Trains, particularly model trains, often evoke feelings of nostalgia and remind us of Christmas. In the 1800s, trains were a marvel of transportation technology, and their popularity inspired the creation of toy trains. Joshua Lionel Cowen combined the concept of a toy train with electricity to create the first electric train, which was initially intended as a store display. However, the public's interest in the electric trains led to their production as toys. Lionel Corporation, known for its Lionel trains, promoted them as the perfect Christmas gift to bring families together. Despite changes in technology and public interest, trains continue to symbolize American determination and imagination. The Lionel name has persevered for over 100 years as a top brand for train hobbyists and collectors.
Leaving milk and cookies out for Santa on Christmas Eve is a heartfelt custom that blends elements of folklore, generosity, and the magic of the holiday season. The tradition originated from the legend of Santa Claus, which evolved from the historical figure of Saint Nicholas. The practice of leaving milk and cookies emerged as a way to show appreciation for the gifts bestowed by Santa. During the Great Depression, it took on a poignant significance, symbolizing the enduring spirit of generosity and unity. Today, it has become a way for families to connect with their children and emphasize the meaning of Christmas.
In Spencer, North Carolina, the North Carolina Transportation Museum is hosting 'The Polar Express' train ride, bringing the magic of the popular book and movie to life [f76e7684]. Families can board the train and travel to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. The train ride features unique and lavishly decorated train cars, synchronized dance performances, warm hot chocolate, and readings of 'The Polar Express' accompanied by the audio book. Kids dressed as characters from the movie interact with each other and families sing Christmas carols. At the North Pole, Santa meets with the passengers and gives out silver bells to children who believe in him. Families, like Caroline Stutts and her family, find the experience special and memorable. This immersive train ride is a wonderful way for families to create lasting memories and embrace the holiday spirit.
Meanwhile, in Texas, there are several Christmas train rides that offer a magical experience for families during the holiday season [103c8ed9]. One popular train ride is the North Pole Express in Grapevine, where families can embark on a journey to the North Pole. The train is beautifully decorated, and passengers can enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and live entertainment on board. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa Claus himself greets the passengers and presents them with a special gift. Another enchanting train ride is the Polar Express Train Ride in Palestine. This immersive experience brings the beloved story of 'The Polar Express' to life, complete with dancing chefs, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. Passengers can also enjoy a reading of the story and receive a silver bell, just like in the book and movie. Additionally, the Christmas Train in Burnet offers a festive ride through the Hill Country. The train is adorned with Christmas lights, and passengers can enjoy holiday music, a visit from Santa, and a walk through a Christmas village.
In Maine, the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad (CPKC) brought their custom Holiday Train to the state, which transforms into a concert stage [7a06bdab]. The train made a stop at Brownville Junction, where the boxcar wall opened up to reveal a concert stage inside. Singers Virginia to Vegas and Trudy performed at the event. The Holiday Train only travels through the northern part of Maine, making stops in Jackman, Brownville, and Hermon. This unique train experience combines the joy of Christmas with live music, providing a memorable and festive celebration for the community.
On Cape Cod, the Polar Express Train Ride is a popular Christmas train ride that recreates the magic of the movie [7a4a2f51]. Passengers can enjoy onboard entertainment, including dancing chefs and waiters, and the reading of the famous children's book. Elves remain on the train for the return journey, singing carols and playing games with the kids. The rides run from November 24 to December 23, with multiple departure times on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Hot chocolate and Walker's Shortbreads are served as the official onboard treat. Tickets range from $49 to $109, depending on the class, with children three and under riding for $5 with a paying adult. Standard class offers row seating, first class offers window seating and a limited edition tumbler, and premium class offers table seating with panoramic windows and a ceramic mug. The train departs from Buzzards Bay Station, and passengers should arrive 45 minutes prior to departure. Parking is free at the station.
In Santa Paula, California, the Odd Fellows Holiday Train display has been a tradition for 16 years [faac4e90]. Sandy Easley, who sets up the 15 tracks every year, aims to make the original designer proud. The display features a replica of Odd Fellows Hall and its famous clock tower, as well as a 1/29th scale model of the Santa Paula Depot. Wes Easley, who started the train display, passed away last year, but his presence is still felt in the handcrafted trellises and control room. Ron Merson, an Odd Fellows member, operates the trains and special effects. Families return every year to see the display, and it brings joy to both children and adults.
These Christmas train rides in Texas, Maine, Cape Cod, and Santa Paula provide families with a unique and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season. Whether it's traveling to the North Pole, reliving the magic of 'The Polar Express,' enjoying a festive ride through the Hill Country in Texas, experiencing a concert on the Holiday Train in Maine, or visiting the Odd Fellows Holiday Train display in Santa Paula, these train rides offer a magical experience that will create lasting memories for everyone involved.
In addition to these festive train rides, CSX, a leading transportation company, has added a new locomotive to its heritage series, honoring the New York Central Railroad [cd343e86]. The locomotive, designated CSX 1853, has been repainted in a special design that combines the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system. The NYC heritage unit, proudly carrying the NYC colors, is now in regular revenue service across the CSX network. The New York Central system, which merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad to become the Penn Central in 1968, was acquired by CSX in 1998. CSX employees continue to operate trains across the primary NYC routes that have been carrying freight for over a century. This addition to CSX's heritage locomotive fleet pays tribute to the rich history of the New York Central Railroad and its enduring legacy in the railway industry.
On May 10, a special train arrived along downtown Davenport’s riverfront to commemorate one year since the merger of Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern Railways resulted in a new company — Canadian Pacific Kansas City [4bec6bde]. The railroad is the first, and only, line to connect all three major economies of North America: Canada, the USA and Mexico. An estimated 2,500 people turned out in spring weather to see the train, which was headed by a magnificently-restored 94-year-old steam locomotive. Canadian companies own 35% of Iowa's railroads. Canadian Pacific spent more than $2 million to restore the locomotive in its Calgary shops, a process that took two years. Railroads carry about 40% of long-distance freight in the US. Canadian National Railways owns the former Illinois Central from Chicago to Sioux City and Council Bluffs, passing through Iowa Falls, Webster City, and Fort Dodge in the process. Van Diest Supply Co. shipped or received a combined total of about 700 rail cars in 2023. Canadian Pacific paid Davenport $10 million, while Bettendorf and Muscatine each got $3 million in exchange for not opposing the rail merger. Members of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters used the special train’s arrival in Davenport in May to demand annual sick leave benefits for its members working for CPKC in Iowa.