In 2008, Amtrak created National Train Day to promote riding a train. Although not an official holiday, Amtrak declared it for the Saturday closest to May 10. That’s May 7 this year (2022).
Trains have played an important role in American history, and they are still important as a means of transporting people and goods.
Amtrak chose the Saturday closest to May 10 because on May 10, 1869, the Golden Spike Ceremony in Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, commemorated the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, which in theory connected the East Coast to the West Coast.
Trains hold a fascination for children and adults. As a child I played with a Lionel train set with my brothers. Thomas the Train has been an iconic toy for children for many years. There are ride-on model trains, and model train museums and clubs around the country. Have you ever gone on a steam train ride?
So, Happy National Train Day!
Do you have a favorite train experience or memory?
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