Virginia free press. (Charlestown, Va. [W. Va.]) 1832-1916, 1890-04-02
The Shepherd Turnpike.

The boom, boom, boom, heard north of
town about - and o'clock for several days
past, sounds like war-times. But it's only
war on the rocks-the dynamites part In
the work on the Shepherd Turnpike, which,
we are glad 10 report, once again goes for
ward
The suspension of work for the past couple
of months. caused by trouble and litigation
with the former contractors, while very
much regretted, row, however, only marks
so much lost time.
Mr. Shepherd has taken full possession
of the roadway, aud begun active operations
under his own management. To those who
know him, and his method of doing things,
this means a great deal. 1t at once gives
assurance again that the pike will be COM
pleted, and that in the shortest time and
best manner practicable.
He has secured the steam crusher and
added to the equipment ponderous roller
that is almost crasher itself, a very i'm
portant item in effectively compacting the
metal and giving lasting finish and solidity
to the road bed.
From all we learn new life has ben
given the work and proper discipline been
introduced. An efficient superintendent,
skilled and experienced foreman, an ample
supply of hands, all classified and arranged
with thorough system, under the keen per
ception and frequent personal inspection
of Mr.. s. himself, give renewed promise
and expectation of a magnificent road
way.
And we rejoice with the people of that
section at the fair prospect of so early re-
alizing the many benefits we have hereto
fore predicted will accrue to them from its
construction But the benefits are not linn
tied to them. The large number of labor.
ing men now employed, who in these dull
times are furnished regular work at good
wages and prompt payment, are reapine
their share Of its fruits, and ought to CRATE
fully remember their generous benefactor
And the people of our town and district
generally, who, when completed, can freely
enjoy its attractions as beautiful drive
and in fact of the county itself, to which il
will be credit, all owe it cordial support
and hearty good-speed.
We recognize the obligations of the pub.
lie to Mr. 5. for undertaking solely at hi:
own expense such work-practically 8
douation--at so large an outlay, and especi'
ally for his earnest determination to still
build same, even though more costly than
under the original contract was expected
Aud we congratulate him on the present
favorable outlook, assure him of the con-
tinued public interest in its success, and
sincere hope for satisfactory completion
without further difficulties, delay or annoy
ance of any kind whatever.
We are glad to learn also that number
of the property owners on and near the
line, contempla matchmaking the roads
duu ldhcS ltduluS rum tuOil UuiiuihSo W
the pike. This would show the greatest
appreciation of Mr.. SIS liberality, protect
the main driveway against mud and dirt
being carried on it, as well as more fully
bring its real comforts to their own doors.
And never again can this be done so eco
nomically. We have no doubt easy terms
can be made with Mr.. S. for the use of the
crusher, roller and equipment, which would
largely reduce the cost. If so, this is the
golden opportunity, and we trust it will be
generally improved.
A word more, suggesting the. proper care
of the road, and the duty CT all to avoid in
juring it by turning stock thereon, reckless
driving, or thoughtless depredations of any
kind, especially in It's new and unsettled
condition.-ShepherdSto,en Register.
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