Ah, the fascination with trains. Real ones that make practical journeys; model ones that take us on flights of fantasy.
National Train Day is in May, a time to celebrate again all things connected to train. In Orange County, “Railroad Days” was held recently in the city of Brea. There were lots of things to see.
From the present: a locomotive from Union Pacific, one of America’s leading transportation companies. Visitors got to see up-close an environmentally-friendly low emission diesel locomotive. According to the spokesman, it was first launched in 2007.
From the past: another type of steam engine was on display. The American, a fire engine built in 1902, dazzled the visitors. It is said that the coal fired steam engine was a work of ingenious mechanical skills and craftsmanship.
And for the kid in us all: model trains with the its own universe of tiny people and buildings stirring our imagination and cheer.
Visitors toured the low emission locomotive.
History preserved...`The American' built in 1902.
The wheel of The American was decorated by creative artisans.
Model trains...loved by all ages.
The wonderful make-believe world of model trains.
You should have been in Orange County that night past midnight in 1976 when the Bicentennial Freedom Train pulled by a huge grand old steam locomotive thundered down the track past the then Marine Helicopter Base, enveloped in steam and the flashing glow of fire from its firebox, its whistle haunting from the past! A convoy of cars, mine included, accompanied it for as long as we could along the parallel road. It was an incredible experience.
Hi Louis, it sounds like a magnificent experience. After reading your comment, I was inspired to search and take a look at a pic of the Freedom Train. Thanks for sharing.
very interesting post, great pictures:)
greeting
Thanks, and greetings to you too.