Southerners shared a love of celebrations, particularly at the end of harvest time. During the fall, the Dick & Willie ran special trains that transported local residents to fairs in Danville, Leaksville, now part of Eden, N.C., Martinsville, and Stuart. These celebrations connected people of the region to each other and reinforced pride in locally produced products and domestic animals. The midway, with an array of rides, games, and "human marvels," offered an exciting and welcome break from day-to-day labor. The train also transported people to and from church gatherings, family reunion, and baseball games.