East Broad Top Railway

Outnumbered, three boys to one girl, we spent the afternoon on the East Broad Top Steam Engine with the concession to girlishness of travel in the first class carriage. No soot in my eye this time!

Founded in 1856, the East Broad Top Railway began as one of the many narrow gauge railways carrying ore, lumber, coal and passengers. Old number 12 and her 5 sisters puffed and snorted between Mount Union and Woodvale for several decades,but by 1956, the EBT was the last operating narrow gauge steam line east of the Rocky Mountains. The Railroad was forced to shut down that same year due to slumping coal demand and competition from roadways. That's when the railway was preserved for future generations by the Kovalchick family. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964the EBT is also the most complete historic railroad site in North America.

Alexander enjoyed the ride, as did we all, travelling in the comfort of First Class! There was a little bit of action along the way with an unexpected hold up!