Evergreen, Virginia facts for kids
Evergreen is a small community located in Appomattox County, Virginia, in the United States. It's a quiet place where about 300 people live. The community has a post office, which is its only business today. In the past, there were also two general stores, like the well-known Hamilton's Store.
Life in Evergreen
Evergreen is home to two Protestant churches: Evergreen Baptist Church and Evergreen United Methodist Church. The Evergreen Ruritan Club is also a big part of the community. This club organizes many fun events throughout the year for everyone to enjoy.
Evergreen's Railroad History
Long ago, in the mid-1800s, Evergreen was an important stop on the Southside Railroad. This railroad line changed names several times over the years. It became the Atlantic, Mississippi and Ohio Railroad in 1870. Later, it was part of the Norfolk and Western Railway. Today, it is a line used by the Norfolk Southern Railway.
The 2016 Evergreen Tornado
On February 24, 2016, a strong tornado hit Evergreen. This tornado was part of a larger storm system that affected parts of the East Coast. The tornado started by causing minor damage to trees and small buildings.
As it moved, the tornado grew stronger. It reached EF2 strength near a place called Chap. There, a building lost its brick walls, and a house lost its roof and outside walls. When the tornado reached Evergreen, it became even more powerful. It reached EF3 strength, which is very strong.
In Evergreen, one small home was completely destroyed. Other homes and buildings nearby were also badly damaged. Some small sheds and mobile homes were also destroyed. The tornado then lifted after tearing off the roof of a house near Holliday Lake State Park.
More than 100 homes were damaged or destroyed along the tornado's path. Many trees were broken or pulled out of the ground. This tornado was one of the strongest to hit Virginia in February since 1950. Sadly, one Evergreen resident was killed, and seven other people were injured during the storm.
