2010 July Hamlet Railroad Depot Museum

We were in Rockingham Sunday visiting my mom and my wife's parents and I decided to ride over to Hamlet and do a little sightseeing. I went by the refurbished depot and took some photos. They did a great job of fixing the old depot up and I especially liked the color on the outside. Loved the park across from the depot and the engine and caboose that are located there.

As I was standing there taking a few photos, I noticed a gentlemen at the building next to the park waving. So, I walked over and met a Mr A S Watson - I believe that was his name. He was motioning for me to come see the museum, named the Tornado. Now, I didn't remember Mr Watson from the Railroad because he worked on the tracks and I knew mostly the trainmen and engineers there. But as I walked inside, I was met by Sam Ballard - former conductor at the railroad. It was good to see Sam, as it has been years since I worked with him at Hamlet - in fact, back before 1988, when I transferred to Jacksonville.

I was really surprised at the inside of the museum. Now, if I am not mistaken again, Sam said they were in the process of redoing the inside of the depot across the highway. So, I assume this little museum is temporary, but am not sure. But they had an old steam engine that used to set down at the City Lake, I believe...and it was called "The Tornado". So, that building was appropriately named, The Tornado.

Inside, there was a model railroad display, the actual Tornado, setting on the tracks that it was on at the previous location. It really looked good! Plus, they had an old T Model and A Model Ford, restored. I was rushed for time as my wife, her parents and my mom were in the car waiting, so I didn't have long to observe all that I would have wanted to. They had video also showing the old roundhouse, etc. that was very intersting.

Maybe one day, I can go back and spend a little more time inside. I have added the photos at the bottom of this page - and if there is any info on this page that is incorrect, please feel free to let me know. Joel Bailey 07-12-10.