With the summer heat still on the rise, it might be a scorcher out there today. There is nothing like reaching into the freezer for a nice ice cream cone, or a recently thawed steak to throw on the grill or even check in the fridge for a cold beverage. There is no better feeling…
From riding fast on your bike or going down the open road in a convertible, there is nothing better than a swift breeze on a hot summer day. Even train-cars got in on the action. Before the invention of air conditioning or where the technology might not be practical to install, the railroad’s open-air cars…
When the bicentennial rolled around in 1976, the railroads celebrated the 200th birthday of the United States by painting engines in red, white, and blue. From clean basic lines to over the top designs, here are a few of our favorite patriotic-themed engines. 
Freedom Train Part One: 1947-1949 With the 4th of July literally around the corner, we reflect on the freedoms we have and sacrifices our nation has endured, both in the past and the present. As Americans, we live in a country where the “Can Do” spirit allows us to attain momentous achievements. Take the railroad,…
During the first decades of the 20th century, the circus arrived in town aboard one of the most colorful trains traveling the rails. Brightly colored railcars carrying ornate wagons drew the attention of people along the tracks. The circus train was a sight to behold. Today, almost all the circus trains are gone. However, viewing…
Three youngsters stumble and tumble down the stairs. Their physical missteps are not from sleepiness or half-closed eyes. No, they are wide-awake with excitement and anticipation. It is their exuberant energy that carries them over the stairs, one nearly vaulting the next. It is Christmas morning, and Santa’s reindeer could be heard on the roof…
There is a good chance you’ve seen Jeff McMullen if you’ve ever attended an event at the National Railroad Museum. A magician, a clown, a consummate entertainer, McMullen has led a fascinating life. At the age of 4 years old, he knew he wanted to become a clown. While most people outgrow their childhood…
Thanks for catching up with us again along the line of the Transcontinental Railroad. Hell on Wheels has moved down the line a distance since we last visited, but we still have plenty of hair-raising, rough and tumble tales to share. The premise of our discussion is that the facts of historic events often get…
“Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, welcome to the greatest show on Earth. Tonight, from your very seat you will witness dromedaries that dance and delight, daring feats on the high wire,…
Television and movies have a way of telling a story that makes us feel like we are there and can relate to the characters on screen. While sometimes based upon true events, the motion picture industry takes a few liberties here and there for the sake of creating a good, watchable story. Take the television…