The Annual Running Of The Trains
Youtube Video
Every year visitors take a pilgrimage to Blackstone to enjoy the annual running of the trains at Bevells Hardware store. Below are some pictures from the elaborate layout.
The Big Top was fabricated by local Restauranteur Candy Early
New elements include the addition of the wind mills...
Also underneath the big top is additional lighting
Even the elves deserve a break once and a while. The console was built by Danny Sheffield
The hot air balloons are new and the burning building is a repeat hit
Here is another view of the hot air balloons
The turntable for trains is a repeat hit and an innovation most have not seen
This train is carrying Disney Characters (notice the old Blackstone Hotel replica)
Everywhere you look there is something intriguing to see
The layout is so huge, it cannot be captured in a single frame
The snow scenes look very realistic thanks to Lynn Daniel's efforts.
The train tressle and everthing is done to perfect scale
The Fort Pickett replica is complete with runway and camouflage barracks
Bobby Daniels has his conductor's cap on and is already making plans for next year
This photo shows a replica of Schwartz Tavern
Here is good view of the hot air balloons in action
A drive-in theatre was added a couple years ago and notice the Nottoway High Football stadium