Strasburg Rail Road, America’s oldest short-line railroad, will be featured on the History Channel’s Modern Marvels series. Modern Marvels is a series that tells the stories of everyday items, technological breakthroughs and man-made wonders.

The episode featuring Strasburg Rail Road will focus on locomotives and steam engines. The Modern Marvels crew filmed at the railroad all day on Friday, January 4th. The show is expected to air in March of 2008.

Watch WGAL news coverage.

Thomas & Friends products recalled
By Patrick Burns
Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
Jun 21, 2007

STRASBURG, Pa. - Strasburg Rail Road Shops announced Wednesday it has sold products involved in the June 13 recall of 1.5 million Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway sets made by RCS Corp.

The shop last week believed its merchandise was not affected by the recall of the Chinese-made toys, which have surface paints containing lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

In a written statement, the company said: “Consumers should take the recalled toys away from young children immediately and return the affected products.”

Strasburg Rail Road Shops said additional information about the recall “was needed because the lot number and the product code contained similar information, leading to confusion about which products were part of the recall.”

The store has removed all affected Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway products from the shelves and online inventory.

The front of the packaging has the logo “Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway” in the upper left-hand corner. A manufacturing code may be located on the bottom of the product or inside the battery cover. Toys marked with codes containing “WJ” or “AZ” are not included in this recall.

Consumers who purchased the affected products from the shops between June 14 and June 18 may receive a refund by sending the product and a copy of the receipt to: Strasburg Rail Road Shops, PO Box 122, Route 741 East Strasburg, PA 17579.

For additional information, contact RC2 Corp. at 866-725-4407 or visit its Web site, recalls.rc2.com.

To read the entire article, please visit Lancaster Online.

175 Years and Still Making an Impact
Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa. – March 1, 2007 – 175 years ago, the town of Strasburg flourished as a key location between Lancaster and Philadelphia. Progress brought new roads and a rail line – all with a direct connection to the bigger city. But as transportation advancements came, so did fear that Strasburg would lose its commercial edge. It was from this concern, and later, a few creative entrepreneurs, that one of Lancaster County’s most prized possessions – Strasburg Rail Road - came to be.

Born in 1832, Strasburg Rail Road evolved into a bustling tourist attraction nearly 50 years ago. Through the years, it has even been the site of Abraham Lincoln’s Presidential visit, Hollywood movies, and a destination for millions who travel to Pennsylvania Dutch Country’s Amish land. Today, Strasburg Rail Road owns the claim of being America’s oldest short-line railroad.

With each passing year, Strasburg Rail Road’s reputation has grown. And now, hundreds of thousands of families, railfans and group-tour travelers head to Strasburg each year, just to ride aboard the mighty steam train. And, for the first time, the railroad’s Web site welcomed nearly 1-million visitors in 2006.

While Strasburg Rail Road has long owned the rights as a great family attraction, the railroad’s newest excursion has redefined relaxing on the rails. Couples looking to soak up the scenery and savor a quiet moment can now ride in style aboard he Wine & Cheese Train. Traveling in first-class accommodations, riders are served complimentary wine, cheese, crackers and fruit.

Strasburg Rail Road is also the only place you can enjoy Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine while traveling past more than 20 working farms. Need more? Let the sound of music and thrill of live performance entertain you. The Traditional Dinner & Live Entertainment Train serves a home-cooked meal while you wind through the countryside on a music-filled train. Looking to be a part of the entertainment? Try the Murder Mystery Dinner. The Strasburg Rail Road Dining Car and Act 1 Productions are teaming up to bring you the story of “The Goober Family and the Silver Mine.” Audience members are encouraged to help solve the mystery while enjoying gourmet food.

Feeling full? Not a problem. The station is full of things to do and see. Provide the power for the miniature pump car or watch the little ones “steer” the pint-sized cranky cars around the track. Plus, don’t miss the cutest train to chug the tracks. Strasburg Rail Road is among just a few places where an authentic miniature steam train is still in operation. Built for an amusement park around 1920, the Cagney is the perfect ending, or beginning, to your totally train day.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of the railroad, take a self-guided tour of the luxurious President’s Car. This mansion on wheels once served tycoons and dignitaries. Take the Mechanical Shop Tour where you get a behind-the-scenes guided tour through the mechanical shop where trains from across the nation are actually built and refurbished, including Thomas the Tank Engine™. Another favorite is the switch tower tour, which offers a bird’s eye view of our magnificent countryside and approaching trains. Built in 1855, this is a classic example of Pennsylvania Railroad signal tower design.

Special Events Details:
Wine & Cheese Train
April through November
Travel in first-class accommodations onboard the Parlor Car as you are served complimentary wine, cheese and crackers. Beer, mixed drinks, premium wine, non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages are also available for purchase.

Easter Bunny Train
April 6, 7 & 8
Celebrate Easter weekend with Peter Cottontail, at Strasburg Rail Road, singing songs and playing games. Enjoy a relaxing ride through Pennsylvania Dutch County as you travel aboard a vintage steam train.

Day Out with Thomas™
June 16 – 24, September 15 - 23, November 30, December 1 & 2
Join Thomas the Tank Engine™, a full-sized operating steam locomotive, as he greets friends of all ages. Ride a train pulled by Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt™. You’ll find lots of other exciting activities and a complete selection of Thomas & Friends™ merchandise in our gift shop. Order tickets by visiting www.StrasburgRailRoad.com, or by calling 1-866-468-7630.

Trains & Troops Weekend
November 3 - 4
Pay tribute to our soldiers at Strasburg Rail Road. Ride a special train with re-enactors from all eras of our military in conjunction with the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s Veterans Day celebration.

Santa’s Paradise Express
December 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16
Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Strasburg Rail Road. Travel down the tracks with Jolly Old Saint Nick aboard passenger cars warmed by potbelly stoves. Take a picture with Santa, sing Christmas carols as musicians stroll from car to car.

To learn more about the history of Strasburg Rail Road, please visit StrasburgRailRoad.com.

Hoppin Down The Strasburg Rails
Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa - (March 3, 2007) - Hop into the season with an Easter tradition at the Strasburg Rail Road. Travel with Peter Cottontail as a vintage steam train takes you on a 45-minute journey from the East Strasburg Station to Paradise, Pennsylvania and back. Also enjoy our miniature steam train, our pump car, cranky cars and a behind-the-scenes tour of our shop where trains are built and refurbished. For a special treat, tempt your taste buds in our Dining Car, our trackside restaurant, or pack your own lunch for an Easter picnic at Groff’s Grove.

The Easter Bunny Train pulls into the station April 6th, 7th and 8th. On Friday, five trains run on the hour between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. Adult fares (age 12+) are $14, Child fares (ages 3-11) are $9 and Toddler fares (under 3) are $3. Tickets can be pre-purchased at www.StrasburgRailRoad.com or by calling 717-687-7522. Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket window.

As one of Pennsylvania’s leading family attractions, Strasburg Rail Road is known for its picturesque ride through Lancaster County’s farmland. Traveling past more than 1,000 acres of land, the ride provides one of the best views the county has to offer.

What: Easter Bunny Train
When: Friday April 6th
Saturday April 7th
Easter Sunday, April 8th
Trains depart hourly from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Friday and 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Where: Strasburg Rail Road, Rt. 741 East, Strasburg, Pa 17579-0096
For advanced tickets, go to www.StrasburgRailRoad.com or call (717) 687-7522.

The Noon Shop Tour
Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Lancaster County, Pa. - (February 2007) - A little known attraction in Pennsylvania Dutch Country is the behind-the-scenes tour of Strasburg Rail Road’s Mechanical Shop. Few people realize Strasburg Rail Road is an actual real, working railroad that still hauls freight today. Not only does Strasburg Rail Road build and repair the passenger cars and engines used at the railroad, but the mechanical department also has been producing world-class work in the steam railroading industry for more than 40 years.

In fact, the Strasburg Rail Road is one of only three shops in the country to hold what is known in the industry as an “S” stamp. That means the Strasburg Rail Road can build a pressure vessel from the ground up. All other shops have an “R” stamp, qualifying them only to do repairs. Most of the work done inside the Mechanical Shop is still done by hand – a skill dating back to the 1960s.

This year marks the fifth year the mechanical shop tour has been offered to the public. Each day the railroad is open, the Mechanical Shop closes down from noon to 1:00 p.m. while the workers take a break for lunch. During this time, the shop workers at Strasburg Rail Road take turns leading the daily tour of the mechanical shops, making each tour a unique experience for guests.

During a visit to Strasburg Rail Road, guests can view and ride aboard a rolling stock of six vintage steam locomotives and more than 15 passenger cars from the 1915 era of railroading. Engine #31 celebrates her 100th birthday next year; and last year, engine #475 celebrated her 100th birthday. Both engines are still going strong.

Starting in the Engine House, guests can see where water is tested and locomotives are hostled and stored. Guests learn about the various locomotives that pull the passenger cars and how they are cared for to ensure safety. From the 100-year old #475 with a 4-8-0 wheel formation, to a replica of the storybook character, Thomas the Tank Engine™, guests can always expect to see some steam in the Engine House.

From the Engine House, step outside to see the fireman shoveling a half-a-ton of coal into the engine’s firebox. The heat climbs to an astounding 2,500 degrees to transform the water into steam. The resulting energy, along with the engineer’s coaxing of the locomotive’s controls, turns the engines wheels to charge the 185-ton iron horse down the steel rails.

The next stop on the tour is the passenger car restoration shop. Guests can expect to smell the fresh scent of paint and stained wood. Here, passenger cars are restored to their natural splendor. The process of restoring passenger cars includes extensive research to learn exactly how the car would have looked in its original state. Workers try to restore and use as much of the original car as possible, but there are times when replications must be made. Wooden chairs are even whittled, by hand, to recreate the look of circa 1915. Passenger cars can take up to 13,000 man-hours to restore.

Just through the swinging doors, guests can see where locomotives are built and restored. For more than 40 years, the mechanical department has been producing world-class work in the steam railroading industry, with more than 250 years of combined experience in design, repair and construction of heritage and historical railroad equipment. Strasburg Rail Road repairs, reproduces and restores equipment to a museum-quality original state. In the mechanical shop, you will see both vintage and modern-day equipment, which was all acquired with one thing in mind: to keep the history of steam railroading alive.

To learn more about the Mechanical Shops Tour, please visit StrasburgRailRoad.

Strasburg Rail Road serves a sold-out crowd week after week
Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa. – Just weeks after launching its newest train, the Strasburg Rail Road knew it had done good. Riding high on its past success and reputation as a great tourist destination, the Strasburg Rail Road unveiled the Wine and Cheese Train – giving new meaning to relaxing on the rails.

What began as a two-month trial to reach a new audience quickly caught on. Thanks to an overwhelming response and a repeatedly sold-out crowd, the two-month test was extended and is still going strong today. To pull it off, the Strasburg Rail Road transforms its First Class Parlor Car into its Wine & Cheese Car – complete with monogrammed stemware and a wait staff ready to serve. As the authentic vintage steam train chugs down the track, passengers savor the country view with a side of wine, cheese, crackers and fruit.

“The response has been great, better than we expected,” said JoAnn O’Connell, Parlor Car manager. “It allows us to reach into the over 21 crowd who are looking for a new way to spend a Friday or Saturday evening. Hopefully they enjoy it so much that they’ll come back and spend the day with their family.”

The $25 fare includes first class accommodations aboard the Parlor Car and complimentary wine, cheese and crackers. Beer, mixed drinks, and non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages are also available for purchase. Passengers must be 21 years or older to board the Train.

For more information on The Wine and Cheese Train, please visit Strasburg Rail Road.

It’s More Than A Train Ride
2005 Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa. - (March 2005) – If you listen closely – you can hear it. Look clear across the countryside and you might even see it. That distinguished whistle and billow of black smoke can only be one thing – The Strasburg Rail Road - one of Lancaster County’s most visited tourist attractions.

Your journey begins on the platform of the East Strasburg Station – where you’ll quickly realize the Strasburg Rail Road is a whole lot more than just a train ride. With every turn – you step back in time – to experience Lancaster County as it always was.

In step with the conductor’s call for all aboard, you take your seat. A wave from the platform; a hiss from the vintage steam engine and your journey through the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country is about to begin. As the train chugs down the track past real working farms, a voice from above shares the history of the railroad and of the Amish who call this land home.

How you ride is up to you, choose Coach, First Class, or live it up in luxury aboard the Deluxe Lounge Car or elegant Dining Car. Stay on board for the entire trip, or take a break mid-way to picnic along the tracks at Groff’s Grove. Ride “open-air” and soak in all the wonders of Amish Country. Want to flex your muscle? Jump on board the authentic pump car where your power pushes you down the track and back.

2005 brings a new attraction for our pint-sized passengers – Hodges Hand Cars. Start your engine and watch your Hand Car go. The six hand-propelled cars, which date back to the 1930’s, allow little ones to take control as they crank their way around a track.

Need a break? The adorable miniature steam train, The Cagney, is the ticket. Built in the 1900’s by the Cagney Brothers Miniature Railroad Company, the steam engine is a fraction of the size of a traditional locomotive. The company produced this tiny train for use at amusement parks, fairs, carnivals and public expositions. While a number of Cagney locomotives remain in operation, Strasburg Rail Road is one of just a few places where one can ride behind a Cagney in daily operation.

From our circa 1915 East Strasburg Station to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania across the road, you’ll find more trains - and more train folk to talk to - than you could imagine. Tour our Mechanical Shop, President’s Car and Switch Tower. In spring and fall, the rare LO&S Railcar comes to town. One thing is for sure - no matter where you spend your time – the fun will continue until you run out of steam.

Still have some energy left? Great! Because the fun and intrigue of the rails stretch beyond our station - with stops and shops for every taste. Then take a relaxing stroll along the quaint streets of Strasburg - an 18th century Lancaster County town filled with historic charm, waiting for you to explore. Ride the train, and then check out:
NEW FOR 2005! HODGES HAND CARS: Perfect for our pint-sized passengers. Hand-propelled cars allow little ones to take control as they crank their way around a track.

THE CAGNEY: Don’t miss the cutest train to chug the tracks in Strasburg! This authentic steam train, built for an amusement park around 1920, is the perfect size to delight even the smallest passengers.

PUMP CAR: How much steam do you have? Ride with an attendant along a short track. We provide the pump – you provide the power!

PRESIDENT’S CAR: Take a self-guided tour of the luxurious “mansion on wheels.” The restored private car was used for railroad tycoons and dignitaries.

NOON SHOP TOUR: Take a behind-the-scenes guided tour through the mechanical shop where we actually build and refurbish trains from across the nation.

SWITCH TOWER TOUR: Get a bird’s eye view of our magnificent countryside and approaching trains. Built in 1855, this is a classic example of Pennsylvania Railroad signal tower design.

RAILROAD MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA: (Administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. For more information, visit www.rrmuseumpa.org) Adults (18-59): $7.00; Adults (60 and over): $6.00; Children (6-17): $5.00; Children (under 6): Free.

Special Events at the Strasburg Rail Road: (We strongly suggest you pre-purchase tickets online.)
Easter Bunny Train – March 25th, 26th & 27th
Join the fun as the Easter Bunny hops aboard to welcome spring to Lancaster County! Chug down the tracks on a vintage steam train with Peter Cottontail– right through the backyards of the Amish and some of the most beautiful farmland in the world.

Day Out with Thomas™ – June 11th – 19th, September 17th – 25th , December 2nd, 3rd & 4th
Join Thomas the Tank Engine™, a full-sized operating steam locomotive, as he greets friends of all ages. Ride a train pulled by Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt™. You’ll find lots of other exciting activities and a complete selection of Thomas & Friends™ merchandise in our gift shop. Order tickets by visiting www.strasburgrailroad.com or by calling 1-866-468-7630.

Trains & Troops Weekend – November 5th & 6th
Ride a special train with re-enactors from all eras of our military in conjunction with the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s Veterans Day celebration.

Santa’s Paradise Express – December 10th, 11th, 15th – 18th
Celebrate the season with a holiday tradition at the Strasburg Rail Road. Travel down the tracks with Santa on passenger cars warmed by potbelly stoves. Sing Christmas carols as musicians stroll from car to car.

Create Your Own Adventure – Strasburg Rail Road offers a selection of passes to make your visit even more enjoyable.
The Rail Baron Pass: Available April 3rd – October 31st; (Only 25 passes are available per day.)
For a total railroad experience, this one-day pass includes:
* One ride aboard First Class Parlor Car Marian
* Unlimited rides aboard any other car (food extra on Dining Car)
*Admission to Noon Shop Tour (Must be 6 years of age or older)
* Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train, Pump Car and Hand Cars*
* Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display *
* Admission to Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
*For days when these activities are not open, pass includes unlimited rides aboard ALL car options.

The All Day Pass – Available All Days:
The most economical way to spend the entire day – this one-day pass includes:
* Unlimited rides aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
* Unlimited rides aboard LO&S Car – when railroad substitutes for steam train
* Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train, Pump Car and Hand Cars
* Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display*
* These activities are not open every day.

The Wonder Rail Pass – Available May 1st - October 2nd:
Combine our All Day Pass with a second day of fun – general admission to nearby Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park (open daily May 31st - September 6th). Visit www.dutchwonderland.com for more information. This two-day pass includes:
* Unlimited rides aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
* Unlimited rides aboard LO&S Car – when railroad substitutes for steam train
* Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train, Pump Car and Hand Cars
* Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display
* General admission to Dutch Wonderland and Discover Lancaster County History Museum

The Railroad Farm Fun Pass – Available July 3rd – October 30th:
Enjoy a day at Strasburg Rail Road and neighboring Amazing Maize Maze. Visit www.cherrycrestfarm.com for more information. This one-day pass includes:
* One ride aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
* Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train, Pump Car and Hand Cars
* Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display
* Admission to Amazing Maize Maze (train takes you to the maze)
*Maze is closed Sundays, Mondays and rainy days.

Make tracks to the Strasburg Rail Road.
Strasburg Rail Road, Route 741, east of Strasburg, Pennsylvania. For more information about schedules, rates and special events visit the web at www.strasburgrailroad.com or call 717-687-7522.

Other important numbers:
Groups & Students: 717-687-8421
Shops: 877-475-8990
Dining Car Reservations: 717-687-6486
Media Contact: Hope Banner @ Scheffey Advertising (717)-569-8274, hbanner@scheffey.com

Just Train Fun!
2004 Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa. - (March 2004) - If you’re in search of “all-American” family fun…or fascinated by anything railroad…or have an insatiable appetite for history…the Strasburg Rail Road is for you. You’ll chug on a vintage steam train right through the backyards of the Amish - and some of the most beautiful farmland in the country.

Ride any way you like. Coach or First Class. In luxury on our Deluxe Lounge Car. How about lunch or dinner aboard our elegant Dining Car? Or ride the train to Groff’s Grove for a picnic. You can ride “open-air” and soak in all the wonders of Amish Country or you can “rough it” down the tracks on an authentic Pump Car. Tour our Mechanical Shop, President’s Car and Switch Tower, and don’t forget to ride the adorable 1/4 size Cagney Steam Train. In spring and fall, the rare LO&S Railcar comes to town.

Between our circa 1915 East Strasburg Station and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania across the road, you’ll find more trains - and train folk to talk to - than you could imagine. Plus, trackside eateries full of yummy delights and shops filled with gifts and keepsakes.

We have events for every season and, of course, there’s “Day Out With Thomas™. ” You can ride the lovable tank engine not once, but three times a year!

Still have some energy left? Great! Because the fun and intrigue of the rails stretch beyond our station - with stops and shops for every taste. Then take a relaxing stroll along the quaint streets of Strasburg - an 18th century Lancaster County town filled with historic charm, waiting for you to explore.

Make tracks to the Strasburg Rail Road.
Strasburg Rail Road, Route 741, east of Strasburg, Pennsylvania. For more information about schedules, rates and special events, visit the web at www.strasburgrailroad.com or call 717-687-7522.

Other important numbers:
Groups & Students: 717-687-8421
Shops: 877-475-8990
Dining Car Reservations: 717-687-6486

Ride the train, then check out:
THE CAGNEY: Don’t miss the cutest train in Strasburg! This authentic steam train, built for an amusement park around 1920, is 1/4 the size of our standard trains.
PUMP CAR: Ride with an attendant along a short track. You provide the power!
PRESIDENT’S CAR: Take a self-guided tour of the luxurious “mansion on wheels.” The restored private car was used for railroad tycoons and dignitaries.
NOON SHOP TOUR: Take a behind-the-scenes guided tour through the mechanical shop where we actually build and refurbish trains.
SWITCH TOWER TOUR: Get a bird’s eye view of our magnificent countryside and approaching trains. Built in 1855, this is a classic example of Pennsylvania Railroad signal tower design.
RAILROAD MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA: (Administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. For more information, visit www.rrmuseumpa.org) Adults (18-59): $7.00; Adults (60 and over): $6.00; Children (6-17): $5.00; Children (under 6): Free.

And don’t forget our special, special events: (We strongly suggest you pre-purchase tickets online)
Easter Bunny Train - April 10 & 11
Join the fun as the Easter Bunny hops aboard to welcome spring to Lancaster County! Chug down the tracks on a vintage steam train with Peter Cottontail– right through the backyards of the Amish and some of the most beautiful farmland in the world.

Day Out with Thomas™ - June 12-20, September 18-26, December 3-5
Join Thomas the Tank Engine™, a full-sized operating steam locomotive, as he greets friends of all ages. Ride a train pulled by Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt™. You’ll find lots of other exciting activities and a complete selection of Thomas & Friends™ merchandise in our gift shop. Order tickets by visiting www.strasburgrailroad.com or by calling 1-866-468-7630.

Trains & Troops Weekend - November 6 & 7
Ride a special train with re-enactors from all eras of our military in conjunction with the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s Veterans Day celebration.

Santa’s Paradise Express - December 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19
Travel with Santa on passenger cars warmed by potbelly stoves. Sing Christmas carols as musicians stroll from car to car.

Create Your Own Adventure - Strasburg Rail Road offers a selection of passes to make your visit even more enjoyable.

The Rail Baron Pass: Available April 3 - October 31: (only 25 passes available per day)
For a total railroad experience, this one-day pass includes:
• One ride aboard First Class Parlor Car Marian
• Unlimited rides aboard any other car (food extra on Dining Car)
• Admission to Noon Shop Tour. Children must be 6 years of age or older to attend the Shop Tour.
• Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train and Pump Car *
• Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display *
• Admission to Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
*For days when these activities are not open, pass includes unlimited rides aboard ALL car options.

The All Day Pass: Available All Days: The most economical way to spend the entire day, this one-day pass includes:
• Unlimited rides aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
• Unlimited rides aboard LO&S Car - when railroad substitutes for steam train
• Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train and Pump Car *
• Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display
* These activities are not open every day.

The Wonder Rail Pass: Available May 1 - October 2: Combine our All Day Pass with a second day of fun - general admission to nearby Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park (open daily 5/31 - 9/6). Visit www.dutchwonderland.com for more information. This two-day pass includes:
• Unlimited rides aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
• Unlimited rides aboard LO&S Car - when railroad substitutes for steam train
• Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train and Pump Car *
• Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display
• General admission to Dutch Wonderland and Discover Lancaster County History Museum

The Railroad Farm Fun Pass: Available July 3 - October 30: Enjoy a day at Strasburg Rail Road and neighboring Amazing Maize Maze. Visit www.cherrycrestfarm.com for more information. This one-day pass includes:
• One ride aboard Coach Car (you may upgrade car by paying difference)
• Unlimited rides aboard Cagney Train and Pump Car *
• Unlimited access to President’s Car, Switch Tower & freight equipment display *
• Admission to Amazing Maize Maze (you can ride the train to the maze).
• Maze is closed Sundays, Mondays and rainy days.
*For days when these activities are not open, pass includes one ride aboard First Class Parlor Car Marian.

Check out our car options and fares at www.strasburgrailroad.com or call 717-687-7522.

Make Tracks To Strasburg Rail Road
Media Release
Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg, Pa. - There’s a place in Pennsylvania where time stands still; a place where the romance and adventure of the early 20th Century comes to life. It’s a time before cars and traffic jams - before gasoline engines transformed America into a vast network of highways. A time when the distance between two points was measured by miles of track, and powerful steam engines regulated travel and commerce.

The place is Strasburg, Pennsylvania, a sleepy little town in the middle of Amish Country where over forty years ago a small group of train enthusiasts brought an aging railroad back to life. Through personal dedication, sweat and ingenuity, these volunteers restored America’s oldest short-line railroad and turned it into a premier tourism attraction drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

Offering the most authentic train ride experience of the period, the Strasburg Rail Road takes visitors back to a simpler time when the only competition for overland travel was the horse and buggy - a mode of travel still prevalent today on Lancaster County roads. From the stable of 100-year-old steam locomotives to the elegantly refurbished railroad cars and Victorian railroad station, visitors experience an important chapter in American history.

The trains run on the same timetable used in 1851 (more or less). The engines and railcars are so meticulously restored that they have been featured in movies such as Raintree County, Hello Dolly, The Wild Wild West and Thomas and the Magic Railroad. The railroad has also appeared in numerous documentaries and videos including a Smithsonian production.

During the train’s 45-minute journey, visitors travel through farm fields still plowed by horses and mules. Amish buggies wait patiently at railroad crossings. Train travelers can even stop at an old-fashioned picnic grove and enjoy a snack while the trains rumble by.

On board are some of the same men who served as conductors, brakemen and engineers when the Strasburg Rail Road first opened as a tourist attraction. These trainmen, such as conductor Walter Minnich, are here because they love railroading, and they share that love with the railroad’s visitors. It’s not just a job or a hobby. Trains are a passion for these individuals.

“Some of our engineers are doctors and lawyers who maintain their FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) certification just so they can come to Strasburg on weekends and run the trains,” says conductor Minnich, who also served as the postmaster of a neighboring town until he retired in 1983. Minnich’s been around trains all his life. His father worked 50 years on the Pennsylvania Railroad.

The trainmen are eager to share their stories with curious passengers. Each train has a narrator who tells the railroad’s history spiced with a few tall tales. During holidays, the trainmen become actors. In late October, the docile train turns into the “Pumpkin Train” and in December, Santa Claus joins passengers on the road to Paradise. In the Spring, the Easter Bunny climbs aboard. For children, the Strasburg Rail Road assumes a new, more contemporary identity when the full-size Thomas the Tank Engine comes to visit.

The Strasburg Rail Road offers visitors many reasons to hop on board. But whether it’s the lure of a children’s storybook character, the hiss of a steam locomotive, the fresh country air from the open platform coaches, or riding in the luxuriously restored parlor car, all visitors seem to enjoy the railroad’s pace of a bygone era. It’s this special ambiance that’s brought visitors to the Strasburg Rail Road for more than forty years.

For more information about schedules, rates and special events, visit the web at www.strasburgrailroad.com or call 717-687-7522.

Media Contact: Hope Banner, Scheffey Advertising, hbanner@scheffey.com or (717) 569-8274.