Article #95: West Virginia Midland Baggage Car #1 Southeastern Narrow Gauge Shortline Museum (June 14, 2025)

 

In this new article we get a look at West Virginia Midland Baggage Car #1 which is now preserved at the Southeastern Narrow Gauge & Shortline Museum in Newton, NC. It is the only one of its kind left in existence. It is the only one of its kind with a southern heritage as well. It is a narrow gauge baggage car.

The railroad started out at the Holly River Boom & Lumber Company in November of 1894. They were a railroad that focused on hauling logs and coal. The start of official operations for the railroad was April 6, 1906, after being reorganized more than once.

This car was built in 1902 where it was used for carrying baggage and mail. It became part of the railroad's passenger service fleet. 

After it completed its run on the West Virginia Midland, it was transferred to the Paradee & Curtin Lumber Company. 

It was cosmetically restored and was moved to Newton which is now its current home.