January, 2021, Issue No. 4
THE ELKINS DEPOT DISPATCH
THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER FROM THE ELKINS DEPOT WELCOME CENTER
Happy New Year!
2020 is in the books and we are excited to welcome in 2021.
There is a saying “every day may not be good but there is good in every day.” Reflecting on the year 2020 reminds us of that saying.” 2020 presented new challenges for many, including the Welcome Center, but for us it was also a year of adaptation, reevaluation, and growth.
We are eager to take what we have learned over the course of this past year into 2021 as we continue to improve our practices and our organization. As always, the safety of our guests, volunteers, and staff remain our top priority. We will continue to operate out of our welcome window, wear our masks, and maintain a clean environment. We look forward to welcoming you to Elkins in 2021!
Cozy Up in Randolph County
Elkins and Randolph County have a variety of lodging options to fit your preference. For a serene winter retreat, consider staying in a vacation rental tucked into the trees or situated along the Shavers Fork River. Cabins and other vacation rentals, as well as outdoor activities, provide the option for a more socially-distanced getaway. Spend the day outside snowshoeing or cross-country skiing then return to your cozy cabin and cuddle up in front of a crackling fire with a blanket, a hot beverage, and a good book or movie. Can you picture it yet? |
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Elkins Depot Welcome Center 2020 Wrap-Up
Despite the challenges, there were many positives for the Welcome Center in 2020. Here are just a few!
- We were able to re-open with adjustments, such as working from a window, and were able to continue greeting visitors.
- We safely welcomed visitors from 24 states and 5 countries.
- The Welcome Center and Elkins-Randolph County Tourism grew their social media presence, reaching over 1.5 million people in 2020.
- The Welcome Center was and continues to be involved with community efforts to build a more vibrant community.
Here’s to 2021!
| Fun Facts!
April 28, 2020 marked the 100 year anniversary of the Monongahela National Forest.
The National Radio Quiet Zone extends into part of Randolph County, WV. The NRQZ is a designated area where radio transmissions are restricted by law to facilitate scientific research and military intelligence by minimizing possible harmful interference to the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, WV and the radio receiving facilities for the US Navy in Sugar Grove, WV.
Originally, the town of Beverly held the county seat, but as Elkins continued to grow, the two towns began feuding over the designation. Eventually the Supreme Court of West Virginia announced Elkins as the county seat. |
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