Saluda, North Carolina, offers residents and guests ample opportunities to enjoy its charm, from historic downtown shopping and dining to exploring nature along the winding Green River, or biking the challenging mountain roads. And while there is a lot to experience here, be sure to immerse yourself in the town's interesting railroad history, by staying in a bright red historic train car with overnight accommodations and learning about the Saluda Grade at the Saluda Historic Depot.
Eventually taken out of service in 2001, the Saluda Grade was the steepest operating mainline grade in the country.
On July 4, 1878, the first train to travel the Saluda Grade railway passage arrived in the town now called Saluda.
This 1927 photo pictures a train passing over Person Falls Road Tunnel.
With a 4.7% grade, the passage was famous for its large number of runaway train wrecks.
The railroad employees had critical jobs navigating this grade as between 1880 and 1894, four horrifying crashes occurred killing and disabling men, while a carload of cattle was killed when number 559 careened down the Saluda Grade landing in a heap of metal and coining the name Slaughterhouse Curve.
Now, efforts are alive to purchase the railroad property, turning it into Saluda Grade Rail Trail.
Here is Saluda Grade at Pearson Falls Gate House looking east.
To learn more about the fascinating railroad history, visit the Saluda Historic Depot, built in 1903, on U.S. Route 176, which was eventually relocated to Main Street.
See what upcoming events are in store. Also, please note that the depot is closed in January and February.
Keeping in with the theme, stay in this authentic 1927 Southern Railroad Caboose X61 Vrbo, overlooking the railroad tracks.
It is located in the heart of Saluda, which you can look down upon while enjoying a cozy fire.
This is one of only 10 built in 1927 for the Central of Georgia Railway.
But don't be put off by its age as its restoration includes all the modern amenities you'll need to feel at home.
Enjoy the 32-inch HDTV with cable from the cozy futon, surrounded by the warmth of the wooded surroundings.
The kitchen has all stainless-steel appliances, a refrigerator, a full oven featuring an air fryer, a microwave, a combo coffee/Keurig maker, and all the cooking tools and utensils needed to create a nourishing meal.
Sleeping up to four people, a master suite offers a spacious king bed, a large bathroom with double sinks, a 65-inch HDTV with cable service, and a walk-in closet.
As you drift off to sleep tonight, reflect on the days gone by and the rich railroad history in Saluda.
Are you ready to book an overnight trip to this historic train car with overnight accommodations in Saluda, North Carolina? And while you're there, find out more about this fascinating town. If you go, please tell us about your experience in the comments below.
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