Nobody puts on a parade like a small Southern town, such as the one for the 50th Annual Selma Railroad Days Festival. Their golden anniversary celebration was the largest in its history, and the crowds were there to help this small town (population ~7000) show its appreciation for its railroad heritage.
On May 1, 1867, they started selling lots around a new station on the North Carolina Railroad, and that’s how the town came to be. It hung on as a railroad town for quite a while, which meant many folks from nearby areas would stop by for work or a bit of leisure. Selma officially became a town on February 11, 1873, marking a significant moment for the community as it began to flourish.
When the 1920s-era passenger depot was scheduled to be demolished in the mid-70s, the town bought and restored it. The re-opening of the station in 1976 marked the initial Selma Railroad Days celebration. They now have Amtrak service on the Palmetto and Carolinian lines, allowing even more travelers to experience the charm of Selma. In addition, three more Amtrak lines pass through, but do not stop. CSX and Norfolk Southern trains also travel the tracks.
The town’s original Mitchener Station, built in 1855, is thought to be the oldest train station still standing in North Carolina, a testament to the area’s rich history.
By Antony-22 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=107161803
In addition to the parade down the town’s main street, which showcases colorful floats and lively performers, numerous bands play on stages located around downtown, filling the air with a variety of musical genres that entice passersby to stop and enjoy the performances. Vendors line the sidewalks, offering an array of handcrafted goods and local delicacies, while an entire side street is given over to an assortment of food trucks, each presenting mouthwatering options like gourmet tacos, artisanal ice cream, and savory barbecue that tantalize the taste buds and invite visitors to indulge in the culinary delights of the event. As families wander from booth to booth, the atmosphere is electric with laughter and music, making it a perfect day for the community to come together and celebrate.
The North Raleigh Model Railroad Club set up their amazingly detailed N-scale modular railroad in the lobby of the Selma Union Station, where every intricate detail of their design captivated visitors with lifelike scenery, bustling miniature towns, and meticulously crafted trains whizzing by. Meanwhile, the Southeast division of the Train Collectors Association (SE-TCA) sponsored a model train show in the civic center, which attracted enthusiasts from far and wide. The SE-TCA show featured several impressive O and HO scale layouts that showcased the creativity and craftsmanship of various modelers, as well as many vendors selling their wares, including rare collectibles, miniature accessories, and the latest train technologies, providing an exciting shopping experience for attendees.
While Selma Railroad Days spans an entire week, most of the festivities are concentrated around Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, creating an exhilarating atmosphere that draws in locals and visitors alike. The small town definitely knows how to throw a party, transforming its streets into a vibrant celebration filled with music, food stalls, and activities that cater to families and friends of all ages. From exhilarating train rides that evoke a sense of nostalgia to lively parades showcasing the town’s rich history, there is something for everyone to enjoy. A wonderful time was had by all attending, as laughter and joy filled the air, creating unforgettable memories that people cherish long after the festivities have concluded.
Dismal Creek Railroad 