COLDWATER, Mich. — The Little River Railroad is pulling out all the stops to commemorate its 20th season operating out of Coldwater. An anniversary celebration, scheduled July 26 and 27, will include steam-powered excursions to Quincy, Mich., family-friendly activities, and a guest appearance by Nickel Plate Road No. 765. The 2-8-4 will be at the event on Sunday only due to prior commitments for the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society’s Members Weekend, July 25-26.
On Saturday, the festivities kick off with the first train departures at 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., followed by afternoon excursions at 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Little River’s own 0-4-0T No. 1 and 4-6-2 No. 110 are lined up to power each of their respective trains to Quincy and back.
Sunday promises to be a highlight with the arrival of No. 765. The day will feature a triple-headed excursion at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., showcasing the combined might of Nos. 1, 110, and 765. Photo runbys are also planned for passengers aboard.
Founded in 1975, today’s Little River Railroad adopted its name from the original Tennessee-based, logging railroad where No. 110 got its start after being outshopped by Baldwin in 1911. From its inception to 2005, the tourist operation relocated multiple times around Indiana and Michigan, before settling into its current home in Coldwater along the Indiana Northeastern Railroad.
Visit the Little River Railroad website for more information and tickets.
The participation of the majestic Nickel Plate Road 2-8-4 No. 765 in the celebrations will surely provide a super experience for the train enthusiasts…
Dr. Güntürk Üstün