Candor’s Historic Train Depot Fundraiser: A Journey Through Time and Community Spirit
Candor, North Carolina, recently hosted a remarkable event celebrating history, community, and the enduring charm of its old train depot. On Thursday, November 14th, and Friday, November 16th, the town partnered with the Aberdeen Train Company for a historical fundraiser aimed at restoring the depot—a beloved local landmark that has not welcomed passengers since 1957.
For decades, the depot stood as a silent witness to the town’s growth and history. While trains once regularly carried passengers through Candor, the depot had long remained quiet after train services ceased in the mid-20th century. Over the years, the town hosted occasional events, such as the dinner trains around 15 years ago and train rides during the Candor Peach Festival, but this recent fundraiser marked a renewed effort to bring the community together around this historic site.
The fundraiser offered attendees a unique opportunity: a ride aboard the Aberdeen train, recreating the nostalgic experience of train travel while raising awareness and support for the depot’s restoration. Residents and visitors alike flocked to the event, traveling from nearby towns and even as far as Greensboro and Hamilton, North Carolina, to enjoy the ride. Inside the train, laughter, conversation, and a sense of camaraderie filled the air, as community members old and new shared stories, memories, and excitement.
The event also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving local history. By supporting the train depot’s restoration, residents are investing not just in a building, but in the stories, memories, and experiences that define Candor’s identity. The fundraiser is hoped to be the first of many, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the train rides, celebrate the town’s history, and contribute to a project that benefits the entire community.
Attendees described the experience as “memorable” and “heartwarming,” highlighting the joy of sharing the ride with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who became friends along the way. The event beautifully showcased the spirit of Candor: a town that values its heritage, embraces its residents, and knows how to come together for a common purpose.
In the end, the historic train fundraiser was more than just a ride—it was a journey through time, a celebration of community, and a hopeful first step toward restoring a cherished landmark for future generations. For Candor, the tracks of history are not just a reminder of the past—they are a path toward bringing people together, one train ride at a time.
Candor’s Historic Train Depot Fundraiser: A Journey Through Time and Community Spirit
Local leaders played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. Mayor Philip Hearn, town clerk Tammy Kellis, and (Former School Teacher ) Ann Long and her husband coordinated much of the planning and logistics, demonstrating their dedication to preserving Candor’s history. Former Mayor Becky Williams greeted and welcomed patrons as they arrived, offering warm hospitality and a friendly face to both longtime residents and first-time visitors. Their efforts helped create an atmosphere of celebration and community pride that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Tj-P Enterprise and Media 
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