Railroading

historic photo of steam train
 
Program Description
Students focus on the importance of the railroad to the New River Gorge and to the United States as a whole. Students visualize the challenges of railroad construction at the time of the Civil War. Through discussion, students learn that the railroad brought changes... people, jobs, mines, and lumber camps, as well as a means to transport coal, timber, and other goods out of the gorge to a national market. Whenever possible, students visit Thurmond Depot where demonstrations, hands-on activities, and role playing are part of the learning experience.

Available at:
Burnwood, Canyon Rim, Glade Creek, Grandview, and Thurmond

Grade Level:
4th – 6th

Program Length:
1.5 hours

Background Materials:

Railroading Overview

Theme:
The railroad helped to overcome a transportation barrier and open the New River Gorge to many opportunities.

Instructional Objectives:

1. List three reasons why the completion of the railroad was so important

2. List and describe jobs that were associated with the operation of the railroad

3. Explain what happened to the railroad throughout the years


Pre-visit activities:
Railroad Jargon
Riding the Rails Scavenger Hunt

Post-visit activities:
Hobos
People of the Rails
Railroad Charades
Railroad Nomenclature
Railroad Towns

More Information:
Glossary
Books to Share with Children
References
Additional Resources for Teachers

Subject:
History/Social Sciences

WV Content Standards met:

History/Social Sciences- SS.4.4.3, SS.4.4.4, SS.WV.4.4, SS.WV.4.8, SS.WV.5.2, SS.WV.5.3,
SS.5.3.4, SS.5.3.5, SS.5.4.9, SS.5.5.3, SS.5.5.7


Last updated: October 12, 2017

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 246, 104 Main Street
Glen Jean, WV 25846

Phone:

304-465-0508

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