Great Fun with a G Rating

 This past weekend, Lauren and I traveled back in time. Specifically, we transported ourselves to the late 19th century; a time of slower paces and a larger world. I rode the historic Walkersville Railroad (WRR). 

   The WRR construction began in 1869 and was completed in 1872 by the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR). It was known then as Pennsylvania Railroad Frederick Secondary.

  In 1968, the PRR merged with the New York Central Railroad. When, in 1972, Hurricane Agnes destroyed the bridge over the Monocacy River the new railroad filed for bankrupcy. The Frederick Seconary Line was sold to the State of Maryland in 1972.

  The line lay nearly forgotten until 1991, when volunteers began to clear the brush from the tracks and refit the Walkersville to Frederick portion of the line. Work was completed in 1993. 

That year, the railroad began offering rides on vintage trains. The rest, as they say, is history. Now the route has expanded and the WRR is doing fine. And, just as amazing as the resurrection of the WRR, all the work is done by volunteers.  

The volunteers are loyal to their cause of preserving a fading part of our history. From the backbreaking work of maintaining the tracks, to engine maintenance (and any other duty required to run a railroad) these dedicated men and women are ready and able.

Riding in cars that have survived time is a good way for families to connect and enjoy the day. Somehow, communication becomes easier on an old train.

The fun of an excursion on the WRR can be more than a train ride. The WRR offers themes for almost any occasion. For example, there are rides with the Easter Bunny, Santa, and ghosts. And, you can find other adventures such as, visits from Jesse James, or Civil War soldiers. But, if an evening of quiet entertainment is your cup of tea, a mystery/ dinner might be  just the ticket. The WRR offers a good time for the family that won't break the bank.

Plus, the people that you meet are friendly and interesting. But, that is another story.