Well, it's over... this huge event we planned and stage in Newton, Kansas. Last Saturday, we read the names of about 50 men who helped move Santa Fe Engine 1880, a Prairie-type steam locomotive, into Military Park.
The older guys were surprised we had such a large turnout. I can't say I was surprised, but I was especially pleased. For months I'd worked to track down these men, their wives and kids, in hopes of finding people to invite. Turns out only about six of the original movers survive. We did pull in about three of them into the event, along with wives and children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The best thing to come out of it? I can say all the hard work was worth the looks on the faces of kids standing in front of the engine with proud looks on their faces, waiting to have a photo taken. We've reached yet another generation. They've bought into it all... Newton railroading history, Engine 1880... assuring a loyal group who has emotional ties now, and no longer will think of the engine as a heap of black metal in the park.
Gotta love it.
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