Talcott, WV – (Hinton News) This year marks the 25th anniversary of John Henry Days, an annual festival held in Talcott. The festival honors American legend John Henry who supposedly beat a steam drill in a steel-driving contest when the original Great Bend Tunnel was under construction.
The area at the tunnel where live music takes place each year recently underwent some improvements. Improvements include paving and better electrical wiring.
On the first day of John Henry Days, Friday, July, 8, the John Henry Museum will be open for visitors to pursue between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Later in the day at 7 p.m. The Songcatchers are set to perform at the tunnel. The concert is free, but donations are accepted at the gate.
Saturday’s activities begin with breakfast at Trinity Methodist Church between 8 and 10 a.m. The craft and food vendors lined up throughout town open at 9 a.m. Parade registration begins at 9 a.m. and the actual parade starts at 11 a.m. Awards are presented at 1 p.m.
Throughout the day on Saturday, various activities and demonstrations are scheduled to take place. at 9 a.m., noon, and 1:30 p.m. Hobby by Heart is giving Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations. Mike Stouter’s Touring Musical Theater is presenting All Aboard the Iron Horse at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m beside the post office. Another performance will take place at 6 p.m. at the tunnel. The Wynes Facility for Families and Children is holding a pie baking contest and a children’s pie-eating contest. The deadline to enter the baking contest is June 25.
The day ends with a live musical performance by The Tams at 7 p.m. at the tunnel.
On Sunday morning, a church service will be held at the tunnel by Reverend Nathan Smith from River Valley Baptist Church. This will be followed by a car show between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Food and craft vendors will also be available. Finally, at 1:30 p.m. the John Henry Days “Pluck a Duck” event will take place.
For more information, reach out to the John Henry Days Facebook page.
