Two new sets of large public illustrated historical interpretation signs have just been installed in the Towns of Thomas and Davis.
The signs focus on the railroad, coal, and timber industries that built these communities. Historian David Vago, working with the regional conservation group Friends of Blackwater, designed the professional, weatherproof display signs, which are funded by the West Virginia Humanities Council.
One set of signs, in Davis City Park near the pavilion, uses historic photos and maps to show the evolution of the sawmill complex that sat between the Blackwater River and the Town. Scott Dearborn dug the holes
Friends of Blackwater and historian Vago also created a second set of five large vinyl banners, that are currently displayed along the Blackwater River Rail Trail, on the fence of the treatment plant just outside Thomas. These banners feature large historic photos of the railroad and coal, coke and timber industries that helped make Thomas a “boomtown” in its heyday.
Friends of Blackwater believes that understanding the rich heritage of Tucker County – for visitors and local residents alike — is an important part of developing a sustainable economy in Tucker County. These new signs help tell the story of Tucker County for all to appreciate.
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