History comes to life through music, storytelling, and plenty of audience participation when acclaimed West Virginia performer Mick Souter brings “All Aboard the Iron Horse: Songs and Stories about the History of America’s Railroads” to Cacapon Resort State Park on Saturday, July 11 at 7 p.m.
John Henry Statue in Hinton, WV Photo Courtesy of Explore Summers County
Held on the North Patio of Cacapon Lodge, this free, family-friendly performance celebrates both America250 and the B&O Railroad Bicentennial, taking audiences on a musical journey through the people, places, and legends that shaped America’s railroads. Along the way, Souter performs with an impressive collection of instruments including banjo, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and dulcimer.
The evening features classic railroad songs made famous by artists such as Jimmy Rodgers, Woody Guthrie, Steve Goodman, and The Kingston Trio, while introducing audiences to iconic figures like John Henry, Casey Jones, Collis P. Huntington, and Stonewall Jackson.
The concert is the grand finale of a full day of Irish-inspired fun at Cacapon Resort State Park. The festivities begin with the West Virginia Irish Road Bowling Championship, where participants can register at 10 a.m. at the Nature Center before competition begins at 11 a.m. No previous experience is necessary, and visitors can enter as a four-person team or sign up individually for a chance to win a trophy.
In the afternoon, visitors can embrace their Irish spirit with an “Irish for a Day” Tie-Dye activity at 2 p.m. at the Nature Center. Participants can purchase a shirt on-site and create a one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember the day.
Make a day of it by exploring Cacapon Resort State Park‘s scenic trails, lake, golf course, or mountain overlooks before settling in for an unforgettable evening celebrating one of the greatest stories in American history. Whether you’re competing in road bowling, making a colorful souvenir, or ending the evening with Mick Souter’s musical tribute to America’s railroads, July 11 promises a memorable summer day for visitors of all ages. Admission to the day’s events is free, making it the perfect opportunity to discover everything Cacapon Resort State Park has to offer. Admission is free, so bring a lawn chair, gather the family, and get ready to climb aboard the Iron Horse.
Cacapon Resort State Park
