11/29/2023 0 Comments Essex train ride![]() ![]() Morgan described the term "railfan" quite poignantly. In his article from the September, 1969 issue of Trains Magazine entitled "Are These People Embalmers Or Enthusiasts?," noted editor David P. along the Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroad (this system was abandoned long ago but the MBRE still exists). ![]() It all began in 1934 when the first "fan trip" was hosted by the Massachusetts Bay Railroad Enthusiasts, Inc. Several small carriers also operated such excursions, names like the Western Maryland, Virginian, and Reading. The trips were not limited to big-name roads like the Southern Pacific, Santa Fe, Burlington, New Haven, Nickel Plate Road, or Baltimore & Ohio. ![]() Many companies were happy to host such events before rising insurance premiums and the fear of ligation largely ended the practice. Before modern scenic railroads were born enthusiasts sponsored these trips directly on the railroads. The R&LHS remains an active group and you can visit their website by clicking here. The oldest organization dedicated to preserving rail history is the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society, Inc. The scenic train ride concept is not new although it has certainly gained popularity over the last few decades. Within this section you can learn more about a few of these organizations and where they are located. However, a few, like dome cars and full-course meals, have made their way to the scenic train ride industry. Such indulgences cannot be found on Amtrak. Tailoring to a traveler's every needs some of these trains provided a secretary, nurse, domes for maximum viewing, and even a barber. But the PRR was not alone, many other railroads, such as the New York Central, Santa Fe, and Union Pacific, offered their own level of opulence. The train's other noteworthy perks included air-conditioning and a fully-staffed crew provided by the iconic Pullman Company. The mighty PRR spared no expense in stocking its top service with every amenity imaginable, from freshly prepared five-star meals to full bedrooms. More than a half-century ago one could board a flagship service like Pennsylvania Railroad's legendary Broadway Limited at New York's illustrious Pennsylvania Station and enjoy a lap of luxury during a 16-hour journey to Chicago. While Amtrak still offers the chance to travel from city-to-city and commuter services fulfill an essential need within large metropolitan areas, neither provides the nostalgia of railroading's "Golden Age." Presented here is information on how to find a tourist railroad near you. Scenic train rides are one of the great pastimes and can be found scattered throughout the country, from Florida to California. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |