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…
Corruption. Illness. Political intrigue. Insurmountable odds. It sounds like the makings for a great movie, but it wasn’t a movie. It is the history of the Transcontinental Railroad. With numerous stories of greed, bribery, corruption, and creative business practices, the history surrounding the building of the Transcontinental Railroad is one mired in controversy. Many doubted…
Everyone loves a good story, especially when they are true. But true tales sometimes morph overtime to make their characters seem larger than life. One simple act can have a profound effect on many people’s lives and turn an ordinary person into a legend. So, goes it with the following character. Most of us have…