LOST HISTORY TRAIL
Ranson, WV has a rich industrial past which, unfortunately, was lost to time, fire, changing technologies, and demographics. The Ranson Lost History Trail sets out to make the past visible again by highlighting those forgotten landmarks from before Ranson was Ranson until the recent past. The city of Ranson owes its existence to a group of ambitious Charles Town citizens who wanted to create THE industrial center of the Eastern Panhandle north of town. And as the trail shows, they succeeded. Ranson can be proud of being the industrial engine that powered the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
​
We now invite you to learn about this industrial past of Ranson, WV by taking a stroll on this 2.5 mile walking path through Ranson.
Points of Interest
-
Jefferson Cooperage Company: Corner of North Mildred St. & West Beltline Ave.
-
Powhatan Brass and Iron Works: 263 N. Mildred St.
-
The Belt Line: Corner of North Fairfax Blvd. & East Beltline Ave.
-
Victor Products/Dixie Narco site: Corner of North Lawrence St. & West 2rd Ave.
-
Goetz Harness and Collar Factor: 500 S. George St. in front of APUS building.
-
Charlestown Mining & Manufacturing Building: 312 South Mildred St.
-
Hotel Powhatan/St. Hilda’s Hall: 126 East 3rd St. between the St. Hilda’s pillars.
-
Ranson Community Gardens: 408 South Mineral St.