Valley has converted the Fairfax Depot, built in 1917, into a train museum. A model train painted to resemble the old Chattahoochee Valley Railroad train travels around tracks above the windows. A mural, depicting historic landmarks from the Langdale, Shawmut Mill, Fairfax and Riverview mill villages during the time the CVRR was operating, has been painted and is located behind the train as it travels around the tracks.
This project honors our southern, textile heritage by depicting Valley back when the CVRR was operating carrying passengers, cotton, cloth and supplies between Shawmut, Langdale, Fairfax and Riverdale Mills, back before Valley was a city.
A grant from the Alabama State Council On the Arts in 2007 helped pay for the project. Russell Everett, who holds a Master of Fine Art and who has taught at Auburn University and Troy University was contracted to paint the background murals for the train. Schools in the area scheduled field trips to watch and learn from Mr. Everett as he painted the various scenes from Valley's past. The first public viewing of the finished project was an open house held during the City's Christmas Lighting and Trail Walk.
Call Shelia Still at (334) 756-5282 to schedule a tour for your school, church, or community group.
