Thunder Road in downtown Shenandoah sits as a testament to the ability of a community to rally behind a neighbor fallen and help them rebuild in a very literal sense after disaster. 

The bar, which originally opened in July of 2007 for just a few months, was almost completely destroyed by a fire that spread from a neighboring business. 

After just eight months, friends of the family, in the community and in other local business had come together by raising money and the new roof and other elements of the establishment, in order to allow the bar to reopen in July of 2008.

The light charcoal walls and wafting cigarette smoke help add to the ambiance of the phoenix-like local watering hole. 

Anything but just a hole in the wall, however, the large open stage and dance area, pool table and long bar are the major features of the establishment as well as that fast-paced bar staff.

Several glass-front refrigerators filled with beverages glow while customers line the stools along the bar or the pub-style tables along the wall. 

Thunder Road has become known as a great venue for local musicians and has played host for acts such as The Rising Descent, Lights Over Ashfield and recently, the Poptart Monkeys who all have commented on the incredible story of the bar’s rebuilding.

The room, which is loud even when fairly empty, can interfere with the quality of sound, prompting any performers to choose wisely when selecting their sound engineer for their show.