The C&O Historical Society was established in 1969 and has produced a monthly newsletter or magazine without interruption since that time as a benefit to its members. The Society was incorporated in West Virginia in 1975 and achieved IRS eleemosynary status under subparagraph 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in 1977. All donations in money or in kind are fully tax deductable.

The C&OHS acquired a full time archives staff and facility when it located its headquarters in Clifton Forge, Virginia in 1986. The business is operated six days per week for walk-in customers and telephone business. The Society maintains a small gift shop and display area in its building at 312 E Ridgeway Street, Clifton Forge, and access to the archival facility at this site is available most days. Persons interested in using the archives are requested to call ahead and make an appointment.

The Society also owns the former C&O Freight Station in Clifton Forge which is used for storage. Located next to this facility is the Society equipment yard, where our cars and locomotives are stored. Although some of this equipment has been restored, much has not. If you wish to visit this area to take photos, please check with the office at 312 E. Ridgeway first for permission.