![]() ![]() We’ve operated other services in the past, but this is the big one.” “Without a doubt, (it is) the most special time of year. The Santa Express offers children of any age the experience and excitement that the holiday season has to offer. Tony Macrie started the railroad in 1986, after beginning his railroad career as a track laborer in Pennsylvania. Today, the Cape May Seashore Lines offer both passenger excursions, in addition to freight service for local industries. Passenger service ended on October 2, 1981, passenger service between Cape May and Lindenwold ended. By 1976, PRSL was purchased by Conrail, who operated freight service between Tuckahoe and Beesley’s Point. In the summer of 1927, during its peak of operation, both stations saw a total of nineteen “through” round trips. ![]() Known as the Train of the Stars, the service traveled between Chicago and Los Angeles, carrying well-known celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and Clark Gable. ![]() Often dubbed “The Steel Speedway to the Shore,” several former Pennsylvania-Reading cars remain part of the CMSL fleet, along with several cars from the Long Island Railroad and Santa Fe. Both the Richland and Tuckahoe stations served as a stopping point for the Reading Company’s Atlantic City Railroad, and, later, the Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Line (PRSL), providing seasonal service to Cape May County. The original rail line was constructed by in 1863 by the Tuckahoe and Cape May Railroad. “The ability to impact a child in their early years is very special.”įamilies can select a ride in one of the coach cars, or take a first class excursion at the Braddock Inn, a refurbished sleeper car built in 1948, The New York Central Lounge with booth seating, or their re-branded Long Island Lounge Car. Conductor Alex Chmelowitz says the Santa Express provides great memories for children. And, of course, the ride would not be complete without a visit from Santa himself. As you leave the station, families will be greeted by a friendly elf, leading into a cheery rendition of Jingle All the Way. Step inside one of the coach cars, and you Christmas lights and posters of the past lines the walls and ceilings. Their locomotive was built in the 1970s, but will look like newly minted off the showroom floor. Passengers will instantly notice the classic trains that are a mainstay to this special line. And just a few blocks down the street, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of carefully handcrafted model railroads at Patcong Valley Model Railroad Club. Directly across the street from the station is the Richland General Store, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks and a mainstay in the community for over a century. In Richland, the vibrant history of a blossoming rail town remains untarnished. Even the steel water tower, once used to supply water to steam locomotives, has been standing since 1922! Megan and Sean Cox with Ellis and Dylan. The former Reading Company structures and charming passenger station, originally built in 1897, remain inrtact. Upon arrival at the Tuckahoe station, passengers will get a feel of the allure of historic landmarks that line the streets of this railroad town. ![]() This particular excursion will amaze kids of all ages with special appearances from Santa, his Elf, and the conductor to make spirits bright for the holiday season. Operated by the Cape May Seashore Line, it is one of several seasonal excursions, taking passengers on a 75 minute journey between Richland and Tuckahoe, and has remained popular for families far and wide since 2005. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Outside of Richland station, in Buena Vista Township, the Christmas season can already be felt as passengers wait for their turn to board the Santa Express. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |