A couple of train watchers and crew members, but no revenue riders, are on hand in Bluefield, WV, as Amtrak's westbound Hilltopper arrives. The April 30, 1978, timetable shows train departure at 7:10 p.m. Stops at Welch, Williamson, and Catlettsburg ("Tri-State Station") lie ahead.
Powerful members of Congress once helped this scenic state get levels of service not seen elsewhere. Now the Capitol Limited and Cardinal are all that remain.