2023 was another historic year in our classic train town. We’ve narrowed down the many memorable moments of the past year to the top ten stories that remind us why Ashland truly is the Center of the Universe.
The legendary thoroughbred racehorse Secretariat was born at Meadow Stable near Ashland, Virginia. So, it is only fitting that acclaimed sculptor Jocelyn Russell’s 3,500-pound bronze statue “Secretariat Racing Into History” come to pasture in the Center of the Universe. Read how Secretariat for Virginia spent 2023 campaigning for the statue to stand as a permanent monument in Downtown Ashland.
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development awarded two grants totaling $175,000 to Downtown Ashland Association to boost economic development and community engagement in the historic town of Ashland, Virginia.
Ashland Theatre has been a beacon for cinema and entertainment in the Center of The Universe since 1948. 75 years later, they rolled out the red carpet with prizes, snacks, and 75¢ films. More film fun continues through 2024.
Caravati’s Architectural Salvage, the family-owned showroom for unique and lovingly restored architectural pieces, was recognized for breathing new life into the historic 201 England Street location.
Ashland Train Day was free thanks to generous support from Trackside Kitchen & Wine. Their investment allowed Ashland Train Day attendees to enjoy model trains, trolley rides, railroad history, a scavenger hunt, and much more - completely free of charge!
RED VEIN Escape’s unique artistry transformed Ashland’s oldest trackside brick building into a destination for original art, immersive storytelling, and an iconic mural. For these investments and ongoing support of the community, RED VEIN Escape was recognized with the “You’ve Been Noticed” Award in 2023.
The “Taste of Ashland” chef showcase challenged local legends from The Caboose Market & Cafe, Jake's Place Restaurant & Market, Ashland Meat Company, Homemades by Suzanne, the Iron Horse Restaurant, and Sports Page Bar & Grill to utilize locally-farmed foods as inspiration for their dishes.
Local artists took over Ashland every fourth Friday of the month summer, 2023 including award-winning Ashland recording artist Zbey tha Poet out of Free Jambalaya at Slipped Disc Recording Studio in Downtown Ashland.
If Hanover Tomatoes are in season, you can bet the Homemades by Suzanne’s bakery case is full of fresh tomato selections. The 2023 menu included gazpacho, BLTs, and chicken salad.
Saturdays in April - October 2023 were made for making melodic memories with local musicians. Every Saturday evening, Railroad Avenue was rocking with outdoor eating, and spacious free outdoor seating.
🚂 Support future news-making moments in Ashland, Virginia when you become a VIP member of Downtown Ashland Association. Learn more about how your tax-deductible donation continues to a vibrant future in the Center of the Universe.