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5/6/2021 10:35 AM

Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society Invites You To The 150th Anniversary Of The Viaduct Celebration -- June 25, 26 & 27, 2021

 



     
 

On June 21, 1871 the first train traveled over a new stone arch bridge connecting Bellaire, OH and Benwood, WV. Today we know that bridge as The Great Stone Viaduct. On June 25, 26 & 27, 2021, 150 years after opening, The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society will celebrate this magnificent structure and it's importance to Bellaire and Belmont County, OH.

This 3 day celebration will be held on the grounds surrounding the Great Stone Viaduct.

FRIDAY - JUNE 25, 2021 EVENTS

The event kicks off on Friday, June 25th, with a classic car show in the parking lot of the Bellaire Community Health Center at 3000 Guernsey St, Bellaire, OH. The car show runs from 4pm to 6pm. More information about the car show can be had by calling 740-359-2301.

Also on Friday starting at 6:30pm will be a steak dinner catered by Outback Steakhouse under a tent directly next to the Great Stone Viaduct. There will be light appetizers and drawings, raffles and door prizes throughout the evening. After dinner, auctioneer David Jones will auction off several historical and unique items to the high bidder. Tickets for the banquet are $30 per person and can be purchased from any GSV board member or by calling 740-963-3500 Ext 3.

SATURDAY - JUNE 26, 2021 EVENTS

Saturday the events begin at 12 noon with opening remarks by local dignitaries. Throughout the day enjoy traditional crafts, food vendors, raffles, artists' auction, kids corner, bridge tours, local performers and an evening concert by members of The Wheeling Symphony.

A SPECIAL HISTORICAL PRESENTATION has been arranged at the Bellaire Public Library on Saturday, June 26, 2021 9:00am to 3:45pm with advanced registration

Space is limited to 75 fixed seats, so please register early. Download event details and registration form below.

Included will be the following speakers and photographic preentation topics:

Bill Logan - "O, R & W Photographic Memories"

Daniel Frizzi - "Stone Arch Railroad Bridges of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad"

Dave Adair - "Cleveland, Lorain and Wheeling Iron"

B&O HS - "To be Announced"


SUNDAY - JUNE 27, 2021 EVENTS

Sunday the events once again begin at 12 noon with a flea market featuring antiques & collectables, crafters, food vendors, bridge tours, closing ceremonies at 4pm.


DOWNLOAD FLYERS BELOW

GSV Anniversary Celebration Poster
JPEG FLYER LINK

GSV Car Show
JPEG FLYER LINK

GSV Historical Presentation and Reservation Form
PDF FLYER LINK

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1/6/2021 4:14 PM

GSV Announces Day Trip Aboard The Autumn Colors Express
– Sunday, October 24, 2021
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip onboard the Autumn Colors Express on Sunday, October 24, 2021. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Charleston, WV where we will board our own private railcar!

This train, formerly known as the New River Train, consists of over 30 cars, takes you on a day-long journey through the New River Gorge, at the peak of the fall foliage season. The train will stop in Hinton, WV for a fall festival and we will have 3 hours to explore the town. The round trip lets you experience this beautiful area of West Virginia in a way few do. This special passenger train pulled by Amtrak is comprised entirely of privately-owned vintage rail cars from all over the nation, assembled exclusively for this event.

We have chartered our own private railcar. Owned by Webb Rail LLC, this beautifully restored Budd short dome that made its excursion debut on the 2019 Autumn Colors Express. Featuring completely redone dome seating, a full lounge downstairs, and fresh Northern Pacific paint on the exterior, this is one of the true crown jewels of the Autumn Colors Express consist!

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:00am by bus and arrive in Charleston by 8:00am. We will begin boarding at 8:30am. We return to Charleston at 7:00pm and should arrive back in Bellaire by 11:00pm. While onboard, guests will be served Honeybaked Ham in the morning, Panera in the afternoon, Coffee, Water, Soda Ginger Ale or Sprite, Coke, and Diet Coke.. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All other food / drink / souvenirs are the responsibility of each person. GSV will have water and donuts available on the bus at no charge.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Lifetime, Charter & Sustaining Member price is $700.00 per couple / $350.00 per person.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $750.00 per couple / $375.00 per person. Prices include your bus transport, train ticket.  food on the train. Only 59 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Autumn Colors Express Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 740-963-3500, extention 2 and leave a message.









 
1/15/2021 10:35 AM

2021 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series

 


TOP: (l to r) Judge Frank A. Fregiato and Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.
BOTTOM: (l to r) Ed Mowrer, GSV Vice Chairperson, Erica Keller, GSV Lecture Series Committee Chair, Marion Stolz, GSV Trustee, Joe DeGenova, Friends of Bellaire Public Library


     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is partnering with the Bellaire Public Library again this year to present the 9th Winter Lecture Series providing the public with presentations of local historical topics and speakers.  Last year the Series was cut short due to Covid 19, and several speakers were postponed until this year and our 150th Anniversary Celebration.

The format for the Lectures has changed due to Covid 19, but the GOOD NEWS is that our Series will continue in 2021 through live streaming of each lecture that you can view and participate by remote viewing. The lectures will be broadcast live from the Bellaire Public Library over the Library Facebook Page. The time and day of the lectures will be the same, but you will view the lecture remotely from your own computer. You will still be able to participate by asking questions which the speaker can answer during the live broadcast. If you are go to the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page, and friend the Library, you will be notified when the broadcast is about to begin.

The popularity of the Lecture Series over the past 8 years has grown into an annual tradition, and many individuals look forward to these Wednesday night attractions held at the Community Room in the Bellaire Public Library. The presentations span an 8 week period in February and March 2020, and always begin at 6 p.m..

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society was the recipient of an Award for Education and Public Awareness in 2017 from the Ohio History Connection because of its sponsorship of the GSV Winter Lecture Series.  The public is invited to attend to learn more about our local history from these informative presentations.

Open to the public, those interested in these broadcast topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 p.m.. If you have any questions about the remote viewing by Facebook, please call the Bellaire Public Library for more information at 740-676-9421.

2021 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series SCHEDULE

February 3, 2021
Jeanne Finstein and Judi Hendrickson, -- "Two Lives Connected by Tragedy: Edith Lake Wilkinson and Clara West Rogers" -- will stream live at 6pm via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
JPEG FLYER LINK

February 10, 2021
Marcia Hartman, -- "Isaac Parker: Judge of the Old West" -- will stream live at 6pm via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

Feb 17, 2021
Judge Frank Fregiato -- "I Shot the Sheriff ...or Did I?" -- will stream live at 6pm via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

Feb 24, 2021
Dan Frizzi -- "Just a Grocer's Son" -- will live stream at 6pm from the Belmont County Heritage Museum via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

March 3, 2021
Dave Simmons -- "The Romance and Symbolism of Covered Bridges" -- will stream live at 6pm via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

March 10, 2021
John McCabe --"Through the Lens" -- Replay of previous lecture will stream at 6pm from the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

March 17, 2021
Roger Pickenpaugh -- "Marietta Flood" -- Replay of previous lecture will stream at 6pm from the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

March 24, 2021
MS Consultants --"Presentation of Current Stasis of the Great Stone Viaduct Park Project" --  will stream live at 6pm via the Bellaire Public Library Facebook Page.
PDF FLYER LINK

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1/3/2020 11:15 AM2020 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series

 


TOP: (l to r) Judge Frank A. Fregiato and Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.
BOTTOM: (l to r) Ed Mowrer, GSV Vice Chairperson, Erica Keller, GSV Lecture Series Committee Chair, Marion Stolz, GSV Trustee, Joe DeGenova, Friends of Bellaire Public Library


     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is partnering with the Bellaire Public Library again this year to present the 8th Winter Lecture Series providing the public with presentations of local historical topics.

The popularity of the Lecture Series over the past 7 years has grown into an annual tradition, and many individuals look forward to these Wednesday night attractions held at the Community Room in the Bellaire Public Library. The presentations span an 8 week period in February and March 2020.

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society was the recipient of an Award for Education and Public Awareness in 2017 from the Ohio History Connection because of its sponsorship of the GSV Winter Lecture Series. Each of presentation of the Great Stone Viaduct Winter Lecture Series is free to the public, and light refreshments are served at the conclusion of each lecture. The public is invited to attend to learn more about our local history from these informative presentations.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  

All presentations begin promptly at 6 p.m. 

Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture.

The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, decorated ceramic crocks, 2021 Commemoritive Coins, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule —click to download the 2020 Lecture Schedule:











 

     
     
     
 


 
3/2/2020 4:41 PMGSV Announces Day Trip Aboard The Autumn Colors Express
– Sunday, October 25, 2020 (trip rescheduled to 10-24-2021)
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip onboard the Autumn Colors Express on Sunday, October 25, 2020. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Charleston, WV where we will board our own private railcar!

This train, formerly known as the New River Train, consists of over 30 cars, takes you on a day-long journey through the New River Gorge, at the peak of the fall foliage season. The train will stop in Hinton, WV for a fall festival and we will have 3 hours to explore the town. The round trip lets you experience this beautiful area of West Virginia in a way few do. This special passenger train pulled by Amtrak is comprised entirely of privately-owned vintage rail cars from all over the nation, assembled exclusively for this event.

We have chartered our own private railcar. Owned by Webb Rail LLC, this beautifully restored Budd short dome that made its excursion debut on the 2019 Autumn Colors Express. Featuring completely redone dome seating, a full lounge downstairs, and fresh Northern Pacific paint on the exterior, this is one of the true crown jewels of the Autumn Colors Express consist!

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:00am by bus and arrive in Charleston by 8:00am. We will begin boarding at 8:30am. We return to Charleston at 7:00pm and should arrive back in Bellaire by 11:00pm. While onboard, guests will be served Honeybaked Ham in the morning, Panera in the afternoon, Coffee, Water, Soda Ginger Ale or Sprite, Coke, and Diet Coke.. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All other food / drink / souvenirs are the responsibility of each person. GSV will have water and donuts available on the bus at no charge.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Lifetime, Charter & Sustaining Member price is $700.00 per couple / $350.00 per person.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $750.00 per couple / $375.00 per person. Prices include your bus transport, train ticket.  food on the train. Only 59 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Autumn Colors Express Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 740-963-3500, extention 2 and leave a message.





 
6/17/2019 1:00 PM5th Annual All-American Banquet and Fundraiser
Outback Steakhouse dinner is included!
– Tuesday evening, September 17, 2019
at the Sons of Italy Lodge in Bellaire

























     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society invites you to the 5th Annual American Heritage Banquet on Tuesday evening, September 17, 2019 to be held at the Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge. This is a fundraiser for support of our mission to preserve the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire.

 

Date: Tuesday Evening, September 17, 2019, 5:00 pm to 9 pm

Where: Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge, Bellaire, Ohio

Some highlights of the event are:

Social Hour: Appetizers, Cash Bar, and Music -- 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Courtyard

Music: by Michael Murphy


Steak Dinner: at 6:30 p.m. provided by Outback Steak House with reserved seating in the Lodge Hall, with Cash Bar

Status of the Great Stone Viaduct by Paul Cramer, Board Chairman

Chinese Auction, Raffles, Door Prizes and 50/50 Drawings throughout the evening

Specialty Auction by David Jones of many valuable, memorable and historic items— not to be missed.

Limited Tickets Available - Call 740-963-3500 Ext 3 for Reservations

Ticket Price:

$30.00/person
GSV Society Members will receive $5.00 of Chinese Auction tickets at the door.

Downdoad 2019 All-American Banquet Flyer here


Downdoad 2019 David Jones Auction List here


Downdoad current Keystone and Ringstone Club Members here

 

 

 
 
 
 
 

 

7/1/2019 9:27 AM

Cass Scenic Railroad --TWO TRAINS
from Elkins WV to Cass WV
– Saturday, August 17, 2019


Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad


















     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Cass Scenic Railroad on Saturday, August 17, 2019. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Elkins, WV where we will board our train. This trip will include two (2) train rides in one day!

We will spend nearly 8 hours split between 2 trains. Our rail journey begins when we depart the Elkins depot at 9:30am. The first leg of our trip will be in vintage passenger cars pulled by two Western Maryland diesel engines towards the abandoned town of Old Spruce, WV along the Cheat River. Lunch will be served on the train as we travel towards Old Spruce. (Lunch is included in your ticket cost)

The second part of our adventure starts when we transfer trains at Old Spruce and continue our journey up the mountain to the 2nd highest point in WV, Bald Knob. This train will feature open air cars powered by two Shay steam logging locomotives. The grades on this rail line can approach 6% and the engines put on quite a show getting us to the top of the mountain. Once at Bald Knob, we will depart the train and enjoy scenery from an observation deck that features views into several states on a clear day. We will arrive at the Cass Depot at approximately 4:45pm and guests can enjoy the over 100 year old general store before we depart for home.

Guests may bring a small personal sized cooler with them as well. GSV will have cold water available on the bus at no charge.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:15 am by chartered bus. We will depart Cass at 6:00 pm for home and arrive back in Bellaire by 11:00 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All dinner costs & souvenirs are the responsibility of each person on the trip.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $175.00. NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $190.00.***

Price includes your bus transport, lunch & tickets to both trains. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Cass Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.

For more information please call (740) 963-3500, extension 2, and leave a message.

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 



3-11-2019 9:00 AMSORRY--THIS EVENT AS BEEN CANCELED
AND MAY BE RESCHEDULED
B&O Railroad Museum and Collection
Bus Transportation to Baltimore, MD
Museum Tour & Train Ride -
– Saturday, May 18, 2018
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum and Collection on Saturday, May 18, 2019. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Baltimore, MD where we will tour the extensive collection at the B&O Museum and Roundhouse.

This guided and comprehensive tour will take us on a nostalgic journey through the magnificent Roundhouse, North Car Shop, and Mt. Clare Station. We will learn how the B&O Railroad spawned an industrial revolution, survived civil and world wars and brought about a museum collection that contains some of the first, last, best and only pieces of its kind. Also included in the tour is a 20 minute train ride in authentic B&O passenger cars pulled by an authentic B&O diesel engine. Our tour also includes a box lunch and we will eat in a picnic pavilion at the B&O Museum.

AGENDA: his trip will depart Bellaire at 5:00 am by bus and arrive in Baltimore by 10:15 am. We will depart Baltimore at 3:00 pm and arrive back in Bellaire at approximately 10:30 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home and each person is responsible for the cost of their dinner. Any additional food / drink / souvenirs are the responsibility of each person as well. GSV will have water & other cold beverages available on the bus at no charge. Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. The museum is handicap accessible. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Lifetime, Charter & Sustaining Member price is $140.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $150.  Prices include your bus transport, train ticket and box lunch. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 740-963-3500, extention 2 and leave a message or email us at events@greatstoneviaduct.org.

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
1/27/2019 9:15 AM2019 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series

 


TOP: (l to r) Judge Frank A. Fregiato and Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.
BOTTOM: (l to r) Ed Mowrer, GSV Vice Chairperson, Erica Keller, GSV Lecture Series Committee Chair, Marion Stolz, GSV Trustee, Joe DeGenova, Friends of Bellaire Public Library


     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is partnering with the Bellaire Public Library again this year to present the 7th Winter Lecture Series providing the public with presentations of local historical topics.

The popularity of the Lecture Series over the past 6 years has grown into an annual tradition, and many individuals look forward to these Wednesday night attractions held at the Community Room in the Bellaire Public Library or "On the Road" at various venues. The presentations span an 8 week period in February and March 2019.

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society was the recipient of an Award for Education and Public Awareness in 2017 from the Ohio History Connection because of its sponsorship of the GSV Winter Lecture Series. Each of presentation of the Great Stone Viaduct Winter Lecture Series is free to the public, and light refreshments are served at the conclusion of each lecture. The public is invited to attend to learn more about our local history from these informative presentations.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  

All presentations begin promptly at 6 p.m. 

Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture.

The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, decorated ceramic crocks, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule —click each line for more information:

 

February 6, 2019 -“The Marietta Flood -- "River on a Rampage: The 1936 Flood from Chester to Marietta" - Roger Pickenpaugh

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

February 13, 2019 - “First Ohio River Railroad Bridge” - David Simmons

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

February 20, 2019 - “Office of Price Administration Ration Tokens” - Wayne Cekola

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

February 27, 2019 - “ Vanished Monuments: The Lost Prehistoric Mounds and Landscapes of the Upper Ohio Valley” - Hank Lutton

An "On the Road" lecture given at the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, 801 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV 26041

March 6, 2019 -“From Africa to Life in America" - Larrie Green

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

March 13, 2019 - “Tales of Crossroads Magazine” - Marcia Hartman and Ken Williams

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

March 20, 2019 - “The Trial of Elsie Russell” - Jeanne Finstein and Judi Hendrickson

At Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH 43906

March 27, 2019 - “Morte di Una Ragazza" (Death of an Italian Girl) and "Lover's Lane Murder” - Dan Frizzi, Jr. and Judge Frank Fregiato

An "On the Road" lecture given at Marion Hall of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 212 West Main Street, in St. Clairsville

 

     
     
     




 
8/16/2018 9:00 AMNickel Plate Railroad Steam Locomotive #765
Bus Transportation to Independence, OH
& Train Ride -
– Saturday, September 29, 2018
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad on Saturday, September 29, 2018. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Independence, OH, where we will board our train pulled by Nickel Plate Railroad Steam Locomotive #765.

Enjoy a two-and-a-half hour round trip through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in an authentic Nickel Plate RR steam era passenger car pulled behind steam locomotive #765.

AGENDA: This trip will depart Bellaire at 8:30 am by bus and arrive at the train station in Independence by 11:30 am. Each person will get a box lunch when we arrive at the station. We will depart Independence at 4:15 pm and arrive back in Bellaire at approximately 9:30 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home at Cracker Barrel. Cost of dinner and any souvenirs are the responsibility of each person. GSV will have cold water available on the bus at no charge.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Lifetime, Charter & Sustaining Member price is $95.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $110.  Prices include your bus transport, train ticket and box lunch. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 740-963-3500, extention 2 and leave a message or email us at events@greatstoneviaduct.org.

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
6/28/2018 8:36 AMPotomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
Bus Transportation to Romney WV & Train Ride -
– Saturday, August 18, 2018
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad on Saturday, August 18, 2018.  Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Romney, WV where we will board our train. 

Our journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as the Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, the Trough is home to American bald eagles.

This trip will include narration and concession car is available to purchase snacks and drinks. Our excursion is a 3-hour trip that goes southbound through the Trough to Sycamore Bridge and back. It is approximately 35 miles round-trip.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 8:00 am by bus and arrive in Romney by 12:00 pm. noon  We will depart Romney at 4:45 pm and arrive back in Bellaire at approximately 10:30 pm.  We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home.  All food / drink / souvenirs are the responsibility of each person.  GSV will have water & other cold beverages available on the bus at no charge.

  Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Lifetime, Charter & Sustaining Member price is $95.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $110.  Prices include your bus transport & train ticket.  Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Potomac Eagle Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 740-963-3500, extention 2 and leave a message.

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
6/27/2018 6:00 PM4th Annual All-American Banquet and Fundraiser
Outback Steakhouse dinner is included!
– Tuesday evening, September 18, 2018
at the Sons of Italy Lodge in Bellaire

























     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society invites you to the 4th Annual American Heritage Banquet on Tuesday evening, September 18, 2018 to be held at the Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge. This is a fundraiser for support of our mission to preserve the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire.

 

Date: Tuesday Evening, September 18, 2018, 5:00 pm to 9 pm

Where: Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge, Bellaire, Ohio

Some highlights of the event are:

Social Hour: Appetizers, Cash Bar, and Music -- 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Courtyard

Music: by Michael Murphy


Steak Dinner: at 6:30 p.m. provided by Outback Steak House with reserved seating in the Lodge Hall, with Cash Bar

Status of the Great Stone Viaduct by Paul Cramer, Board Chairman

Remarks by 96th District Ohio House Representative Jack Cera

Chinese Auction, Raffles, Door Prizes and 50/50 Drawings throughout the evening

Specialty Auction by David Jones of many valuable, memorable and historic items— not to be missed.

Limited Tickets Available - Call 740-963-3500 Ext 3 for Reservations

Ticket Price:

$30.00/person
GSV Society Members will receive $5.00 of Chinese Auction tickets at the door.

Downdoad 2018 All-American Banquet Flyer here

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 

4/9/2018 2:15 PM

Cass Scenic Railroad --TWO TRAINS
from Cass WV to Elkins WV
– Saturday, June 16, 2018


Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad














Cass Scenic Railroad



     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Cass Scenic Railroad on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Cass, WV where we will board our train. This trip will include two (2) train rides in one day!

We will spend 5.5 hours split between 2 trains. Our rail journey begins when we depart the Cass depot at 12:00 PM. The ride is in open air, covered cars pushed by the mighty steam-driven SHAYS, up a 6% mountain grade past Whittaker Station, located four miles up the track from Cass.

At the remote location of Old Spruce, we will transfer to the vintage, diesel-powered CHEAT MOUNTAIN SALAMANDER to continue our journey to Elkins. A lunch of cold cuts and condiments will be available onboard. (Lunch is included in your ticket cost) The remaining 4-hour trip to Elkins takes you through many pristine areas only accessible by rail! Stops include a 30-minute layover at the former site of Spruce, once the highest and coldest incorporated logging town east of the Mississippi, a short station stop at Cheat Bridge and lastly, a 20-minute layover at the beautiful High Falls of Cheat. Your trip will make its final arrival at the Elkins depot at approximately 5:30 PM.

Guests may bring a small personal sized cooler with them as well. GSV will have cold water available on the bus at no charge.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:15 am by chartered bus. We will depart Elkins at 6:15 pm for home and arrive back in Bellaire by 11:30 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All dinner costs & souvenirs are the responsibility of each person on the trip.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $175.00. NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $190.00.***

Price includes your bus transport, lunch & tickets to both trains. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Cass Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.

***If you wish to pay by PayPal from our site, please add a 3% surcharge to these prices. (175.00 plus 3% = $180.25, 190.00 plus 3% = $195.70)

For more information please call (740) 963-3500, extension 2, and leave a message.

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 



4/7/2018 2:00 PM

River Crossings at Bellaire Ohio
Thursday, April 26, 2018 -- 7 pm


Cass Scenic Railroad



     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society Speaker's Bureau presents a talk by Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr. on "River Crossings at Bellaire Ohio," at 7:00 pm, Thursday, April 26, 2018 at the Grave Creek Mound Museum, 801 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041. Mr. Frizzi presents a historic look at how travel and commerce moved across the Ohio River using ferries, steamships, railroading and bridges. The talk is co-sponsored by the Grave Creek Mound Museum and is open to the public with free admission.

 
 
 
1/7/2018 2:37 PM2018 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series

 


TOP: (l to r) Judge Frank A. Fregiato and Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.
BOTTOM: (l to r) Ed Mowrer, GSV Vice Chairperson, Erica Keller, GSV Lecture Series Committee Chair, Marion Stolz, GSV Trustee, Joe DeGenova, Friends of Bellaire Public Library


     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society partnered with the Bellaire Public Library in 2013 to present the 1st Winter Lecture Series providing the public with presentations of local historical topics. The popularity of the Lecture Series over the past 5 years has grown into an annual tradition, and many individuals look forward to these Wednesday night attractions held at the Community Room in the Bellaire Public Library. Now in its 6th year, the Series has been expanded to 8 speakers over an 8 week period in February and March.

Kicking off the 6th Winter Lecture season, the Great Stone Viaduct Society has decided to take the Winter Lecture Series “On the Road” to other venues that will allow others to learn more about this Free Lecture Series that promotes public awareness and education relating to our local history. While the Bellaire Public Library, with its excellent public community room, will continue to be the main site of the Winter Lecture Series, 2 of the 8 presentations will now appear “On the Road” in St. Clairsville.

The first “On the Road” presentation will take place in the Theater Auditorium at Shannon Hall, Ohio University Eastern, 45425 National Road West, St. Clairsville, Ohio on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, 6:00 o’clock p.m., and will feature Professor Michael McTeague. McTeague, who is has been at the local campus of Ohio University almost since its formation, will speak about the 60 year history of “Ohio University in Belmont County, Ohio”, and its impact upon the region during those 60 years. His unique style of lecturing, developed over many years in the classroom, is sure to be informative and entertaining as he relates how the presence of Ohio University in Belmont County has positively impacted so many local high school graduates, and benefited the Belmont County schools and businesses.

!!!! SCHEDULE UPDATE!!!!

The second “On the Road” presentation will feature a lecture relating to “Historic Belmont County Court Cases”, and will be presented by Judge Frank A. Fregiato and Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.. Judge Fregiato will speak about the famous murder trial and hanging of the infamous love-struck killer Thomas Carr. Carr brutally murdered his young friend Louisa Fox after she was forbidden by her parents to marry him, and he was convicted and hung in St. Clairsville as punishment for his crime. Attorney Frizzi will speak about the famous court case that made its way to the Ohio Supreme Court after a dispute arose over the title and ownership of what is today the Bellaire City Park. This case involved some of the most prominent citizens of Belmont County, Ohio, who claimed ownership of the land, including John H. Sullivan (former President of the Central Ohio Railroad), and John H. Heaton (former editor of the St. Clairsville Gazette). Also included were prominent Bellaire business leaders William G. Barnard and Benjamin Rush Cowen, all of whom were pitted against the Village of Bellaire City which also claimed ownership. This “On the Road” presentation of “Historic Belmont County Court Cases” will kick off the Winter Lecture Series on Wednesday, April 4, 2018. 6:00 o’clock p.m., at Marion Hall of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 212 West Main Street, in St. Clairsville, Ohio

All other Wednesday night presentations will take place in the Community Room at the Bellaire Public Library at 6:00 o’clock p.m.

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society was the recipient of an Award for Education and Public Awareness in 2017 from the Ohio History Connection because of its sponsorship of the GSV Winter Lecture Series. Each of presentation of the Great Stone Viaduct Winter Lecture Series is free to the public, and light refreshments are served at the conclusion of each lecture. The public is invited to attend to learn more about our local history from these informative presentations.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 o'clock p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture. The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, decorated ceramic crocks, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule —click each line for more information:

 

February 14, 2018 -“St. John’s Football: Celebrating 90 years of Irish Tradition & Creativity” - Robert “Bubba” Kapral

 

February 21, 2018 - “Bringing Canals to Ohio” - David Simmons

 

February 28, 2018 - “ A Firearms History: Engraving with Hammer and Chisel” - Larry Parker

 

March 7, 2018 - “Ohio University in Belmont County, Ohio” - Professor Michael McTeague
Our first "On the Road" lecture given at the Theater Auditorium at Shannon Hall, Ohio University Eastern, 45425 National Road West, St. Clairsville


March 14, 2018 - “How the Other Half Lived” - Jeanne Finstein and Judi Hendrickson

 

March 21, 2018 - “Roseby’s Rock: Where Tidewater Met the Ohio River” - Ed Yelochan

March 28, 2018 - “Murder Never Dies: Crime and Corruption in the Friendly City” - George T. Sidiropolis

April 4, 2018 - “Historic Belmont County Court Cases”” - Judge Frank A. Fregiato & Attorney Daniel L. Frizzi, Jr.
An "On the Road" lecture given at Marion Hall of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 212 West Main Street, in St. Clairsville



CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE FULL LECTURE SCHEDULE IN COLOR

 

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE FULL LECTURE SCHEDULE IN B&W


CLICK HERE FOR WINTER LECTURE SERIES 2018 PRESS RELEASE

 

     
     
     
 
8/13/2017 1:00 PM3rd Annual All-American Banquet and Fundraiser
Outback Steakhouse dinner is included!
– Tuesday evening, September 19, 2017
at the Sons of Italy Lodge in Bellaire
























Thomas P. Barrett


     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society invites you to the 3rd AnnualAmerican Heritage Banquet on Tuesday evening, September 19, 2017 to be held at the Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge. This is a fundraiser for support of our mission to preserve the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire.

 

Date: Tuesday Evening, September 19, 2017, 5:00 pm to 9 pm

Where: Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge, Bellaire, Ohio

Some highlights of the event are:

Social Hour: Appetizers, Cash Bar, and Music -- 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Courtyard

Music: by Eli Lambie


Steak Dinner: at 6:30 p.m. provided by Outback Steak House with reserved seating in the Lodge Hall, with Cash Bar

Banquet Speaker: Thomas P. Barrett at 7:30 p.m. speaking on:

"The Historic Bridges of Ohio"

Thomas P. Barrett, Historic Bridge and Byway Program Manager with the ODOT Office of Environmental Services in Columbus Ohio will bring his preservation experiences and historical insights of many of Ohio's most interesting bridge structures.

Tom has been with the Ohio Department of Transpartation for 22 years as a Cultural Resources Specialist, specializing in federally-funded bridge projects. Tom manages and promotes an award-winning state DOT Historic Bridge Program, which has inventoried thousands of structures for streamlined replacement and identified about 500 structures that are worthy of preservation and protection.
In additional to his work with bridges, Tom serves as the Scenic Byways Coordinator for the 27 scenic and historic routes certified by the state and the Federal Highway Administration. In the last two years, he has worked to help designate the Granville Scenic Byway and the Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway.

In the private sector, Tom conducts historic resource studies for energy and cell tower projects throughout the Midwest.

In his spare time, he enjoys family bike rides with his wife and two daughters, and tinkering with classic cars, trucks and motorcycles.

Chinese Auction, Raffles, Door Prizes and 50/50 Drawings throughout the evening

Specialty Auction by David Jones of many valuable, memorable and historic items— not to be missed.

Limited Tickets Available - Call 740-963-3500 Ext 3 for Reservations

Ticket Price:

GSV member & Guest -- $30.00/person
All others -- $35.00/person

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 
 
 
 

8/9/2017 4:00 PM

Cass Scenic Railroad
– Saturday, October 14, 2017


Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad















Cass Scenic Railroad














Cass Scenic Railroad



     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Cass Scenic Railroad on Saturday, October 14, 2017. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Cass, WV where we will board our train and ride to the top of Bald Knob behind a Shay Steam Locomotive.

Our trip is approximately 22-miles and will last 4.5 hrs. At an elevation of 4,842 feet, Bald Knob is the third highest point in West Virginia. Located 11 miles up the mountain from Cass, the Bald Knob overlook offers spectacular views (on a clear day) into two states and into the valley below, home to the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. The train will also make a stop at Whittaker Station for a 30 minute layover on our way up the mountain.

The Cass Scenic Railroad is the same line built in 1901 to haul lumber to the mill in Cass. The locomotives are the same Shay locomotives used in Cass during that time, and in the rainforests of British Columbia for more than a half-century. Many of the passenger cars are old logging flat cars that have been refurbished. Cass is the home to the world’s largest fleet of geared Shay locomotives. Six Shays, one Heisler and one Climax reside here. The legendary turn-of-the-century class C-80 Shay, #5 has been toiling up Cheat Mountain for nearly 100 years, making it one of the oldest engines in continuous service on its original line, and the second oldest Shay in existence.

A box lunch is being provided for all persons going on the trip.

Guests may bring a small personal sized cooler with them as well.

GSV will have cold water available on the bus at no charge.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:15 am by chartered bus. We will depart Cass at 4:45 pm for home and arrive back in Bellaire by 11:30 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All dinner costs & souvenirs are the responsibility of each person on the trip.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $135.00. NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $150.00. Price includes your bus transport, boxed lunch & train ticket. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon! Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Pittsburgh Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip. For more information please call 740-963-3500, extension 2 , and leave a message.

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 

5/30/2017 2:00 PMSORRY - THIS TRIP HAS BEEN CANCELED

Western PA / Heinz History Museum & Strip District
– Saturday, July 8, 2017

Heinz Museum

















Strp District













     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Western PA / Heinz History Museum & Strip District on Saturday, July 8th, 2017. Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Pittsburgh, PA where we will tour the Western PA / Heinz History Museum followed by shopping and sightseeing in the famous Strip District area of Pittsburgh.

The Senator John Heinz History Center includes the Heinz History Center & The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, The 370,000 square-foot museum presents compelling stories from American history with a Western Pennsylvania connection in an interactive environment perfect for visitors of all ages. Since 2000, the History Center has been a proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum’s Smallman Street home combines the former Chautauqua Lake Ice Company building with a five-story Smithsonian wing. The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, a museum-within-a-museum located on the History Center’s second and third floors, celebrates Western Pennsylvania’s unsurpassed sports legacy. From football to baseball and hockey to golf, the Sports Museum highlights the region’s passion for amateur and professional sports..

Over the past 20 years the Strip District has truly become an international destination with not only Italian, Greek, and other European immigrants opening their businesses here but it’s become the home to Asian, Middle Eastern, African, Mexican, Caribbean, Central American, and South American businesses as well. The Strip District is not only home to businesses selling products from around the globe but it’s also increasingly home to businesses selling goods made in the greater Pittsburgh area and has truly become an international destination. Everyone from foreign diplomats to travel bloggers love to visit the Strip District and we love to welcome them. While most think of the Strip as the place to go for food and food related items there are a number of wonderful specialty retailers selling everything from gifts to home furnishings and jewelry to housewares. Many of the specialty retail shops in the Strip carry merchandise that is either locally produced and/or is rare and hard-to-find. The Strip District is Pittsburgh’s historic market district and has long been the hub that’s helped to feed not just the city but the entire region. Today that’s still true and you can find all sorts of grocery items in the Strip often at great discounts over your suburban chain grocers.

The History Museum tour will last from 10:30 am till 12:30 pm. After the guided tour is over we will proceed to the Strip District via bus where we will be dropped off for 3 hours. ** Please note ** There will *not* be any formal tour / schedule for the Strip District. Everyone will be free to move about on their own and experience the shops / restaurants as they wish. We will provide a map of the Strip District to all passengers. Lunch will be on your own, however GSV will give all passengers $10.00 cash to use towards their lunch or whatever they desire.

There will be a set time to meet and the bus will pick us up where we are dropped off. Please note that there will be a lot of walking while in the Strip District.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 9:30 am by chartered bus. We will depart Pittsburgh at 3:45 pm for home and arrive back in Bellaire by 7:30 pm. We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home. All dinner costs & souvenirs are the responsibility of each person on the trip.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance. Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $55.00. NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $65.00. Price includes your bus transport & admission to the museum plus $10.00 towards lunch cost. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon! Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Pittsburgh Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip. For more information please call 304 280 6640.

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
3/16/2017 4:00 PMHocking Valley Scenic Railroad
Bus Transportation to Nelsonville, OH & Train Ride -
– Saturday, May 27, 2017
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad on Saturday, May 27, 2017.  Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Nelsonville, OH where we will board our train.

The train departs the Nelsonville Depot for a round-trip ride along the historic Hocking River Valley. Sights along the ride include one of the remaining Hocking Canal locks and the Hocking River and the hills of the Hocking River Valley!

Our trip lasts approximately 1 ½ hours.  The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, erring more on the history side than anything, has been providing volunteer-operated weekend train excursions from Nelsonville for over forty years! The train traverses a portion of a 145-year-old route that once linked Southern Ohio with Columbus and Lake Erie.

We will be providing a box lunch, (sandwich, sides, cookie) for all persons going on the trip.  Box lunches will be distributed when we arrive in Nelsonville.
GSV will have cold water available on the bus at no charge.

The train is made up of historic equipment ranging from 1917 to the 1960s.  While food and drinks are not available on the train, you are more than welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks on board.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 8:00 am by chartered bus.  We will depart Nelsonville at 3:00 pm for home and arrive back in Bellaire by 7:00 pm.  We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home.  All dinner costs & souvenirs are the responsibility of each person on the trip.

Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $75.00.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $85.00.  Price include your bus transport & train ticket.  Only 40 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Hocking Valley Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 304 280 6640.

 

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
1/5/2017 10:00 AM2017 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series

 

     
 

The GSV Society will partner again this winter season with the Bellaire Public Library to sponsor a Local History Winter Lecture Series using the Community Room as the setting for the lectures and displays which accompany the speakers.

Held on Wednesday evenings during the winter months of February and March. The topics to be covered this year will once again bring together lecturers who are knowledgeable about the topics they present, while providing visual aids that will bring these topics to life.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 o'clock p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture. The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, decorated ceramic crocks, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule —click each line for more information:

February 1, 2017 - “Through the Lens” a commemorative book chronicling life in our region in photographs.

- John McCabe

 

February 8, 2017 - “Appalachian and Allegheny Railroading: A Photographic Essay” - Frederick J Ripley

 

February 15, 2017 -“Bellaire Goblet: Controversy, Conflict & Creativity” - Fred Ottoson

 

February 22, 2017 - “The Steam and Diesel Era in Wheeling, West Virginia: The Photographs of J.J. Young”
- Nick Fry and Greg Smith, authors

 

March 1, 2017 - “ Investigating the Orchard Site (46MS61): A Protohistoric Fort Ancient Site in West Virginia”
- Laura Ellis

 

March 8, 2017 - “White Indians” - Alan Fitzpatrick, author

 

March 15, 2017 - “The Brickmakers of Bellaire Ohio” - Daniel Frizzi

 

March 22, 2017 - “The Titanic” - Jeanne Finstein and Judy Hendrickson

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE FULL LECTURE SCHEDULE IN COLOR

 

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE FULL LECTURE SCHEDULE IN B&W

 

     
     
     
 
2/25/16 6:00 PMWheeling & Lake Erie Railroad Shop Tour - Brewster, OH
Bus Transportation -
– Date TBA
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More information coming soon

 
 
 
 
6/21/16 3:00 PM2nd Annual All-American Banquet and Fundraiser
Outback Steakhouse dinner is included!
– Tuesday evening, September 27, 2016
at the Sons of Italy Lodge in Bellaire




























John P. Hankey


     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society invites you to the 2nd AnnualAmerican Heritage Banquet on Tuesday evening, September 27, 2016 to be held at the Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge. This is a fundraiser for support of our mission to preserve the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire.

 

Date: Tuesday Evening, September 27, 2016, 5:00 pm to 9 pm

Where: Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge, Bellaire, Ohio

Some highlights of the event are:

Social Hour: Appetizers, Cash Bar, and Music -- 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Courtyard

Music: by Michael Murphy


Steak Dinner: at 6:30 p.m. provided by Outback Steak House with reserved seating in the Lodge Hall, with Cash Bar

Banquet Speaker: John P. Hankey at 7:30 p.m. speaking on:

"The New Frontier of America's Railway Heritage: The Projects and Ideas Shaping 21st Century Railroad History and Preservation"

For fifty years, historian, curator, and railroader John Hankey has been deeply involved in efforts across the country to preserve and present railroading's past. He suggests that collectively, that many different communities of railway history and preservation are entering a new era of creativity and prosperity. The Great Stone Viaduct project is one of dozens in North America that would have seemed impossible just twenty years ago.

John will share examples of innovative railroad heritage efforts, his thoughts about the future of historic preservation, and why the remaining arches of the great Benwood-Bellaire Bridge are so special.

John Hankey is an independent scholar, curator, historian, and railroader. A native of Baltimore, he served the B&O Railroad in a variety of capacities including company historian, locomotive engineer, and Curator of the B&O Railroad Museum. He holds a BS from the John Hopkins University, an MA as a Hagley Fellow at the University of Delaware, and did further graduate study at the University of Chicago. He retains current qualifications as a Locomotive Engineer and Conductor, and is Adjunct Professor in the University of Nebraska-Omaha Department of History. Hankey also is Curator of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, a major heritage and economic development railroad operation in Maryland. He is a frequent contributor to Trains Magazine and other publications. Presently he is a consultant to railroads, railroad museums, and historic preservation projects throughout the United States. Presently he is a consultant to railroads, railroad museums, and historic preservation projects throughout the United States.

Chinese Auction, Raffles, Door Prizes and 50/50 Drawings throughout the evening

Limited Tickets Available - Call 740-676-2743 for Reservations

Ticket Price:

GSV member & Guest -- $25.00/person
All others -- $30.00/person

AFTER DINNER EVENT!
Don't miss this spectacular nighttime viewing of the Great Stone Viaduct. We plan to light up the viaduct arches in the evening after the dinner event.

 

 

 
 
 
 
8/12/16 11:00 AMPotomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
Bus Transportation to Romney WV & Train Ride -
– Saturday, October 15, 2016
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce a day trip to the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad on Saturday, October 15, 2016.  Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Romney, WV where we will board our train. 
Our journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as the Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, the Trough is home to American bald eagles.

This trip will include narration and concession car is available to purchase snacks and drinks. Our excursion is a 3-hour trip that goes southbound through the Trough to Sycamore Bridge and back. It is approximately 35 miles round-trip.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 9:30 am by bus and arrive in Romney by 2:00 pm.  We will depart Romney at 6:30 pm and arrive back in Bellaire at approximately 11:30 pm.  We will be making a stop for dinner on the way home.  All food / drink / souvenirs are the responsibility of each person.  GSV will have water & other cold beverages available on the bus at no charge.

  Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $105.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $115.  Prices include your bus transport & train ticket.  Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Potomac Eagle Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip.  For more information please call 304 280 6640.

Download PDF info flyer here

 

 
 
 


 
2/25/16 6:00 PMWheeling & Lake Erie Railroad Shop Tour - Brewster, OH
Bus Transportation -
– Date TBA
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More information coming soon

 
 
 
 
2/25/16 6:00 PMHorseshoe Curve / Altoona Railroader's Museum - Altoona, PA
Bus Transportation & onboard Amtrak Pennsylvanian -
– Saturday, August 13, 2016
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is pleased to announce an all-day rail trip aboard Amtrak on Saturday, August 13, 2016.  Our trip will depart Bellaire, OH from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St. and travel by chartered bus to Pittsburgh, PA where we will board Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian and travel to Altoona, PA for a day of sightseeing and adventure.

While in Altoona, we will tour world famous Horseshoe Curve which carries the Norfolk Southern mainline over the mountains of central PA.  Also on our agenda is a tour of the magnificent Altoona Railroader’s Museum which provides a historical look back on the operations of the Pennsylvania Railroad from the turn-of the-century up to and including modern operations by Norfolk Southern.

This trip will depart Bellaire at 5:30 am and arrive in Altoona at 10 am.  We will depart Altoona at 5 pm and arrive back in Bellaire at approximately 10 pm. All passengers will be treated to a box lunch provided by GSV and dine at the Railroader’s Museum before our tour.  While onboard the train, passengers may purchase a fresh salad, sandwich or other snack in the café car which will be open for both the trip over and return.

The Pennsylvanian will travel from downtown Pittsburgh over the former Pennsylvania Railroad mainline to Altoona.  As we approach Altoona we will travel over the world-famous Horseshoe Curve.  Each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance.  GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.  Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV Charter & Sustaining Member price is $150.  NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $160.  Prices include your bus transport, train ticket and box lunch plus admission to the Horseshoe Curve and Railroader’s Museum. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so act soon!

Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Altoona Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.  You must include the full name, address & telephone number of each person going on the trip

For more information please call 304-280-6640.

 

 
 
 
 
2/25/16 4:00 PMDON'T MISS OUT... The Age of Steam Roundhouse Tour with the GSV Society
– Saturday, April 23, 2016
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The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Society is sponsoring a tour of The Age Of Steam Roundhouse in Sugarcreek, OH on Saturday, April 23, 2016. In addition to the roundhouse tour, our group will travel to Berlin, OH for 2 hours of shopping & sightseeing in Ohio Amish Country. We will be stopping for a late lunch / early dinner at the Dutch Valley Restaurant on the way home.

This trip will commence at 7:30 a.m. by bus transport from Bellaire, Ohio to Sugarcreek, OH. Our tour of the roundhouse is scheduled at 10:00 am and will last approximately 2 hours. Please note that the Age Of Steam Roundhouse is a real working facility and they have set certain rules that we must follow while visiting.

No children under 10 years of age will be admitted and any child that is under 18 years of age must have a signed release by the custodial parent or legal guardian. All visitors must wear flat-bottom shoes and socks. No sandals, no high heels, no flip-flops, or any kind of open toed shoe. Also note there could be some oil & grease in areas we tour so do not wear your best clothes, jeans, tennis shoes & t-shirt or similar top is suggested. In return for visiting their facility, The Age Of Steam Roundhouse requires that all photographs and video taken in their facility be used for the purpose of personal viewing only. No images shall be posted to the internet (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.).

All visitors must sign a liability release. We will have copies on the bus for everyone to sign on Saturday when we leave Bellaire. This a walking tour, and each person attending is responsible to supply their own devices to assist them during this tour, as well as any person they need for their assistance. GSV is not responsible to provide these devices or assistance.
Please let us know of any issues when making your reservation.

GSV MEMBER ticket price is $95.00, and NON-MEMBER ticket price is $105.00. Prices include your bus transport, admission to the roundhouse and $15.00 cash towards the cost of your meal. Only 50 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so ORDER NOW TO AVOID BEING CLOSED OUT. Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Roundhouse Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. Include the name, address, telephone number of each person who will be included in your party. For more information please call 304-280-6640.

 
 
Click here for more information
 
Click here to download the adult's release form
 
Click here to download the children's release form
     
 
2/3/2016 10:00 AM2016 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series Steam Whistle Toot Exposition
     
 

The GSV Society will partner again this winter season with the Bellaire Public Library to sponsor a Local History Winter Lecture Series using the Community Room as the setting for the lectures and displays which accompany the speakers.

Held on Wednesday evenings during the winter months of February and March. The topics to be covered this year will once again bring together lecturers who are knowledgeable about the topics they present, while providing visual aids that will bring these topics to life.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 o'clock p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture. The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule click each line for more information:

February 3, 2016 - “The Legends of Fort Henry” - Joe Roxby

 

February 10, 2016 - “The Wheeling Hospital During the Civil War” - Margaret Brennan

 

February 17, 2016 - “Movies Made in the Ohio Valley” - Jay Morris

 

February 24, 2016 - “Arthur St. Clair, the Invisible Patriot” - Richard Phillips

 

March 2, 2016 - “Talk of the Town: Local Scandals That Made the News” - Jeanne Finstein and Judi Hendrickson

 

March 9, 2016 - “Victorian Trading Cards” - Tony Paree

 

March 16, 2016 - “Restoration of Old Stone Structures” - David Mertz

 

March 23, 2016 - “Notorious Abolitionist, John Brown” - Roger MickerLectu

 

     
     
     
 
8/30/2015 4:21 PMCuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Trip

765 Engine










Nickel Plate Road Berkshire
Locomotive No. 765


     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society will sponsor a 2 hour excursion on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad on Saturday, September 26, 2015 departing from Akron, Ohio.

The train will be pulled by the pride of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, former Nickel Plate Road Berkshire Locomotive No. 765 which has operated extensively over the last several years, most recently on the Norfolk Southern Steam Program. Our passenger car will be located behind the locomotive and features opening windows which will allow passengers to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the steam engine at work.

This trip will commence at 8:30 a.m. by bus transport from Bellaire, Ohio to the Akron, Ohio station. The group will be treated to a box lunch provided by the GSV Society before passenger boarding of the train. The group will board the train and depart Akron at 11:30 a.m. We will return to the station around 1:30 p.m.

Passengers will have photo runbys for video or pictures of the 765 at track speed. This trip will follow the Cuyahoga River Valley through scenic woodlands and marshlands inhabited by the American Bald Eagle. Bus transport back to Bellaire will arrive approximately 4:15 p.m.

GSV MEMBERS ticket price is $75.00, and NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $85.00. Prices include your bus transport, train ticket and box lunch. Only 45 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so ORDER NOW TO AVOID BEING CLOSED OUT. Send your check or money order to: GSV Society 765 Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. Include the name, address, telephone number of each person who will be included in your party. For more information please call 304 280 6640.

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2015

Limited Tickets Available - Call 304-280-6640 for Reservations
Ticket Price: GSV member & Guest -- $75.00/person

Non-Member price $85.00/person

 

 
 
 
     
 
7/31/2015 12:30 PMGSV American Heritage Banquet fund raiser is September 15, 2015
– Buy your tickets now!
GSV Banquet














Frank_Fregiato

Judge Frank A. Fregiato


     
 

The Great StoneViaduct Society invites you to the American Heritage Banquet on September 15, 2015 to be held at the Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge. This is a fund raiser for support of our mission to preserve the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire that the GSV Society recently inked a purchase agreement for.

 

Date: Tuesday Evening, September 15, 2015, 5:30 pm to 9 pm

Where: Bellaire Sons of Italy Lodge, Bellaire, Ohio

Some highlights of the event are:

Social Hour: Snacks, Cash Bar, and Music -- 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Courtyard

Music: by Jam Speaks


Steak Dinner: at 7:00 p.m. provided by Outback Steak House with reserved
seating in the Lodge Hall, with Cash Bar

Banquet Speaker: Judge Frank A. Fregiato at 8:00 p.m.
speaking on "I Have a Dream - Heritage in Family, Community and Country"

Silent Auction, Raffles, Door Prizes and 50/50 Drawings throughout the evening

Limited Tickets Available - Call 740-676-2743 for Reservations
Ticket Price: GSV member & Guest -- $25.00/person

Non-Member price $30.00/person

 

 
 
 
     
 
7/4/2015 11:44 AMVisit Historic Harper's Ferry with the GSV Society - NEW TRIP!!!
– Saturday, October 17, 2015
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Harper's Ferry is a quaint 19th Century Civil War Era town at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, made famous by the raid of John Brown against the Federal Arsenal in his revolt against slavery. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and the Federal National Park, are all within walking distance of the downtown. There are shops, dining establishments, and much to see and do. The mainline of the railroad passes over the Potomac River into and through a tunnel below the Rocky Cliffs forming part of the Appalachian Trail. A scenic and picturesque place to visit and accessible in one day.

 

This One Day trip, with departure from the Pittsburgh Amtrak Station via the Capitol Limited to Harper's Ferry at 5:20 a.m., and return to Pittsburgh at midnight, is at the perfect time of year. All transportation between Pittsburgh and Bellaire, Ohio is provided by Charter Bus.

REASONABLE PRICING FOR THIS EVENT

GSV Charter and Sustaining Members $140.00 per Person
*Member entitled to invite one (1) family member guest at the same per person Member Price.
Non-Member price $160.00 per Person

Breakfast and Supper will be available in the dining car aboard the Capitol Limited at a reasonable cost, and lunch can be taken at any of the pubs and eateries in Harper's Ferry. To learn more, go to the Visitor's Guide at https://historicharpersferry.com to learn more.

RESERVATIONS: First come, first serve. Limited to 50 passengers. For information call Dave Slie at 304-280-6640 or email us at gsvsociety@aol.com . Make checks payable to and mail to: GSV Society, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, OH 43906. Include name,address, phone number and email address. Contact us to make a PayPal payment. Payments due by July 27, 2015.

We will depart from in front of Frizzi Law Offices, 224 32nd St., Bellaire, OH
Departure time is 3:30 am Sat., Oct 17. Arrival back in Bellaire at 1:00 am Sunday.

GSV Society is not responsible for changes to train schedules or fares, or injuries which may occur during rail transport while en route to and from Harper's Ferry, or bus transport to and from Bellaire, Ohio. All reservations are final and cannot be changed once ticketed with Amtrak. All parties responsible for their own meals and beverages on this trip. An Amtrak flyer will be made available to all passengers listing time schedules, and the GSV Society will not be responsible for anyone missing the bus or the train.

 
 
Click here for trip flyer in PDF format
     
 
1/30/15 10:00 AMGSV Society Rail Excursion On The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, Elkins, WV – Saturday, June 6, 2015 z
     
 

This ride features two separate mountain grades, an “S” curve tunnel, passage into a 1,500 feet deep canyon with steep, densely forested slopes, and a high bridge over the rushing Shavers Fork of the Cheat River.

This smooth climate-controlled passenger train has gained a reputation as one of the most exciting mountain wilderness excursion rides in the US. The 4-hour, 46 mile round trip departs at 11 AM from the restored Elkins Depot on Railroad Avenue.

This trip culminates at the inspirational “High Falls of Cheat,” an 18′ high, 150′ wide waterfall in one of the most remote and pristine settings in the Eastern United States.

A DELICIOUS LUNCH BUFFET IS INCLUDED IN THE TICKET PRICE!
Concession Buffet-Rolls, Lunch Meats (Ham, Roast Beef & Turkey & Condiments), Pasta Salad, Fruit cup, Potato Chips, Lettuce, Tomato, & Onions, Bread & Butter Pickles. Cookies for Dessert: Chocolate Chip, Sugar & Oatmeal – Drinks include – Iced Tea, Coffee & Water.

GSV MEMBER ticket price is $110.00 and NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $125.00.
Prices include bus, train ticket and lunch on the train. We will stop at a restaurant on the way home for dinner. Each ticketholder will receive a $10 dinner allowance from the GSV Society.
Trip departs Bellaire at 6:15am and will arrive back in Bellaire at about 8:30pm.

Only 55 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this group, so ORDER NOW TO AVOID BEING CLOSED OUT. Send your check or money order to: GSV Society Elkins RR Trip, P.O. Box 145, Bellaire, Ohio 43906. Include the name, address, telephone number of each person who will be included in your party.

 
 
 
     
 
1/16/2015 10:00 AM2015 GSV Society Winter Lecture Series Steam Whistle Toot Exposition
     
 

The GSV Society will partner again this winter season with the Bellaire Public Library to sponsor a Local History Winter Lecture Series using the Community Room as the setting for the lectures and displays which accompany the speakers.

Held on Wednesday evenings during the winter months of February and March. The topics to be covered this year will once again bring together lecturers who are knowledgeable about the topics they present, while providing visual aids that will bring these topics to life.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 o'clock p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture. The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule click each lin for meore information:

February 4, 2015 - “Thomas Drummond: And the War Came” - The Honorable Judge Edmund Sargus

 

February 11, 2015 - “Imperial Glass-The Formative Years” - Fred Ottoson

 

February 25, 2015 - “The Steamboat Washington: The First Successful River Steamboat” - John Bowman

 

March 4, 2015 - Viaduct Acquisition Project Meeting - GSV Board of Directors

 

March 11, 2015 - “A Soldier for 100 Days: The 170th National Guard Infantry” - Tom Buckley

 

March 18, 2015 - “The Early Days of Sol White and Baseball in Bellaire” - Daniel Frizzi

 

March 25, 2015 - “Benjamin Lundy and the Lundy House” - Michael McTeague

 

April 1, 2015 - “Francis Wallace, Belmont County Author” - Tom Flynn

 

     
     
     
 
7/28/14 10:00 AM

GSVSociety Rail Trip Event on the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad
– Saturday, September 6, 2014

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STEAM POWERED LOCOMOTIVE RAIL EXCURSION!

The Great Stone Viaduct Society will sponsor a rail excursion on the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad on September 6, 2014 between Brecksville, Ohio and Akron, Ohio. The train coaches will be pulled by the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society Berkshire Locomotive No. 765 which has toured the United States as one of most famous steam locomotives of the former Nickle Plate Railroad. This trip will commence at 9:00 a.m. by bus transport from Bellaire, Ohio to the Brecksville, Ohio station. The group will be treated to a box lunch provided by the GSVSociety before passenger boarding of the train. The group will board the train following lunch and will depart Brecksville at 1:30 p.m. The train will travel to downtown Akron, Ohio, and then return to Brecksville on the two (2) hour trip. Passengers will enjoy two photo run by opportunities for video or pictures of the 765 at power. This trip will follow the Cuyahoga River Valley through scenic woodlands and marshlands inhabited by the American Bald Eagle. Bus transport back to Bellaire will arrive at 7:00 p.m.

GSVMEMBERS ticket price is $65.00, and NON-MEMBER PRICE IS $75.00. Prices include your bus transport, train ticket and box lunch.

Only 53 tickets will be allotted to this trip for this groupso ORDER NOW TO AVOID BEING CLOSED OUTSend your check or money order to: GSVSociety 765 Trip, P.O. Box 129, Bellaire, Ohio 43906-0129. Include the name, address, telephone number of each person who will be included in your party.

 
 
Click here to see the 765 in action
     
 
7/15/14 10:00 AMCome and Experience the 3rd Annual GSV Celebration
– Saturday, August 16, 2014
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The GSV Society is proud to announce our 3rd Annual GSV Celebration to be held Saturday August 16, 2014 from 11AM – 9PM at Union Park in Bellaire, OH.

Attractions include: Civil War Cannon Blast, Historic Presentations, Native American Dancing & Drumming, Civil War Encampment & Horse Ride, Classic Car Show, Antiques Auction, Shadyside Community Band, The Diamond Project (Neil Diamond Tribute Brand), Crafters, Food Venders, Raffles, Spirit of America Train Rides, Spike – Wheeling Nailers Mascot, Children's Bounce House & Obstacle Course and more!

 

We look forward to seeing you there!

 
 
Click here for more information & event schedule
       
  Click here to see the full list of items for the Antiques Auction    
       
  Click here to watch our TV commercial    
     
 
4/25/14 10:00 AMThe Amazing Raise – Please help the GSV Society win $1,000 for our foundation
– May 6, 2014
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Help us win $1,000 for our foundation. The non-profit that receives the most donations on May 6th will win $1,000. Please go to www.giveov.org on May 6th, 2014 and find us online under the Leaderboard to give.

 

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US ACQUIRE AND PRESERVE THE GREAT STONE VIADUCT AND FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

 
 
 
     
 
2/14/14 10:00 AMCome Experience the Age of Steam Roundhouse Tour with the GSV Society
– Saturday, March 29, 2014
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The GSV Society is planning a trip to the Age of Steam Roundhouse in Sugarcreek, Ohio on March 29. Price, which includes admission, lunch at Dutch Valley Restaurant and tour bus transportation from Bellaire, would be $95 for Charter & Sustaining Members and $110 for others. We will be departing from the Municipal Parking Lot at 32nd & Union Streets at 7:00 AM.

 

Please call 740-676-7086 or email gsvsociety@aol.com for reservations and with any questions.

 

We require that all visitors sign a liability release. Minors (children under the age of 18)
must have their releases signed by their custodial parent or guardian, not by a
grandpa/grandma, aunt/uncle or other adult. Again, no exceptions. For your convenience we have supplied the liability forms for both adults and minors as pdf files below. These will be collected prior to departure the day of the trip. Liability forms will also be available on the bus.

 
 
Click here for more information
 
Click here to download the adult's release form
 
Click here to download the children's release form
     
 
12/23/2013 10:00 AM2014 Local History Winter Lecture Series Steam Whistle Toot Exposition
     
 

** UPDATE **

 

“The Underground Railroad in Ohio” lecture which was to be presented by Dr. John S. Mattox on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 has been postponed due to weather related problems. John Mattox will be moved to the last week of the Series, Wednesday, April 2, 2014. 

We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to see you next Wednesday, February 12, 2014 for “Belmont County and the Northwest Territory” presented by Dr. David Castle

The GSV Society will partner again this winter season with the Bellaire Public Library to sponsor a Local History Winter Lecture Series using the Community Room as the setting for the lectures and displays which accompany the speakers.

Held on Wednesday evenings during the winter months of February and March a decision was made by the GSV Society and the Bellaire Public Library to expand the lecture season this year from six weeks to eight weeks based upon the favorable response from those in attendance last year.

The topics to be covered this year will once again bring together lecturers who are knowledgeable about the topics they present, while providing visual aids that will bring these topics to life.

Open to the public, those interested in these topics are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday evenings during February and March.  All presentations begin promptly at 6 o'clock p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately prior to and at the conclusion of each lecture. The GSV Society will sponsor a table with watercolor prints, maps and other historical collectibles for sale to the public.

 

Lecture Schedule click each line for more information:

February 12, 2014 - “Belmont County and the Northwest Territory” - Dr. David Castle

 

February 19, 2014 - “Imperial Glass-Gem of the Glass City” - Fred Ottoson

 

February 26, 2014 - “The Methodist Episcopal Church in Bellaire, Ohio - Bellaire's First Church” - Daniel Frizzi, Jr.

 

March 5, 2014 - “Steamboats on the Ohio River at Wheeling” - John Bowman

 

March 12, 2014 - “Cultural Traditions of Early Coal, Glass and Steel Towns” - Laura Cramblet

 

March 19, 2014 - “Archival Research, and Preservation of Historical Photographs and Documents” - Paul Cramer

 

March 26, 2014 - “Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry: The Hero of the Battle of Lake Erie” - John Knieser

 

April 2, 2014 - “The Underground Railroad in Ohio” - Dr. John S. Mattox

     
Click here for more information    
     
Click here to view the event dates flyer    
     
     
 
7/31/13 10:00 AMSecond Annual Great Stone Viaduct Celebration Scheduled
– Two Speakers Announced
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The GSV Society announces that two well known speakers James Dilts & John Teichmoeller have agreed to participate and present lectures at the Great Stone Viaduct Celebration scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, September 28 – 29, 2013.

 
 
Click here for more information
 
     
 
7/31/13 10:00 AMGSV Society Steam Whistle Exposition z
     
 

As part of the Second Annual GSV Society Celebration we will also be presenting our first annual Steam Whistle Expo Saturday and Sunday, September 28 – 29, 2013. The event will be located at the Belmont Community Health Center and have both live steam and compressed air demonstrations.

Hank Marsilio of Eagle Mechanical LLC, in Youngstown will be bringing his coal and wood fired 1910 Reeves 150 psi live steam boiler and ASME certified manifold. Whistle enthusiasts can stage a whistle for a $20.00 donation. You must bring your own adapters and whistle valves.

Dana Dolfi from Pittsburgh will be featuring his Great American Horn Machine. The world's loudest mobile musical instrument, his collection of truck, train and ship air horns and whistles is controlled by a MIDI decoder that can be played from a laptop computer.

 
 
Click here to view the website
 
     
 
7/30/2013 10:00 AMRide the 120 Mile Orrville “Autumn Express” with the GSV Society
– Saturday, October 12, 2013
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** UPDATE **

 

Trip is now full!

Everyone has agreed to pay an additional $20.00 for a charter bus to ride from Bellaire to Orrville.

Thank you for the great response!



The Ohio President’s Coach has already been filled with 50 GSV Society members and friends and, since the response has been SO GREAT, the Orrville Heritage Club have opened a second coach for our group seating!!! We are now accepting reservations through July 15 for the City Of Orrville Coach. Ticketing is limited and our group rate is good only through July 15. You can mail your online reservation form or call 740-676-2743 to confirm that your check and reservation form is in the mail.

 

Hope that you can join us!!!

 

Join the GSV Society on Saturday, October 12, 2013, and ride the rails on the Orrville Autumn Express.

 

Departing Orrville Railroad Depot 8:30 a.m. en route to Brewster, Navarre, Canton, Hartville, Mogadore, Akron, Copley prior to arrival in Medina;


A three hour stopover at A. I. Root Candle Company & West Liberty Commons for your shopping and dining pleasure.


Re-boarding at Medina and continuing west to Spencer, before heading sourth toward Orrville passing en route Lodi, Creston, and Smithville with arrival at 6:00 p.m.

 
 
Click here for the form and more information
 
     
 
1/4/2013 10:00 AMLocal History Winter Lecture Series z
     
 

The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is partnering with the Bellaire Public Library to sponsor a free Local History Winter Lecture Series during the months of January and February on Wednesday Evenings at 6:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the Bellaire Public Library. All of these events are open to the public. We hope that you can join us for one of the winter lectures on local history in the Ohio Valley.

 
 
Click here to view the complete schedule
 
View photos from the events
     
 
12/18/2012 10:00 AMB&O Railroad Historical Site Tour
     
 

** UPDATE **
The Bus Tour sponsored by the Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society scheduled for Sunday, December 16 did not take place due to the OVRTA canceling the trip using their buses.  The weather had turned poor during the last several weeks, and the road to Roseby's Rock was in deplorable condition making it impossible for the bus to travel the road.  We express regret to those who had signed up for the event, but promise to reschedule the event when dryer weather prevails.  We do want to share the brochure that was prepared for this event which you will find in the attached PDF's.


The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society will be sponsoring a local bus tour on Sunday afternoon, December 16, 2012 between 1:00 and 6:00 p.m.. Transportation for this event will be provided by OVRTA buses and will travel to the Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire, Grave Creek and Roseby's Rock and Wheeling to the former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Station that today houses the West Virginia Northern Community College.


The cost of a ticket is $20.00 for Charter Members of the Society, and $25.00 to non-members. A sack lunch will be provided to all passengers.

 
 
Click here to learn more
       
Click here to view the tour brochure
 
 
11/26/2012 9:30 AM2012 Bellaire Christmas Parade
     
 

On November 24, 2012 The GSV Society participated in the Bellaire Christmas Parade.

 
 
View photos from the event
       
 
10/25/2012 9:30 AMOhio Valley History Expo
     
 

The GSVSociety will be participating at the Ohio Valley History Expo on Saturday, October 27 from Noon to 4 p.m. at the Ohio County Public Library. The event is open to the public and you can visit our booth during the day, along with many others who share a love of Ohio Valley History. We will have items available for sale and viewing at this event, and hope to see you there.

 
 
View photos from the event
       
 
8/18/2012 9:00 AMCharter Year Celebration
     
  Charter year announcement web page  
     
  Charter year event schedule  
     
  View photos from the event  
 
View video of young lady blowing the steam whistle
info@greatstoneviaduct.org 1-740-963-3500
Click here to view the tour brochure twitter