The smallest town in West Virginia has only 5 inhabitants: a movie set and historical heritage.
A frozen corner in time.
More information:This is the two-story prefabricated house that Amazon is offering in the United States for less than $21,000
In the heart of West Virginia, United States, lies Thurmond, a tiny town that, according to the 2020 census, has only five residents. Despite its small size, this locality has managed to maintain its status as a municipality and preserves a historical legacy that makes it a fascinating destination within the state.
Located on the banks of the New River, this village was once a major railway and mining center. During the early 20th century, its economy relied heavily on coal mining and transporting goods by railroad, making it a key point for the region. In its prime, the town had banks, hotels, and a railway station that became one of the busiest in West Virginia.
However, with the decline of the mining industry and the decrease in railway traffic, it experienced a decline that led to a mass migration of its inhabitants. What was once a bustling hub of commerce and transportation is now practically a ghost town with only five residents.
A historical treasure
Despite depopulation, the town preserves much of its original architecture, earning it recognition as a historic site. Its deserted streets, well-preserved buildings, and iconic train station allow visitors to travel back in time and experience the atmosphere of early 20th-century railway towns.
One of the main attractions of the town is the Thurmond train station, which has been restored and converted into a visitor center for the New River Gorge National Park. This park, famous for its spectacular mountainous landscape and its iconic bridge over the New River, attracts hikers, climbers, and nature lovers who find Thurmond a perfect complement to their visit.
The nostalgic charm of Thurmond has caught the attention of the film industry. Its abandoned buildings and railway town ambiance have been used in several movies and documentaries that seek to capture the essence of early 20th-century America.
Additionally, its location within the New River Gorge National Park makes it an appealing destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and climbing. The combination of history and nature has made Thurmond not only a point of interest for historians and filmmakers but also for adventurers and photographers seeking unique settings in the United States.
The future of an almost uninhabited town
Despite having only five inhabitants, it continues to receive visitors interested in learning about its history and exploring its nearly untouched streets. Although its population has dwindled drastically, the town has become a symbol of the railway and mining history of the United States.
The National Park Service works on preserving the historic buildings, ensuring that Thurmond's legacy does not fade away. Its uniqueness as one of the smallest towns in the country and its natural surroundings make it, despite its low population, a point of reference on the map of West Virginia and a living testament to the country's industrial history.
