left of the once thriving mining town of Nuttallburg.  In recent years, the National Parks Service undertook a massive project restoring the tipple and conveyor belt as well as installing interpretive signs for the public.  The road to Nuttallburg is a curvy, narrow gravel road that is accessible via Route 60 through the small town of Winona (brown National Parks Service signs will guide you).  Once there, you may explore the tipple or take one of the many trails to see the former company store, coke ovens, or even ascend to the top of the mountain to the mine opening.  If you’re a geocacher, there is also a Nuttallburg Earth Cache that makes the trip extra worth it.  Actually, the way I discovered Nuttallburg in 2012 was because of the Earth Cache; Jon and I were planning a geocaching trip in the area right after the cache was posted and we were some of the first geocachers to visit.  Talk about a new experience!

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The conveyor belt at Nuttallburg ascends up the steep mountain to the mine opening. A switchback trail will take you to the top.

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There are many coke ovens in the area, some in tact and some crumbled. Many have the entrances grown up, like this one.

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A view of the Company Store foundation at the end of the coke oven trail.

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Near the Company Store at the end of the trail is a large oven with its dome still intact. While it is tall enough for adults to enter, please be careful as it could fall at any moment.

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There are many interpretive signs in the area, like this one that shows the layout and trails. When you’re driving down to Nuttallburg, just remember to keep driving — I promise that you will get there, eventually.

 Becuase of the current government shutdown, the NPS website for Nuttallburg is not accessible at this time.  However, the links below provide an excellent history and overview on the town.  Please be advised that there is limited to no cell service in the area; use caution when driving to and from Nuttallburg, as the road is narrow is and not always wide enough for two vehicles.  Otherwise, enjoy your visit Nuttallburg! 🙂
My WV Home: Old photographs of Nuttallburg
Coal Camp USA: Pictorial History
New River WV: Guide to Nuttallburg hiking trails

Until next time,
Sara (WV Travel Queen)

Oct 3

Haunted October: Glen Ferris Inn

Nestled beside Gauley Bridge on Route 60 is the small town of Glen Ferris.  Aside from the majestic Kanawha Falls recreational area, Glen Ferris is mostly known for the Glen Ferris Inn, a charming inn and restaurant that hosts guests from all over.  However, many believe that Glen Ferris Inn hosts more than living guests — perhaps even guests beyond the grave.

Photo property of user "futureroads" on Google Panoramio

Glen Ferris Inn is located along Route 60 near Gauley Bridge. Photo property of user “futureroads” on Google Panoramio

Glen Ferris Inn has a rich history, beginning in 1839 when local businessman Andrew Stockton opened a “common room” to host the stagecoach traffic that was common in the area.  Over the years, the inn was expanded and catered to soldiers on both sides of the Civil War.  Some even believe that the Inn once operated as a makeshift hospital during the war.

As host to soldiers, townspeople, and tourists for over a century, it’s no wonder that there are mysteries surrounding Glen Ferris Inn.  Many people report seeing an apparition in one of its second story windows as well as unexplained footsteps and shutting doors in the guest rooms.  One suggestion of these occurrences is the ghost of a Confederate officer named “The Colonel.”  Whether or not The Colonel exists is something that only those who have witnessed the paranormal occurrences can attest to.

While ghost tours are not given at Glen Ferris Inn, the Inn does welcomes visitors to tour the lush grounds, enjoy a sunset beside the Kanawha River, and grab a bite to eat in their restaurant, open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  For more information on the Glen Ferris Inn, visit their website.

Happy Hauntings!
Sara (WV Travel Queen)