Exploring Pennsylvania’s Rail Heritage: My Journey to the NRHS Conference in Harrisburg, PA
by Jamie Johnson
As the Executive Director of the Historic RailPark & Train Museum, I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) Conference in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. For those unfamiliar, the NRHS is an organization dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of railroad history. They bring together rail enthusiasts, historians, and preservationists to promote the appreciation of railroading across the United States. This trip wasn’t just a professional venture—it was an adventure filled with train rides, museum visits, and new friendships.
Day 1: Strasburg Railroad and the Pennsylvania Railroad Museum
Our first day kicked off with a visit to the historic Strasburg Railroad, a treasure trove for any rail enthusiast. This picturesque railroad, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, offers a variety of scenic train rides, and we were lucky to experience one of them. The gentle chugging of the locomotive, the rhythmic clattering of the wheels, and the breathtaking countryside views made for a serene and memorable ride.
During this excursion, I had the pleasure of meeting Jim S., a passionate rail enthusiast and now a new friend. Jim, a member of the Washington, D.C. NRHS chapter, shared stories and insights that only deepened my appreciation for this incredible mode of transportation.
Next, we spent several hours at the Pennsylvania Railroad Museum, a place that truly captures the rich history of railroading in America. Here, I met Bill D., another Washington, D.C. NRHS chapter member who runs a YouTube channel called Transcontinental Railfan. Bill’s connection to the museum goes back to 2016 when he attended RailCamp and completed a research project on the Shay #1 locomotive. I was fortunate to have Bill as my personal tour guide. His enthusiasm and knowledge brought the exhibits to life, making my visit a unique and enriching experience.
Day 2: Rockhill Trolley Museum and East Broad Top Railroad
The second day took us to the Rockhill Trolley Museum, where I got to ride an electric cable car—a first for me! What a delightful experience it was to ride the vintage trolley cars, fully restored to their former glory. Our volunteer driver and conductor was on his last day before starting a new job, which made the ride even more special. His passion for the trolley museum and the history it preserves was evident and infectious.
Our next stop was the East Broad Top Railroad, where we witnessed the dedication and hard work of the Friends of the East Broad Top. This group is doing stellar work restoring the campus, which includes several buildings and structures. It’s inspiring to see how much they’ve accomplished already, but there is still much to do. Following their story is a must for anyone interested in seeing how a dedicated group of volunteers can bring a historic tourist train operation back to life.
One of the highlights of the trip was seeing the #16 steam locomotive fired up—a rare and exciting event! Afterward, we enjoyed a ride on the narrow-gauge train, a fantastic experience made even better by the addition of four newly acquired coach cars. The East Broad Top Railroad is a living, breathing piece of history, and their efforts to restore it to its full glory are nothing short of amazing.
Wrapping Up the Trip
My trip to the NRHS Conference in Harrisburg, PA, was filled with unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections with fellow rail enthusiasts. Meeting people like Jim and Bill, who are so deeply passionate about railroads, reminds me of the importance of preserving this part of our history.
If you find yourself in Pennsylvania, consider adding a stop at the Strasburg Railroad, the Pennsylvania Railroad Museum, the Rockhill Trolley Museum, or the East Broad Top Railroad to your itinerary. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into rail history and is well worth a visit. Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, these locations have something special to offer.
I am excited to continue fostering relationships within the rail enthusiast community and look forward to seeing the progress of these incredible projects. Until next time, keep exploring and enjoying the journey on the rails!
