National Train Day commemorates the creation of the first transcontinental railroad in the country. On May 10, 1869, the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railways were ceremonially joined into 1,776 miles of continuous track.
Several prominent cities choose to celebrate this historical event in some festive way. Seattle’s celebration is particularly special because Amtrak Cascades is celebrating its 10th Anniversary. The Amtrak Cascades celebration takes place at the King Street Station, on May 9, 2009 (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM).
Seattle’s very own J.P. Patches will make an appearance, and there will be other clowns, balloons, live music, information booths, guest speakers, freebies, and a chance to win a trip for two on the Empire Builder with a two-night stay at the Glacier Park Lodge in Montana.
This is a free event.
10th Anniversary of Amtrak Cascades (web page) and 10th Anniversary of Amtrak Cascades (PDF flyer)
King Street Station - on the Amtrak Cascades website
303 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104 - MapQuest map for King Street Station
Amtrak Cascades - official website
National Train Day - official website
Celebrate National Train Day Your Way! - list of events taking place across the nation
National Train Day - Facebook event page
- Celebrate National Train Day with free events in Seattle from Amtrak Cascades (Stephanie Jolly, Examiner.com)
- Amtrak Cascades (Wikipedia)
- Amtrak Cascades Train Equipment (Washington State Department of Transportation)
- The History of Railroad Innovations: Outline of Railroad History (Mary Bellis, About.com)
- Rail transport in the United States (Answers.com)
Comments