Learn more about the logging railroad history of western North Carolina when Gerald Ledford presents “Saluda Train Tales” at the Saluda Historic Depot Friday, Jan. 22, at 6:30 p.m. Ledford’s presentation will focus on the logging railroads in Transylvania County and will feature several maps and many photos of those operations.

 

Gerald Ledford is a native of western North Carolina, growing up in Canton. He retired after teaching middle and high school band for over 32 years in the North Carolina Public Schools. His family was involved in the early lumber industry in this area. His grandfather was a superintendent for Norwood Lumber at Forney, N.C. and his great uncle Louis Carr founded the Carr Lumber Company at Pisgah Forest, N.C.

 

With a lifelong interest in the history of the lumber and paper industry in this area, Ledford has provided photos and information for several authors of regional histories. He also provided information and photos for the Ken Burns’ series “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.”

 

Saluda Train Tales is a free monthly event to educate the community of the importance of Saluda’s railroad history and the Saluda Grade. These events are at the Saluda Historic Depot, 32 W. Main Street, Saluda, N.C.

 

If there is inclement weather, please contact Judy Ward at 828-674-5958 or judyward@charter.net or Cathy Jackson at 828-817-2876 or cathy@saludalifestyles.com for schedule updates.

 

-Submitted by Cathy Jackson